Cycling Alone in PAKISTAN as a Solo Female - Flora Gonning
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Adventure in Skardu: A Cycling Journey Through Pakistan's Beauty
The alluring landscapes of Skardu, nestled in the breathtaking Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, beckoned those seeking adventure. For a Dutch traveler, inspired yet apprehensive, the desire to cycle through this rough terrain was ignited by catching sight of a lone cyclist navigating the city's bustling streets. Despite her ambivalence toward cycling, the allure of the journey proved irresistible, prompting her to rent a bicycle and embark on a three-day adventure.
The Preparation and Challenges Ahead
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After securing her bicycle rental in Skardu, the traveler quickly realized the stark contrasts in terrain and traffic compared to her flat homeland—The Netherlands. Much to her dismay, the bike proved unwieldy and poorly maintained. The initial excitement waned under the realization of the challenges ahead—the daunting hills and the lack of functioning gears. It wasn't long before the arduous task ahead set in, yet she was determined to embrace the spontaneity of the journey and headed off with a vague direction in mind.
Finding Joy in Nature’s Embrace
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As she left the urban chaos behind, a sense of fear dissipated amidst the surrounding fall colors and mountains. However, the physical demands of cycling caused discomfort, especially when navigating uphill. With determination, the traveler sought her first destination in the form of Marsur Rock—a local gem that promised breathtaking views.
The anticipated detour did not come easy. Faced with impossibly steep paths and a bike that played dead, she began to walk her bicycle when unexpectedly, her boyfriend showed up on a motorbike, ready to assist. Along with the locals, they improvised a plan that involved loading her trolley onto a motorbike. The kindness of strangers was just a glimpse into the heartwarming hospitality that Pakistan is famous for.
The Rewarding Hike
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After a coffee break, the traveler began the hike to Marsur Rock, which turned out to be a challenging yet fulfilling experience. The arduous trek culminated in spectacular views, signifying that beauty indeed must be earned. This lesser-known spot, reminiscent of Norway's renowned Tunga, offered a sense of tranquility and isolation, mitigating the impact of mass tourism. The raw beauty of the mountains imbued a longing for exploration of hidden treasures away from the crowds.
Reflecting on the Journey and the Gear
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Back on her bike, the traveler faced more uphill challenges en route to her next destination—Sik. While attempting to get to the town, she encountered eager locals who bombarded her with questions, often leading to a discussion about her marital status and children, reflecting cultural expectations surrounding life choices. However, each friendly interaction reinforced her feelings of safety and welcome in a foreign land.
The physical demands of uphill cycling weighed heavily, and after a long day, she found solace amid the natural landscape beside the river to recharge and regroup. With 20 kilometers left to go, she continued pressing forward, reminding herself of the beauty surrounding her despite the struggle.
The Chocolate Rocks Adventure
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Arriving at Sik, she secured accommodation and prepared to explore The Chocolate Rocks the next day, an enigmatic destination discovered through an Instagram post. Awakened by the morning sun and fueled by coffee, the anticipation of exploration filled her.
With help from local friends, she set off to locate the elusive rocks. Following a charmingly convoluted path filled with laughter and shared stories, the journey concluded with delightful climbs over the true wonders of nature—rocks that resembled chocolate, shrouded in their own unique mysteries.
Reflecting on the Experience
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The landscape's allure and the fun of climbing on the whimsical Chocolate Rocks served as a reminder of the unpredictable beauty travel often brings. Her modest goals tangled with surprise adventures confirmed that moments worrying about cycling through Pakistan were overshadowed by experiences of kindness and community.
Realizing that not every trip has to meet initial intentions, the traveler concluded that embracing the unknown had birthed rewarding experiences. With a fond farewell to Skardu and her new friends, the journey back home culminated not just in fitness gained, but in cherished memories forged in the heart of Pakistan.
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In her reflection, gratitude filled her heart—not only for the picturesque landscapes but also for the assistance, camaraderie, and insights garnered throughout this expedition. The adventure proved essential, reminding her of the enchanting moments that transpire when embarking on bold endeavors, fueled by spontaneity and a thirst for discovery, often amplified by the right technology for documenting such unforgettable journeys.