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Pakistan welcomes you with abundant natural and architectural splendors, vibrant history, and delicious cuisine. Delight in the beautiful scenic views of the Karakoram Range and the exotic Himalayas that consist of the Pir Panjal Range, the Zanskar Range and the Ladakh Range which make up the Western Himalayan system. Experience mesmerizing Pakistan tourism as you travel around to see Gilgit, Baltistan Region, The Khunjerab Pass, beautiful mountain valleys, rugged terrains, several deserts, glaciers and more. Come, discover archaeology at its best in the historical ruins of Mohenjo-Daro dating back to 2500 BC. Our guide makes your journey to Pakistan worthwhile.

Useful Info About Pakistan

Official Name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Form of Government: Federal parliamentary constitutional republic

Capital & Largest City: Karachi

Population: 212,228,286

Official Language: English, Urdu

Languages Spoken: Punjabi, Pashto, Sindhi, Balochi, Hindko

Ethnicity: Punjabi 44.7%, Pashtun 15.4%, Sindhi 14.1%, Saraiki 8.4%, Muhajir 7.6%, Baloch 3.6%, Others 6.3%

Currency: Pakistani rupee

Map Referred:

Area: 881,913 sq.km.

Land: 97.14%

Water: 2.86%

Lowest Point: Arabian Sea (0m)

Highest Point: K2 (8,611m)

Coastline: 1146 km

NEIGHBORING PLACES

Afghanistan 2430 km

China 595 km

India 3323 km

Iran 959 km

Network Connectivity

Connectivity in Pakistan is average. The cities may have a decent 4G coverage, however, in the rural north, there are areas with no coverage at all. Zong and Telenor are mobile operators for SIM cards that you can buy at customer service centers. You could also try to buy a SCOM SIM card at various hubs in Gilgit, Aliabad, and Karimabad. You will have to provide your identity with a passport, and it takes 4 to 12 hours for your card to activate. Free Wi-Fi services available at upscale hotels. It is a good idea to buy a large mobile data pack and use your mobile phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot or buy a power bank.

Pakistan currency is the Pakistani Rupee which has been the official Pak currency since 1948.

Symbol: Rs
Code: PKR
1PKR = 100 Paisa

Common PKR Currency Rates (as of May 2020)
1Dirham in Pak = 43.61 Pakistani Rupees (Dirham rate in Pakistan)
1USD = 160.20 Pakistani Rupees (Dollar price in Pak)
1Rs = 0.023 AED (Pakistani Rupees to AED)
1Rs = 0.0057 Euro (Euro rate in Pak)
1Rs = 0.0051 Pound Sterling (Pound rate in Pakistan)
1Rs = 0.023 Saudi Riyal (Riyal rate in Pakistan)
1Rs= 0.042 Turkish Lira (Turkey currency in Pakistan)
1Rs = 0.47 INR (Pakistan currency to INR)
1Rs = 0.67 Japanese Yen (Japan currency in Pakistan)
1Rs = 91.47 Indonesian Rupiah (Indonesia currency rate in Pakistan)
1Rs = 0.0023 Bahraini Dinar (Bahrain currency rate in Pakistan)
1Rs = 0.0024 Omani Rial (Omani Riyal rate in Pakistan today)

The currency rate in Pakistan and the latest Dubai currency rate in Pakistan, Dollar price in Pakistan, AED rate in Pakistan is determined by the open market currency rate and Pakistan Exchange Rates are available in the link provided here.

Rupees banknote denominations: 10,20,50,100,500,1000
Rupees bank coin denominations:1, 2, 5,10
Please note that Travelers Cheques are NOT accepted in most places

Pakistan and India got its independence in 1947. The country now has a predominantly Indo- Iranian speaking population. Islamabad, its capital is in the foothills of the Himalayas, and Karachi its biggest city is to the south of the country. The All India Muslim League under the leadership of Mohammed Ali Jinnah led the country in response to the demands of Islamic nationalists. The country follows the religion of Sunni Islam. Until 1971, Pakistan consisted of two regions, West Pakistan in the Indus River Basin and East Pakistan located in the east of the Ganga Brahmaputra Basin. After the civil war, Pakistan proclaimed independence and the country of Bangladesh was born. Pakistan is rich in landscape from Pamir and Karakoram Range, fertile Indus River Plane, Silk Road, Khyber Pass, peaks such as K2 and Nanga Parbat and the ancient site of Mohenjo-Daro. The country experienced repeated military coups and northern Pakistan is controlled by the Federally Administered Tribals that have associations with various Islamic extremist groups. It struggles to define itself as a parliamentary democracy with secular ideas. The country witnesses many acts of violence against religious minorities, social unrest and bitter rivalry between Pakistan and India over Kashmir. The two countries have fought four wars and since 1998, both countries possess nuclear weapons.

Pakistan has Iran to the west, Afghanistan to the north-west and north, China to the northeast, India to the east and southeast as neighbors. The coast of the Arabian Sea is the southern border. The Kashmir region along the Western Himalayas has been a disputed territory with Pakistan, India, and China each controlling different sections of the region. Pakistan controlled territory is called Azad Kashmir which Pakistan considers as an independent state with Muzaffarabad as its capital. The remaining Pakistani administered Kashmir consists of Gilgit and Baltistan. About three-fifths of the country is mountainous and the remaining two-fifths is the expanse of the great Indo Gangetic Plain. The country is divided into five major regions which are the Hindu Kush and the Western Mountains, the Baluchistan Plateau, the Submontane Plateau, and the Indus River Plain. The Himalayan System splits into three distinct ranges which are the Pir Panjal Range, the Zaskar Range, and the Karakoram Range. Nanga Parbat and K2 in the northern areas are towering peaks and a great tourist attraction. The Jhelum River, Indus River, Shylock River are the famous rivers flowing in the country. The Karakoram Highway that links Gilgit in the north with Kashgar in Xinjiang is a project undertaken by Chinese and Pakistani engineers. It is a useful commerce and trade connection that improves cultural exchange as well. Pakistan's geography is admirable with northern mountains, jaw-dropping peaks, Himalayan Range, northern plateau, western mountains, the Baluchistan Plateau, the southeast desert and the plains of the river Indus.

Pakistani culture is a mix of Indian, Persian, Afghan, South Asian, Central Asian, and Western Asian influences. There are various major ethnic groups in Pakistan such as Punjabis, Sindhis, Baloch, Pashtuns, Kashmiris, Baltis, Hazaras to name a few. All the ethnic groups contribute to the varied spectacle of culture, art, and music that is worth experiencing.

Pakistani culture is also strongly influenced by Islam, the country's religion and Sufism influence that adds great beauty to depict devotion through dance, art, and music. Pakistani culture also includes craftsmanship passed on for generations such as calligraphy in Arabic, blue pottery art, Naqashi or art-making on camel skin, colorful tile work with Mughal influences and more.

Pakistani musicians with strong influences of diverse culture, poetical forms, languages, and literature are famed for their qawwali and ghazal renditions of music. The nation proudly presents some of the legends in the music field such as Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Faiz Ahmed Faiz to name a few who leave a tremendous influence on the culture and music of the country. Modern styles and fusion music in the Urdu language are also popular that consists of contemporary music such as jazz, rock and funk.

Food and Drink
Pakistani dishes are known for their aroma and flavors, rich with oil and a lot of spices. Different types of rice, vegetables, and meats are made with the use of spices like bay leaves, cardamom, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, star anise and saffron. Non-vegetarian food is a favorite with different types of meat, chicken, pork, lamb, and fish. There is a strong influence of Afghani, Turkish, Iranian, and Mughal flavors in the cuisines. The food here is highly seasoned and spicy.

Must-Try Pakistan National Dishes
Chapli (beef kabab), Biryani (seasoned rice with mutton, chicken, and yogurt), Fried Fish and Rumali Roti (a Karachi specialty), Saag Gosht (spinach and lamb curry), Shish Kebab (grilled meat), Shami Kebab (chopped meat in ghee), Halva (desserts from carrots and nuts)

Must-Try Pakistan National Drinks
Kheer (rice pudding), Lassi (yogurt drink), Tea, Coffee, Ganne Ka Juice (sugarcane juice), Zeera Sharbat (cool drink), Iced Chai (iced tea), Sattu (barley seeds with water), Doodh Soda (milk), Tarbooz e Afza (watermelon juice), Faalsa Juice (faalsa with ice and kaala namak/black salt), Badam ka Sharbat (almond juice), Neembu Pani (lemonade)

Hospitality
Despite western media who cover the country as not so hospitable, traveling to Pakistan will prove it untrue. Pakistan locals are the world's friendliest people with love and warmth. Vendors pay you due respect and warm hospitality. Pakistan tour packages will let you experience the warmth of the people of the country from random street vendors to auto-rickshaw drivers. The most common greeting among Pakistanis is As-Salamu-Alaykum which means 'Peace be upon you'. Elders are greeted with respect and locals hug each other upon greeting.

Witness beautiful natural fields and rivers of Sindh. Explore deserts and enchanting nature in its raw form.

Witness cultural diversity in the food, music, dress, instruments, and dance of the country that combine a multitude of cultures and local dialects.

A chance to witness and buy beautifully woven carpets, clothing, ornamented jewelry, handicrafts, copper, and silver utensils and be awed by the skillful craftsmanship.

Enjoy the beauty of the sound of music from local instruments such as flute, the rubab, the harmonium, and tabla.

Experience listening to qawwali and feel the trance of devotion that will bring you peace.

Cross your paths with locals who shower you with hospitality and perhaps welcome you to their house for tea or dinner.

Choose to buy beautifully embroidered clothing made of silk, wool, linen, cotton, wool made with designs of beads and stones.

Watch a polo match in Shandur or a cricket match and enjoy the frenzy of the crowd who cheer with loud music as if it is a festivity event.

Visit glorious mosques such as Badshahi Mosque, Wazir Khan Mosque, Gol Masjid, Shah Jahan Mosque to name a few. The marbled architecture with exquisite artwork, calligraphy is worth seeing once in a lifetime.

Visit the archaeological site in Sindh called Mohenjo-Daro and be amazed at how long back in time the settlement existed dating from 2600BC.

Take pleasure in relishing the traditional dishes such as chicken roast, lentils, kebabs, and more.

Pakistan Weather I PAK Climate
May to October is generally the best season to visit Pakistan when the weather is warm and dry and it is the country's summer. There is little or no snow and the valleys and stunning peaks are amazing to see. Avoid June as it is the hottest month with hot `loo` winds around the country and temperature of over 40℃.

July and August witness heavy rainfall with humid conditions. The Ramadan is celebrated in May- June, so there will be travel restrictions as food and drinks are limited during the holy fasting month. The low season is November to April which is the country's winter season. Islamabad weather, as well as Karachi weather, gets frosty cold and the northern belt gets heavy rainfall. Northwest regions of Pakistan like Punjab, Baluchistan, Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh are best visited between October to February as the weather is cool and comfortable.

Visit Pakistan With Family

Feel the cool waters and sandy beaches as you enjoy the Arabian Sea views at Clifton Beach. Karachi's temperature in the month of January is pleasant at around 25℃ and a good month to choose to visit the beach.

Visit Pir Sohawa when the Haripur weather in summer allows you to enjoy mesmerizing views of Islamabad from atop the Margalla Hills.

Enjoy the untouched beauty of nature at one of the highest lakes in Pakistan, Saif-ul-Muluk Lake to take in breathtaking pristine lake views with mountainous backdrops of the Malika Parbat Mountain.

Take a tour of the Lahore Zoo and be amazed at the collection of varied animals of over 135 species here.

Visit Pakistan as a Couple

Spend a romantic day visiting the Shalimar Gardens in Lahore among splendid colorful flowers, marbled porticoes, large pools in the middle of the terraces, and hundreds of fountains. Lahore weather in the summer months of May to July can get pretty warm, so plan your trip accordingly.

Go on exciting boating, fishing, jet skiing, and other water activities at the Attabad Lake, one of the popular tourist spots in Gilgit- Baltistan, Gojal Valley.

Visit the Badshahi Mosque and marvel in the architecture as the sun shines through the mosque as you hold your beloved's hand.

Lahore Fort welcomes you as a couple to a Mughal era with palaces, gardens, and museums all within the fortress walls.

Visit Pakistan with Friends

Cheer with the crowds at the Wagah - Attari border as India and Pakistan lowers the flags at a colorful 'Beating the Retreat' ceremony with a daily march that is smartly done by the BSF and Pakistan Rangers.

Take a camping expedition to the beautiful Nanga Parbat in Gilgit Baltistan region of Kashmir and be awestruck by the splendid 'Naked Mountain'.

Go ahead on a food tour to eat unbelievable Pakistani food in the streets of Karachi, perhaps some giant bone marrow biryani or mutton legs spicy masala.

Visit the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad that is dedicated to the people of Pakistan who sacrificed their lives for a better tomorrow for the nation. This great heritage museum is in the Shakarparian Hills.

What To Buy?

Embroidered Bed Sheets

Carved Wooden Tables

Beautiful Trays

Stone Jewelry

Wall Hangings

Blue Pottery

Lamps, Flowerpots, Vases

Black Onyx

White Palace Swat
Located in the breathtakingly beautiful Swat district this historic palace is cut from the same stone as the Taj Mahal. The attraction is enchanting in the pleasant Swat weather of summer and looks marvelous after a snowfall in winter as well. It's a good idea to discover the city of Mingora just 12 km away for its natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit: All year
Entry Price: $42 for 4 hours sightseeing of Swat Valley (includes the White Palace)

Mubarak Village
This fascinating fisherman's village in Karachi is away from the city buzz. Feel the solitude and warmth as you look across the shore to see numerous boats floating in the blue waters under the vibrant clear skies. Mubarak borders Gadani in Baluchistan and is a good place to visit in the summer when Karachi weather is rain-free.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months
Entry Price: Free

Ranikot Fort
On the National Highway from Karachi is the amazing largest fort in the world, Ranikot Fort. The drive takes you through Indus Highway where en route you can visit Dadu, home of the Sindhi nationalist GM Syed. The fort has a circumference of 26 km and is a major tourist spot.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months
Entry Price: Free

Neelum Valley
Stretching out for 240 km the 'Blue Gem Valley' welcomes you to mesmerizing beauty with brooks, cool water streams, forests, milky white-water River Neelum and lush green forests. It's truly a wonderland of nature just north of Muzaffarabad in Azad Kashmir.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months
Entry Price: Free

Deosai Plains
This snow-filled plains is at 4000 meters above sea level and is filled with a range of flowers of vibrant colors but not a single tree. Spend time by the Sheosar Lake, the highest lake in the world with crystal clear blue water, snow-covered mountains in the backdrop, and you would not feel like leaving this earthly paradise.
Best Time to Visit: Snows eight months of the year
Entry Price: Free

Shangrila Resort
On the Kumarakom Highway, head on to Skardu and be amazed by the beauty of the route. Greeted by springs, streams, and hospitality of the local people, you feel like this is paradise. Indulge yourself in the beauty of nature and wilderness. Go past K2, K3, and Gasherbrum that are all connected through the valley of Gilgit - Baltistan. An old wooden bridge built over the River Indus is en route to Shangrila.
Best Time to Visit: during snowfall
Entry Price: $102.85 per night at the resort

Naltar Valley
Fall in love here with pine trees and relish the world's tastiest potatoes cultivated here. Naltar is a place to visit at least once in your lifetime just a few hours' drive from Gilgit. Experience an unforgettable moment in the embodiment of nature. The valley is full of lush forests with fantastic mountain scenery that can take your breath away.
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Entry Price: Free

Karachi Safari Park
Located in Karachi, visit the huge 148 acres safari park with your family. Enjoy the chairlift and safari tracks, roam around the two natural lakes and spend some fun time at the amusement park 'Go Aish' located in the vicinity of the park. Also witness the Elephant Enclave, Kashmir Point, Swan Lake, boating, and a museum for endangered birds.
Best Time to Visit: Summer months
Entry Price: $1

If you can make time, here are a few more Pakistan attractions to visit,

Hunza Valley

Fairy Meadows

Gorakh Hill Station

Gojal

Ghanche District

Kirthar Mountains

Rama Meadows

Kumrat Valley

Margalla Hills

Chitta Katha Lake

Most Popular Regions and Cities to Visit in Pakistan
Lahore
Lahore is the capital of the province of Punjab in Pakistan. The city is progressive, cosmopolitan, and famous as a historical-cultural center. Lahore Fort, Shalimar Bagh, Sheesh Mahal Palace, Minar e Pakistan are a few of the famous attractions here.
Visit For: Badshahi Mosque, Museum Lahore, Wazir Khan Mosque, Jallo Park, Lahore Zoo, Joyland

Islamabad
Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan noted for its greenery and Margalla Hills National Park in the north. In 1960, Islamabad replaced Karachi as the country's capital and is also a part of the crossroads of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa serving as a gateway.
Visit For: Faisal Mosque, Daman-e-Koh, Pakistan Monument, Rawal Lake, Margalla Hills, Lok Virsa Heritage Museum

Karachi
Known as the 'City of Lights' Karachi is a very beautiful city with an active nightlife. Relish a Dastarkhwan dining table and treat yourself with seekh kabab, Nargisi Koftay, Kata- Kat, Rogani Naan, and biryani. There are plenty of beaches, museums, monuments and parks to explore here.
Visit For: Dolmen Mall Clifton, PAF Museum, Port Grand, Mazar-E-Quaid, Express Market, The Grid Club, Westeros Dhaba, Clifton beach, Mohatta Palace Museum

Punjab
Famous for Harappa, an archeological site, explore the city of Mohenjo-Daro and be amazed at the greatness of the Indus Valley Civilization. The spectacular planned and organized layout existed in the region in ca.3000-1500BC. The city is also called the 'Land of the Five Rivers' named by the Mughals. The province was split into the eastern portion now in India and the western portion in Pakistan.
Visit For: Wagah Border, Ayub National Park, Army Museum, Badshahi Mosque, Khewra Salt Mines, Namal Lake, Harappa

Sialkot
Sialkot with its numerous historic shrines and forts is a popular city to visit. It is a good idea to tour the city when the Sialkot weather is warm and explore the many sites. Meet the loving people who have a mix of Mughal, Persian, Pathan, and Kashmiri ancestry. It is a huge center of Punjabi influences with narrow streets and known as the `football production capital of the world`.
Visit For: Sialkot Fort, Jagannath Temple, Clock Tower, Tomb of Imam Ali-ul-Haq, Raghunath Temple, Iqbal Manzil, Sialkot Cathedral

Mansehra
Mansehra is in the north of Pakistan with beautiful attractions such as the Saif-ul-Malook Lake with views of the rugged mountains in the backdrop. A great hiking and camping site, this crystal-clear lake in Saif-ul-Malook Park is worth a visit. Mansehra weather in October is warm and pleasant and just perfect to explore Mansehra with your walking shoes on.
Visit For: Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park, Pyala Lake, Kunhar River, Saif-ul-Malook Lake, Mansehra Municipal Library, Sikh Fort, Ashoka Rocks

Few more famous cities in Pakistan,

Faisalabad

Rawalpindi

Multan

Gujranwala

Peshawar

Quetta

Hyderabad

Chakwal

Murree

Kohat

Swahi

Sahiwal

International Malam Jabba Ski Tournament
Held in the picturesque Swat Valley, the Alpine International Cup is competed for in the ski tournament with excellent Swat weather ideal for the sport. Held in Malam Jabba in the Hindu Kush range in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the event is held every year in the last week of January. The resort is the largest and the oldest ski resort in Pakistan.
Location: Swat Valley
Date: Last week of January

Pakistan Day
The day is celebrated to commemorate the anniversary of the Pakistan Resolution passed in 1940. There is a grand parade by the military in important cities of Pakistan such as Lahore, Quetta, Karachi, and Islamabad.
Location: Lahore, Quetta, Karachi, and Islamabad.
Date: 23 March

Eid-ul-Azha
This important religious festival is celebrated in the 12th month of the Islamic calendar remembering the great sacrifice offered by Prophet Ibrahim. Prayers are offered after sunset and the meat of the sacrificed goats, sheep, cows, and camels are made into a tasty meal and distributed among friends and relatives as well as the poor.
Location: Pakistan
Date: May (10th of Zil Hajj, 12th month of the Muslim calendar)

Chawmas
The festival welcomes winter with the start of the first snowfall. It is celebrated indoors in Kalash Valley near Chitral in the month of December. The festival is enjoyed with no music in a few villages like Rumbur and Bumborate. However, in Birir Village, there are musical festivities and dance. The event takes place after people of Kalash finish their fieldwork and store grains, fruit, and cheese for the whole year.
Location: Kalash Valley
Date: 7 to 22 December

Polo Festival
Every year the event is played by Polo teams of Gilgit-Baltistan in the naturally made highest polo ground in Babusar. The Babusar Polo Cup Festival is competed for by various polo teams with thousands of tourists that enjoy this traditional festival. The sports event is organized by the tourism department Gilgit-Baltistan.
Location: Gilgit-Baltistan
Date: August

Spring Blossom Festival
The festival attracts national and international tourists held between March 21st and April 21st. It is a cultural extravaganza that contributed tremendously to the economic activities of the region. Buddhists from Japan, Korea and other nations visit to witness spring blossom as a religious activity.
Location: Gilgit-Baltistan
Date: March 21st - April 21st

Other festivals celebrated in Pakistan are

Shab-E-Barat

Ashura

Sibi Mela

Sindh Horse & Cattle Show

Basant Kite Flying Festival

Eid ul Fitr

Mela Chiraghan

Urs Festival

International Naltar Ski Tournament

Passports
A valid passport for six months from the date of entry is required by all nationals referred to here; British, Australian, Canadian, the US, Other EU countries. A Pakistan visa is also required by all nationals referred to earlier.

Visa-On-Arrival/eVisa
Citizens from the following countries are eligible for Pakistan visa-on-arrival and Pakistan eVisa for tourism purposes to Pakistan. Visas can be obtained at the high commission/embassy for which you will need a photocopy of your passport, two passport size photos, a utility bill for proof of address, travel itinerary, hotel booking photocopy, bank statements from previous three months and an official letter from your workplace for proof of travel.

Angola

Argentina

Austria

Azerbaijan

Bahamas

Bahrain

Barbados

Botswana

Brunei

Costa Rica

Finland

Germany

Ghana

Iceland

Indonesia

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kuwait

Lithuania

Luxembourg

Malaysia

Maldives

Malta

Monaco

Mozambique

Nepal

New Zealand

Oman

Paraguay

Qatar

Rwanda

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Samoa

Saudi Arabia

Singapore

South Korea

Spain

Sri Lanka

Switzerland

Tajikistan

Tanzania

Thailand

Tonga

Trinidad and Tobago

Tunisia

Turkey

United Arab Emirates

Zambia

More Types of Visa
You could apply for a single-entry visa that costs $162.22, double-entry visa costs $184, a one-year multiple entry visa costs $438.23, two-year multiple entry visa costs $438.23 and three-year multiple entry visa costs $619.82.

Countries with Visa-Free Entry
Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa for Pakistan.

The Maldives for stays of up to 3 months

Nepal for stays of up to 1 month

Samoa for stays of up to 1 month

Tonga

Trinidad and Tobago

Validity
Single-entry and double-entry visas are valid for six months from the date of issue for a stay up to three months. Multiple-entry visas are valid for one, two, or three years.

Transit visas are valid for 72 hours and travelers must hold confirmed online tickets.

Bus and Minivan
Daewoo Express operates a fleet of buses to all major cities such as Punjab, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Tickets are available online or at private stations and the buses are reliable, comfortably air-conditioned, and run on time. Onboard is a bus attendant serving snacks and cold drinks and is relatively well secured and safe to travel with. The other option is Faisal Movers, Skyways and Niazi Express. Please book in advance to avoid disappointments. For the Gilgit-Baltistan region opt for NATCO. 'Coasters' or minibuses operate on shorter routes.

Train
Railways crisscross the country and are a good option to take. You could choose a comfortable sleeper air-conditioned class and enjoy the journey, especially the rail travel between important cities. Railway tickets are cheaper than air and more comfortable than the bus. You could also look out for good discounts on your tickets and book in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments.

Car
The best way to rent a car is through a local travel agency from where you could hire a driver service too. The driver/guide would be an excellent option to choose as Pakistan roads are not easy to ply. Sit back and enjoy the drive but remember you will be also paying for the drivers boarding and lodging. You could get your own private car too, however, remember to get all valid identity documents.

Air
The best and the safest way to cross the country especially long distances to the northern cities such as Karachi is air travel. It also is a safer mode of travel as compared to the journey by road especially crossing Balochistan by road. Flights operate from Peshawar and Islamabad and flying options to reach the northern mountains are available. PIA (Pakistan International Airlines) is a reputed national airline. Other operators are Shaheen, AirBlue, SereneAir, and AirSial in the country.

Via Air Route
There are many well-serviced airports and airlines to Pakistan to reach the country. Pakistan also has many international airports such as Jinnah International Airport, Islamabad International Airport, Allama Iqbal International Airport, Bacha Khan International Airport to name a few.

Via Road
Taking the journey via road is well worth it as you drive past the picturesque scenery and beautiful landscapes of Pakistan. There are a few bus routes from neighboring India such as the Delhi Lahore bus, Srinagar Muzaffarabad bus to name a few.

Via Sea
Pakistan has two commercial ports, but no passenger services are available.

Via Rail
Rail transport is available with the Samjhauta Express, Delhi Attari Express, Thar Express to name a few from neighboring India. However due to the hostility between the countries, do check on the availability of the rail service prior to booking. Other trains are the Khyber Pass Railway International trains between Pakistan and India & Iran.

Create an itinerary and plan your accommodation and transport needs in advance.

Hiring local guides and travel group services online can be of great advantage.

Check for places that require NOC (No Objection Certificate) before visiting.

Local dwellers speak in Urdu, so do carry along a book of Urdu phrases, and perhaps learn a few yourself.

Be aware of the sensitivity involved in various cultural sects and be informed of the major ethnic groups in Pakistan.

Be modestly dressed and be cautious and respectful when interacting with women.

Pack for different weathers as the northern areas even in the summer months will offer pleasant weather that can get chilly at nights.

Always carry cash and do some research on the best money changers and rates before flying into Pakistan.

If you are welcomed by the locals with a meal or a stay, do not feel overwhelmed and respond tactfully to the hospitality.

Always bargain at shopping bazaars and take the guidance of a local acquaintance.

Carry photocopies of all your travel documents and identification.

Be precautious for your own good and stay courteous to the local folks.

Always best to drink bottled water and carry your stock of bottles around.

Stay connected and do your research online and choose a good mobile service provider.

Alcohol is best avoided as Pakistan is the Islamic Republic

Safety Tips

Always follow travel guidelines and be alert.

If you choose a self-driven vehicle, be careful of risks along the way as road travel is not safe.

Always carry a photocopy of your travel documents and adequate cash.

Avoid crowds and processions. Do not engage in an argument.

Stay away from travel to dangerous areas and violent groups.

Connect with trustworthy locals by couch surfing.

At checkpoints, Pakistani police will take a copy of your passport, so carry adequate copies.

You could also take personal security guards for free in Kalash, Swat Valley, and other areas.

Trust the Pakistani intelligence and follow the rules.

Avoid wandering alone at night.

Health

Go for these PHAC and WHO recommended vaccinations before visiting Pakistan: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Meningitis, Pneumonia, Influenza Polio, Measles, MMR (Mumps and Rubella), Typhoid, Cholera, Yellow Fever, Japanese Encephalitis, Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis), Chickenpox, and Shingles.

Be careful of insect-borne illnesses and carry anti-diarrhea medication and repellents.

Always drink bottled water and follow the rules for water quality.

Avoid henna tattoos in Pakistan. It can lead to serious skin reactions.

Be careful of the food hygiene and always wash your hands well prior to eating.

Carry along 'Stop Motion' medications if you have a sensitive stomach.

Pakistani cuisine is mostly spicy, so be cautious before overindulging.

What to Pack?

Cool Cotton Clothes

Raincoat and Umbrella

Jacket and Sweaters

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Sleepwear

Undergarments

Hats

Coats

Scarves

Snow Boots

Hiking Boots

Money Belts

Medication and Toiletries

Hand Sanitizer

Vitamins

Insect Repellent

Travel Adapter

Cell Phones, Pads

Electronic Chargers

Backpack

Torch

Dress Code & Etiquette

Pakistan is an Islamic country and people dress modestly.

Greetings are done by shaking hands by males. Females generally hug and kiss each other.

Don't rush your greetings here and take time to enquire about the other person's wellbeing.

It's good etiquette to ask about the other person's family, business and health.

Short tops, tights, or body revealing clothes should be avoided.

It is advisable to cover your head with a pashmina or scarf especially in religious places.

Men should also wear long linen loose pants to avoid getting bitten by insects at night.

India (3323 km)
India is a neighbor to the east of Pakistan, a vast South Asian country with the iconic Taj Mahal mausoleum in Agra, the holy Ganges in Varanasi, Jama Masjid Mosque in Delhi, the majestic Himalayas in the north and varied Mughal Empire landmarks across the country. The country is filled with sacred sites, ancient temples, wildlife sanctuaries, and wonderful coastlines.

Afghanistan (2430 km)
Afghanistan is a landlocked country in South Asia famous for its pomegranates and Buzkashi, an Afghanistan national game. A great country to tour to see the Buddhas of Bamyan, Band-e-Amir National Park, Minaret of Jam, Gardens of Babur, and many more top sights. Naw Shakh is a great peak to trek as well.

China (595 km)
China is known for its Great Wall and Forbidden City in Beijing, Bund in Shanghai, Terracotta Warriors in Xian, Yangtze River Cruise just to name a few attractions. China is a lovely tourist destination packed with sights and exciting experiences to make your travel visit different and worthwhile.

Iran (959 km)
Iran produces the highest quality of saffron in the world. A great place to visit to pick up some `red gold` and experience a diverse range of activities that includes beach holidays by the Persian Gulf and the beautiful Caspian Sea. A tour of the Valley of the Stars, Anzali Lagoon, Bridges of Esfahan and others must visit Iran attractions can also be on the cards.

Distance Between Places of Importance in And around Pakistan
Islamabad to Kabul - 234 miles
Islamabad to Yerevan - 1636 miles
Islamabad to Baku - 1359 miles
Islamabad to Dhaka - 1248 miles
Islamabad to Rangoon - 1844 miles
Islamabad to Beijing - 2405 miles

Interesting Facts About Pakistan

Pakistan's literacy rate has gone up by 250%.

Changa Manga is a manmade forest.

Pakistan has the largest irrigation system in the world covering 14.4 million hectares.

Half of the world's footballs are manufactured here.

Khewra Salt Mine is the oldest in the world.

It has over 96% of its population as Muslims.

Tarbela Dam is the largest dam on earth.

Tharparkar Desert is the only fertile desert in the world.

Pakistan's armed forces are the seventh-largest in the world.

Pakistan has over 150 airports.

It is home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners - Malala Yousafzai and Abdus Salam.

Pakistan has more than 50 universities.

Biafo Glacier is the largest glacier system in the world

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