Bousher Bikers explore Pakistan's rugged north in 2,500km ride
From the bustling streets of Rawalpindi to the stark grandeur of the Pakistan-China border, the group traversed mountains, valleys, deserts and rural backroads. Their experience, marked by both the thrill of adventure and the warmth of local hospitality, was shared at a reception hosted by H E Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, Pakistan's Ambassador to Oman, in Muscat on Tuesday.
'Pakistan, particularly the northern region, offers some of the most stunning mountain and countryside scenery anywhere in the world,' said H E Bokhari. 'This journey highlights the potential for deeper tourism ties between Oman and Pakistan, as visitors experience not just nature but also the country's welcoming spirit.'
Led by Issa al Hassni, the team rode daily from 9am to evening, averaging 300km a day. Their route wound through remote villages and across high-altitude passes before culminating at the border with China. The team opted to hire motorcycles in Pakistan ranging from 150cc to 750cc for the trip. Accompanied by an ambulance and a government convoy throughout, the bikers reported no issues with food, security or logistics.
Hassni informed that this was the group's first venture beyond the GCC. 'What stayed with us the most wasn't just the scenery, but the people's warmth,' he said. 'In many places, locals treated us like family – some even refused payment because we were guests. The kindness of the people, the police and the military left a deep impression.'
The journey was born out of an encounter with Ghangla during his visit to Oman. That meeting sparked the idea for the ride, and as part of the 54th anniversary of Oman-Pakistan diplomatic relations, the Pakistan Embassy in Muscat helped coordinate arrangements, finalising plans within just 28 days.
Founded in 2016, Bousher Bikers has 40 members from several countries and regularly organises long-distance rides. Following its first international ride outside the GCC, the group now plans to tour Iran and Turkey.
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