Pakistan: Colorful Pakistani Trucks

Pakistani truck art aka “jungle trucks” goes back to 1940s and British Beford trucks when drivers began to personalize and decorate their long-haul vehicles. Years of competition ended up in today’s trucks being works of art on wheels! Trucks are adorned with bright, kaleidoscopic colors – reds, blues, yellows, and greens, often using fluorescents – and common motifs include floral patterns, peacocks, landscapes, historical figures, and religious images. Additionally, trucks are heavily modified with wooden prows (called “taj” or crown), decorative bumpers, and intricate wood carvings on doors. Mirrors, wheel caps, reflective tape, and metalwork (chains, tassels, bells) create a dazzling effect, with bells producing the “jingle” sound when the trucks move. The interior is as ornate as the outside – it’s really awesome!