Motorcycle diaries: Pakistani bikers ride to Türkiye and back
Eight adventurers from Lahore explore the open road, fostering cultural ties and promoting tourism between Pakistan, Iran, and Türkiye.
Participants of the “Lahore to Istanbul Rally” on the road. Photos courtesy: Muhammad Mukaram Tareen
Cruising through Iran’s rugged mountains, eight Pakistani bikers are on their way back home, after completing a journey that began with a mission to explore and strengthen ties between Pakistan and Türkiye.
Last month, a group of bikers and adventure enthusiasts set off from the old city of Lahore, embarking on a tour through three countries, with Türkiye as their final destination. The expedition called the Lahore-Istanbul Rally, was meant to foster goodwill and promote tourism between the nations.
Led by Muhammad Mukaram Tareen on his Italian-made Benelli (TRK 502X), the bikers reached Istanbul on November 3 – after being on the road for 18 days, and navigating through challenging terrain.
Tareen was joined by Nazar Seed Khan, Syed Ahmed Subtain Hadiar Shah, Munawar Cheema, Abubakar Cheema, Asif Ashraf, Muhammad Farooq and Faisal Mushtaq Waheed. The initial group had 13 people, but a few didn’t go further than Iran.
The adventurers set off from Lahore last month, embarking on an 18-day journey through Pakistan and Iran, reaching Istanbul on November 3rd. Now, they're on their way back home, retracing their route and completing the full round-trip.
Talking to TRT World from Iran, Tareen explained that the goal of the tour was to develop strong friendships and promote tourism between the countries, adding that the bikers aimed to show “the real face of Pakistan” and encourage people to visit and explore the country.
“Our message is: Pakistan is a beautiful and safe country,” he said, adding that he wants everyone to know that Pakistanis are kind and hospitable. “You can find everything here from the tallest mountains and snow covered peaks to lakes, waterfalls, forests, deserts, beaches, the best fruits, great food, ancient sites, ancient civilisations and lots of culture.”
The men were led by Muhammad Mukaram Tareen on his Italian made Benelli (TRK 502X).
In Türkiye, the group enjoyed visiting historical landmarks, archaeological sites, and natural wonders. “Türkiye is a beautiful country. The people are very friendly and helpful. We hope that both governments start a tourist exchange programme,” Tareen said.
The bikers are also planning an ‘International Bikers Camping Gala and Meet Up’ in Türkiye and a photography exhibition showcasing their journey to further promote tourism and cultural exchange.
Promoting goodwill and cultural connections, the Lahore-Istanbul Rally highlights the shared heritage and scenic landscapes of Pakistan, Iran, and Türkiye. Photos courtesy: Muhammad Mukaram Tareen
Tareen’s passion for biking and exploration is rooted in a long history of adventure. Since 1992, he has travelled extensively on his bikes, beginning with a 1986 Honda Road Master (200cc). So far, he has travelled to 16 countries and believes that a bike is the most affordable and accessible way to explore the world.
“You can go everywhere when you have a bike – many places that are not easily accessible when you’re in a car or jeep.”
His travels have taken him across Pakistan, through Bangladesh, Iran, and parts of Türkiye, with memorable trips including the Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi route in Vietnam and the Black Sea coast of Türkiye.
Aside from his love of motorcycles, Tareen is passionate about exploring historical sites, including UNESCO World Heritage destinations.
His journey is as much about discovering new cultures as it is about making connections and encouraging people to explore the world, starting with Pakistan.
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