PAKISTAN

Pakistan, a land of ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes, offers a journey through diverse cultures shaped by Persian, Central Asian, and Indian influences. From the towering Himalayas to vibrant cities, its rich history is reflected in stunning architecture, warm hospitality, and a flavorful cuisine.

Region: South Asia

Capital: Islamabad

Official Language: Urdu, English. Numerous regional languages like Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi are also widely spoken.

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution due to an unpredictable security situation, including threats of terrorism and civil unrest. Avoid regions near the Afghan border. Stay informed via local authorities and register with your embassy when possible.

A map of Asia with the country of Pakistan highlighted in green.

Why Visit Pakistan?

Spectacular Landscapes: Explore the mighty Karakoram, Himalayan, and Hindu Kush mountain ranges, home to K2 and breathtaking valleys like Hunza.

Ancient History: Discover archaeological wonders like Mohenjo-Daro and Taxila, remnants of the Indus Valley Civilization and Gandhara Buddhist heritage.

Vibrant Culture & Hospitality: Experience the renowned warmth and generosity of the Pakistani people, known for their welcoming nature.

A mountain landscape with a small lake and clouds in the valleys.

Delicious Cuisine: Savor a fusion of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and North Indian flavors, from spicy biryanis to rich karahis.

Affordable Travel: Enjoy a high-quality travel experience at a relatively lower cost compared to many Western destinations.

Architectural Marvels: Witness stunning Mughal-era forts, mosques, and gardens, showcasing intricate Islamic artistry.

A low-angle shot of a large mosque with two minarets and a central dome.

Essential Trip Information

Most nationalities require a visa; e-visas are available for over 170 countries.

Apply via the official Pakistan Online Visa System: https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/

Passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry.

Return ticket and proof of accommodation/funds may be requested at immigration.

Some regions (e.g., Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir) may require additional permits.

Pakistan uses the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Notes: PKR 10–5000. Coins: 1–10 rupees.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Bring a small amount of USD or EUR for initial expenses.

  • During Your Trip: Use ATMs in major cities (e.g., HBL, MCB, UBL). Some places accept Visa/Mastercard.

  • What to Avoid: Avoid currency exchange at airports or street vendors; rates are poor.

Urdu is the national language and English is an official language, widely understood in urban areas and by educated individuals.

Helpful phrases: “Assalam-o-Alaikum” (hello/peace be upon you), “Shukriya” (thank you), “Kaisa hai?” (How are you?).

Major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi are generally safe for tourists.

Avoid traveling alone in remote or border regions without a local guide.

Watch for pickpockets in crowded bazaars and public buses.

Emergency number: 15 (Police), 1122 (Rescue & Ambulance)

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus.

Bottled water is advised outside major cities. Avoid ice or uncooked street food.

Pharmacies are common in cities. Bring essential medications.

Domestic Flights: PIA and AirBlue serve major routes (Islamabad–Skardu, Karachi–Lahore).

Buses: Reliable long-distance services like Daewoo or Faisal Movers.

Trains: Scenic but slow; use for adventure (e.g., Lahore–Rawalpindi).

Ride-Sharing: Careem, Uber in major cities.

Local Transport: Rickshaws and taxis—negotiate prices beforehand.

Pakistan is very budget-friendly compared to Western countries.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses/hostels: US$8–20/night

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels: US$30–70/night

  • Luxury: High-end hotels: US$100–200+/night

Food

  • Street food: Samosas, biryani, kebabs: US$1–4

  • Mid-range meals: Local restaurants: US$5–10/person

  • Fine dining: Upscale venues in Lahore/Karachi: US$20–40/person

Drinks

  • Tea (chai): US$0.20–0.50

  • Soft drinks: US$0.50–1.00

  • Alcohol is restricted; available in some hotels to foreigners.

Transportation

  • Intercity buses: US$5–15, depending on class and distance

  • Taxis/Ride-share: US$1–5 for short trips

  • Rickshaws: US$0.50–2 (negotiate price)

Money-Saving Tips

  • Travel in groups to reduce transport costs

  • Eat at local dhabas (roadside eateries)

  • Use ride-hailing apps to avoid tourist overcharging

  • Take overnight buses to save on accommodation

Explore Pakistan

The cultural capital of Pakistan dazzles with Mughal architecture, lively bazaars, and the grand Badshahi Mosque. Don’t miss the Wagah border ceremony near India.

Nestled against the Margalla Hills, this modern, leafy city offers calm elegance with highlights like Faisal Mosque and Daman-e-Koh viewpoint.

Pakistan’s largest city blends sea, skyscrapers, and colonial heritage. Visit Clifton Beach, Empress Market, and the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum.

This fairytale valley in northern Pakistan boasts snowy peaks, turquoise lakes, and ancient forts like Baltit and Altit.

A launchpad for treks to K2, Skardu stuns with Shangrila Resort, Satpara Lake, and rugged mountain beauty.

Known as the “Switzerland of the East,” Swat offers lush hills, rivers, and Buddhist ruins. Malam Jabba is great for skiing.

Walk the streets of one of the world’s oldest cities—this UNESCO World Heritage site dates back 4,500 years.

At the base of Nanga Parbat, the world’s 9th highest peak, this alpine meadow is a trekker’s dream under starlit skies.

Ride camels across golden dunes and visit the massive 9th-century Derawar Fort, a stunning symbol of desert architecture.

The “City of Saints” boasts Sufi shrines, bazaars filled with blue pottery, and a rich spiritual vibe steeped in history.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Fewer Tourists

  • Quiet Destinations

  • Cool Hill Stations Offer Relief

Main Drawbacks:

  • Extreme Heat in Plains

  • Monsoon Rains & Flooding Risk

  • Limited Access in Some Areas

  • Outdoor Activities Affected by Weather

Key Regions:

  • Northern Areas (Hunza, Skardu): Cooler temperatures and scenic beauty.

  • Murree & Nathia Gali: Popular hill stations with mild weather.

  • Karachi & Coastal Areas: Hot and humid but less crowded.

Key Advantages:

  • Pleasant Temperatures

  • Manageable Crowds

  • Clear Skies & Good Visibility

  • Festivals & Cultural Events

  • Blooming Flora in Spring / Mild Autumn Colors

Main Drawbacks:

  • Occasional Dust Storms (Spring)

  • Early Monsoon Rains in Late Summer (Autumn)

  • Temperature Variation Across Regions

Key Regions:

  • Lahore & Islamabad: Comfortable weather for city sightseeing.

  • Northern Mountains (Naran, Kaghan Valley): Ideal for trekking and nature walks.

  • Punjab Countryside: Vibrant festivals and blooming landscapes.

  • Karachi & Southern Coast: Warm but pleasant in spring/autumn.

  • Winter (November – February, especially December & January)

  • Religious Holidays (Eid, Ramadan Periods)

  • Tourist Festivals (e.g., Shandur Polo Festival in July, but peak tourist influx around winter)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Avoid political discussions, especially on sensitive topics like civil-military relations or religion.

Tipping: 10–15% is appreciated in restaurants; US$0.50–2 for porters or hotel staff.

Dress Code: Modest attire is expected—covering shoulders and knees is advised, especially in rural areas or religious sites.

Religious Etiquette: Remove shoes when entering mosques; women may need to cover heads. Ask before photographing locals, especially women.

Hospitality: Guests are treated with exceptional warmth—refusing tea or food may seem impolite.

Haggling: Common in markets and bazaars; negotiate respectfully.

Accommodation: Budget hotels/guesthouses (US$15–40), mid-range (US$50–100), luxury (US$150–300+).

Food: Street food (US$1–3), casual restaurants (US$5–10), upscale dining (US$25–50+).

Transport: Local buses or minibuses (US$0.20–2), ride-hailing apps (US$2–10 per ride), domestic flights (US$30–150).

Activities: Many natural attractions are free; guided tours or entrance to historical sites (US$5–20).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$40–60 (guesthouses, local meals, buses)

  • Mid-range: US$100–180 (comfortable hotels, intercity transport, guides)

  • Luxury: US$250+ (private drivers, fine hotels, tailored experiences)

Free Wi-Fi: Available in many cafes, hotels, and co-working spaces in major cities.

SIM Cards: Zong, Jazz, and Telenor sell prepaid plans—US$5–10 for 10–20GB. Passport required.

eSIMs: Supported by some providers (e.g., Airalo). Network quality is best in urban areas.

Recommended for: Medical emergencies, lost luggage, trip cancellations.

Healthcare: Quality varies—private clinics in cities are better; ensure coverage includes evacuation for remote regions.

Adventure Activities: If trekking, paragliding, or hiking in the north, double-check insurance coverage for high-altitude or remote travel.

Pakistan offers a wide variety of stays—from basic village homestays to regal heritage hotels.

Luxury:

  • Heritage stays: Restored Mughal mansions or colonial-era hotels in Lahore and Murree.

  • Mountain resorts: Stunning valley views in Hunza or Skardu with premium amenities.

Mid-range:

  • Boutique hotels: Stylish properties in Islamabad, Lahore, and Hunza.

  • Hill station retreats: Mid-range lodges in Swat, Murree, and Gilgit.

Budget:

  • Guesthouses: ~US$10–30/night in most towns.

  • Hostels: Growing scene in Lahore, Islamabad, and Gilgit with shared dorms for US$8–15/night.

Unique Stays:

  • Glamping tents: Available in Skardu and Fairy Meadows.

  • Traditional mud homes: Experience village life in Sindh or Cholistan.

Tip: Book accommodations early during high season (May–August in the north, October–March in the south).

Pakistan’s transport network is diverse but varies in comfort and reliability.

Trains:

  • Pakistan Railways: Connects major cities (e.g., Lahore–Karachi, Islamabad–Multan). Opt for Green Line or AC classes for comfort.

  • Scenic routes: The Rawalpindi–Gilgit route (via bus/train combo) is breathtaking but long.

Buses:

  • Daewoo & Faisal Movers: Comfortable intercity coaches—e.g., Islamabad to Lahore (~4.5 hours).

  • Local minibuses: Cheap but crowded—best avoided for long distances.

Flights:

  • PIA and Airblue offer regular domestic flights (e.g., Karachi to Skardu, Lahore to Islamabad). Best option for reaching northern regions quickly.

Car Rental:

  • With driver: Common and advisable—self-driving is rare due to chaotic traffic and road conditions.

  • Ideal for northern Pakistan itineraries (Hunza, Skardu, Fairy Meadows).

Public Transport in Cities:

  • Lahore Metrobus & Islamabad Metro: Efficient and cheap for main routes.

  • Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber): Reliable in cities, especially for airport transfers.

  • Rickshaws: Popular for short trips—negotiate fare upfront.

Handy Tips

Pakistan uses the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Bills commonly come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 denominations; coins exist but are rarely used.

Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks. Get better rates at local banks or ATMs in major cities.

Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in malls, hotels, and high-end restaurants. Cash is king in local markets, small eateries, and rural areas.

Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is customary but modest.

  • Restaurants/Cafés: 10–15% if not already included.
  • Taxis/Rickshaws: Round up to the nearest 50 or 100 PKR (US$0.20–0.50).
  • Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–3 per day for housekeeping.
  • Tour Guides: Around US$5–10 per person for a full-day group tour.

Urdu is the national language, though English is widely spoken in cities, especially in hotels, airports, and among educated locals.

Useful Phrases:

  • “Metro station kahan hai?” – Where is the metro station?
  • “Yeh kitnay ka hai?” – How much is this?
  • “Mujhe rasid chahiye.” – I need a receipt.

Pro Tip: Locals appreciate politeness—say “Shukriya” (thank you) and “Meherbani” (please). In rural areas, English speakers may be limited—consider downloading offline translation apps.

Pakistan is generally safe for travelers, especially in touristed regions like Islamabad, Lahore, Hunza, and Skardu, but maintain caution.

  • Avoid political gatherings or protests, and check local news regularly.

  • Be cautious at night in less-lit or deserted areas, especially in large cities.

  • Dress modestly, particularly in conservative regions.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 15: Police

  • 1122: Ambulance and Fire

  • Your Embassy: Keep contact details stored offline

Pakistan operates on 230V/50Hz with Type C and Type D plugs (round pins). Visitors from the U.S. need a voltage converter for devices that aren’t dual voltage and a plug adapter.

Tap water is not reliably safe for drinking.

Drink bottled or filtered water (available everywhere).

Most restaurants offer filtered water; still, ask for bottled water to be sure.

Avoid ice in local eateries unless you’re sure it’s from filtered water.

Government offices, schools, and many businesses close on:

  • 23 Mar: Pakistan Day

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 14 Aug: Independence Day

  • 25 Dec: Quaid-e-Azam Day & Christmas

  • Eid-ul-Fitr: Varies (end of Ramadan)

  • Eid-ul-Adha: Varies (approx. 2 months after Eid-ul-Fitr)

  • Ashura (Muharram): Varies (Islamic lunar calendar)

Note: Eid holidays may last several days. Shops and transport can be crowded or closed.

Markets/Bazaars: 10:00–22:00 (often closed on Fridays or Sunday mornings)

Malls: 11:00–23:00

Pharmacies: Most open till late (some 24/7 in cities)

Weekly Bazaars: Great for handicrafts and street food, especially in cities like Lahore and Islamabad.

Biryani: Spiced rice with chicken, beef, or mutton—every region has its twist.

Nihari: Slow-cooked beef stew, perfect for breakfast in Lahore or Karachi.

Chapli Kebab: Spiced minced meat patties from Peshawar—crispy and rich.

Haleem: Thick lentil and meat stew—hearty and flavorful.

Chicken Karahi: Stir-fried tomato-based curry cooked in a wok-like pan.

Samosa: Fried pastry stuffed with potatoes or meat—street food favorite.

Pakora: Deep-fried fritters made from vegetables and chickpea flour.

Saag with Makki Roti: Spinach curry served with corn flatbread—a Punjabi winter staple.

Gol Gappay/Pani Puri: Crispy shells filled with tangy water and chickpeas—an adventure for your tastebuds.

Lassi: Yogurt-based drink—salty or sweet. Try mango lassi in the summer!

Alcoholic (restricted):

Alcohol is legal for non-Muslims in licensed hotels and select stores (mostly in Karachi and Islamabad).

  • Murree Brewery Lager: Pakistan’s iconic local beer—light and malty.

  • Murree Special Reserve Whisky: Locally distilled whisky with a cult following.

  • Murree Classic Gin: Herbal and smooth—available at top-tier hotels.

  • Royal Reserve Brandy: A mellow, locally-produced brandy.

  • Café Liquor (limited availability): Coffee-infused digestif.

Non-Alcoholic (widely available):

  • Sugarcane Juice (Roh): Refreshing street-side drink (watch hygiene).
  • Lassi: Especially mango or rose-flavored in summer.
  • Kashmiri Chai: Pink tea with pistachios and salt—warm and unique.
  • Sattu Drink: Made from roasted barley flour—nutritious and cooling.
  • Pakola Ice Cream Soda: Bright green soda—nostalgic and sweet.

Lahore Fort & Badshahi Mosque: Mughal grandeur at its best.

Faisal Mosque (Islamabad): Iconic modern Islamic architecture.

Shalimar Gardens: 17th-century Persian-style gardens in Lahore.

Mohenjo-Daro: One of the oldest cities of the Indus Valley Civilization.

Hunza Valley Forts: Altit & Baltit Forts overlook scenic mountains.

Taxila Ruins: Ancient Buddhist sites and museums.

Sufi Shrines: Like Data Darbar (Lahore) or Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai (Sindh).

Truck Art: Vibrant, hand-painted trucks—an iconic roadside tradition.

Chaukhandi Tombs (Karachi): Intricately carved sandstone tombs.

Karakoram Highway: One of the world’s highest paved roads—connects to China.

Hiking in Margalla Hills (Islamabad): Numerous trails with city views.

Boating at Rawal Lake: Especially during sunset.

Cultural Shows at Lok Virsa Museum: Folk dance, crafts, and music.

Cinema Scene: Try Centaurus (Islamabad) or Nueplex (Karachi) for local films.

Horseback Riding in Nathiagali: Serene mountain trails.

Winter Skiing in Malam Jabba: Ideal from Dec–Feb.

Festivals: Attend Basant in Lahore (kite-flying) or Chilam Joshi in Kalash Valley.

Shopping in Anarkali Bazaar (Lahore): Traditional clothes and crafts.

Cricket Matches: Watch a PSL match at Gaddafi Stadium if in season.

Sufi Nights in Lahore: Live qawwali music at shrines or cultural centers.

Karachi Sea View Promenade: Chill by the sea or try camel rides.

Islamabad Rooftop Cafés: Try Monal or Des Pardes for stunning night views.

Lahore Food Street (Old City): Night eats with lit-up heritage façades.

Shisha Lounges in Karachi/Islamabad: Relaxed social hubs.

Live Music at T2F (Karachi): Underground arts & activism.

Sufi Qawwali Nights at Shrines: Deeply spiritual and rhythmic.

Hunza Bonfire Nights: Local music under starlit skies.

Murree Night Markets: Street snacks and shopping.

Cultural Dance Events: Look out for Punjab Lok Nach or Sindhi Jhoomar.

Café Crawl in Gulberg (Lahore): Try Chai Shai, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.