tourist attractions in pakistan questions and answers

Tourism in Pakistan

Tourism in Pakistan has a lot of potential. But why is this industry so important and what does it all mean? Read on to find out…

Pakistan, positioned at the crossroads of South and Central Asia, is a burgeoning presence in the global tourism industry. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range to the historical cities of Lahore and Mohenjo-Daro, Pakistan presents a tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. In this article, I’ll navigate the intricacies of Pakistan’s tourism sector, highlighting its rich heritage, scenic beauty, and the efforts in place to foster its growth. Join me as we journey through the multifaceted allure of Pakistan.

Geography of Pakistan 

Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan to the west, Iran to the southwest, and China to the northeast. The country’s coastline runs along the Arabian Sea, and it shares maritime borders with Oman and Iran. With an area of approximately 796,000 square kilometres, Pakistan is the 33rd largest country in the world. The country is also home to some of the highest peaks in the world, with the Himalayas in the north and the Karakoram range in the northwest.

The geography of Pakistan is quite diverse, with different landscapes and features found throughout the country. In the north, the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges are home to a number of high peaks, including K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. The Indus River, which is one of the longest rivers in the world, flows through the country from north to south and is a vital source of water for irrigation and hydropower.

In the east, the Thar Desert covers parts of the provinces of Sindh and Punjab. The desert is home to a unique ecosystem, with a variety of flora and fauna adapted to the arid climate. The coastline along the Arabian Sea is also an important feature of Pakistan’s geography, with several important ports located along the coast.

Pakistan is also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and droughts, which can have a significant impact on the country’s population and infrastructure. The 2005 earthquake in northern Pakistan, for example, killed over 80,000 people and caused widespread destruction, highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness and response measures.

Overall, the geography of Pakistan is an important factor in shaping the country’s economy, culture, and society. The country’s diverse landscapes and natural resources provide opportunities for agriculture, tourism, and energy production, while also posing challenges in terms of infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and disaster management.

Tourism Industry in Pakistan

Tourism industry in Pakistan has a lot of potential due to the country’s diverse geography and rich cultural heritage. Despite this, tourism has historically been underdeveloped in the country, although there has been a recent push to increase investment in the industry. Pakistan offers a range of attractions for tourists, including historical sites, stunning landscapes, and friendly people.

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Pakistan is the northern region, which is home to some of the highest mountain peaks in the world, such as K2 and Nanga Parbat. These mountains attract mountaineers and trekkers from around the world who come to challenge themselves and enjoy the stunning views. Additionally, the region is known for its scenic valleys, including Hunza, Skardu, and Chitral, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the people living in the area.

Pakistan also has a rich cultural heritage that can be traced back thousands of years. Historical sites such as the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro and the Mughal-era Badshahi Mosque in Lahore attract tourists interested in history and architecture. Additionally, the vibrant street culture and delicious cuisine of Pakistan are popular with tourists who want to experience the local way of life.

Despite these attractions, tourism in Pakistan faces a number of challenges, including security concerns and poor infrastructure. However, the government is taking steps to address these issues, such as investing in tourism infrastructure, improving security for tourists, and promoting the country’s image abroad.

Pakistan has a lot to offer tourists, and the tourism industry has the potential to be a significant contributor to the country’s economy. With the right investment and policy measures, Pakistan can attract more tourists and showcase its unique attractions to the world.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Pakistan

Pakistan is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse geography that offers a variety of attractions for tourists. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Pakistan are:

The Northern Region: The northern region of Pakistan is famous for its stunning landscapes and mountainous terrain. The region is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2 and Nanga Parbat, as well as picturesque valleys such as Hunza, Chitral, and Skardu. Tourists come to the northern region for trekking, mountaineering, and to experience the traditional way of life of the local people.

Lahore: Lahore is the cultural capital of Pakistan and is home to many historical and cultural landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks in Lahore is the Mughal-era Badshahi Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world. Other attractions in Lahore include the Lahore Fort, Anarkali Bazar, and the Walled City of Lahore.

Islamabad: Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan and is known for its modern architecture and scenic locations. One of the most iconic landmarks in Islamabad is the Shah Faisal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Pakistan and can house up to 100,000 worshippers. Other attractions in Islamabad include the Margalla Hills, Daman-e-Koh, and Rawal Lake.

Karachi: Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan and is known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches. Some of the most popular attractions in Karachi include Clifton Beach, the National Museum of Pakistan, and the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum.

Mohenjo-Daro: Mohenjo-Daro is an ancient city located in the province of Sindh and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Pakistan. The ruins of the city provide a glimpse into the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which dates back to 2500 BCE.

In conclusion, Pakistan offers a range of attractions for tourists, from stunning mountain ranges and valleys to rich cultural and historical landmarks. These attractions have the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s tourism industry if the infrastructure and security measures are improved to attract more locals and tourists alike.

Popular Types of Tourism in Pakistan

Pakistan offers several types of tourism due to its rich diversity, history, and geography. Some of the popular types of tourism in Pakistan are:

Adventure Tourism: Adventure tourism is a popular type of tourism in Pakistan, thanks to the country’s diverse geography, including high peaks, treacherous passes, high-altitude lakes, and vast deserts. Pakistan’s Northern region, including valleys such as Hunza, Skardu, and Chitral, are popular among tourists interested in trekking, hiking, and mountaineering. The region is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2, Nanga Parbat, and Gasherbrum. Besides trekking and mountaineering, river rafting, paragliding, and skiing are also popular in the northern region.

Religious Tourism: Pakistan is home to several holy sites of different religions. The country’s most famous religious tourist destination is the city of Multan, where Sufi saints are buried. Each year, millions of pilgrims from different parts of the world visit Multan. Similarly, the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore is a popular place of worship for Muslims, while Sikh pilgrims visit Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal.

Cultural Tourism: Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage with a diverse mix of cultures, religions, and traditions, which makes it an excellent destination for cultural tourism. Pakistan’s cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, are home to many historical landmarks, such as forts, palaces, mosques, and tombs. Additionally, Pakistan’s street markets, bazaars, and cuisine offer a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.

Ecotourism: Pakistan offers many protected areas for wildlife, including national parks and nature reserves. These areas provide opportunities for eco-tourism, such as birdwatching, wildlife safaris, and nature walks. National Parks such as Khunjerab and Margalla Hills National Park attract tourists interested in nature and wildlife.

In conclusion, Pakistan offers diverse types of tourism, ranging from adventure and cultural to religious and eco-tourism, due to its diverse geography, rich heritage, and striking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking adventure, adventure, and spiritual fulfilment. The potential for Pakistan’s tourism industry to grow further can only be increased by promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices while providing better host infrastructure and safety measures.

Economic Impacts of Tourism in Pakistan

Tourism has the potential to bring strong economic benefits to Pakistan. By creating jobs, supporting local businesses and promoting cultural exchange, the industry can boost the country’s economy. Some of the key economic impacts of tourism in Pakistan are:

Employment Generation: Tourism creates jobs in many sectors such as hospitality, food and beverage, transportation, and entertainment. The sector provides direct employment to tour guides, hotel staff, and artisans, among others. Furthermore, the industry generates indirect employment in related sectors such as construction, farming, and manufacturing.

Business Development: The tourism industry benefits local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and transportation services. Small businesses such as souvenir shops and handicraft dealers gain from an increase in tourist activity as they cater to tourists looking for local products and gifts. This increased business often leads to numerous entrepreneurial opportunities that help develop remote and rural areas.

Foreign Exchange Earnings: Tourism is a significant source of foreign exchange earnings for Pakistan. Tourist spending generates revenue for businesses, and foreign exchange earnings from the sector contribute to economic growth through increased exports and import substitution. This increased revenue can help balance the country’s trade deficit, which can contribute to better currency stability and foreign reserves.

Improved Infrastructure: Tourism plays a significant role in infrastructure development, especially in remote and rural areas. Improved infrastructure such as roads, airports, and accommodations, among others are required for boosting tourist activity, which in turn can benefit the entire population by improving the area’s connectivity and transportation facilities.

Promoting Cultural Exchange: Tourism promotes cultural exchange, showcasing local cultures, customs, and traditions, which also promotes social cohesion between visitors and locals. The interaction between tourists and the local community can create an environment that fosters mutual respect and understanding of each other’s lifestyles and cultures.

In conclusion, the tourism sector provides a range of economic benefits, including the creation of employment opportunities, business development, foreign exchange earnings, infrastructure development, and promoting cultural exchange that can impact Pakistan’s development positively. By investing in the tourism industry, Pakistan can leverage its rich heritage, culture, and geography to promote tourism that can benefit the entire country.

Social Impacts of Tourism in Pakistan

In addition to economic benefits, tourism in Pakistan can also have significant social impacts. The sector can promote cultural exchange, social interaction, and create opportunities for local communities. However, tourism can also have negative social impacts, such as increased crime or exploitation of local residents. Some of the key social impacts of tourism in Pakistan are:

Promotion of Cultural Exchange: Tourism in Pakistan promotes cultural exchange, which is beneficial for both tourists and locals. Visitors can learn about the local culture through interactions with people, experiences of cultural traditions, and trying local food. These interactions can increase cultural awareness and promote mutual respect between people from different backgrounds.

Preservation of Local Traditions: Tourism in Pakistan can contribute to the preservation of local traditions, as they help maintain the cultural heritage of local communities, such as folk music, dance, and art. Visitors can support local artisans and craftspeople, by purchasing their products or participating in cultural shows or events that celebrate the local culture.

Improved Social Infrastructure: Tourism development can lead to improved social infrastructure, such as healthcare and education, for the local population. The development of the tourism industry can encourage private sector investment in such areas, leading to social progress and sustainable growth in local communities.

Increased Awareness of Environmental Issues: The tourism industry can raise awareness of environmental issues and promote responsible tourism practices. Living locally, tourists learn about the impacts of littering, deforestation, and pollution on local ecosystems, which as a result, can inspire them to practise responsible and sustainable practices.

Potential for Negative Impacts: However, the tourism industry also has the potential to negatively impact local communities, such as the exploitation of residents and their cultural and social extinction. Additionally, tourism can lead to increased crime, overcrowding and inappropriate behaviour that can negatively affect the community’s values, customs and traditions.

Tourism in Pakistan can provide significant social benefits by promoting cultural exchange, preserving local traditions, improving social infrastructure, and increasing awareness of environmental issues. However, its negative impacts such as social exploitation, cultural erosion, and increased crime rates need to be carefully monitored and addressed to ensure maximum social benefits for both visitors and local communities.

Environmental Impacts of Tourism in Pakistan

The tourism industry provides many socio-economic benefits, but it can also have significant environmental impacts on Pakistan’s ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and natural resources. Significant developments can result in deforestation, water pollution, and the degradation of the ecosystem, which can negatively impact the local ecosystem and wildlife. Some of the key environmental impacts of tourism in Pakistan are:

Resource Consumption: Tourism in Pakistan can lead to the excessive consumption of natural resources like water, energy, and timber. In areas with limited resources, tourist development can result in water shortages and energy outages, taking a toll on the surrounding ecosystems and harming the local community’s livelihoods.

Deforestation and Land Use: Tourist development can result in the clearing of forests and the destruction of habitats due to the construction of resort facilities, roads, and other infrastructure, risking biodiversity and the depletion of natural resources. Overdevelopment can also lead to soil erosion, habitat fragmentation, and the displacement of wildlife.

Waste Generation: Tourism in Pakistan can generate significant amounts of waste, including plastic waste and food waste. Improper waste management can lead to environmental pollution, posing serious risks to ecosystems, marine life, and public health.

Climate Change: Tourism in Pakistan is a significant contributor of greenhouse gas emissions, mainly due to transportation, and energy consumption. As a result, touristic development can contribute to climate change which can have negative impacts on the country’s ecosystems and natural resources, such as increasing temperatures, changing weather patterns, and sea-level rise.

Marine Life: Pakistan’s 1,064 km coastline and associated marine ecosystems provide a significant attraction for tourists. However, unrestrained touristic development like land-based pollution, and overfishing, compromise marine ecosystems and negatively impact local communities reliant on the sea for their subsistence, livelihoods, and tourism services.

Effective sustainable management and mitigation practices can help reduce these impacts of tourism in Pakistan, and the industry can adopt sustainable tourism practices such as responsible waste management, water conservation, and renewable energy. This can help minimise the negative environmental impact of tourism and protect the local ecosystem, wildlife and natural resources.

In conclusion, the tourism industry has significant environmental impacts on Pakistan’s delicate ecosystems, natural resources, and wildlife habitats. It is essential to preserve Pakistan’s biodiversity and mitigate the impacts of development by using environmentally responsible tourism practices to mitigate the negative impact of tourism on the environment.

FAQs About Tourism in Pakistan

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Pakistan, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1 – Is Pakistan safe for tourists?

Pakistan is generally safe for tourists as the government has increased security measures in popular tourist destinations. That being said, visitors should exercise caution in certain areas, particularly in border regions and areas known for criminal activity.

2 – What is the best time to visit Pakistan?

The best time to visit Pakistan is typically between the months of October and April when the climate is mild and temperatures are lower. Summers can be hot and humid, particularly in the southern parts of the country.

3 – What should tourists wear in Pakistan?

Tourists should dress modestly, particularly in religious or conservative areas. Women should dress in loose clothing that covers their shoulders and legs, and men should avoid shorts.

4 – What are the main tourist destinations in Pakistan?

Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Pakistan include Islamabad, the Northern Areas, Lahore, Karachi, and Multan.

5 – What is the currency used in Pakistan?

The currency used in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR).

6 – Is it possible to get a visa for Pakistan on arrival?

Visas are not normally issued on arrival in Pakistan. Tourists must obtain a visa before arriving in the country.

7 – What languages are spoken in Pakistan?

The official language of Pakistan is Urdu, but English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas. Several regional languages are also spoken throughout the country.

8 – What is the cost of travel in Pakistan?

Pakistan is considered to be a budget-friendly destination with many low-cost options for accommodation, food, and transportation. The cost of travel can vary based on individual preferences and the activities that visitors want to experience.

9 – Can tourists purchase alcohol in Pakistan?

Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Pakistan for Muslims and is not readily available for tourists. Visitors can only consume alcohol in designated areas of hotels.

10 – What are the customs and etiquette in Pakistan?

Visitors should respect local customs and traditions in Pakistan, dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection. Additionally, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a household or mosque, and visitors should respect religious and cultural practices during their stay.

To Conclude: Tourism in Pakistan

Pakistan, with its diverse landscapes ranging from towering mountains to historical sites, offers untapped potential for the discerning traveller. As tourism in the region grows, so too do the challenges and responsibilities of preserving its cultural and natural treasures. For Pakistan to thrive as a sought-after destination, it is imperative to address the multifaceted impacts of tourism. Through sustainable and responsible practices, Pakistan can ensure that its rich heritage and breathtaking vistas remain intact for future generations to explore and appreciate.

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25 of the Best Things to Do in Pakistan

Sustainable travel expert, adventure seeker

United States

Pakistan: the land of magnificent mountains and landscapes, an endless array of culinary magic, the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, glittering shrines, 400-year-old forts, and then some. The infrequently-visited South Asian nation is blessed in so many aspects, yet still remains free from the annoyances of mass tourism.

To travel in Pakistan is to enter another world, a world of synchronized chaos and beauty that will pull you in from the moment you first feel it. The diverse country is filled with alpine lakes, remnants of ancient civilizations, rugged beaches, and the opportunity to make friends by simply stepping outside your front door.

Though mysterious to those who haven’t been there, Pakistan will soon have you feeling like you’ve found a second home. Its affordability, endless possibilities for adventure, and foodie-friendly cities make it one of the most incredible travel destinations in the world. Intrigued?

Marvel at the beauty of the Wazir Khan Masjid

The Wazir Khan Masjid is a 300+-year-old place of worship located inside the Walled City, Lahore’s oldest neighborhood that has been around for centuries. The Mughal-Era mosque was completed in the 17th century and its state of preservation is impressive. Lahore being the de facto “cultural capital” of Pakistan means there’s so much to see in this city, but Wazir Khan is by far one of the most notable of its treasures. Adorned with intricate tile work and frescoes, a visit to this masterpiece will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. To get the best view of the mosque and the surrounding Walled City, you can ask the caretaker to be let up to the top of one of the minarets for a small fee—be prepared for a seriously magical view!

Expand your palette at Asil Phajja Siri Paye

Hear me out. Paya might be one of the weirder dishes you try in Pakistan, but it’s definitely worth a taste. Paya consists of a soft and juicy mutton hoof cooked in a flavorful curry stew. I know it sounds strange, but trust me, it’s delicious, especially in Lahore. This kooky piece of cuisine is often eaten as a breakfast item, alongside some freshly baked naan, of course. Fatty and tender, it tastes a heck of a lot better than it sounds. 

Fall into a state of trance at Sufi dhamal in Lahore

Perhaps one of the most interesting things you can do in Pakistan is experience dhamal . What’s dhamal , you might be wondering? Only the coolest religious ritual ever, if you ask me! Dhamal is a form of Sufi meditative practice where devotees whirl and twirl themselves into a trance alongside the reverberating beats of dhol drums. The event is typically accompanied by copious amounts of hashish and will bring about other-worldly vibes. The Madho lal Hussain shrine in Lahore is one of the best places to get acquainted with the practice. Try to arrive around 7 on a Thursday night.

Cruise around Rawalpindi in a rickshaw

Though you can certainly call an Uber, the easiest (and quickest) way to get from place to place in the jubilant metro of Rawalpindi (Islamabad’s older, historical twin city) is by auto rickshaw . Rickshaws are tiny, square-shaped vehicles that jive through chaotic metros faster than a traditional four-wheeler ever could. They’re usually painted in bright colors and come in multiple forms. The most adventurous way to get your rickshaw fix in is by hailing a qingqi , which has the passenger booth on the back, giving you the best views, and occasionally a heart palpitation or two! 

Stay with a local in Hunza Valley

Pakistanis are some of the most hospitable people in the world, so don’t be alarmed when you start receiving invitations to stay the night in peoples’ homes! Staying with a Pakistani is the single best way that you can really get a feel for life and culture in the country, and the experience is sure to lead to long-lasting friendships and a stomach full of delicious, home-cooked food. While you’ll undoubtedly receive these types of invitations just by being out and about, Couchsurfing is another great resource. 

Devour a plate of biryani in Karachi

Biryani is a Pakistani meat and rice dish that’s loved all over the country, but it’s Karachi where you can sample the best of the best. Though biryani might look like just another rice dish, the City by the Sea prepares it in a way that’s unparalleled anywhere else in South Asia. You can find biryani all over Karachi, though locals rate Madni Biryani as one of the best. 

Let a Lahori put you in a food coma

While Karachi might be the spot for biryani, Lahore is where it’s at for virtually anything else. The best way to sample the best restaurants in Lahore (and street food, of course) is by relinquishing all control and letting a local guide you. Lahoris are some of the biggest foodies in Pakistan, and you can rest assured that they will not steer you wrong. The food scene in Lahore is usually open until at least 2 AM, so prepare yourself for a very full day of eating!

Cycle or hitchhike your way up the KKH

The KKH, short for the Karakoram Highway , is an 810-mile national highway that connects Pakistan with China. But the part of this famous road that’s worth an adventure stretches from Gilgit to the Chinese border, clocking in at about 168 miles. This grand stretch is filled with some of Pakistan’s most sought-after scenery: Attabad Lake, the Passu Cones, and the rickety Hussaini Bridge, to name a few. The KKH is best explored slowly, which is why hitchhiking or cycling are two of the best ways to take in its beauty. 

Visit the ancient city of Taxila

Pakistan is teeming with historical places, but few are as impressive as Taxila : an archeological site that holds remains dating back as far as 1000 BCE. This UNESCO World Heritage Site contains everything from stupas, caves, monasteries, and not just one, but four fortified cities. The best part is that Taxila isn’t too far from the capital, Islamabad , making it an easy day trip. 

Trek to the basecamp of Rakaposhi to see a 7,778m giant

If there’s one thing Pakistan has no shortage of, it’s mountains and treks. The country is chock-full of seriously epic routes that will undoubtedly blow your mind, and the Rakaposhi Basecamp Trek is one of them. The trek starts from the village of Minapin and can be done in 1-3 days, depending on whether or not you choose to camp (Psst! You should!). Be prepared for a bit of elevation gain–1,400 m to be exact–and a breathtaking view of the Rakaposhi glacier at the top. 

Take a trip to the Kalash Valley

The Kalash people live in three valleys in Pakistan’s Chitral district, and from the moment you arrive, you’ll realize how unique their traditions are compared to the rest of the country. Kalasha women wear colorful headdresses and black robes, and the community has its own religion, language, and festivals. If you happen to be in Pakistan during the months of May, August, or December, do check to see if you can make it for one of their epic celebrations, which consist of traditional dancing, rituals, and a whole lot of homemade mulberry wine. 

While away the days at Phander Lake

The highlight of the picturesque Phander Valley , Phander Lake is often overlooked by tourists. Don’t be like them! The lake is situated in the Ghizer district of Pakistan, which despite its bright blue lakes and rivers that literally look like a painting, still remains infrequently visited. For the easiest access to lakeside relaxation, stay at the affordable, clean, and hospitable Lake Inn Guest House, which is mere steps away from Phander’s main attraction. 

Travel back in time in Peshawar

Peshawar is the oldest living city in South Asia, and you can feel that as soon as you step out into the Old City. Narrow alleyways, bygone Havelis, and street-food carts loaded with everything and anything will greet you, along with some of the friendliest folks in all of Pakistan. Don’t miss out on the Mughal-era Mahabat Khan Mosque and the Bab-e-Khyber, a famous gate that sits slightly outside the city and marks the start of Khyber Pass, an important trading route on the Old Silk Road. 

Catch a sunset from the Margalla Hills

Aside from being green and clean, Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, also offers some seriously sweet hikes. The lush Margalla Hills has numerous trails to choose from and the view from the top is the best place to catch a signature South Asian sunset. Bring a headlamp for the way down!

See the world’s highest polo ground on the Shandur Pass

The Shandur Pass is a flat plateau that connects Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Gilgit Baltistan. Aside from snow-capped peaks, herds of yaks, and mossy grass, you can also see the highest altitude polo ground in the world, which sits at a hefty 3,700 m. If you happen to be in Pakistan in early July, you can catch the pass at its most lively during the annual Shandur Polo Fest . 

Go lake hunting in Swat Valley

Swat Valley is full of mesmerizing alpine lakes, set in fairytale-like landscapes complete with wild horses and herds of livestock. Start your journey in Kalam , where you can hire local guides and gather information. Kandol, Spindhor, Kooh, Godar, Izmis, Mahodand, and Mastij are just some of the icy-blue wonders to admire. Just don’t forget to pack a good pair of hiking boots. 

Trip out on truck art

Truck art? Yes, truck art. The uniquely-Pakistani art form can be found on lorries, rickshaws, tractors, and buses all over the country and make streets and highways look kaleidoscopic. Truck drivers take their designs seriously and often bedazzle their rigs with all types of shiny trinkets in addition to the paint job. You can see this art form all over the country, but anywhere in Sindh province tends to have especially technicolor roads. 

Check out one of the world’s highest deserts 

Katpana is a massive cold desert located near Skardu in Pakistan’s Baltistan region. The sprawling sands stretch all the way across the border to India, but the portion of it in Baltistan can be found close to the Skardu Airport. During winters, the desert becomes covered with snow, which is definitely picturesque, but you should visit during the summer to spend a night camping under the starriest of skies. No light pollution here!

Attend an Urs

An Urs is a death anniversary of a Sufi saint and such commemorations take place all over Pakistan throughout the year at each saint’s shrine or tomb. The exciting thing about these fascinatingly beautiful events is the fervor in which they’re celebrated. For 3-4 days, pilgrims come from all over the country to pay respects. But the event is also filled with dhamal, (Sufi-meditative dance), qawwali performances, bazaars, and then some. One of the most festive and zealous Urs celebrations in the country takes place every April at the shrine of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan. 

Blast off to Mars AKA Hingol National Park

All of Pakistan’s nature is unreal, but Hingol National Park takes things to an entirely different level. The one-of-a-kind landscape truly looks like something from the red planet; a mud volcano, dramatic rock formations, and stunning beaches all give the massive park an extraplanetary feel. Hingol can be easily visited by road from Karachi, and the best way to go is by car with a local friend. 

Experience Eid

Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Azha are two of the biggest and most important annual holidays in Pakistan and either one is absolutely worth planning your trip around. Both Eids consist of multiple days of prayer, festivities, feasting, and family time. Eid-ul-Fitr commemorates the end of the fasting month of Ramadan while Eid-ul-Azha is a feast of sacrifice where cities begin to look like farms full of goats, cows, and sheep. Both of these are celebrated in each and every corner of the country, though I highly recommend the Walled City of Lahore as the perfect place to meet locals and really dive into the festivities!

Delve into Interior Sindh

Sure Pakistan’s mountains are epic, but some of the country’s richest culture and history lies within the province of Sindh. Few foreign travelers make it past Karachi, which is yet another reason why you have to dive into Interior Sindh. Add the Ranikot Fort , Mohenjo Daro, Sehwan, and Manchar Lake to your list, though don’t be afraid to go where the flow takes you. The entirety of the province is enchanting. 

Venture to Deosai Plains and feel one with the sky

At over 13,000 feet above sea level, Deosai is the second-highest plateau in the entire world. The mesmerizingly beautiful meadow is famed for its epic vistas, lakes, and starry skies. Keep in mind that Deosai is only accessible in the summer months, with wildflower season peaking from May to July. 

Cheer at the Wagah Border Closing ceremony

Every day before sunset, a wildly whacky ceremony takes place at the land border of India and Pakistan on the outskirts of Lahore. Instead of just closing the border gates like most other countries, Pakistan and India have a wild, nationalistic show of force that you’re unlikely to see anywhere else. Head over early if you want to get a good view of the action!

Meander through Multan, the City of Saints

Filled with intricately decorated tombs, shrines, and mosques, Multan used to be home to a multitude of now-famous Sufi mystics several centuries ago. As a result, the Punjabi city is filled with some of the most beautiful historical sites in all of Pakistan, as well as some pretty banging street food too!

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Introducing Pakistan

• About Pakistan
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Plan your trip

• Travel to Pakistan
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
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• Passport & visa
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• Allama Iqbal International Airport
• Islamabad Benazir Bhutto International Airport
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Things to see and do in Pakistan

Attractions in pakistan, drive on the world's highest highway.

The Karakoram Highway is the world's highest paved road, reaching an elevation of 4,693m (15,397ft) as it meanders through the Himalaya, Hindu Kush and Pamir mountain ranges. Following the ancient Silk Road through breath-taking scenery, the highway offers views over the Indus River and of the beautiful Gilgit and Hunza valleys.

Explore Pakistan’s modern capital

With its cutting-edge architecture, leafy parks and world-class cultural sites, Islamabad is a modern metropolis that likes to surprise. Viewed best from Daman-e-Koh – a terraced garden with excellent panoramas over the city – Islamabad is home to some extraordinary sights, not least the magnificent Faisal Masjid, one of the most unusual looking mosques in all of Asia. The Pakistan Museum of Natural History, Lok Virsa Museum and National Gallery of Pakistan also warrant a visit. The latter is home to an impressive four-storey art gallery and a 400-seat auditorium.

Feast your eyes on Lahore

The capital of Pakistan's Punjab province, Lahore is home to some of the country's finest architecture. Must see sights include the UNESCO listed Shalimar Gardens and the magnificent Badshahi Mosque, which is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture rivalled only by the Taj Mahal. Other must see sights include the Gate of Chauburji, Mughal Jahangir's tomb and Gawalmandi Food Street, which serves some of the finest fare in the land.

Follow the iconic Khyber Pass

Travellers are currently not advised to visit the Khyber Pass. Readers have reported lately that they were refused a permit to travel along this iconic route, due to on-going security fears along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Those who are successful will experience the madness of this dusty trade route, where thousands of brightly coloured trucks jostle for space on what used to be part of the Silk Road.

Go on a pilgrimage to Ziarat

The beautiful city of Ziarat is located amongst juniper forests in the province of Baluchistan. Aside from the scenery, the most famous attraction here is Ziarat Residency, the wooded house where Pakistan's founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, spent his final days. Another popular pilgrimage site is the shrine of Baba Kharwari – a disciple of Indian revolutionary, Nana Saheb – who has been attributed with causing a number of miracles.

Hit the slopes at Malam Jabba

Blown up by the Taliban in 2006, Pakistan's Malam Jabba ski resort reopened in 2011 – and now it's better than ever. Perched some 2,804m (9,200ft) up in the Karakoram mountain range, Malam Jabba is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and plans are afoot for a new hotel, cable car and piste.

Kick back in cosmopolitan Karachi

Situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea, Karachi is Pakistan's former capital and its largest city. The bustling port is home to the magnificent Quaid-e-Azam's Mazar, the mausoleum of the founder of Pakistan, which is made exclusively out of white marble. Other places of interest include the National Museum of Pakistan, Port Grand, Sadaar Bazaar and Clifton Beach; Karachi's answer to Venice Beach. A good spot for people watching, visitors can also ride camels and eat the local speciality – roasted corn on the cob.

Learn about Buddhism at the Taxila Museum

This museum has an extraordinary collection of art from the ancient kingdom of Gandharan, which incorporated modern day northern Pakistan and Afghanistan. The Kingdom of Gandharan (1500-500 BC) was a centre of Buddhist and Hindu culture and the museum showcases many fine exhibits from this period including temple friezes, Buddhist sculptures and ancient coins.

Marvel at Mohatta Palace Museum

In 1927, Shiv Rattan Mohatta, a successful Marwari entrepreneur, commissioned a palatial house in the affluent seaside neighbourhood of Clifton, Karachi. Mohatta made his fortune as a ship handler and enlisted the services of Ahmed Hussein Agha, one of the first Muslim architects of India. Today his palace has been converted into the Mohatta Palace Museum.

Peek at Pakistan’s peaks

Pakistan contains five of the world's highest peaks and several of the world's largest glaciers. The northern areas are the most popular for trekking, with Gilgit and Skardu being good starting points for trips. Those visiting Kashmir can see some of the highest mountains in the world, including the famous Nanga Parbat and the second-highest mountain in the world, K2. The Baltoro Glacier and the Batura Glacier are the largest outside the polar regions.

Roam the ruins of Mohenjo-Daro

Dating back to 2600 BC, Mohenjo-Daro is a fascinating, albeit somewhat dusty, archaeology site in Sindh province. Home to one of the world's first major settlements before it was abandoned in the 19th century, today only ruins remain and they are in a poor state – this UNESCO World Heritage Site is suffering the effects of erosion and poor maintenance. Despite that, it's still worth a visit.

Roam yet more ruins at Takht-i-Bahi

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the beautiful Buddhists monastic complex of Takht-i-Bahi is located approximately 80km (49 miles) from Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Constructed in the 1st century BC, Takht-i-Bahi is the most complete Buddhist monastery in Pakistan.

Stimulate your senses at Anarkali Bazaar

One of the oldest bazaars in Asia, Anarkali is a place that will awaken your senses. Listen to the tinkle of glass bangles, feel the fine silk wares and smell the spices wafting from the traditional food stalls. And don't forget to tuck into the famous chaat of Anarkali Bazaar – the reason why many school children make a detour here on their way home.

Take in the Chitral Valley

Sitting in the shadow of the Hindu Kush, is Chitral Valley. A wild and beautiful place, most visitors to this rugged region base themselves in Chitral, a laidback, welcoming town that feels quite different to the rest of Pakistan. Chitral is also conveniently located for a visit to the Kalash Valleys, where the Kalash people, the last of the non-Islamic tribes of Kafiristan, live. This valley is noted for its hot springs and trout-filled rivers.

Visit Qila Bala Hisar fort in Peshawar

The ancient city of Peshawar is often overlooked due to on-going problems in the region. However, those travelling to this dusty metropolis will be rewarded for their perseverance by the magnificent sight of Qila Bala Hisar fort, which was used by King Timur Shah Durrani (1773-1793) as the winter capital of the Afghan Durrani Empire. The fort can be found in the old town, which is characterised by ubiquitous donkey carts, ancient bazaars and traditional Mughal architecture.

Watch a traditional polo match

Polo is a popular sport in the northern towns of Gilgit and Chitral, where they play a wild form of the traditional game: pomp and snobbery is replaced by live music and a lot of bravado from the crowd. The first game of the season tends to be after the Spring Festival, towards the end of March.

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• 10 Best And Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Pakistan

Stretching from the large mountains in the north to the vast Indus alluvial delta in the south, Pakistan is full of natural beauty and stunning mountains. In addition to bright deserts and some of the world’s highest peaks, the country offers numerous attractions for sightseeing, hiking, mountain climbing and skiing. Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and ancient monuments continue to enchant visitors from all over the world. There are a lot of places to visit in Pakistan where you can have memorable experiences, have a look at these most beautiful places for your holiday in Pakistan.

10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Pakistan

Pakistan is gifted with a plethora of historical and natural treasures. A land full of breathtaking vistas and extraordinary places is a must-visit once in a lifetime. To guide you on your trip here is a list of the places to visit in Pakistan . Make sure you add some of these to your itinerary before heading to this destination.

1. Hunza Valley 2. Attabad Lake 3. Swat Valley 4. Naran Kaghan 5. Badshahi Mosque 6. Concordia 7. Neelum Valley 8. Deosai National Park 9. Mohenjo-daro 10. Piri Sohawa

1. Hunza Valley

Located in Gilgit Baltistan, the Hunza Valley is one of Pakistan’s hidden gems. This isolated valley is nestled between the Himalayas and the Karakoram mountain peaks. This is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan because of its lush farmlands. Here you can find markhors, ounces, ibexes, and red foxes. In this valley, a glorious view awaits you, and the locals are warm and friendly.

Best time to visit: April to September

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2. Attabad Lake

This beautiful lake which provides tranquil waters was originated as a result of a landslide in January 2010 in Attabad Village. The lake has vivid blue waters that pierce through the hilly land of Hunza Valley The lake is one of the most popular tourist places in Pakistan , offering exciting experiences like skiing, boating, catching fishes and others.

Best time to Visit: March to June

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3. Swat Valley

Despite its tragic history, Swat Valley’s present situation is very promising. There’s something fairytale-like about this spectacular valley in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Being one the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan among all other attractions, this valley has great weather and friendly locals. Visitors can enjoy trekking, hiking, backpacking, or simply enjoy in the natural environment.

Best time to visit: April to May

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4. Naran Kaghan

Naran and Kaghan are two amazing places to visit in Pakistan which are located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They are amazing places to explore for those who love nature. You will find beautiful rivers, stretches of fields, snowcapped peaks, and picturesque lakes in these areas. Each year, thousands of tourists come to this valley from all over the world.

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5. Badshahi Mosque

Originally built during the 1670s, Badshahi Mosque is a monument of the Mughal Empire, which ruled over the Indian subcontinent for nearly three centuries. Located in Lahore, this mosque is a great representation of Mughal architecture, with four minarets and three domes forming the courtyard. The mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monument truly justifies being one of the beautiful tourist places in Pakistan .

Best time to visit: The monument can be visited the whole year round except for the hottest months here, which are June and July.

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6. Concordia

Concordia is one of the paradisiacal Pakistan tourist places for hikers and climbers. It is situated in the north of the country, around the Chinese border. Pakistan is home to five of the fourteen highest mountain peaks in the world. You can get an excellent view of four of these five highest mountains from Concordia. This makes Concordia an unmissable place for sightseeing in Pakistan .

Best time to visit: June to August

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7. Neelum Valley

The Neelum Valley in northern Azad Kashmir is a bow-shaped valley situated between peaks that soar 13,000 feet into the sky, surrounded by verdant forests and flowing streams. Neelum Valley is one of the most beautiful places to see in Pakistan. This valley has pristine rivers, mirror-like lakes, and lush landscapes.

Best time to visit: March to October

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8. Deosai National Park

Deosai National Park, known as the Land of Giants, has a landscape of snow-capped mountains rising from the highland. This area has an astounding amount of biodiversity, including Himalayan wolves, Siberian ibex, red foxes, and yellow-bellied marmots. For someone who loves biodiversity and is seeking the best tourist places in Pakistan , Deosai National Park is an ideal place.

Best time to visit: July to September

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9. Mohenjo-daro

Mohenjo-daro, located in Sindh, a province in southeastern part of the country, that is among the famous places to visit in Pakistan . It is home to the Sindh people and a historical site dating back to 2500 BCE. The ruins and mounds were discovered to be part of an ancient civilization called the Indus Valley civilization. Those who love history will be fascinated by the engineering and urban planning that was far ahead of their time.

Best time to visit: The monument can be visited whole year round.

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10. Pir Sohawa

Pir Sohawa is located in the Margalla Hills, near Islamabad. Being among the best tourist places in Pakistan , there is more to admire about this tourist spot than just the breathtaking views. Located approximately 5,000 feet above sea level, this place is famous among tourists and locals for outings in the fresh breezes and admiring the stunning scenery.

Best time to visit: March to December

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Now when you got this list of some of the most beautiful places to visit in Pakistan , make sure you add these to your bucket list on your trip to this beautiful country. Take a break from the busy pace of life and do unwind by spending some serene time in these beautiful locations. And for when you come back, do not forget to share your beautiful memories with us so that your trip could inspire others to witness the beauty on the other side.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Beautiful Places to visit in Pakistan

Is it safe to visit Pakistan during Covid-19 times?

Make sure you are fully vaccinated before travelling to Pakistan. It is advisable to get your PT-PCR negative test report. We recommend staying updated with the most current information and travel guidelines of the country before travelling.

Which is the most beautiful city to visit in Pakistan?

Islamabad, which is the capital city of Pakistan is also a really beautiful city to visit. It is home to several historical monuments and other tourist attractions.

Which are the most visited places in Pakistan?

Some of the most visited places of Pakistan include Badshahi Mosque, Neelum Valley, Attabd Lake and Khagan Valley.

What is the best time to visit Pakistan?

The best time to visit Pakistan is from May to October. This is the best time to explore the beautiful valleys and magnificent mountain ranges that lie in the northern part of the country.

What are the best things to do in Pakistan?

As a tourist, you can visit the amazing valleys and admire the breathtaking landscapes they offer, experience the rich culture and history by visiting the ancient monuments, try various mouthwatering dishes of Pakistan and go for a trek in the stunning peaks.

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Pakistan Famous Tourist Places Info Quiz Online Mcqs GK Test

Given on this page is a online quiz about some of the most famous tourist places in Pakistan. By attempting this test, you will be able to check and also increase your level of general knowledge about this topic with ease in a short time period. As such questions are often part of various general knowledge related exams, so having a pretty good amount  of information about them is extremely necessary.

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70 General Knowledge Questions and Answers About Pakistan

• by Victory Ekong
• January 19, 2024

Pakistan is a country in South Asia. It is the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the 5th most populated country in the world with a high number of Muslims.

Pakistan shares boundaries with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China.

This article reveals the general knowledge and questions and answers about Pakistan.

Table of Contents

• Are General Knowledge Questions and Answers about Pakistan Important?

General Knowledge Questions and Answers about Pakistan are necessary as they reveal the several sectors of the State.

It gives information on geography, demography, politics, education, history, religion, military, and other vital topics.

It aids a tourist to know more about the nation before visiting and prepares the mind for maximum exploration.

• General Knowledge Questions and Answers about Pakistan.
• General Knowledge Questions and Answers on the History of Pakistan
• General Knowledge Questions and Answers on Religion in Pakistan.
• General Knowledge Questions and Answers on Geography in Pakistan.
• General Knowledge Questions and Answers on Facts About Pakistan.
• Technological GK Questions and Answers In Pakistan

These questions cover various aspects of technological development and achievements in Pakistan, reflecting the country’s growth in the field of science and technology.

• Q: What is the name of Pakistan’s first domestically produced satellite? A: BADR-1.
• Q: Which city is considered the technological hub of Pakistan? A: Karachi.
• Q: What is the name of Pakistan’s first communications satellite? A: Paksat-1R.
• Q: Who is known as the father of Pakistan’s nuclear bomb? A: Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan.
• Q: Which Pakistani university is renowned for its science and technology programs? A: National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST).
• Q: In which year did Pakistan conduct its first successful nuclear tests? A: 1998.
• Q: What is Pakistan’s national space agency called? A: SUPARCO (Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission).
• Q: Which is the largest IT park in Pakistan? A: Lahore Technology Park.
• Q: Who is a prominent Pakistani scientist known for his work in theoretical physics? A: Dr. Abdus Salam.
• Q: What is the name of Pakistan’s first locally developed COVID-19 test kit? A: The COVID Rapid Test Kit.
• Q: In which Pakistani city is the headquarters of the Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) located? A: Islamabad.
• Q: What is the name of the major IT software exporter in Pakistan? A: Systems Limited.
• Q: Who was the first Pakistani astronaut to go into space? A: As of my last update, Pakistan has not yet sent an astronaut into space.
• Q: What was the name of Pakistan’s first experimental rocket launched in 1962? A: Rehbar-I.
• Q: Which Pakistani scientist is known for his contribution to the development of the fiber optics communication system? A: Dr. M. Yasin Khan.
• Q: What is the name of the electronic voting machine developed in Pakistan for elections? A: Pakistan Electronic Voting Machine (PEVM).
• Q: Which city in Pakistan is known for its software technology parks and IT companies? A: Islamabad.
• Q: What is the name of the initiative launched by the Government of Pakistan to promote the IT industry? A: Digital Pakistan.
• Q: Which university in Pakistan is known for its advanced research in biotechnology? A: Quaid-e-Azam University, Islamabad.
• Q: What is the name of the annual science and technology festival held in Karachi? A: Karachi Science Festival.
• FAQs on General Knowledge about Pakistan

Pakistan is a very good site for tourism. The nation has beautiful sites to behold. Ranging from the mangroves, Hill stations in the Himalayan, Buddhist ruins of Taxila and Takht-j-Bahi, and even the 5,000-year-old cities of the Indus Valley civilization.

Pakistan has both a Private and Public system of government. The federation’s government however caters for the Public educational system.

Agriculture plays a major role in increasing Pakistan’s economic index rate. Agriculture provides raw materials for the textile industry which is a major drive in the exportation index in Pakistan.

Yes.  Pakistan has the 6 th largest armed forces in the world since independence in 1947 and has actively influenced national politics.

General knowledge of Pakistan gives information on the various aspects of the Nation.

Generally, as exposed by this article, Pakistan is a very interesting nation suitable for tourists, investments, migration, and education.

Awesome one; I hope this article answers your question.

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• General Knowledge Questions and Answers About Pakistan

Victory Ekong

A graduate of political science. Seasoned content writer. I know what it's like to work hard, and I'm determined to use my study and writing to inspire and motivate young people.

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The Perfect Pakistan Itinerary for 2 or 4 Weeks

I’ve been to Pakistan more times than I count by now and intend and going back more in the future. 

You see: there’s just so much to experience in Pakistan that, no matter how many times I go, I am always finding something new and exciting. 

First-time visitors to Pakistan will have a lot to bite off for this reason. Where does one start and where does one venture in this vast and magnificent country?

That is precisely why I have gone ahead and crafted the most complete Pakistani travel itineraries possible in this post. Here, I share not only two potential routes for you to use – a 2-week and 4-week version – but have also laid out what you need to know and prepare beforehand.

Trust me everyone: I make itineraries and take people to Pakistan for a living. I have undertaken these exact itineraries myself multiple times and would   will do them over again with pleasure.

Let’s go there now, shall we?

DID YOU KNOW THAT I RUN TOURS IN PAKISTAN?

Every year I lead unique trips to Pakistan including the K2 Base Camp Trek and to the Hunza Valley?

Why Visit Pakistan?

Pakistan is one of the last frontiers of adventure travel. Here you will find all of the hallmarks that make more established destinations, like Nepal, India, or Peru, so alluring: soaring mountains, welcoming locals, fascinating cultures, all this, and more. The fact that only a small fraction of tourists that would normally visit these places actually make it to Pakistan is an added bonus.

Relatively few people venture here for fear of being swept up by some terrorist insurgency or political coup, when, in reality, these events occur rarely in Pakistan. It’s safe to visit Pakistan, even for solo female travelers . 

The “real” roadblocks are usually jumping through the bureaucratic hoops to get a visa. But if you’ve already visited the site, you know I cover these things in firey detail. (Refer to the Preparing for Your Trip section later for more on this.)

Everybody should consider traveling to Pakistan once in their lives. This is a truly spectacular country that has the power to change how you look at and choose to travel. It’s had a powerful effect on me and I think it will have a similar one on you.

So what’s an itinerary in Pakistan actually look like and what do you need to prepare? Well for one thing, no matter how long your itinerary might be, there will be lots of mountains for sure! That and tasty karahi . 

Let’s talk shop and get into the details now. Below are some details to consider before heading out followed by a sample 2-week and 4-week itinerary in Pakistan.

When to Visit Pakistan

The “best time to visit” really depends on where you want to go and what to do in Pakistan. It’s a big country and has a lot of different climates, so it might be the case that you won’t be able to see and do everything in a single span of thirty days. 

That being said, there are some months that are definitely better than others. Choose the right ones depending on what you want to accomplish with your travel itinerary for Pakistan.

• April-May (Spring): The north is erupting with cherry blossoms whilst the south is still comfortably warm. This is a great time to visit any part of the country. Trails and treks that cross over 4000 meters will most likely be impossible still as there will be a lot of snow remaining.
• June-August (Summer): The best and really only time to trek in Gilgit-Baltistan. That means K2, the Karakoram, glaciers, high passes, the works. The valleys will be quite hot though and the southern provinces will be in the midst of the hot, wet monsoon season. You’d be crazy to go to Balochistan or Sindh around this time. 
• September-October (Autumn): Another colorful time for the north as the trees, particularly the poplars, turn a brilliant gold. Some trails may still even be open in Kashmir, KPK, and Gilgit-Baltistan (depending on the year). The south is starting to dry out but remains hot as hell. 
• November-March (Winter): The northern areas are usually buried in snow and experience sub-zero temperatures. The south, on the other hand, is kicking into full swing. This is festival season in Lahore and beach season in Karachi. The Balochi coast and Makran Highway are very pleasant at this time.

I’d recommend visiting Pakistan on the edge of the shoulder months, particularly June or September . You can do a lot during these months and the prices should still be good.

Preparing for Your Trip

Consider the following before traveling to Pakistan:

• Visas – Pakistan’s strange and mercurial visa system can seem intimidating at times, but, in fact, it’s really not that bad. All you need to do is receive an LOI (letter of invitation) and then apply for an evisa on the NADRA website . You can acquire an LOI either through a local Pakistani tour company or by contacting Haris Ali Shah at +92 301 858 5054.
• Budget – The costs of your trip will vary WIDELY depending on what you want to do, how long you want to be there, and how you want to travel. To giv you an idea, a more shoestring 2-week itinerary in Pakistan will probably cost around $25-$30/day. That’s for a guesthouse, basic meals, and bus tickets. Prices go up from there. 
• Packing – When visiting Pakistan, you’ll want to pack for every possible season. You’ll need warm clothing for when you’re in the higher, mountainous areas (even in summer) and light clothing for those hot days down in the valleys. A nice pair of rugged sandals in addition to your trekking boots also goes a long way. Try to wear long sleeves and pants as is customary in Muslim countries. For a complete packing list, refer to this article here.
• Safety and insurance – Despite a history of terrorism and rising tensions amongst its neighbors, Pakistan is a relatively safe country for tourists. Hospitality is second-to-none in Pakistan and the locals will go out of their way to make sure you’re ok. Still having a bit of insurance for the odd mishap still pays. I suggest investing in the best insurance for extreme adventure activities that I have ever found: Global Rescue .

For more information on what to prepare before starting your trip, be sure to read our backpacking Pakistan travel guide.

Getting Around Pakistan

Though Pakistan might appear to lack a transportation infrastructure at times, it’s still there – it just functions differently than what most travelers might be used to. 

Here are your options:

It’s unreliable in Pakistan, to say the least. It runs, but schedules and arrival times can be comically misleading at times. Public transport should only be used if you have lots of time on your hands. Most major cities have a large terminal or two. Daewoo is the most popular bus company and arguably the most reliable. NATCO is for traveling in the north.

A much better and only slightly more expensive alternative to public transport. For a little extra cash, you get a much more comfortable seat and the ride is usually much shorter. You can organize shared taxis either through your hotel, at the bus station, or by using the Kareem app.

Renting a car doesn’t mean you’re actually driving. Rather, you’re given a driver and he shuttles you around the country. Trust me, you want this to be the case. Driving in Pakistan can be hectic and you’re not given any sort of renters insurance. Just let the driver do his job and relinquish any liability on your part.

A very popular mode of transport in Pakistan and a once-in-a-lifetime experience if you’re ready. Bike rentals are cheap and there are plenty of outfitters. Karakoram Bikers in Gilgit are the best in the north. As always, wear a helmet though!

If you have a little extra cash, this is hands-down the most convenient way to get around Pakistan. Just be aware that flights heading to and from the north are canceled very often due to poor weather.

It is possible to take a train between most of Pakistan’s major cities. A train line going through Hunza is currently in the works but, at the moment, is nowhere near viable.

2-week Pakistan Itinerary  

With two weeks, you can see some of the best that Pakistan has to offer , including Hunza, Fairy Meadows, and Passu. You won’t have a ton of time to kill (you should ALWAYS be using your time wisely in Pakistan) but you shouldn’t be too rushed either.

Remember, Pakistan has a habit of throwing curveballs at you . Whilst this itinerary was planned with a little extra padding in case of delays, you never really know how bad those delays are going to be. 

Come with an open mind and feel free to adjust the itinerary as needed.

For this particular itinerary, I recommend taking shared taxis as much as possible or having your own car. Do so, and the odds are better that you will get to see and do everything you want.

Refer below for a map of the 2-week Pakistan itinerary: 

Day 1: Islamabad and Rawalpindi 

Islamabad is the most convenient place to start your Pakistan itinerary as it is the closest major city to the mountainous north and is well connected with the rest of the country. 

Islamabad is a planned city and totally different than any other metropolitan area in the country. It is orderly, well-planned, developed, and relatively clean. It can also be boring at times as it lacks the dynamism that other Pakistan cities, like Lahore and Peshawar, have in abundance.

There are some interesting things to do in Islamabad still. The Faisal Mosque and Pakistan Monument are nice to see – just be prepared for lots of selfies with the locals.

I suggest spending your first day shopping for your trip up north and sampling some local cuisine. The food scene in Islamabad is pretty solid and probably the most eclectic in the country. Despite its diversity though, the local Patan joints, like Kabul Restaurant , are the real winners. 

Islamabad also has a lot of modern malls that could put American ones to shame, but the real place to shop is in Rawalpindi. The Raja Bazaar is one of the finest and most crazy and diverse markets in all of Pakistan. 

Make sure you have Uber or Careem installed on your phone. These apps are the best way to arrange taxis in Islamabad and other major Pakistani cities.

The best place to stay: Grand Islamabad Hotel

See more places to stay in Islamabad here .

Day 2: Babusar Top

For this leg of the itinerary, I HIGHLY recommend taking a shared taxi or some other form of private transport. This is already going to be a very long day and it would be a shame if you wasted precious time by taking the much longer and uncomfortable bus. 

Going private crucially means that you can travel via the Kaghan Valley and Babusar Top . This route is much more scenic in my opinion and resembles the foothills of Nepal in a lot of ways. The terraces cut into the valley walls are really impressive.

Total travel time to Raikot Bridge is 14-16 hours. Don’t bother stopping in Naran unless it’s for a quick tea or bathroom break. If it’s getting late and you still haven’t crossed Babusar, consider sleeping in or near Jalkhand if the driver allows it. Wake up early the next morning and drive the remaining 4 hours to Raikot Bridge.

Note though that Babusar Top is only viable from May-October when the pass is clear of snow. If the pass is not open, you will need to travel via the KKH and Chilas, which is also the route the NATCO bus takes. This option is closer to 16-18 hours long and there is no guarantee that you will make it to Raikot Bridge in time to get a good night’s sleep.

Best place to stay: Raikot Gazebo (Raikot Bridge) or Andaz Hotel (Jalkhand)

Day 3-4: Fairy Meadows and Nanga Parbat

Plan to be at Raikot Bridge between 11:00-12:00 on the third day of your 2-week Pakistan itinerary. 

Once you arrive, immediately arrange for a jeep up to Fairy Meadows. Jeeps hold 4-5 passengers and cost 8000 rupees in total. These jeeps are expensive but, unfortunately, there is no other way to arrive at Fairy Meadows.

Refer to the Complete Fairy Meadows Guide for more advice on arranging jeeps and what to expect.

Consider grabbing some biryani to-go before leaving on the jeep. Fair warning: you may want to wait until after you finish the jeep ride to eat…

Once you’ve finished the jeep ride, walk an additional 2-3 hours, gaining 600 meters of altitude before reaching Fairy Meadows itself. Welcome to one of the most spectacular places in Pakistan! Looming above is the mighty 8,100 meter-high Nanga Parbat in all its glory. 

Spend day 3 chilling and the next hiking up to Nanga Parbat Base Camp on the following. The hike takes 6-8 hours.

Top off your stay with a roaring bonfire and dance parties with Punjabis at the guesthouse.

Best place to stay : Greenland Guesthouse (Fairy Meadows)

Day 5-6: Karimibad and Aliabad

You’ll have to wake up early on day 5 and walk back down to jeeps to catch a ride. Aim to be back at Raikot Bridge before lunchtime. 

Once you’ve arrived at Raikot Bridge, you’ll need to arrange transport to Gilgit . You’re better off taking a taxi since who knows when the next bus passes by. The price to Gilgit should be around 1000 rupee.

It should be noted too that at this point, you will be driving on the Karakoram Highway proper.

Once you arrive in Gilgit, you don’t need to stick around. Just arrange for another transport to take you directly to Hunza . Head in the direction of Karimibad – it takes 3-4 hours to arrive from Gilgit depending on your mode of transport.

Rather than staying in Karimibad, which is a bit touristy, I recommend staying outside the town. There’s a fantastic guesthouse in neighboring Aliabad called Mountain Story and it is arguably one of the best in Pakistan.

Spend Day 6 exploring Karimibad. Altit Fort and Baltit Fort are the two most popular attractions. Be on the lookout for the man with the most epic beard in Pakistan at the former! 

Finish your day by watching the sunset at Eagle’s Nest . This famous viewpoint features panoramic views of the Hunza Valley and the surrounding peaks, including Spantik, Rakaposhi, Ultar, and the infamous Ladyfinger Peak. Arrange for a taxi to take you up there and have it stick around until you’re done. You’ll only need an hour or so there.

Best place to stay: Mountain Story (Aliabad)

Day 7-11: Upper Hunza

Depart from Aliabad/Karimibad heading north on the KKH. Be on the lookout for the ancient petroglyphs on the side of the road just outside of town.

On the way to Passu , you’ll be passing by the stunning yet tragic Attabad Lake . This is a good place to stop for a quick break or jet ski (yes, there are jet skis here). Skip the boat ride as it’s pretty touristy and overrated. 

Beyond Attabad Lake, you will enter Upper Hunza, which is composed of several small communities. Each should have a handful of tourist hotels and guesthouses. Pick one that seems suitable to you and base yourself there for the next 4-5 days. Don’t bother looking for anything north of Sost.

There is a host of things to do around Upper Hunza (see next section). I’d recommend spending 1-2 days chilling with only a few activities planned and then dedicating the other 3 days to real adventuring. In particular, Patundas, Shimshal, and the Passu Cones shouldn’t be missed.

Best place to stay: Roomy Yurts, Gulmit – +92 311 1444100

Things to Do in Upper Hunza

Try to knock as many of these as possible whilst staying in Upper Hunza:

• Passu Suspension Bridge (1-2 hours) – Often labeled as the world’s scariest bridge. It’s made out mostly out of wood and is rickety as hell. Cross at your own risk!
• Passu Cones (1-2 hours) – Some of the most surreal mountains you’ll ever see. These look like a Hudson River School painting on acid. You can wtiness the cones from many places though the stretch of road between the Welcome to Passu sign and Batura Glacier viewpoint offers the best IMO.
• Borith Lake (2-3 hours) – A saline lake located near the terminus of the Ghulkin Glacier. Beautiful green colors and a great place to have a picnic.
• Ghulkin Village (half-day) – Just walk around and observe village life. The locals, who belong to the Ismaili faith, are very welcoming.
• Khunjerab Pass (full-day) – This is a long but doable day trip from Passu. Drive up to the Pak-China border, which is also the world’s highest crossing at 4,800 meters. Keep an eye out for ibex on the way up whilst driving in the Khunjerab National Park.
• Shimshal Valley (full-day) – A very rugged and at times desolate valley adjacent to Hunza. Features some of the most accessible 6000+ meter peaks in Pakistan. The road up the valley is rough but epic. Consider overnighting in Shimshal village.
• Patundas (3 days/2 nights) – This is one of the best short, multi-day hikes in Pakistan and features epic views of the Passu Cones, the Batura Glacier, and Shishpar. Enjoy the outdoor toilet and shitscape up there!

Day 12: Return to Gilgit

Since you’ll be catching an early flight the next day, you’ll want to return to Gilgit and spend the night there. 

Depart from Upper Hunza at your leisure. It should be a 5-6 hour drive back to Gilgit.

Once you arrive, check into your hotel and take a load off. 

There isn’t a ton to do in Gilgit but if you have some time to kill, go on a mission to find the Old British Graveyard. Several explorers for the era popularly known as “The Great Game” are buried here including the legendary George W. Hayward. To enter, you’ll need to find and ask the caretaker to let you in. Last I checked, he lives across from the cemetery. 

Best place to stay: Hotel Grand Continental

Day 13: Return to Islamabad

If all goes well and the flights between Gilgit-Islamabad run on time, you should be back in the capital by early afternoon. 

Make sure you bring a camera on the plane and try to request a window seat on the lefthand side of the plane. You’ll be treated to a face-to-face encounter with Nanga Parbat. 

Settle into your hotel and reflect upon the epic two weeks you just spent in Pakistan. Order some room service, take a long nap, and then consider making the journey up to Monal in the Margalla Hills for dinner with a view. Dining up here is the best way to end any itinerary in Pakistan.

4-week Pakistan Itinerary

Day 1-12: Gilgit-Baltistan

The first half of our 4-week Pakistan itinerary should look exactly like the first twelve days of the 2-week version. Refer to the earlier outline and review what these days look like.

See more places to stay in Gilgit here

Day 13-16: Ghizar and Phander

Ghizar, Phander, and the surrounding valleys are best known for their stunning views, lakes, and general off-the-beaten-path appeal. There is not a ton of bucket-listy things to do in Ghizar.

There are some cool hikes to enjoy in the area. I recommend asking around in town or at your hotel for a guide who can show you some of the shepherd tracks the area has to offer.

Best place to stay:  Lake Inn Phander: Contact: 03555203015, 03555203532, [email protected]

Day 17-18: Shandur Pass

If you are coming from the Gilgit side, the best way to access Chitral and this side of KPK is via the legendary Shandur Pass. Although this route is not accessible for parts of the year due to heavy snowpack, the route in the summer is one of the most beautiful roads you can drive in Pakistan .

Shadur is also home to one of the world’s highest polo grounds. If you time your visit right, visiting the Shandur Polo Festival is an absolute must.

Best place to stay:  I don’t really recommend staying at Shandur Pass since there are not really hotels in this area. Camping is an option if it is not too cold.

Day 19-21: Chitral

Chitral town is the biggest city in the area and a good launching point for upper Chitral and the Broghil Valley as well as for the Kalash Valleys. There are numerous hotels along the river which offer a relaxing atmosphere in stark contrast to the bustling and dirty bazaar.

The Chitral Fort is not the most impressive fort in Pakistan by any means, but still warrants a visit for an hour or so. As does the mosque shown below!

Chitral town is the place to stock up on supplies or just rest in between long drives or treks. Also, it is one of the few places in the area where wifi works so take advantage of it while you are here.

Best place to stay:  Pamir Riverside Inn Hotel – +92 345 4384541

Day 22-23: Kalash Valley

Frankly, if you have time I recommend spending more like 4-7 days exploring Kalash. There is nowhere else in Pakistan like it.

The Kalashi people are unique to this one corner of the world; they have awesome traditional dress, speak a language unrelated to all other languages, AND they make their own wine.

There are even a handful of hikes to do in the hills around the valleys in the summer. I spent the most time in Rumboor, but there are two other areas to explore, Bumbaret and Birir.

It is hard to get the timing right but if you are in Pakistan for one of the Kalash winter or spring festivals, I highly recommend going!

Best place to stay: Engineer Khan Kalash Home Guest House – +92 345 5819188 (The Engineer’s son’s Whatsapp #)

Day 24-25: Kalam Valley

Located at the far end of Swat Valley – Kalam is a slice of paradise tucked away in a conservative corner of Pakistan.

Kalam Valley is forested, green, and more accessible these days thanks to a freshly sealed road leading into the valley.

I visited Kalam in April but still found I was able to do a great hike to one of the lakes in the area (Kandol). There are many single and multiday treks to do in the area if you have more time including more epic alpine lake treks.

For a trekking guide in the area with fair prices, contact Aslam at +92 313 9473399 (Whatsapp).

Best place to stay:  If you have the extra budget, stay at Walnut Heights – +92 310 4702222

Day 26-27: Swat

Swat has endured a pretty crazy history over the last 15 years. Up until 2009, the Taliban controlled parts of Swat. It took several engagements from the Pakistani Army to finally get them out. Nowadays though, Swat is peaceful and free from Taliban rule. It is 100% safe to visit and there are many cool cultural spots (like old Buddhist sites) to check out along with the stunning natural landscapes.

Most people (myself included) base from Mingora and do day trips in the surrounding area before heading further up the valley to Kalam.

Best place to stay:  Swat Valley Backpackers . Pameer Hotel in Mingora is a good option if you are looking for a hotel.

Day 28-29: Peshawar

The perfect Pakistani city to visit for just two days in Peshawar. Being one of the oldest cities in all of South Asia – Peshawar is rich in history, culture, food, and architecture.

Spending an afternoon roaming around the tea and kebab stalls of the old city while you take in the small details of old Haveli’s, gorgeous mosques, and bustling markets gets you a well-rounded view of the vibe of Peshawar.

The local people I’ve encountered have been super friendly as well and keen to help show foreign visitors around.

Best place to stay:  Pearl Continental Hotel, Peshawar – +92 91 111 505 505

Day 30: Return to Islamabad

Depart from Peshawar towards Islamabad. Journey time is 2-3 hours on very comfortable tarmac.

Once you’ve arrived in Islamabad, follow the outline for day 13 of the 2-week Pakistan itinerary. 

Alternative idea! 

Spend the entire month trekking in one of the most amazing places on earth: Concordia , home to the magnificent K2 . A typical itinerary for the trek up to K2 Base Camp lasts around 21 days. If you intend on visiting Pakistan for 30 days, you can complete the trek and have plenty of time to see some other places. Lahore, Peshawar, the Swat Valley, and Fairy Meadows would all be excellent additions to K2. 

Have even MORE time in Pakistan?

I don’t blame you for wanting to stick around! Here are a couple of ideas for how to extend your time in Pakistan beyond two or four weeks:

Lahore (2-3 days)

Whilst it hurts me a bit that Lahore is not featured in any of the above Pakistani itineraries, there is just too much to see and do in the north. And Lahore shouldn’t be rushed through for that matter either. 

Lahore is considered the cultural capital of Pakistan and hosts some of its most hallowed landmarks, such as Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, and the Shalimar Gardens . It is a sprawling, chaotic city, full of life and bereft of dull moments. Anyone who has traveled around India already will feel right at home in Lahore.

Also worth checking out is the infamous Wagah Border ceremony. Every day before sunset, the guards from the Pakistani and Indian sides come together in a friendly competition to see who has the best choreography. Get ready for a lot of high kicks, heel clicks, and shouts from flag-waving attendees as they cheer on their respective sides.

End your stay by having dinner at Haveli overlooking the Badshahi Mosque. Be there before sunset so you can hear one of the most incredible, goosebump-inducing calls to prayer of your entire life. 

Best place to stay: Tourist Inn Hotel

See more places to stay in Lahore here .

Astore District (4-6 days)

The Astore Valley is more than just a landbridge between the KKH and Skardu – it also features some of the best high alpine scenery in the country. 

From the Karakoram Highway, the journey starts by driving up the bleak and perilous mountain road leading to the heart of the district. Arriving in the oasis-like town of Astore , the landscape becomes quite green. In the hills above the town are carved, lush cultivated terraces filled with apricot, cherry, and other fruit trees. 

From Astore, there are many options. Above the village is Rama Lake , a very picturesque alpine lake that is among the most visited places in Gilgit-Baltistan. You can also embark on a 4-day trek to the real Nanga Parbat Base Camp , Herligkoffer BC , via the Rupal Valley.

But Astore’s real highlight is the soaring Deosai Plains . At 4200-meters high, they are the second-highest alpine plateau in the world – after the Tibetan – and visiting should be a must on any itinerary in Pakistan. In the summer, they are blanketed with wildflowers of almost every shade. Most people visit via Jeep but it is possible to take a minibus from Astore to Skardu across the plains. 

Skardu (6-8 days)

Skardu serves as the base for many of the most famous hikes in Pakistan, including Snow Lake and the K2 Base Camp Trek . These are multi-week expeditions that will most likely fill up your entire itinerary, but that being said, there is still PLENTY more to do in the area. The

Skardu itself is the largest city in Baltistan and isn’t much else besides an old fort ( Kharpocho ) and a few dusty bazaars strung together. 

The area surrounding Skardu is much more impressive. The Katpana and Safaranga Deserts are some of the highest in the world. In the nearby mountains, the newly minted Marsur Rock hike provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Indus Valley. If you fancy a road trip, the scenery between Kachura and Basho Valley is excellent and very accessible. 

Hikers can also take part in a number of shorter treks near Skardu. The neighboring Ghanche District features the best of the bunch, including Barah Broq, Makalu La, Thally La , and the Nangma Valley . None of these require any sort of special permits either. 

So even if you don’t want to spend two weeks straight on glacier, there are good reasons to visit Skardu.

Best place to stay: The Garden Villa – Skardu +92 333 5915957

See more places to stay in Skardu here .

Wrap Up: The Ultimate Pakistan Itinerary

Pakistan is just one of those countries where you’ll never be able to do it all in one trip. This Pakistan itinerary just scratches the surface of what there is to do here. In a 30 day itinerary, I did not have the time to cover the south or parts of Balochistan either… save those ones for next time!

My biggest advice when planning out your own Pakistan itinerary is to focus on what you like to do and mix and match the above suggestions according to what you want to see and do. Like trekking? Head to the Skardu region. Want to dive deep into the culture? Go to a homestay and definitely visit the Kalash Valley! Cities your thing? Don’t miss Lahore – Peshawar – and Rawalpindi.

Love a place you visited in Pakistan? Mention it in the comments below so we can share the info with other travelers. Cheers guys!

10 Comments

Hi Chris. I’m currently planning my first trip to Pakistan and as a solo female I usually use travel books besides the net, but couldn’t find much out there. Thanks heaps for this in depth and informative blog on Pakistan. its been very helpful. Safe Travels

Awesome! I am glad you enjoyed the article!

Great blog. I am also planning my first trip to Pakistan. It will be only 2 weeks and will arrive and depart from Lahore. Caveat is that it will be during Ramadan. Hope it is as exciting as I hope it will be

Have a great trip!

HI! great article. is october still a good month for north pakistan? I mean specifically Gilgit – Baltistan, Skardu, Astore Valley? many thanks in advance.

For sure! October is arguably one of the best months of the year to visit Pakistan and the areas you mentioned!

Not Makalu La but Machulu la from Machulu valley.

Thanks for the correction!

Hello Chris,

Why do you suggest that the best month to visit Pakistan in autumn is September? What is the main difference between September and October there? Thanks for your very practical blog!

October tends to be a little bit colder – but actually I might say now with hindsight that October is better because then you get all of the fall colors – which is truly special!

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Pakistan travel guide: everything to know before you go

Updated in 2024: After years of both independently traveling in Pakistan and later running tours there, it’s safe to say I know a lot about travel in Pakistan. Here’s my complete Pakistan travel guide with information on visas, transportation, costs, and everything else you need to know about travel in Pakistan.

Curious about traveling to Pakistan but nervous about going alone? Check out my tours: I run both women’s tours and biker tours in Pakistan.

Jaw-dropping nature, diverse cultures, and delicious food—these are but a few of the things you’ll experience when you visit Pakistan. Most importantly, it’s home to the most hospitable people I’ve met in my travels. It’s no wonder more and more people want to travel to Pakistan!

However, Pakistan ain’t as easy to travel in as some will have you believe . But no worries, I got you. This guide was created after more than six visits and almost a year of travel in Pakistan. I have visited Pakistan more than any other travel blogger and traveled to Pakistan both with friends and by myself. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about travel in Pakistan.

Pakistan travel guide: index

• Pakistan basics
• Languages of Pakistan
• Regions of Pakistan
• Culture in Pakistan
• Gender in Pakistan
• Drinking and drugs
• Religion and Pakistan
• Pakistani food
• Money in Pakistan
• Visas for Pakistan
• Entering and exiting Pakistan
• Accommodation in Pakistan
• Transportation in Pakistan
• Safety in Pakistan
• SIM cards and WiFi
• Responsible tourism in Pakistan
• Resources for Pakistan travel

Pakistan travel guide: the basics

Pakistan is officially called “The Islamic Republic of Pakistan.” A populous country in South Asia—no, it’s not in the Middle East—with more than 200 million people, it’s the 6th most populous country in the world. TL;DR: Lots and lots of people. Everywhere.

Pakistan was founded on the 14th of August 1947 after an event known as Partition : when British India created the modern states of India and Pakistan. The event was bloody, its ramifications still visible today. The country became an Islamic Republic in 1956. During partition, Pakistan was divided into West and East Pakistan. In 1971 East Pakistan became Bangladesh after another bloody war for independence .

Although Pakistan is a young country, its history is ancient. Ruins of one of the oldest civilizations in the world, the Indus Valley Civilization , lie in southern Pakistan. Multiple conquerors and civilizations took hold in parts of modern-day Pakistan, including Alexander the Great, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the British Raj.

The ruins of Moenjo Daro in Sindh province are from the Indus Valley civilization, the oldest known civilization

Pakistan’s recent history is marred with conflict, both internal and external, most notably with India. It’s struggled with military coups, terrorist attacks, war, and secessionist tensions. Its army has strengthened throughout the years as a result; it’s now a nuclear power and has the sixth-largest standing armed forces in the world.

I could go into it more, but you can only cover so much in one Pakistan travel guide! If you want to get more in-depth with Pakistan’s history, I highly recommend getting a copy of Pakistan Traveller – it’s the best Pakistan travel guide book on the market.

Pakistan travel guide: Language in Pakistan

Myriad languages are spoken in Pakistan. Most people speak two or three languages. At least!

Urdu is Pakistan’s national language, as well as the language of officialdom together with English. Most middle and upper-class Pakistanis will speak (some) English. It’s rare to find a place where absolutely no one speaks English. However, it’s always good to pick up a phrase or two in Urdu before you visit Pakistan. I highly recommend Pimsleur for learning language basics .

Besides the two official languages, there are many local languages: Pashto, Sindhi, Balochi, Punjabi, Potohari, Shina, Wakhi, Burushaski… the list goes on! Every province has its own regional language, such as the aforementioned Punjabi and Sindhi. In major cities people mostly speak Urdu, but in towns and villages local languages reign supreme.

Urdu basics

• Salaamu aleikum: Hello
• Walaykum asalaam:  Hello (in response)
• Shukriya:  Thank you
• Kya haal hai?:  How are you?
• Mai thik hoon:  I am fine.
• Aap ka naam kya hai?:  What is your name?
• Mera naam Alex hai: My name is Alex.
• … kaha hai?: Where is… ?
• Kitnay paisa?:  How much?
• Ji / haan:  Yes/yeah
• Jao:  Go away
• Nehi chahiye:  I don’t need it
• Angrezi ata/ati?: Do you know English?

Interested in learning more conversational Urdu? I’ve been taking virtual lessons with a teacher, Naveed Rehman, for several years now (on and off). He’s very patient, excellent at explaining grammar, and focuses on practical conversational Urdu rather than rote memorization. I highly recommend his online Urdu classes —they’re quite affordable by Western standards, so they’re well worth a try!

Pakistan travel guide: Regions of Pakistan

The country of Pakistan is divided into four provinces and three territories, each with its own distinct culture and flavor:

Sunset at Gorakh Hill in Sindh

Sindh (province)

Major cities/destinations: Karachi, Hyderabad, Sehwan Sharif

The southernmost province of Pakistan is home to its biggest city, Karachi. But venture out into the rural areas, known as “interior Sindh”, and you’ll find a mystic realm of moody deserts, Sufi shrines, and abandoned forts.  Don’t miss my guide to traveling in Sindh.

Shalimar Bagh (Shalimar Gardens) in Lahore, Punjab

Punjab (province)

Major cities/destinations: Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan

Pakistan’s wealthiest province sits in the middle of the country. Though vast fields of wheat and other crops make stereotypical Punjabi landscapes, there are also plenty of massive Mughal relics and nature tinged with green to keep travelers busy. It’s also home to my absolute favorite city in Pakistan, Lahore .

Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (province)

Major cities/destinations: Peshawar, Chitral, Kalash Valleys

Far to the west of the country, and now including what was once known as the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), this province borders Afghanistan. Home primarily to the Pakhtun (Pashtun) people , many parts of this province are evocative of traveling Afghanistan . Some parts are off-limits—especially the south and regions along the Afghan border—but natural areas such as Swat Valley and the Kalash Valleys are popular… for good reason!

Lonely road in Balochistan province

Balochistan (province)

Major cities/destinations: Quetta, Gwadar, Hingol National Park, Makran Coastal Highway

Bordering Iran and Afghanistan, the country’s largest province is also one of the least traveled. Home to deserts, dusty mountains, and azure coastlines, this province is unfortunately off-limits to foreign travelers aside from those doing the Iran-Pakistan overland border crossing .

Islamabad, Pakistan from above

Islamabad capital territory

The country’s capital is also its own territory. Many tourists start their Pakistan travels in Islamabad, but I’ll be honest with you: I’m not the biggest fan. Though there are many things to do in Islamabad , the capital is far from representative of the rest of the country, and is on the verge of boring much of the time. Still, it’s a comfortable and relatively developed place to rest, relax, and pick up some necessities while traveling in Pakistan.

Autumn in Khyber village, Gilgit Baltistan

Gilgit Baltistan (territory)

Major cities/destinations: Gilgit, Central Hunza (Karimabad), Passu

When people come to Pakistan looking for mountains, this is where they end up. Also known as “Northern Pakistan”, the vast territory of Gilgit Baltistan is home to three major mountain ranges—Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush—as well as several of the world’s tallest mountains (K2, Nanga Parbat, and Rakaposhi). It’s by far the calmest and easiest to travel of all the country’s provinces, especially for female travelers . If you’re in search of nature, you’re probably heading north to Gilgit Baltistan.

Ramkot Fort in Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir (territory)

Major cities/destinations: Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley

This narrow territory to the east of Pakistan on the border with India has been disputed ever since Partition, the dividing of India and Pakistan in 1947. Tensions occasionally flare up between the Pakistani military and the Indian military, and so the territory was off-limits to foreign travelers for a long time. As of 2019, the territory has opened up slightly, though foreigners are still not allowed to go within 10 km of the border, known as the Line of Control (LOC). However, you can at least visit Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, and their surrounding areas… though security forces might hassle you a bit.

People enjoying the night air at Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Pakistan travel guide: Culture in Pakistan

Pakistan’s culture is varied and vibrant, albeit very conservative. Religion dictates and influences culture at almost every level. Keep that in mind and tread carefully when traveling to Pakistan. Keep this Pakistan travel guide handy to help you avoid any cultural faux pas situations.

Due to its diversity, it’s difficult to make generalizations about Pakistani culture… but try, I shall! This is a Pakistan travel guide, after all. Here are some cultural nuances travelers should be aware of:

Hospitality

Pakistan’s hospitality is renowned. In Pakistan, guests are a gift from God, and many people are honored to treat them as such. During my travels through Pakistan, people have…

• Invited me to stay in their homes despite not knowing me at all.
• Slept on the floor so I could sleep in their bed.
• Fed me a million and one times, even when they were fasting during Ramadan.
• Taken the time to show me around their cities, villages, regions.
• Gifted me everything from clothing to food to souvenirs.
• … and then some.

The hospitality is incredible and continues to amaze me even after repeat visits to the country.

However, in recent times—and due to some careless influencers —I feel some travelers are interpreting this hospitality the wrong way.

Pakistan is NOT a place to go because ~*everything is freeeee!!!*~. By all means, enjoy their hospitality—I sure do—but don’t take advantage of it. Give back where you can.

You can give people small tips (maybe 20 to 50 rupees) if they do something to help you out, or if they’re visibly poor but still feed you or give you things. More if they help you a lot over a period of time. Help out around the house, or buy gifts of fruits, sweets, or nuts (called “dried fruits” in Pakistan). Meat is also a good gift for poorer people in villages. Bring small gifts from your own country or home for people who host you (think postcards, sweets, trinkets, etc.).

Sometimes people will not accept, but it doesn’t hurt to offer. If it’s a matter of pride over money, you can always give a little financial gift to the kids, or leave money somewhere in their house where they’ll find it.

TL;DR: don’t be a mooch. Pakistani hospitality is something to appreciate and learn from, not take advantage of. Enjoy, then pay it forward!

The Pakistani mindset

Let me preface this by saying Pakistanis are the most hospitable people I’ve met in my travels (shout out to Iranians and Bangladeshis as runners ups).

Pakistanis make you feel wholly welcome and are the country’s greatest asset. Some of the best friends from my travels are Pakistani. I’m not sure there’s a country where it’s easier to meet and interact with locals than Pakistan.

The flip side: Pakistanis can be difficult people to deal with.

Because the country is conservative and religiously homogenous ( about 97% of the population is Muslim ), I’ve found people can be very intolerant. There is a way to do and think about things in Pakistan, and those who do or believe otherwise are often met with opposition. Though many people harbor “alternative” opinions, they are often hesitant to speak them unless in close company. People are not used to differing opinions.

Pakistanis also do not handle criticism well. I knew this, but had a nice reminder (translation: aggressive awakening) of this inability when I posted a critical video about Pakistan’s tourism scene this year. I had to field hate for weeks on end despite constructive intentions.

Don’t let me put you off Pakistan and its people; my point is that you should be very cautious when speaking about sensitive subjects and be careful to respect Pakistan’s culture. By all means discuss, but choose your battles wisely.

The rest of this guide is meant to help you get a grasp on what is and is not okay in Pakistan, and how to act once there. Read through, and you won’t need to worry about clashing with locals. As I said, Pakistan is a brilliant country for adventurous travelers… so long as you respect local culture.

Overlooking the streets of Karachi in standard wear – kurta, jeans, and a dupatta (scarf)

People who want to travel to Pakistan often ask me about the types of clothes they have to wear. Although dress codes are less strict than they used to be, it’s best to come prepared when you visit Pakistan.

There’s no official rule about what to wear ( unlike Iran ), so long as you’re somewhat modest.

If you want to wear “western” clothes such as t-shirts and jeans, go ahead; many people wear western clothes in cities, especially in wealthy areas such as malls and Defence neighborhoods. Gilgit Baltistan sees plenty of trekkers wandering about in western outdoor attire.

Women: Pakistan is a very conservative country; unless you’re in a liberal/wealthy part of a major city, I recommend dressing modestly. That means long pants and a loose shirt or dress that ideally covers your bum. Although headscarves aren’t mandatory, it pays to have one on you for entering mosques.

The local pant/shirt combination, salwar kameez , is immensely comfortable and colorful. You can pick them up in bazaars and malls throughout Pakistan—locals will appreciate it!

Men: Shorts are okay, but you won’t see many locals wearing them, and they’re not allowed in mosques. In general, it pays to dress modestly—no tank tops or shorts. Again, salwar kameez is recommended.

Buy some local clothes at one of the many bazaars, like this one in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province

Women in Pakistan

Unfortunately, Pakistan is lagging when it comes to women’s rights. There are many places where you won’t see women on the street. Especially in rural areas, women are treated as second class citizens, domestic workers, and baby-making machines.

Foreign women are mostly be treated with respect. As an outside traveler, you straddle the line between men and women; you’re unusual enough to sit with men, but feminine enough to access women’s spaces, too.

Alas, harassment is still common, though it’s mostly restricted to unwanted touching and commentary. If a man does something to you, slap them or make a scene. Pakistanis are very protective of women and someone will likely come to your aid.

For more info, check out my guide to female travel in Pakistan .

Tipping in Pakistan

Tipping is not mandatory. Instances where you might tip someone include:

• Hiring a driver who did a good job – Several hundred PKR
• Take a private tour with a good tour guide – Several hundred PKR per day
• Dining at a fancier restaurant – Round the bill up to a more even number
• If someone goes well out of their way to help you or give you access to something – 50 to 100 PKR

If you do tip, don’t tip too much, else you’ll raise expectations for future travelers. Don’t feel pressured to tip someone if they ask you for a tip—they’re being cheeky because you’re foreign.

Pakistan travel guide: Gender divides, relationships, and sexuality in Pakistan

Pakistan’s gender divide is massive. Fly in, and you’ll see what I mean 30 seconds after stepping outside the airport.

Because of both Islam and regional culture, men and women are separated in society. Streets are a world of men, women rule in the home. Society tries to separate boys and girls until marriage… after which couples are expected to produce babies ASAP. Go figure.

That’s not to say there’s no intermingling, but it might not be what you’re used to at home. Public displays of affection—kissing, holding hands, touching in public—are taboo. Unmarried couples are subtle when they meet; you might notice them hiding in parks or behind tinted car windows. Openness about boyfriends or girlfriends is unusual. Elite Pakistanis are sometimes an exception… until their parents are involved.

My “husband” and I back in the days when I traveled as a couple/before my solo travel began

Couples travel in Pakistan

Unmarried foreign couples should just pretend to be married. Otherwise, hotels might cause problems, and people might be uncomfortable hosting you.

Tip: Make sure you have some kind of story worked out—people are probably going to ask you about your wedding!

If you’re married, no problem! You just have to deal with constant questions about children. If you already have children, you’re on a perfect life path in most Pakistani’s eyes. Well done, you.

Women to men  

Women should be on guard when interacting with men. That’s not to say all men are evil, nor should you fear speaking with men. Just know many men interpret friendliness as flirtation.

In my experience, even men I thought friends ended up hitting on me hours, days, or weeks later. To establish boundaries with men, you can call young men bhai or brother, and older men chacha or uncle.

To keep men at bay, you can say you’re married. Weirdly enough, people are more likely to believe you’re married but traveling alone than accept that you’re unmarried.

Do not say that you have a boyfriend. If you do, men will interpret that as you being sexually loose and thus willing to sleep with them. Respectable ladies do not admit they have boyfriends to men. Or so Pakistanis think.

Men to women

Boys, be cautious when interacting with women… if you can find them.

Many male travelers struggle to meet women in Pakistan. Unless hanging out with liberal/wealthy folks in cities, most women will keep their distance from you. Or stay out of sight completely.

If you do encounter women be respectful and distant with unmarried girls. Be careful if flirting. Pakistanis upset quickly; many male family members will not react well to foreign men flirting with their sister/daughter/cousin.

On the bright side, it’s more socially acceptable for men to have a girlfriend(s) than vice versa. Saying you have a girlfriend implies you’re a bit of a player, but the average man will probably respect you for it, not shame you. Mmmm toxic masculinity.

LGBTQ+ in Pakistan

As you might have guessed, Pakistan isn’t a good place to be queer.

Interestingly enough, gay couples can fly under the radar long as you don’t kiss in public or admit you’re gay. Men hold hands and put arms around men. Women hold hands and touch other women. People of the same gender share hotel rooms without issue. Basically, so long as men and women aren’t touching in public, all is well. Don’t tell anyone you’re gay and you’ll be okay.

Gay communities do exist. I’ve only met one lesbian couple in Pakistan, but I know several gay men who traveled the country and said there’s a thriving underground gay scene to be found in cities (try Grindr, Tinder, or Couchsurfing). Women, you unfortunately might have to look a bit harder.

The idea of transgenders is established in Pakistan, but not in a positive way.

Hijras are men dressed as women who traditionally beg on the streets and at weddings. Some also work as prostitutes or dancers. Aside from hijras , people aren’t familiar with transgenders or genderqueers. Brace yourself for a lot of questions and looks. If male passing, know identifying as male will save you a lot of hassle.

Hookups and relationships in Pakistan

Relationships/hooking up with Pakistanis is possible, mostly in the liberal cities of Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Tinder is very active in Pakistan, and a good place to start fishing.

Dating is manageable… but if you want to actually sleep with someone you might encounter problems. Unless someone has their own place—meaning they don’t live with their family—you’ll have to find either an Airbnb or an expensive hotel room.

Men, please be careful if trying to hook up with women: their reputation can really be damaged if word gets out that they sleep with [foreign] men. In Pakistan, reputation is everything. You can leave Pakistan—and a bad reputation—more easily than they.

For love? Or for visa?

Beware declarations of love, marriage proposals, etc in Pakistan. Pakistani men commonly try to seduce foreign women in the hopes of marrying and getting a visa to another country. It’s not impossible to have a legitimate relationship… just more likely that ulterior motives are involved.

Ex-cans of Murree, the only local beer in Pakistan

Pakistan travel guide: Drinks and drugs in Pakistan

The Quran forbids substances… but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist in the Islamic Republic!

Be sensible with substances in Pakistan; Pakistanis tend to go overboard and authorities will not play nicely if they find drugs on you.

Alcohol in Pakistan

Believe it or not, there’s one legal brewery in Pakistan: Murree Brewery. They have a monopoly on all alcohol in the country, and produce everything from beer (passable, try the light blue wheat beer) to all kinds of liquor (beware).

Foreigners/non-Muslims can legally purchase alcohol from shops and high-end hotels. Wine shops are relatively common in multicultural Sindh province , but further north, you’ll need to look to five-star hotels and “permit shops” attached to them where drinks are sold at market cost. The shopkeepers can often arrange imported drinks for you under the table for an extra fee.

“Bootleggers” are the go-to choice for Muslims. Pakistanis who drink likely have phone numbers of several bootleggers who can deliver alcohol discreetly. Bootleggers are easy in this regard, though their drinks are usually more expensive than the shops’.

Hash (cannabis) in Pakistan

Hashish is everywhere in Pakistan.

It comes from the region around the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Most Pakistani boys have tried hash at least once, and it’s easy for men to find someone to smoke with. Girls get raised eyebrows if they partake, though elite young women in cities do smoke. Ask around and you’re sure to find “stuff” everywhere in the country.

Read: Rolling with the stoners in Hunza

The best stuff is in/from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Look for hash that’s relatively dry and a dark greenish brown. Despite boastful city kids’ claims, the sticky tar-like substance they smoke there is adulterated.

Other drugs in Pakistan

Yes, you can find other drugs in Pakistan.

Some pharmacies are… flexible. Heroin is widespread in the country as it comes from Pakistan’s next-door neighbor, Afghanistan. Party drugs circulate in elite society; if you’re attending a big party in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, there’s a decent chance someone is on drugs. LSD, MDMA, cocaine, speed, meth, they’re all there.

Whether or not you partake is on you. I won’t judge drug usage *cough* but do be careful taking substances, especially from people you don’t know well. Just because someone says white powder is cocaine doesn’t mean it’s actually cocaine (remember, cocaine comes from South America, thousands and thousands of kilometers away ).

The drug scene in Pakistan is not so developed that you can expect the average drug user to know quality from fake. Besides, in a country where even simple things like milk are faked or cut with toxic ingredients , how can you expect illicit substances to be pure?

Be careful. And drink lots of water!

Pakistan travel guide: Religion in Pakistan

The vast majority of Pakistanis are Muslim, with scattered Christian and Hindu communities. Islam is the official state religion, the head of state has to be a Muslim, and people’s religion is stated on their identity cards.

Because Pakistan is an Islamic Republic, its laws are based on Sharia law. It has some of the most draconian blasphemy laws in the world. Foreigners won’t be held to the same standards as locals, but you should always be respectful of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad, and religious culture.

Atheism, though not officially illegal, can be punishable by death under the blasphemy law . Even if you’re not religious, it’s best to say you have a religion when asked (And you will be asked about this. A lot ) .

Pakistan is one of the worst countries in the world when it comes to the treatment of religious minorities. There are specific laws persecuting the Ahmadi sect of Islam, although few Pakistanis will want to talk about this.

It’s best to steer clear of religious discussions unless you’re well acquainted with the person you’re talking to.

Sufism is a kind of Islam widely practiced in Pakistan, yet it can be a sensitive topic for very strict Muslims

Pakistan travel guide: Food in Pakistan

Pakistani food is delicious and diverse, but not particularly healthy. It involves lots of oil, meat, and bread—prepare to pack on the pounds. Outside of (village) homes, don’t expect any fresh salads when traveling in Pakistan aside from sliced onions, cucumbers, and maybe carrots or cabbage.

Food in Pakistan is full of flavors and spices, but rarely too spicy except for those with zero spice tolerance. However, hygiene standards are lacking. Most visitors to Pakistan will have some stomach trouble at one point or another.

Many cities have their own food culture and specialties. Lahore and Karachi compete for the title of the best foodie city in Pakistan. In major cities, more and more cafes and restaurants are attempting international flavors. Quality still varies widely; in general, it’s best to stick to local food. Don’t expect well-executed Western food unless you’re paying a premium.

Some famous Pakistani dishes include:

• Karahi : Meat stir-fried in a large pan
• Biryani : Spiced rice with meat
• Pulao : Rice cooked with animal fat or oil, usually containing carrots, raisins, and meat
• Dal : Lentils
• Channa : Chickpeas
• Roti : Thin round bread
• Naan : Thicker round bread
• Chapli kebab : The best kebab (in my humble opinion), somewhat like a burger patty… but 10x better. The best chapli kebab is found in K hyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province.

Karachi’s street food scene is on

Vegetarians and vegans in Pakistan

Traveling as a vegetarian in Pakistan can be difficult… but it is possible. Affluent Pakistanis understand (and sometimes scoff at) the concept. Except for the poorest of people, meat is a daily staple. Chicken and fish aren’t even considered “meat”—meat means mutton or beef.

If you’re a strict vegetarian, tell your host beforehand. Otherwise, it will lead to awkward situations when someone cooks up a meaty feast in your honor and you have to reject it.

Vegans will have a much harder time traveling in Pakistan. Many dishes include butter or yogurt, and explaining you can’t eat eggs will be interesting. Dal and channa are sometimes cooked in the same pot as meat, or with meat stock. Veganism hardly exists in Pakistan. Be firm, but know you’ll be restricted to dal , channa , and “mix  sabzi “(mixed vegetables). You’ll need to be very clear about no butter or  ghee  (clarified butter).

Pakistan travel guide: Money and the cost of travel in Pakistan

Pakistan uses the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 Rs. There are also coins, but these are virtually useless. Some shops will give change in small candy, rather than coins!

Getting money from ATMs can be a struggle, especially in the north. Not all banks accept foreign cards. Several banks (hi Standard Chartered) charge a 500 Rs fee per withdrawal. Islamic banks do not work with foreign cards . ATMs in the mountains often run out of cash.

In my experience, Bank Alfalah , Habib Bank , and MCB Bank ( not M I B Bank) are your best bet for withdrawing cash from ATMs in Pakistan.

Northern Pakistan is beautiful… but can be a nightmare when it comes to finding cash. Stock up before you head up!

Cost of travel in Pakistan

Pakistan is a relatively cheap country to travel, although it can be tricky to find budget accommodation outside of the popular tourist destinations or in high season (June – August). Below is a breakdown of the average cost of traveling in Pakistan on a backpacker budget.

At the time of writing, US$1 = 155 Rs.

Food & drinks

• Water or soda : 30 – 100 Rs
• Tea:  10 – 50 Rs
• Breakfast and lunch:  50 – 100 Rs each
• Dinner:  50 – 250 Rs (street food ahoy!)

Accommodation

• Budget hotels:  800 – 1,500 Rs
• Mid-range:  1,500  – 4,000 Rs

Cultural outings

• Museums:  200 – 500 Rs
• Historical sights:  500 – 1,000Rs
• National Parks:  800 Rs
• Mosques: Free

For more info, check out this backpacking in Pakistan budget report.

If you do travel to Pakistan during high season, try to book accommodation ahead of time. Popular places along the Karakoram Highway, such as Hunza, are really popular with Pakistani tourists, and places can be full. Pakistan Traveller is a fantastic Pakistan travel guide that has a multitude of hotel recommendations for everywhere and anywhere you might want to travel in Pakistan.

Famous sights like Baltit Fort in Hunza will cost around 1,000 Rs for a foreigner ticket

Pakistan travel guide: Visas for Pakistan

Almost everyone needs a visa for Pakistan. It used to be a real pain in the butt to get a visa for Pakistan, but the recent e-visa introduction made things much easier. The e-visa form is still way too long and full of irrelevant questions, but at least it’s a start in the right direction.

To find out if you’re eligible for a Pakistani e-visa, go to the e-visa portal of Pakistan . It also mentions a visa on arrival scheme, but many have reported problems with it. It’s better to apply for an e-visa .

How to apply for a Pakistan e-visa

Ensure you have JPEG files of:

• Passport information page
• Passport photo with a white background
• Letter of invitation by a tour company or hotel booking confirmation. I work with a local company to offer cheap letters of invitation for Pakistan evisas . Don’t miss out!

Go to the Pakistan e-visa portal and register yourself. To do this, click the “Tourist Visa” button under “Visa Categories”. It will lead you to the info page about tourist visas. If you click “Apply now”, you’ll be prompted to create a new account or log in to an existing account.

Once registered you can start your application. Allow you have plenty of time, as it can easily take an hour or more to fill out all the questions. Many of them seem unnecessary (and probably are) but alas, you have to fill in the entire form.

Once you’ve finished your application, it’s time to pay. The visa costs US$35 for most nationalities. You can pay with Visa or MasterCard. I’ve heard reports of the payment not working all the time, so check you actually paid.

After you’ve paid, click “Submit your Application”. If you don’t do this, the application will remain pending.

The e-visa portal states it takes 5-7 working days for a visa to be approved, but turnaround can be much faster. If you haven’t heard anything after 7 working days, contact them directly via the e-visa portal. It’s possible they need additional documentation from you.

Pakistan travel guide: Entering and exiting Pakistan

Pakistan shares a border with Afghanistan, China, India, and Iran. It also has multiple international airports. There are no international ferry services to or from Pakistan.

To enter Pakistan you need a valid visa, and you need to fill out an arrival form at customs. The arrival card asks the usual questions such as your name, address, name of the hotel you’ll be staying in, etc.

Exiting Pakistan is straightforward, and no forms have to be filled out.

Land borders

• Afghanistan : This border is at the famous Khyber Pass. Technically, this border is closed to foreigners, but there have been reports of people successfully crossing this border. However, we don’t recommend using this border, as traveling overland in Afghanistan comes with considerable risk.
• China : The land border with China at the Khunjerab Pass is the highest paved border crossing in the world. This border should be open year-round, but heavy snowfall in the area sometimes leads to closures. Check ahead if crossing this border during winter months. For more info, check out my guide on crossing the border between Pakistan and China at the Khunjerab Pass .
• India : Many people believe that the Wagah border isn’t open to foreigners. This is not true. Provided you have a visa, this is actually a pretty easy border to cross. For more info, check out my detailed guide on crossing the famous Wagah border between India and Pakistan . The Wagah border is the only border between India and Pakistan that is open to tourists.
• Iran : There is only one border crossing open to tourists, and it’s not the most relaxing experience. The crossing is located in the Baluchistan province of Pakistan, an area that the government deems too unsafe for independent travel. You’ll get a security escort on the Pakistan side. For detailed info about this border crossing, check out my guide to crossing the border between Iran and Pakistan .

International airports

The main airports in Pakistan are in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Several major airlines fly into Pakistan, and more routes are being added regularly. These include routes to London, Dubai, Istanbul, and Kuala Lumpur.

Pakistan travel guide: Accommodation in Pakistan

Booking a place to sleep in Pakistan ahead of time can be challenging. Although websites and online booking are becomig more common in Pakistan, it’s still not as widespread as in surrounding countries. Pakistanis usually call ahead to reserve rooms.

Finding hotels to stay at in less-visited places—especially ones that accept foreign guests—can be quite the challenge. That’s where having a Pakistan travel guide in print can make a huge difference; all the information is already there. If you’re open to carrying a Pakistan travel guide book with you, I can’t recommend Pakistan Traveller by Urbanduniya enough.

Online booking in Pakistan

Booking.com and Airbnb are growing in Pakistan. The former is still mostly for mid-range to luxury hotels, and the latter works… sometimes. There are an unfortunate amount of creepy men on Airbnb offering rooms in their homes to female travelers only; beware and steer clear.

Facebook pages are increasingly common for mid-range accommodation options, and can be useful for contacting a property to ask questions or reserve a room.

How to find cheap guesthouses in Pakistan

Want to find a cheap place to rest your head? You’ll need to rely on the traveler grapevine. Guidebooks are not very reliable for prices— Pakistan Traveller by Tim Blight being the only exception—and not all cheap hotels and guesthouses accept foreign travelers.

Facebook groups like Backpacking Pakistan and Female Pakistan travelers are your best bet for information on cheap places to stay. Use the search function to find accommodation discussions.

It’s a bit of a hassle, but there’s a plus side: you can haggle over accommodation price upon arrival . Don’t feel bad about it, especially in touristic areas with inflated seasonal prices; Pakistanis expect it, and will take advantage of foreigners who do not haggle. If you can get 15-25% off of the quoted price—up to 50% if it’s particularly inflated—you’re doing well.

Some popular accommodation for backpackers in Pakistan you might want to be aware of include:

• Lahore Backpackers (US$6 for dorm bed)
• Five Giants (US$15-20 for a shared room in homestay)
• Adam’s House (US$10 for a private room)
• Islamabad: Backpackers’ Hostel & Guesthouse Islamabad (US$8 for dorm bed)
• Madina Hotel and Madina Hotel 2 (around US$10-20 for a double)
• Karimabad: Old Hunza Inn
• Peshawar: Hidayat Hotel

Lunch with my host at a homestay I found through Let’s Home

Homestays in Pakistan

Until recently, there weren’t many homestay options in Pakistan, but that is changing. Check out my article on homestays in Pakistan to get all the latest info.

A special shoutout goes to Seema, a motivated Hunzai woman, who recently started a booking platform called Let’s Home . She offers a variety of accommodation including homestays around Gilgit Baltistan. I used it to find a family in old Altit, and had a great experience.

Couchsurfing in Pakistan

The Couchsurfing community is highly active in Pakistan’s cities, and local CSers are eager to host foreigners. Most of the CS community is male, but there are few female members in major cities and many men are trustworthy. Always read the host’s references before agreeing to stay.

Since CS has become a paid service now, check out the Facebook group for CSers in Pakistan.

Being hosted in Pakistan

It’s remarkably easy to be hosted once on the road.

Unbelievable until you’re in Pakistan, but many people will simply offer you a place in their homes if you chat with them long enough. Their overwhelming hospitality is a privilege; make sure not to abuse their kindness. Don’t overstay your welcome, help around the house (they won’t accept at first), and bring small gifts from your country or tokens of appreciation like fruits or sweets.

Another bonus to being hosted: in Pakistan, family and friends are everywhere and it’s normal to stay with them when visiting places. Your host will probably offer to find a friend for you to stay with in your next destination. Make one friend, and their whole social network opens up!

Pakistan travel guide: Transportation in Pakistan

Pakistan has a myriad of transport options. Train, bus, and minibus are most common for long-distance travel. For shorter distances use either rickshaws (south of Islamabad), taxis (Islamabad) or Jeeps (north of Islamabad).

Pakistan has an extensive rail network. Trains are relatively comfortable, albeit a bit slow. Prices are reasonable unless you want AC class. It is advisable to book your ticket ahead of time, and with the help of a local.

Check the Pakistan Railway website for schedules and fares. The website is not the easiest to use, but it’ll do. If you have a local friend with a credit card and phone number, they can book you a ticket online. Don’t roget to read my guide on train travel in Pakistan before you do!

Buses and minibuses

Pakistan’s multitude of bus options are sometimes overwhelming. But that’s where this Pakistan travel guide can help you out!

From crappy minibus, to bedazzled local buses, to well-run Daewoo and Faisal Movers services, there are a lot of ways to get from A to B.

High-end bus services

When I’m in a rush and want to make sure I reach my destination on time, I prefer Faisal Movers, Daewoo, or for Gilgit-Baltistan, NATCO. These services are professional, leave on time and are very comfortable. Definitely worth the extra rupees.

• Schedules for Daewoo
• Schedules for NATCO

Ticket prices depend on the type of bus. I’ve had luxurious buses with reclining seats and AC… and passable contraptions with no AC. Different buses go at different times. To get an idea of prices, a Daewoo from Lahore to Islamabad (Rawalpindi) goes for 1,000 to 1,500 Rs for the four-hour journey .

You can usually book tickets on the same day at the bus station or through your hotel. Note that Daewoo has its own stations, so make sure you go here and not to the local bus station.

Local buses and minibuses

Prices for local buses are much cheaper, but you’ll be packed in like sardines in a can.

Minibuses are usually available for shorter hops between towns. Sometimes there’s a minibus yard, sometimes they leave from a specific point on the road, and sometimes… nobody knows where they leave from! Ask locals to figure out where you can find a bus to your next destination, or wait on a roadside and try flagging down passing minibuses—they can stop anywhere.

Minibus prices should be set, but ticket hawkers are likely to try making some extra money off of you. A minibus shouldn’t be much more than 200 Rs for a five-hour journey . Ask a fellow passenger what the price is, or watch to see what other people around you are paying.

Local bus and a Qingqi in Sehwan Sharif

To save yourself some hassle, download the taxi app Careem , which most Pakistanis use to get taxis. Uber (now the owner of Careem) also operates in major Pakistani cities.

Both offer a variety of vehicles ranging from motorbikes to rickshaws to air-conditioned cars, and they’re by far the easiest and most hassle-free way to get around cities.

Rickshaws and Qingqis

Rickshaws (with doors) and Qingqis (pronounced “ching-chee”, totally open) have a somewhat bad reputation, but in my experience, they’re the fastest way to get around in cities. There are no set prices, though, and sometimes you have to drive a hard bargain.

As a basic rule of thumb, for foreigners, the actual price is probably around 50-75% of what the rickshaw driver initially quotes you. Offer half of what he’s saying, then bargain up from there. Alternatively, check the price of a rickshaw to your destination using the rideshare apps Uber and Careem—yes, they offer rickshaw rides, too—and use that as a bargaining point.

Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price seems too high. There are thousands of rickshaws around; another rickshaw driver is sure to appear if you’re not satisfied with the price.

Pricing is a bit tricky, but a 10-minute drive should cost about 150 Rs.

Many places in the mountains, such as Fairy Meadows and Deosai, are only accessible by jeep. There are public transport jeeps for remote valleys like Chapursan and Shimshal , but in other areas you’ll have to hire a private jeep.

Prices to popular places such as Fairy Meadows are fixed and non-negotiable, while others are more… flexible. It pays to wait around and see if you can share a jeep with other people going your way. Alternatively, you can post in the Backpacking Pakistan Facebook group to find someone to share a ride with.

A jeep to Fairy Meadows is 7,500 Rs, and a jeep to Deosai is 8-10,000 Rs for a day trip. Overnight trips are more expensive. Hotels can arrange jeeps for you, at a higher cost. Your best bet is to ask friendly locals what a decent rate should be.

A private jeep hired during one of my unique women-only tours of Pakistan

Pakistan travel guide: Safety in Pakistan

One of the things people want to know before going: is Pakistan safe? A fair question!

For years, Pakistan was associated with violence. Terrorist groups were in power in many rural areas and terror attacks were common in cities.  Heck, even now many governments advise against travel to (parts of) Pakistan. There’s no denying the country is still perceived as dangerous.

Although terrorist attacks still happen—and not all places in Pakistan are safe for travel—the security situation has largely improved. The Pakistani military has stabilized the security situation. Places that foreigners are likely to visit, such as the cities of Lahore and Islamabad or the mountains of Gilgit Baltistan are generally safe to travel, given you take standard precautions. The fact that you’re reading through this Pakistan travel guide means you’re already more prepared than others.

Legitimately dangerous areas are off-limits to foreign visitors, so the chance of something serious happening to you is slim. The biggest dangers of traveling in Pakistan are traffic-related, pollution, and getting sick from poor hygiene standards. Oh, and hospitality 😉

To be fair, there’s a good chance you’ll still feel uncomfortable at times with the current security situation. Pakistan is still a police state. There’s a lot of heavily armed personnel on the streets, and many security checkpoints throughout the country. Sensitive sites such as shrines and religious minority gatherings will be filled with army/police/security. Don’t let it intimidate you—these people are there for safety purposes.

To learn more about safe travel in Pakistan, check out my article on whether it’s safe to travel in Pakistan .

That time I had a security escort with me during the urs of Lal Shahbaz in Sehwan Sharif

Dealing with security in Pakistan  

When people ask me about the security situation in Pakistan, I usually respond with “Pakistan doesn’t have a security problem, in Pakistan security is the problem.”

Security agencies are a sore spot for many foreign travelers in Pakistan, though don’t say so to any Pakistani.

To be fair, it’s in the agencies’ interests to keep foreign travelers out of trouble. If anything happens to a foreigner it will be all over the news and Pakistan’s international image will sink further.

Agencies are overbearing with foreigners because of this. In my years of travel in Pakistan, I’ve had intelligence agency stalkers, confrontational encounters with police, mandatory armed guards. Police and army stopped me from going places saying I needed permission or an NOC (non objection certificate) but didn’t say how to get one.

On the bright side, things have vastly improved in the last year. Gilgit Baltistan and the Chitral region almost entirely removed the need for NOCs and armed escorts in 2019 .

However, you’ll likely encounter issues if traveling to less-visited destinations, especially in southern Punjab and Sindh province . Common problematic places for travelers include:

• Multan – Foreigners are often required to leave immediately if discovered by police. Can only stay if unnoticed residing at luxury hotels.
• Bahawalpur – Foreigners are not allowed into army-occupied palaces, and can again only stay at expensive hotels.
• Sukkur – Multiple travelers reported questioning and harassment by security agencies when visiting Sukkur.

Hopefully security won’t be an issue for you, but if you must deal with security, be polite but firm. Ask them to show their identification first. Save phone numbers of Pakistanis you meet in the government or army; power and connections go a long way with security agencies. If what they’re asking of you doesn’t make sense, stand your ground.

Protip: Never insult the army. Most Pakistanis love the army. Despite their rather ominous not-so-secret control of the country, they did help stabilize it and don’t ask for bribes like police do. Pakistanis will not take kindly to army insults.

Pakistan travel guide: Connectivity in Pakistan

Connectivity in Pakistan is hit-and-miss. Wifi is often bad—if present at all—and mobile signals can go down at any time for no reason. Signals are often blocked during large events that may pose a security threat. Cities have decent 4G coverage, but especially in the rural north, there are many places with no coverage at all. If you want to have the widest range of coverage, you’ll need two or three different sim cards from several mobile operators.

Mobile SIM cards for calling and data in Pakistan

Overall, Zong and Telenor are your best bet in cities and rural areas. In northern Gilgit Baltistan, Zong and Telenor work in  some  areas, but it’s a better idea to buy a SCOM SIM card instead. You can buy them at customer service centers in hubs such as Gilgit, Aliabad, and Karimabad.

Getting a SIM card can be an annoying process. Foreigners cannot buy SIM cards at any outlet—you have to go to an official “customer service center” of the mobile provider to get one. You must fill out a registration form to buy a SIM, so bring copies of your passport.

It usually takes 4-12 hours for your card to activate (24 for SCOM). Your SIM card will expire when your visa expires.

WiFi in Pakistan

WiFi in Pakistan is spotty at best. Upscale cafes will have Wifi that may or may not work, as will high-end hotels. Besides that, you’re pretty much lost.

Rather than relying on WiFi networks, I usually buy a large mobile data pack (10GB, mmm blogger life) and use my mobile phone as a WiFi hotspot. If you’re going to do that, buy a power bank so you don’t have to worry about your phone running out of battery while you do so.

Pakistan travel guide: Being a responsible tourist in Pakistan

Pakistan encourages many bad habits; it’s easy to forget to be a responsible tourist in the face of it all.

Nevertheless, we visitors have a responsibility to Pakistan and its people to leave a positive impact on the country, especially as tourism develops. Here are some suggestions for visiting Pakistan responsibly:

• Always ask before taking someone’s picture, especially women . Many women (and their male family) are sensitive about having their photo taken.
• Don’t take photos of children unless you have permission from their parents . Share sparingly. Pakistani photographers abuse this all the time; that doesn’t make it right.
• Keep places clean . If you find a plastic bag or have one to spare, use it to collect trash while walking in nature. Dispose of trash somewhere where it might be disposed of properly.
• Hire local guides and drivers. Punjabis tend to dominate the tourism scene, but they are not locals outside of Punjab.
• Support female-run businesses . Pakistan is far from gender equality, but many women in the country are trying to change that. Some totally female-run examples are Let’s Home for accommodation, The Mad Hatters for organized tours, and A Piece Of Cake café in Lahore.

Useful? Pin it!

Other useful resources for planning Pakistan travel

Want more sweet Pakistan travel deliciousness? Below are several of my favorite posts to help you plan your trip to Pakistan. They’re full of all kinds of things to know before going to Pakistan.

Pakistan tours I run

• 3 weeks: Pakistan for women, by women
• 2 weeks: Pakistan adventure motorcycle tour

Best Pakistan travel guide book

Pakistan Traveller by Urbanduniya is hands down the best printed Pakistan travel guide on the market. I know; I helped him with the latest edition!

Pakistan travel guides on Lost With Purpose

• Is Pakistan safe to travel?
• Guide to traveling in Sindh province
• Is it safe for women to travel in Pakistan?
• Female traveler’s guide to Pakistan
• First timer’s guide to train travel in Pakistan
• Experiences to add to your Pakistan bucket list
• Traveling Pakistan during Ramadan

Region-specific Pakistan travel guides

• Things to do in Lahore
• Chapursan Valley travel guide
• Phander Valley travel guide
• Kalash Valley travel guide
• Guide to trekking in Swat Valley

Epic Pakistan experiences

• The longest border crossing in the world
• Desert trippin’ at the urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan Sharif
• Sufi nights in Lahore
• Learning to motorbike in Pakistan
• Rolling with the stoners in Hunza
• Bloodbaths in the Walled City: Eid al Adha in Lahore

Need even more tips about travel in Pakistan? Ask them in the comments or get in touch .

Alex Reynolds

33 thoughts on “ pakistan travel guide: everything to know before you go ”.

Very good and creative method for building backlinks to your site and also traffic. It’s very good! Thanks a lot for this post!

Outstanding read!

Very Informative and funny.

Thanks for sharing.

great article thanks for sharing. i always struggeld with finding an ATM, so then i foudn this travel app ” ATM Fee Saver” it shows ATMs close by and gives information about their fees and limit. super useful 🙂 maybe you wanna check it out.

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Must-see attractions in Pakistan

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Jehangir's Tomb

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Baltit Fort

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Shrine of Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri

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Rohtas Fort

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Faqir Khana Museum

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Quaid-i-Azam Mausoleum

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Ganish Village

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Moenjodaro City

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Mausoleum of Baha-ud-Din Zakaria

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Petroglyphs

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Shalimar Gardens

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Lahore Museum

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Chitral Fort

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Minar-i-Pakistan

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Channel Walk

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Every year, more than 907,000 people visit Pakistan and stun themselves with the breathtaking tourist places in….

Every year, more than 907,000 people visit Pakistan and stun themselves with the breathtaking tourist places in Pakistan. No doubt, this land of 4 seasons is abundant with scenic sites which have been visited the whole year. Let’s take a look of these extra-ordinary tourist spots.

A hill tract of nearly 50–80 km at north-east of Islamabad extending between Murree and Abbottabad. Every year millions of Pakistani, as well as foreigners, come to this alluring place to release stress. Nature heals you here with the soft breeze, rains, green trees, fruity roadsides, naughty monkeys, green lands, hilltop views, green tracks to walk on clouds and most of all amazing weather.

Photo by Sannan Dogar

Tourist Attractions of Galiyat

• Changa Gali
• Khaira Gali
• Nathia Gali

And the most prominent name “MURREE”.

Photo by Khalid Shah

Northern areas of Pakistan experience an influx of tourists throughout the year and the most appealing hill station here is known as Shogran. An incredible green plateau lying at the height of 7,749 Feet above sea level. Pine Park hotel is simply worth seeing and living if you are in planning a tour to Shogran. Shogran owns a beautiful place known as Siri Paye. In the local language, the word “Siri” means a small lake while “Paye” means high grazing ground. From Shogran, you can ride on the jeep to travel to Siri Paye and Makra Top.

Tourist Attractions of Shogran

• Musa Ka Musala

Kaghan Valley

Photo by Saffy H

In the heart of Mansehra district, lies an alpine climate valley is known as Kaghan. The valley is among the most scenic places in Pakistan. Every year several tourists visit this valley and enjoy the natural environment away from the polluted city life. River Kunhar flows throughout the valley and spread its magic of peace and pleasure. Nearby places of Kaghan valley include:

• Saif-ul-Malook Lake
• Babusar Top
• Noori Valley
• Purbi Valley

Babusar Pass

Photo by Shehzaad Maroof

In the north of Naran, lies the highest point of Kaghan valley where you can amaze your eyes with the scenic view of Kaghan and exceptional weather. It’s truly amazing Babusar Pass which is 13690 feet above from sea level. Surrounded by snowy peaks, especially the breathtaking Babusar Top makes this pass one of the most ideal tourist places in Pakistan.

Attractions of Babusar Top

• Trek to Lulusar Lake

Swat Valley

Photo by Wolfgang Gressmann

A Switzerland of Pakistan is a river valley where tourists come and stun themselves by the magic of nature. Nature plays Peek a boo here with amazing forest area, fascinating riverside, alluring lakes and much more. Floods deeply affected the beauty of this area, but still is amazing like always. Some of the visiting points include:

• White Palace
• Swat Museum
• Ushu Valley
• Utrot Valley

Neelam Valley

Photo by Muzaffar Bukhari

A stunning bow shaped valley lies in Azad Kashmir has heavenly beauty. Kashmir is considered a trailer of Heaven. The track of this valley is filled with lush green mountains, forests, green river water flows throughout the way, splashing rocks and milky waterfalls always refreshes your soul.

Important Visiting Spots Are:

• Sharda Valley
• Upper Neelam

Photo by irshad chitrali

The Area of Outstanding Beauty is located at the western side of River Chitral in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Chitral has eye-catching lakes, rivers, valleys, waterfalls and a lot more to enjoy. Important visiting points in Chitral are:

• Garam Chashma
• Birir or Kalash Valley
• Buni Village
• Bomboret Village
• Shandur Top

Hunza Valley

Among the most visited valleys by the tourists, one is the Hunza Valley. It is known for its spectacular beauty and the peaceful environment. The natives of this valley are friendly, helpful, and are known for their hospitality. The natural beauty can be seen all over the valley. The mountains covered with the snow and the colorful flowers catch the tourist’s eye. Hunza is also famous for its Ruby mines, from where the precious stones are brought to the market.

Attractions of Hunza Valley

• Rakaposhi View
• Aliabad Village
• Karimabad Village
• Altit Fort:
• Baltit Fort
• Attabad Lake
• Passu Cones
• Khunjerab Top (China Border)

The capital of Balochistan is the Quetta and the meaning of Quetta is “Fort”. The highest Asia’s Railway station Kan Mehtarzai is the two-hour drive away from Quetta. There are too many fascinating valleys in Quetta. The commercial and the main center of Quetta is Jinnah Road, where the different restaurants, hotels, and banks are located, which attract the tourists.

Attractions of Quetta

• Pishin Valley
• Quetta Bazaar
• Urak Valley
• Recreational Parks
• Hazarganji Chiltan National Park
• Museum of Quetta

Photo by Junaid Haq

Tharparkar is the desert part located in Sindh is the only fertile desert in this world. Tharparkar means “to cross over”. This is only Pakistan’s district having a large number of Hindus than the Muslims. The lifestyle and the beauty of Tharparkar had been the attraction of many great poets like Shah Abdul Latif Bhatti. The simplicity, the culture and the colors of Tharparkar would mesmerize any tourist.

Attractions of Tharparkar

• Nagar Parkar
• Jain Temples
• Naukot Fort
• Karoonjhar  Hills
• Thari Village

Photo credit unknown

Rawalakot is the capital of Kashmir, which is known as “Heaven on Earth”. Everybody is aware of the enchanting beauty of Kashmir, and Rawalakot is it’s one of the most beautiful valleys. It has an erratic climate.

Attractions of Rawalakot

• Poonch River
• Thatia Pani
• Banjosa Lake

Photo by Sasha Isachenko

Taxila is the capital of eastern Punjab and has always been the focal point of attractions all over the world due to the various examples of Buddhist, Hindus, and the Hindu cultures. Taxila Museum is the most famous attraction of this city which depicts a number of ancient facts.

Muzaffarabad

Photo credits unknown

Muzaffarabad is famous for its breathtaking beauty. It is the capital of Azad Kashmir which is located at the junction of Jhelum River and Neelum River. It is the blend of different languages and cultures with the combinations of new buildings and old monuments. The landscapes of this valley would make you imagine the beauty of heaven.

Attractions of Muzaffarabad

• Pir Chanassi
• Shaheed Gale

Mazar-e-Quaid

Photo by Hassaan.Naveed

The Tomb of the nation’s father Muhammad Ali Jinnah is the best attraction of Karachi. This tomb is named as Mazar-e-Quaid. The structure is made of beautiful white marble and copper. It grounds the graves of Liaquat Ali Khan and Sister of Jinnah, Fatima Jinnah. The tomb has been constructed so beautifully that people come by to enjoy the time in the green and the lightened park beside it.

Mohenjo-Daro

Photo by Hakim Jans

Located at the southern portion of the country, Mohenjo Daro was discovered in 1922 and was found to be a very prosperous city which was destroyed by the river course. Mohenjo Daro had experienced the transition from the stone-age to the Bronze-age. People come and visit this place and get attracted by the ancient cultures of the people who lived here.

If you are planning your tour for this Summer, there are so many choices regarding tourist places in Pakistan. Enjoy your journey to Pakistan with its outstanding natural beauty.

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Traveling Without a Passport

20 Reasons to visit Pakistan

There’s more to this country than what’s in the news. Beer, good food, and rich history are just some of the reasons to visit Pakistan!

You’ve probably heard of this infamous country by now, but believe it or not, there was a time when I’d be traveling to Pakistan, and people wouldn’t know a thing about it. In a way, that’s still somewhat true. Over the last decade or so, Pakistan has dominated the headlines for something or another, but there’s more to this country than what you see in the news.

I’m one of the lucky ones. Despite my parent’s protests, I spent my twenties living and working in Pakistan as a journalist and used my time off for exploring. One of my greatest memories was traveling from Karachi to Taobat, the furthest point in Azad Kashmir, by road.

I still don’t have the words to describe the scenery in the region, and I wanted to stay there and never leave. My greatest joy would be to let the mountains eat me up and for my ghost to remain there, I’m told the country has places, more haunting, that I’ve yet to see.

Between the mid-1950s and 1970s, Pakistan was a favorite spot to visit on the notorious Hippie Trail — an overland journey exploring the cities, cultural and natural highlights of Europe and Asia encompassing marijuana, enlightenment, and a good time! But even in the 1990s, if you wanted to visit Pakistan’s north, you had to book a hotel well in advance.

Now, after a long hiatus, Pakistan is surfacing once again as a travel-worthy destination. Security has improved, and the country is going through a renaissance of sorts, which is mostly thanks to the Internet and social media and travelers from all over the world openly sharing their joy at visiting this South Asian country. With influential globetrotters visiting regardless of mainstream thought, travel publications shining a light on the country’s cultural diversity and natural wonders, and the Pakistani government’s efforts to promote tourism, this forgotten place is welcoming visitors to its diverse cities and unspoiled northern regions once more. Here are 19 reasons to visit Pakistan – before the rest of the world does!

Travel to: Pakistan

1. It’s the best time to visit Pakistan

Towards the end of last year, Condé Nast astounded many travelers all over the world when it  crowned Pakistan as its number one destination  for 2021: “this is a place of exquisite landscapes, where green spaces are overlooked by towering mountains,” they said. While there are still things to consider when traveling to the country, travel advisories have been softened, and after almost two decades, tourism is once again being promoted in Pakistan. 

2. Pakistan is adventure’s best-kept secret

In June of 2018, CNN Travel published an article showcasing Pakistan as adventure’s best-kept secret. It sparked a storm in the country’s local media, and the story went viral; friends who were up north at the time told me that residents in the remotest of Pakistani villages were sharing it. In the article, Jonny Bealby, the founder of Wild Frontiers, a company that has been operating tours in Pakistan from the USA and UK for 20 years, explains that he’s noticed a shift in attitudes and that the security situation has improved dramatically, making it possible for people to visit. Bealby also states that when you pair Pakistan’s cultural allure with its cuisine, incredible hiking and trekking, and epic mountain ranges, you get the perfect adventure travel destination.

3. Friendly and hospitable locals

Being hospitable is embedded in Pakistani culture; there’s no real concept of a formal invitation; you are simply welcome.

People call on one another at home without a prior meeting, shopkeepers will ask you to have chai with them while you go through endless blocks of fabric, and if you’re traveling to the country, you will be embraced with open arms. Almost everyone who visits comes back with reports of how friendly and helpful the locals are, and there are some incredible examples of this. Hunza, a valley in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan, crowned by the Hindu Kush and Karakoram mountain ranges, is leading the way for the country’s touristy renaissance. For the past few years now, this alpine valley has drawn people from all over the world, but in 2017, Hunza was pushed beyond its capacity with the volume of visitors when 1.72 million tourists made their way to the valley. As such, the hotels were bursting, so locals opened up their homes to travelers that needed a place to stay.

4. For mountain scenery beyond your wildest imagination

When the British Backpacker Society released its list of top 20 adventure destination for 2018, everyone was surprised to see Pakistan swipe the number one spot. Having visited themselves in 2016, they wrote a heartening post encouraging their followers in the thousands to book a trip to the country that very day! They say that “Pakistan is one of the friendliest countries on earth, with mountain scenery that is beyond anyone’s wildest imagination. Head north to the astonishing peaks of the Karakoram along the unforgettable Karakoram Highway, probably the world’s greatest road trip. It is beautiful, exciting, and culturally interesting, and travelers are rewarded at the journey’s end-point with perhaps the most beautiful natural sight on earth, Hunza Valley.”

5. To discover Pakistan’s music culture

Pakistan has its own soundtrack, permeating all over. From the folksy hipster sounds of Coke Studio, rhythmic Qawwalis, and melodic rubab to house, rap, and rock. Adventure.com recently investigated Pakistan’s electronic music through DJs Omair Anjum and Mohammed ‘Mosh’ Shah, aka the Fake Shamans, who are trying to revive the nightlife scene from the 1990s with their open-air house raves.

Pakistan’s music is as rich as it is diverse, part of the country’s very fiber, and has always put it on the map. The late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan did many collaborations with famous western artists such as Eddie Vedder and Peter Gabriel on the soundtrack of Martin Scorcese’s The Last Temptation of Christ. Khan was a Qawwal and sang devotional Islamic Sufi songs; his album Intoxicated Spirit won a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Folk Album. You can catch the next wave of Pakistan’s talented musicians bringing their indie rock sounds to the basements of city coffee shops, in raps about the Balochistan province on music apps dedicated to promoting Pakistani music (for a taste of it check out The Sibbi Song), live performances in open spaces or small Qawali gatherings.

6. To meet the descendants of Alexander the Great – the last pagans of Pakistan

Deep in the Kalasha Valleys of Chitral in northern Pakistan, surrounded by the Hindu Kush peaks, you’ll find the Kalash people, an indigenous matriarchal-led tribe who claim to be the descendants of Alexander the Great. Among them are the last pagans of Pakistan.

The Kalash people have their own culture, language, and way of life. Every year at the end of May, visitors come to experience their Chilam Joshi Festival, which takes place across three valleys. It’s one of the highlights of the year. Everyone drinks, dances, and celebrates their deities.

7. To see the picture of Robert De Niro in Chitral’s best-known hotel

Years ago, Robert De Niro stayed at the famous Hindukush Heights hotel in Chitral, a northern region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and he even left a message about his wonderful stay in the hotel’s guestbook. There’s off-the-beaten-track, and then there’s in the middle of nowhere, and when the owner of the hotel, Siraj Ul-Mulk, began building it on the side of a remote mountain , his friends thought him mad.

Ul-Mulk was right; people were wrong and, before long, were flocking to the hotel to experience Chitral’s alpine scenery. Hindukush Heights sits on a foothill overlooking the unspoiled landscape, and the view will make you feel like you’ve been given a sneak peek of heaven.

8. To experience a polo festival that’s out of this world

One highlight that has visitors venturing to Pakistan’s north is the Shandur Polo Festival, which is held every year in July at Shandur Top in the Ghizer district of Gilgit-Baltistan. In this highly charged tournament, teams from Chitral and Gilgit compete with each other. What makes this spectacle more beguiling is the backdrop of snowy mountains, flawless, sparkling lakes, alpine flowers, and blades of grass that never seem to end.

9. Food that will rival any cuisine

Like hospitality, food is part of Pakistan’s culture. I love eating in Italy and cooking Thai and Malaysian food all the time at home, but the taste of Pakistani food brings tears to my eyes. Fragrant and spicy, many local dishes carry a cultural heritage rooted in geography and the complex history of the country.

From all the times I’ve stopped off to eat karahi (a wok-based chicken stew of tomatoes and ginger) on my trips to the north and chapli kebabs (spiced meat patties) from Nowshera to steaming hot dum biryani on a Friday or the charred spices left clinging to my fingers after a late-night chicken tikka and ice-cold kulfi melting on my tongue, no cuisine on earth tastes as good. In Pakistan, even the simplest things are delicious; my mother-in-law’s plain yogurt, for example.

Unlike the rest of the world, the fruit is seasonal, so you can only eat what’s in season, and it’s so fresh. In Hunza, the land of apricots, food is cooked in apricot oil; if you ever go, make sure you eat the pancakes at Cafe De Hunza. Along with using local produce, Pakistan’s dishes take on methods and flavors from different influences. Northern food is not as spicy and draws on Afghanistan (Kabuli pulao, for example), Lahori cuisine is more robust with traditional Punjabi elements (rich gravies made from dairy and butter), and Kashmir has its own style of cooking.

However, Karachi is probably one of the greatest food destinations on the planet. The metropolis is full of things to devour, from the exquisite BBQ and street food on the iconic Burns Road too early morning breakfasts at Boat Basin and drinking sweet chai and salty parathas at a makeshift cafe on the side of the road, any foodie worth their salt, will rejoice.

10. Because a woman who traveled to every country in the world put Pakistan in her top 5

In 2017, Cassie De Pecol set a record by becoming the first person to travel to all 196 countries on the planet. After her groundbreaking journey, Pecol shared her top ten countries, of which Pakistan was her fifth favorite, stating that it was one of her most educational and enriching experiences.

11. You can travel there as a solo female

Cassie De Pecol is not the only woman who has ventured on a solo journey through Pakistan. More recently, Rosie Gabrielle, a Canadian motorcyclist who quit her job a couple of years ago to embark on a dream solo ride around the world, has been documenting her travels in Pakistan on Instagram and sharing her experiences as a solo female traveler in the country. She shares that she has received numerous offers from families to stay with them and has been greeted with “countless smiles and cheers of joy as I pass people and they realize it’s a female riding.”

Marsha Jean is a 21-year-old who is currently hitchhiking and cycling her way across Pakistan. Like Gabrielle, as a solo female traveler, she has found that locals are happy to offer her a place to stay and help her out. Having fallen in love with the country, she plans to stay on longer than she intended. Eva zu Beck also garnered the interest of foreign and local media with her solo journey of Pakistan and even made a travel show highlighting the country’s crafts: Sindhi ajrak, glass bangles, and Kashi pottery. As females, all of them had a positive experience.

12. To discover Pakistan’s raw beauty

Hunza may be Pakistan’s golden ticket to pull in tourists from outside the country but travel in any direction up north to discover unyielding beauty. It’s hardly surprising when the country is home to some of the world’s defining mountain ranges and menacingly majestic peaks with glorious places like Fairy Meadows at their foothills.

Last year, National Geographic Traveler touted the high-altitude plains of Deosai National Park, Kaghan Valley (a region of myth and mystery), Attabad Lake, and Neelum Valley among some of the best places to “venture further afield and discover a lesser-known, wilder Pakistan.”

13. It’s not just for intrepid travelers

Last year I wrote an article for the Globe and Mail about how Pakistan’s north is no longer for seasoned climbers and intrepid travelers ; there’s been a rise in recreational holiday-makers who want to explore the region. Pakistan’s breathtaking landscapes are remote and unspoiled but accessible, so even if you aren’t a hardcore adventurer, it’s easy to get there.

14. To drink the legendary local beer

The local beer from Murree Brewery is legendary, if only because the local laws actually forbid Muslims from drinking. Founded by the British in 1860, it’s Pakistan’s oldest and largest creator of alcoholic products. Murree also became the first brewery in the Muslim world to produce a 20-year-old malt whiskey, dubbed the “Rarest Malt Whiskey.”

15. Because going once is never enough

Almost all the influential globetrotters who have visited Pakistan plan to go back; some have already visited more than once. Many of them explained that they couldn’t get enough of the country. For example, Beck went for the first time in April 2018, and two months later, she was back in the country and ended up extending her trip to the end of the year. Alex Reynolds, the blogger behind Lost With Purpose who backpacked through Pakistan, has already been three times and describes herself as addicted to the country.

16. So you can see it everyone else does

Early last year, I was talking to a friend after she had come back from her annual trip to Pakistan’s north, one which she has been doing for years. She lives in Lahore and frequently travels around the country and has noticed that it’s getting busier by day with foreign visitors. There are more unofficial reports from other locals who say the same, the northern parts, especially Hunza are packed with tourists, and they have to book hotels months in advance. Official numbers mirror this; thanks to better security conditions, in 2017, tourism in Pakistan was up by 300 percent more than the previous year, of which only 30 percent was domestic.

17. For the cultural diversity

Encompassing four provinces, there’s so much cultural diversity in Pakistan. From one region to the next, there are differences in the food, art, traditions, and way of life. Either way, everything in this country ensnares each one of the senses, and it’s a fascinating experience discovering the different rituals and customs that come together to make Pakistan the melting pot that it is.

18. To explore mosques and forts

Natural wonders aside, in the larger cities and small towns found in the north, you can discover some glorious architecture in Pakistan. In the port city of Karachi, you’ll see remnants of colonial times with landmarks like Frere Hall and Empress Market or the abandoned Bristol Hotel.

Lahore has many splendid Mughal structures: the Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, and Shalimar Gardens. Further up north, you can live like Baltistani royalty at the restored Khaplu Palace; this mid-19th-century imperial building is now a unique hotel experience. Or stay at Serena Shigar Fort, a heritage hotel that gives visitors an opportunity to explore the past while enjoying a bowl of homemade ice cream made with cherries from the gardens.

19. It’s never been easier to go

To promote tourism in the country, the Pakistani government has plans to relax its visa policy. Since early 2018, obtaining a leisure visa has gotten much easier for nationals of many countries. Citizens from China, Malaysia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom can now obtain a visa on arrival in Pakistan if they have an electronic travel authorization (ETA). In the future, ETAs will be rolled out to many countries in South America, the Middle East, and Asia.

A 30-day multiple entry visa on arrival is already granted to individuals of certain countries when they are traveling as part of a group from a designated tour operator. Twenty-four countries are eligible for a tour group visa, most of them in Europe, but this policy has also been extended to the USA, Canada, as well as Japan, Singapore, and South Korea.

20. Because there’s more to Pakistan than what you hear in the news

There are few countries in the world that can enrich your life in the way Pakistan can. Don’t take what the media says or my word for it; find out for yourself why people rave about this country.

If you’re feeling nervous but intrigued, you can look into a group tour and put yourself in the hands of experts who know this country well. From the Karakoram peaks to cities and towns that transport you to a different time and place, there’s so much more to Pakistan than what you see in the news, and the world is catching on.

Based in Toronto, Sahar is a full-time content editor for Days to Come and part-time travel junkie.

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Pakistan Tourism and Travel MCQs with Answers

Welcome to the  Pakistan Tourism and Travel MCQs  with Answers. In this post, we are sharing  Pakistan Tourism and Travel Multiple Choice Questions and Answers in  Pakistan  General Knowledge section for various competitive exams in Pakistan. Find practice Pakistan Tourism and Travel practice test with answers here. Each question offers a chance to enhance your knowledge regarding  Pakistan Tourism and Travel online MCQs Test.

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23 Pakistan Trivia Questions (Ranked from Easiest to Hardest)

Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, known for its rich culture, history and diverse landscapes. It was created in 1947 after the partition of British India, and it is the only Muslim-majority country to have been created in the name of Islam. Pakistan is home to a diverse population, with multiple ethnic and linguistic groups.

Pakistan has a rich history, including the Indus Valley Civilization, which is one of the oldest in the world. The country has been ruled by various empires and dynasties, including the Mughals, who left behind a legacy of art and architecture that is still visible today. Pakistan is also known for its traditional crafts, such as truck art, which is a form of decorative art that is painted on the sides of trucks and buses, and its vibrant music and dance scene.

Pakistan is also known for its diverse geography, ranging from the Himalayan mountain range in the north, to the Arabian Sea in the south. Some of the famous tourist destinations in Pakistan include the northern areas, such as the Hunza Valley and the Karakoram Highway, the ancient Indus Valley Civilization ruins in Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, and the beautiful Lahore, known for its Mughal-era architecture. Trivia questions about Pakistan can range from its history, culture, and geography to its art, music and famous tourist destinations, making it a great topic for a trivia night or quiz.

23 Pakistan Trivia Questions Ranked From Easiest to Hardest (Updated for 2024) ‍

• What is the stonefruit that is the national fruit of India, Haiti, and the Philippines? Strangely enough, is also the summer national fruit of Pakistan. Using seasons to claim four different national fruits: brilliant. Answer: Mango
• What "H" is the name of both the fourth-largest city in India and the eighth largest in Pakistan? Answer: Hyperabad
• In June 2022, which country’s senior minister Ahsan Iqbal asked citizens to cut down on tea drinking to save the economy (the nation is the world’s largest importer of tea—and it’s not cheap!)? Answer: Pakistan
• What Indo-Aryan language is the official national language of Pakistan? “U” may or may not get the answer. Answer: Urdu
• Hosting duties for the 2011 Cricket World Cup went to India, Sri Lanka, and what third country who replaced Pakistan as hosts? Answer: Bangladesh
• Harvard grad Benazir Bhutto became the first Muslim woman to serve as a head of government when she became the prime minister of what nation in 1988? Answer: Pakistan
• The FDA started regulating the manufacturing process of microwave ovens the same year in which Bangladesh separated from Pakistan. In what DECADE did both of these events occur? Answer: 1970s
• Which international border was Afghanistan and Pakistan was established by a British diplomat of the Indian Civil Service in 1893? Answer: Durand Line
• What modern-day country was known as East Pakistan until 1972, after a war of liberation waged against its distant western region? Answer: Bangladesh
• What diamond, owned by the British crown, is currently the subject of demands for return by India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan? The gem was acquired by Britain during the reign of Queen Victoria. Answer: Koh-i-noor
• Kharif crops, including chili peppers, mangos, and rice, are ones planted from June to November, known as what specific "season" in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh? Answer: Monsoon Season
• Happening in his compound in Abbottabad in Pakistan, in which month in 2011 was Osama Bin Laden killed in a raid by the U.S. military? Answer: May
• According to the U.S. State Department's website, one of its activities is working with India and Pakistan to resolve issues between these two countries, including nuclear arms and the status of what disputed region? The region in question currently is divided into areas controlled by India, Pakistan, and China. Answer: Kashmir
• Which language that starts with P is one of the main languages in India and Pakistan and has more than 113 million speakers? (Hint: The name originates from the Persian phrase for the “Five Waters” of the Indus River tributaries) Answer: Punjabi
• The Carabao, or Manila, is a particularly sweet variety of what national fruit of India, Pakistan, and the Philippines? Answer: Mango
• Operation Neptune Spear, the 2011 U.S. military operation that raided the compound housing Osama bin Laden, took place in Abbottabad, a city in which country? Answer: Pakistan
• Which nation was founded by Muhammad Ali Jinnah in 1947 and currently has the sixth largest standing armed forces in the world? Answer: Pakistan
• Which city is the largest in Pakistan and also the capital of Sindh? Answer: Karachi
• Which national capital city is geographically closest to India's New Delhi? Answer: Islamabad
• On August 14th of every year, what country celebrates its independence following the end of the British Raj? India's is one day later. Answer: Pakistan
• Which desert in northwest India, the world’s 20th largest desert by area, forms a natural border between India and Pakistan? Answer: Thar Desert
• Homer is photographed cavorting with a belly dancer with what name that suggests she might be royalty from somewhere around the India-Pakistan border? Answer: Princess Kashmir
• In 2015, what country had 4.3 million reported cases of malaria, claiming the lamentable title of the most cases for a non-African country? Answer: Pakistan

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PAKISTAN’S TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

With some of the most diverse natural beauty on the planet, Pakistan’s High Commissioner says it’s no wonder that Forbes  ranked his country one of the ‘10 Coolest Places to go’

Pakistan is a kaleidoscope of some of the most diverse natural beauty in the world; it’s a cradle of ancient civilizations and a ‘melting pot’ of religions and cultures. The World Economic Forum placed Pakistan among the top 25 per cent of global destinations for its UNESCO ‘World Heritage Sites.’

From the stretches of great mountain ranges in the north, to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the south, Pakistan remains a land blessed with nature’s beauty and majestic mountains. With shining deserts and some of the world’s highest peaks, the country has myriad attractions for sightseers, skiers, trekkers and mountaineers. For those interested in white water rafting, trout fishing, jeep, camel and yak safaris and out of this world flora and fauna, Pakistan is the place to be.

 It’s a land that holds a reservoir of knowledge for archaeologists, historians, artists, teachers and anthropologists, and it contains contains deep religious heritage for pilgrims of various faiths and beliefs.

These attributes mean that the tourism sector in Pakistan has started to register exponential and speedy growth. From less than half a million foreign tourist arrivals in 2015, the world tourism monitoring agencies recorded over two million tourist arrivals during 2019. Domestic tourism crossed the 40 million mark last year. last year.

World view of tourism potential in Pakistan

Pakistan is ranked No. 1 on Condé Nast Traveller’s  list of 20 best holiday destinations for 2020.

Lonely Planet  called Pakistan ‘tourism’s next big thing.’

Forbes  ranked Pakistan as one of the ‘10 Coolest Places to go in 2019.’

The British Backpacker Society (BBS) declared Pakistan as the world’s third best potential adventure destination for 2020. The year before, the BBS declared that ‘Pakistan tops the list of world’s best travel destinations’, describing it as ‘one of the friendliest countries on earth.’ A land of splendour, the landscape stretches remarkably from the high mountain ranges in the north to the plains and deserts of central Pakistan, and the Arabian Sea in the south. In addition to the natural beauty in the four provinces of Pakistan, the people are very hospitable and generous toward foreign tourists.

Five of the world’s highest mountain peaks

Pakistan’s mountain ranges include the famous Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush. There are several high peaks in Pakistan, with the tallest being K 2 (at 8,611 metres), the second highest in the world. The country is blessed with five out of the 14 highest mountain peaks of the world. From April to September, domestic and international mountaineers throng the area.

Highest Trade Route in the World

The 806km Karakorum Highway constructed along the ancient Silk Road linking Pakistan to China is the highest trade route in the world. Additionally, the nearby Mintaka Pass lies along the fabulous ancient Silk Road that linked Europe to Asia and over which history’s most famous tourists once travelled. These include the Venetian trader Marco Polo in the thirteenth century (the wild Marco Polo sheep was named after him), the Chinese Monk Fe Hien in the fourth century, and Arab historian Al-Beruni in the eleventh century.

Punjab (Mughal era monuments and Gandhara Buddhist civilisation)

The Punjab province comprises rich agricultural lands, an extensive network of rivers and channels, shrines, ancient forts and gardens from the Mughal era. Over 2,000 years ago, the world famous Gandhara Buddhist civilisation flourished in northern Pakistan, with Taxila as the principal seat of Buddhist learning.

Balochistan (Mountain Ranges and Caves)

The Balochistan province is the largest in the country in terms of area. Besides being blessed with nature’s bounty of mineral resources, it also has immense natural beauty comprising mountain ranges, mines and a very long coastal belt, including the newly developed Gwadar Port. In Balochistan there are many caves for tourists to visit, including the Juniper Shaft Cave, Shahre-e-Roghan, the Murghagull Gharra cave, Mughall saa cave, and Pakistan’s naturally decorated cave, the Mangocher Cave.

Sindh (Moenjodaro, Karachi, Arabian Sea)

In the south, the province of Sindh also abounds in natural beauty. It is most famous as home to the ancient city Moenjo-daro (Indus Valley Civilisation), the commercial hub city of Karachi, plus its seaports and beautiful beaches, spread over hundreds of miles of coastline.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Kaghan and Swat Valleys)

Again, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is well known for its varying natural beauty, comprising some awe-inspiring valleys and mountains in the north, including the Kaghan and Swat valleys, and the famous Khyber Pass.

Northern areas (Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu)

Spread over 72,496 square km, the northern areas of Pakistan are as captivating and mesmerising in beauty as the other regions. Amid towering snow-clad peaks, several over 8,000 metres, the beautiful serene valleys of Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu are magnificent. 

Forty skiers from 13 countries including Greece, Turkey, Ukraine, Hong Kong, the UK and Belgium participated in the International Skiing Cup in Pakistan in February 2019 at Naltar, Gilgit Baltistan. The cultural patterns in this region are as varied and interesting as its topography.

Vegetation and Fauna

Pakistan is also rich in vegetation and fauna. With their alpine meadows and permanent snow line, coniferous forests down the sub-mountain scrub, the vast Indus plain merging into the great desert, the coastline and wetlands, the Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush ranges all offer a remarkably rich variety of vegetation and wildlife including avifauna, both endemic and migratory. 10 of 18 mammalian orders are represented in Pakistan with species ranging from the world’s smallest surviving mammal, the Mediterranean Pygmy Shrew, to the largest mammal ever known, the blue whale.

Indus Valley Civilisation

Through the centuries, waves of invaders and migrants settled down in the land that is now Pakistan, influencing the locals and slowly being absorbed among them. Modern Pakistanis are a blend of Harappan, Indo-Aryan, Indo-Iranian, Saka, Parthian, Kushan, White Hun, Afghan, Arab, Turkic and Mughal heritages. Thus, the region encompassing modern-day Pakistan is home to the oldest Asian civilisation (and one of the oldest in the world after Mesopotamia and Egypt ), the Indus Valley Civilisation (2,500-1,500 BC).

Religious Tourism

Pakistan is a land of love and hospitality. A land of spiritual endowment, it is also the resting place of many spiritual saints from all religions, be it the sufi mystics of Islam; the Hindu Tiraths dating back to 3,000BC; the disciples of Buddha attaining ‘nirvana’ buried under the remains of Gandhara civilisation; or Baba Guru Nanak Ji, the founder of the Sikh religion who was born in 1,469AD at Nankana Sahib, about 72km north of Lahore. Pakistan has always whole-heartedly worked to preserve its historical sites — whether it’s a church, Gurdwara, temple, mosque, museum, tomb, fort or shrine.

Pakistan’s Buddhist Heritage

Born in the foothills of the Himalayas, Buddhism found avid followers, supporters and patrons in Gandhara, the Land of Fragrance. Pakistan became the custodian of rich collections of sacred relics and superb specimens of art and architecture from Buddhist civilisation. For example, the Buddhist ruins of Taxila are priceless treasures of immense interest to Buddhists and researchers around the world. Taxila became a centre of excellence when the first ever university was founded there in the 10th century BC.

Pakistan’s Christian Heritage

Thomas the Apostle came to present day Taxila in the first century AD. Pakistan has historical churches in various locations, and these religious buildings symbolise the spirit of a community and the cultural context of centuries. Our Lady of Fatima Church, Islamabad, Christ Church, Kotri, St Paul’s Church, Rawalpindi, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Lahore, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Karachi, Holy Rosary Church, Quetta, St Mary’s Cathedral Church, Multan, and St Luke’s Church, Abbottabad are just a of the few churches in Pakistan well worth visiting.

Pakistan’s Sikh Heritage

Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak, who was born in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. Since Punjab was the centre of activities for Sikh Gurus, and later the political power base of the Sikhs, there are numerous sites in Pakistan that are sacred to the Sikh community. Thousands of pilgrims visit these places from all over the globe.

Among the sacred shrines is Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur, near Lahore. Pakistan’s government opened the Kartarpur Corridor to allow visa-free access to Sikh pilgrims from India . In 2019, the government renovated and expanded Kartarpur Corridor to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak, and it has thus emerged as a centre of interfaith harmony and a symbol of goodwill of the people of Pakistan for the Sikh community.

Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Gurdwara Choa Sahib, Rohtas, Gurdwara Bhai Joga Singh, Peshawar, Gurdwara Sadhu Bela, Sukkur, and Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Lahore are just a few of the many Gurdwaras that are visited by thousands of Sikhs from around the world each year.

The Gurdwara has become the centre of the annual pilgrimage by Sikh communities the world over. All Gurdwaras and Sikh shrines in Pakistan have been declared sacred places and are meticulously maintained by our government. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers special pilgrimage tours, and Pakistani embassies and consulates abroad issue expeditious pilgrimage visas for that purpose.

Saints, Sufis, and Shrines

Pakistan is a land of saints and sufis who preached amity, peace and universal love. Their teachings promoted religious co-existence, communal harmony and tolerance in society, which is why there has always been communal harmony in Pakistan. This provides further opportunities for religious tourism in the country.

History reveals that various Sufi saints have bestowed Pakistan with messages of adoration and peace to promote Islamic virtues. Pakistanis consider the country to be blessed as the resting place of Saints in the Shrines of Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri, Lahore, Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi, Karachi, Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, Sehwan Sharif, Sachal Sarmast, Khairpur, and Hazrat Bahauddin Zakaria, Multan.

Royal Couple’s visit to Pakistan

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s visit to Pakistan was an important milestone in bilateral relations. After all, HRH Prince William had accompanied HRH Princess Diana to Pakistan at a very young age. Attracting international attention with huge media coverage, the visit was a boost of confidence for Pakistan’s tourism and cherished by Pakistan and its people.

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Man stabs a girl and her mother in a london tourism hot spot before being arrested, police say.

Associated Press

A Police officer stands at the scene in Leicester Square, as a man was arrested with the accusation of stabbing an 11-year-old girl and 34-year-old woman, in London, Monday Aug. 12, 2024. (James Manning/PA via AP)

LONDON – A man stabbed an 11-year-old girl and her mother in London’s bustling theater district on Monday before being arrested, police said, adding that there was no indication that the attack was terrorism-related.

The attack occurred shortly before noon outside a tea shop in Leicester Square, a magnet for tourists with its shops and theaters.

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Workers from nearby shops leapt to the assistance of the victims. Officers arrived within four minutes and arrested the attacker, police said. Police said they weren't seeking anyone else in connection with the attack.

“I would like to pay tribute to the members of the public, including staff from local businesses, who bravely intervened in this incident,'' Metropolitan Police Detective Chief Superintendent Christina Jessah said. “They put themselves at risk and showed the best of London in doing so."

The victims were taken to a major trauma center. The girl required treatment but her life was not in jeopardy, police said. Her mother, 34, had less serious injuries.

The suspect is 32, and police said that at this stage, they don't believe he knew the victims.

“An urgent investigation is now ongoing and detectives are working to establish the details around exactly what happened,″ Jessah said.

The stabbing occurred during a recent rise in knife crime in Britain, which is on edge after days of violence as crowds spouting anti-immigrant and Islamophobic slogans clashed with police. The disturbances have been fueled by right-wing activists who used social media to spread misinformation about a mass stabbing that killed three girls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance event.

It was not clear if Monday's attack had any link to the unrest.

Police had braced for further riots over the weekend, but no widespread unrest occurred. Ministers remain on high alert, Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office said, adding that its work was not done in dealing with the fallout from the recent violence.

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Six cruises for the next total solar eclipse exactly two years today.

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Totality on April 20, 2023 as seen from P&O Australia's "Pacific Explorer," a cruise ship carrying ... [+] 2,000 eclipse-chasers.

Are you ready for the sequel to the “Great American Eclipse?” If so, you’ll have a question: when is the next eclipse ? Exactly two years from today, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, the next total solar eclipse will take place in western Europe.

To see it, you’ll need to be within a 183-190-mile-wide path of totality that will stretch from remote Siberia across eastern Greenland, western Iceland, the North Atlantic and northern and Spain.

Iceland and Spain are perfect for visits on land to witness the two-minutes-or-so totality (here are 18 fabulous places to see the 2026 eclipse ), but with so much at-sea viewing possible, myriad expedition cruises are being readied to position eclipse-chasers inside the moon’s central shadow in the Arctic, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean.

Here are a selection of just a few of the very special eclipse cruises already confirmed:

Voyage of the Vikings: Solar Eclipse

Cruise line: Holland America Line ( hollandamerica.com )

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Musk-trump x interview: trump takes friendly questions from musk after glitch-plagued start, wwe raw results, winners and grades on august 12, 2024.

Departing: July 18, 2026 (35 days)

Totality: off the west coast of Iceland

The 1,964-guest Zuiderdam will take a roundtrip from Boston, Massachusetts, calling at: Portland, Maine; Sydney, Corner Brook, Red Bay, St. Anthony, St John’s, and Halifax, Canada; Paamiut (Frederikshåb), Nanortalik and Qaqortoq (Julianehåb) Greenland; Reykjavik (overnight), Seydisfjördur, Húsavík and Grundarfjørdur, Iceland; Eidfjord, Norway; Rotterdam, Netherlands (overnight); Dún Laoghaire (Dublin), Ireland; and Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Two very large icebergs are aligned through an archway in the foreground iceberg and a colorful sky ... [+] in the background. The waters of Greenland's Scoresby Sound are in the foreground.

New Scientist Total Solar Eclipse Cruise: Iceland to Greenland

Cruise line: New Scientist in partnership with AE Expeditions and Polar Routes .

Departing: Aug. 7, 2026 (13 days)

Totality: Scoresby Sund, Greenland

The state-of-the-art polar expedition vessel, the 132-passenger Sylvia Earle, will take a 13-day journey to Greenland that begins on land, with guests exploring Iceland’s Golden Circle, including Þingvellir National Park and the Geyser geothermal area. The ultimate destination, however, is Scoresby Sund, whose expansive network of waterways will be explored as guests search for barnacle geese, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, Atlantic puffins and walruses. Expect zodiac cruises and many lectures on the natural world, astronomy and solar eclipses.

Total Eclipse Sky Princess Voyage

Cruise line: Princess

Departing: Aug. 8, 2026 (14 days)

Totality: off the coast of northern Spain

With 3,660 guests on board, this cruise is less intimate than those mentioned so far. A round trip from Southampton, England, this Mediterranean cruise will call at seven ports: Cherbourg, France; Bilbao, Malaga and Cartagena, Spain; Gibraltar; Lisbon, Portugal; and La Coruña, Spain. Expect lectures from astronomy experts, themed treats and drinks, stargazing at night and solar system trivia.

A Coruña famous ancient roman Hercules Tower - Torre de Hércules (Tower of Hercules) Coastal ... [+] Lighthouse Aerial Drone View from the Atlantic Ocean. A Coruna, Galicia, Northern Spain, Spain, Europe.

Scandinavian Solar Eclipse with Greenland and Scotland

Departing: July 25, 2026 (28 days)

Totality: off the northwest coast of Iceland

The 2,666-guest Nieuw Statendam will take a roundtrip from Dover, England or Rotterdam, calling at: Kristiansand, Eidfjord and Stavanger, Norway; Seydisfjördur, Djúpivogur, Akureyri, Isafjördur, Grundarfjørdur, Heimaey and Reykjavik, Iceland; Paamiut (Frederikshåb), Nuuk (Godthåb), Nanortalik and Qaqortoq (Julianehåb), Greenland; Runavík, Faroe Islands; Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Invergordon (Inverness) and South Queensferry (Edinburgh), Scotland (overnight).

Greenland & Iceland Total Solar Eclipse Cruise

Cruise line: TravelQuestTours.com

Departing: Aug. 5, 2026 (12 days)

National Geographic Endurance , the world’s most advanced ice-class expedition ship, will host 138 eclipse-chasers for a 12-day sailing from Iceland’s Westfjords to the fjord-lined coast of Northeast Greenland National Park , the largest national park in the world. Totality will be experienced—weather permitting—in Greenland’s Scoresbys Sund, where there’s an unusually sunny microclimate, and thus an increased chance of clear skies. Guests will take part in backcountry hiking, wildlife viewing and sea kayaking in Iceland’s protected fjords. Expect to see seals, whales and polar bears.

Parc Guell, Barcelona, Spain. Main entrance to Gaudi's Parc Guell and skyline of Barcelona.

Mediterranean Solar Eclipse with Barcelona Overnight

Departing: Aug. 9, 2026 (13 days)

Totality: off the coast of Spain between Alicante and Barcelona

The 1,964-guest Oosterdam will depart from Lisbon, with ports of call including Alicante and Barcelona (overnight), Spain; Ajaccio and Corsica, France; Civitavecchia (Rome) and Bari (Puglia), Italy; and Kotor, Montenegro.

Disclaimer: I will be lecturing aboard the Sylvia Earle in Greenland in August 2026.

Pick up my books Stargazing in 2024 , A Stargazing Program For Beginners and When Is The Next Eclipse?

Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

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