Pakistan’s First Female Biker Returns Home after Historic London-to-Pakistan Journey

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s first female biker, Gulafshan Tariq, has returned home after successfully completing her remarkable overland journey from London to Pakistan. The Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) accorded her a warm welcome at its Head Office in Islamabad.

The reception ceremony was attended by Secretary, Ministry of Inter-Provincial Coordination, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani, Managing Director PTDC Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, senior officials of PTDC, and media representatives. On the occasion, Gulafshan Tariq’s outstanding achievement and her role in promoting adventure tourism were widely appreciated. Her journey was also described as a powerful symbol of women empowerment, inspiring others to pursue their ambitions.

Speaking at the event, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani praised her courage and determination, stating that her journey projects a positive and progressive image of Pakistan at the global level. He added that such initiatives not only promote tourism but also strengthen women empowerment, cultural exchange, and people-to-people connections, encouraging international travelers to visit Pakistan.

Gulafshan Tariq, while sharing her experiences, expressed gratitude for the hospitality, safety, and support she received throughout her journey across Pakistan. She highlighted that she had the opportunity to meet several female bikers across the country, which she found highly encouraging. She also appreciated the continued support of Pakistan’s tourism institutions and announced her plan to revisit Pakistan with a group of 15 bikers from the United Kingdom to further promote adventure tourism.

Managing Director PTDC Aftab-ur-Rehman Rana, in his remarks, appreciated her courage, determination, and pioneering spirit. He reaffirmed PTDC’s commitment to facilitating international tourists, adventurers, and explorers, and promoting Pakistan as a leading destination for adventure tourism, overlanding, and inclusive tourism, particularly encouraging women’s participation.

At the end of the ceremony, souvenirs were presented to Gulafshan Tariq in recognition of her inspiring journey and valuable contribution. Her visit reflects Pakistan’s growing appeal among international adventure travelers and highlights the country’s vast potential for motorbike tourism, overlanding, and high-altitude exploration, while reinforcing a strong message of women empowerment and resilience.