# CPEC , an overview!

CPEC, originally was proposed by the Chinese Premier, Li Keqiang during his visit to Pakistan in May 2013, with a project linking Kashgar in northwest China with Gwadar Port on the Arabian Sea coastline in Baluchistan. The initiative is also driven strongly from China’s quest for Warm Waters. Mindful of the under development of its western provinces which are a soft belly and ongoing Uighur movement, China wants speedy modernization of Xingjiang and of its other under developed provinces to bring them at par with its eastern provinces. For the accomplishment of these dreams, China needs access to warm waters in the Arabian Sea through Gwadar since this route to world markets is not only the shortest and cheapest, but also provides China with an alternative to the Strait of Malacca. CPEC envisages developing Gwadar into a free trade zone with a modern airport and as the largest deep seaport overshadowing Chahbahar and Dubai, in the process turning it into a gateway for China’s one belt-one road initiative.

Exploring Gawadar

Gwadar lies on the Arabian Sea coast of Balochistan Province in southwestern Pakistan. It is strategically located between three increasingly important regions: the oil-rich Middle East, heavily populated South Asia and the economically emerging and resource-laden region of Central Asia. The Gwadar Port is expected to generate billions of dollars in revenues and create at least two million jobs.

Places to visit

1.Hingol National park

Cruising on the coastal highway approximately 190 km from Karachi you will come across Hingol National Park the largest in Pakistan. You can observe wildlife in its natural habitat and there is even a natural underground Hingol river where you can swim.

2.Kund malir Beach

A must see place. It is the beautiful desert beach near Hingol, some 145km from Zero-Point on Makran Coastal Highway. It lies next to the huge mountains and together it give a wild look to the place. Enjoy the desert safari and breathtaking view of the desert.

3.Buzi pass

Travelling on the Makran costal highway about 6 km away from Kund Malir one would be struck by the sublime beauty of the smooth road of Buzi Pass as it snakes its way through the mountain. Sitting in a car on the Buzi Pass one can enjoy the vast blue water of the Arabian Sea on one side, then turn your head and marvel at the grandeur of majestic mountains on the other side. When you look at the lofty peaks along the coastal highway you will observe the princes of hope and lion of Balochistan.

4.Ormara Beach

It is one of the most beautiful long beach around the edge. Amazing blue Green beaches, Golden sand, and incredible natural beauty and fauna makes it worth a visit. Stay at the beach hut at Ormara Beach Resort city.

5.Gwadar Port

6.West Bay Beach

Things to do

Water Sports
Scuba Diving giant fishes, turtles, stingrays have all been spotted.
Boating Various cruises are available with or without packages lunches.
Desert Safari on Sand Dunes
Swimming at the beaches or at the pool of PC Gwadar.
Spa at PC Zaver, indulge in the sauna, steam bath or Jacuzzi.
Fishing

# **How to reach?** Karachi is the city from which Gwadar is closest and easiest accessible. You can either fly or else drive via the Makran Coastal Highway, which itself is a scenic journey, travel time is 7 hours. **By air** Gwadar has a smaller airport operating to cater the local population. Gwadar Airport. The main airline flying from Karachi almost daily is PIA. **By bus** There are several buses shuttling between Gwadar and Karachi. **By car** Car rental companies also offer cars for a fees and deposit. Most Hotels offer Rent-a-Car services. Gulf Motors rent a car fleet comprises of latest saloon, medium and large vans, 4 WD jeeps, double cabin trucks, 4 Wheel motor bikes for trekking around the hotel and water scooters. It also offers air port transfers, city tours, desert safaris, trips to adjoining seaside city.

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