Muhammad Muteeullah
ISLAMABAD: There are only a few things in life as enjoyable as spending one’s holidays at a place where one gets to see the most scenic and historic places as well as meet new and interesting people. However, Pakistanis – and Muslims in general – find it difficult to come across such a tourist destination that is socially and culturally compatible with their religious values.
Bosnia is a place that offers such a tourist destination to Muslim travelers looking to spend some halal holidays at one of the most naturally beautiful and scenic places in Europe – if not the world – as well as visit some super interesting historic and cultural spots.
According to the Global Muslim Index report for 2022, Bosnia and Herzegovina ranks 6th in Europe and 46th in the world among halal tourist destinations. A visit to the country is the perfect way to explore some of the best places in the Balkan region.
Top Tourist Spots in Bosnia
From its scenic landscapes to historic and culturally rich towns, Bosnia is comprised of numerous places that would particularly attract Muslim travelers. A few of these tourist spots are listed below.
Sarajevo
Surrounded by the Dinaric Alps, Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a small city on the Miljacka River. It is a great place for those who want to learn about the country’s rich history and culture.
If you visit Sarajevo, do go to the museums such as the Gallery 11/07/95 and the Sarajevo Tunnel to get to know about the country’s past.
If you visit Sarajevo, do go to the museums such as the Gallery 11/07/95 and the Sarajevo Tunnel to get to know about the country’s past.
Meanwhile, a visit of the historical Baščaršija bazaar is also a must. Located at the heart of the city, Baščaršija was built in the 15th century when Isa-Beg Ishaković founded the city.
Mostar
Visiting the intriguing city of Mostar should be a part of every bucket list if you are visiting Bosnia. Mostar is famous for its unique architectural structures that represent the diverse ethnicity and history of the country.
It has a number of historically significant tourist spots including the famous UNESCO heritage site the ‘Stari Most’ which was built over the Neretva River.
Blagaj
Blagaj is a picturesque village-town in the southeastern region of the Mostar basin, in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
It is also comprised of the popular attraction Vrelo Bune, a unique natural and architectural ensemble located on the Buna River. Another tourist point in the area is Blagaj Tekke which is a 17th-century Sufi Dervish monastery.
Jahorina Mountain
The Jahorina mountain in Republika Srpska is located near Pale in the Dinaric Alpine region. The place is particularly famous for the impressive Jahorina Olympic Ski Resort which is the largest ski resort in the country.
It is a perfect tourist destination for those who love winter sports or snowy landscapes.
Una National Park
Established on 29 May 2008 around the rivers Upper Una River, Krka and the Unac, it is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s largest national park. The main purpose of the park is to protect the unspoiled Una River and its tributaries Krka and Unac.
If you are seeking a peaceful and quiet tourist spot full of nature, Una National Park is your place to go.
Sutjeska National Park
Sutjeska is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s oldest national park and is also home to Perućica, which is one of the last primeval forests in Europe.
The country’s highest peak Maglić mountain is also located in Sutjeska. The park is a must-visit place for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Mosques and Prayer Facilities
Islam is one of the most followed religions in Bosnia where Muslim travelers can also visit centuries-old beautiful mosques.
Some of such famous mosques are the Emperor’s Mosque and King Fahd Mosque in Sarajevo, and the Ferhat Pasha Mosque in Banja Luka.
Visa for Pakistanis
Bosnia and Herzegovina visa requirements vary from category to category such as tourist visa, work visa, student visa, etc.
Bosnia and Herzegovina tourist visa for citizens of Pakistan is quite simple. One has to represent some additional documents as visa requirements to get their desired visa type. It includes a return flight ticket and accommodation details. You also have to present proof of funds for your tour expense.
Bosnia offers the visa-on-arrival service to a number of countries; however, Pakistan is not among them. Citizens of these countries only need to have a national ID card to enter Bosnia and can stay there for up to 90 days.
