Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) warmly welcomed Ms. Gulafshan Tariq, Pakistan’s first female biker here on Monday upon the successful completion of her remarkable overland journey from London to Pakistan.
The reception ceremony was attended by Secretary, Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination (IPC), Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Managing Director PTDC, Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, senior officials from PTDC, and members of the media, said a press release.
Gulafshan Tariq was acknowledged for her extraordinary achievement and her role in promoting Pakistan as a destination for adventure tourism and overlanding. Her journey also stood as a powerful symbol of women empowerment, inspiring women to break barriers and pursue their ambitions in adventure travel.
Secretary IPC, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, in his remarks, commended Gulafshan Tariq’s inspiring journey and highlighted its significance in projecting a positive and progressive image of Pakistan globally. He emphasized that such initiatives not only promote tourism but also strengthen women empowerment, cultural exchange and people-to-people connectivity, encouraging more international travelers to explore Pakistan.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Gulafshan Tariq shared her experiences of traveling across Pakistan and expressed her deep appreciation for the hospitality, safety, and support received throughout her journey. She highlighted that she had the opportunity to meet and interact with many female bikers across this country, which found highly inspiring and encouraging.
She also appreciated the continued support of Pakistan’s tourism institutions and announced her intention to revisit the country along with a group of 15 bikers from the United Kingdom, aiming to further promote adventure tourism and strengthen international engagement.
Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, while welcoming the guest, appreciated her courage, determination and pioneering spirit. He reaffirmed that PTDC would continue to facilitate international tourists, explorers, and adventurers and remained committed to promoting Pakistan as a premier destination for adventure tourism, overlanding and inclusive tourism initiatives, particularly encouraging women-led participation in the sector.
In recognition of her valuable contribution and inspiring journey, souvenirs were presented to Gulafshan Tariq by PTDC.
Ms. Gulafshan Tariq’s visit reflects Pakistan’s growing appeal among international adventure travelers and highlighted the country’s vast potential for motorbike tourism, overlanding and high-altitude exploration, while reinforcing the message of women empowerment and resilience.
Source: Associated Press of Pakistan
