Islamabad
[swipe ⬅️ to see some hitchhiking action and more]
Friday, 23rd of June
Faisal mosque is massive impressive. It is shaped like a Bedouin tent and can hold up to 10.000 worshippers. After a little pre-monsoon rainfall I make my way there and enjoy the cool night as the humid heat during the day is almost unbearable. Many visitors just come and sit on the grounds, enjoy time with their family or discussions with their friends. It’s peaceful, tranquil, serene. And – as so often when I visit religious sites of all sorts – makes me wonder: why can’t religion and coexistence always be like that? Peaceful, tranquil and serene?
Saturday, 24th of June
Have I mentioned how hot and humid it is in Islamabad? I’m dreading to go outside but I have to apply for the visa to India and since I made a mistake on my application have to go again today. Even the motorcycle right to get to and from there doesn’t cool me down. The driver stops to get a refreshing drink on the roadside. I respectfully refuse because there is one thing I probably won’t ever get used to in Pakistan: people sharing the same cup over and over again. In restaurants, at public institutions or on the roadside.
Sunday, 25th of June
One of the crazier hitchhiking days comes to an end. My plan was to get from Islamabad to Gilgit tu reunite with @schmidi_999
Of course I completely underestimate the road conditions on the way up north and with the great help of the highway police also lose an hour going back and forth. Friendly Busdrivers, helpful police, curious locals, actually helpful fixers and a lovely couple who invites me to dinner at a waterfall restaurant to finish the day. (See Bonus pics for all) That is hitchhiking par excellence! 🕊️
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#hitchhiking#dove#adventure#backpacking#faisalmosque#islamabad#pakistan
