Complete Guide to Your 2024 Pakistan Vacation

Experience a Pakistan Vacation: Explore the Land of the Pure

“Pakistan” is Persian for “land of the pure,” and a vacation in Pakistan offers an incredible variety of experiences. Pakistan has diverse landscapes, from towering, ice-covered mountains and gleaming glaciers to lush forests, fertile lands, and serene rivers.

Whether planning a trip to Pakistan or looking forward to a holiday there, this guide will help you explore its beauty and understand its cultural richness.

Why Plan a Vacation to Pakistan?

A Pakistan vacation promises a mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. You can explore stunning landscapes such as the Karakoram Range, home to some of the world’s highest peaks, or visit the Thar Desert, which has a unique ecosystem and wildlife.

Discover Pakistan’s Landmarks

Your holiday to Pakistan wouldn’t be complete without visiting its famous landmarks. From the historical Lahore Fort and the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro to the modern Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, the country’s landmarks tell the story of its rich history and cultural diversity. These Pakistan landmarks are must-see attractions for any traveler.

Cultural Insights and Travel Advice

Before embarking on your trip to Pakistan, it’s important to understand the country’s cultural and social norms. Pakistan has suffered political instability since its independence in 1947.

It is a democratic parliamentary federal republic with Islam as the state religion. The 2018 Global Peace Index ranks Pakistan 151 out of 163 countries, highlighting the need to stay informed about travel advisories before and during your visit.

While visiting, be cautious and respect the local customs. Avoid political or religious discussions, and always follow the country’s cultural guidelines and laws. Remember, like Israel, Pakistan’s laws are based on the religion of the state.

Geography and Climate

Pakistan’s geography and climate are incredibly diverse, offering multiple destinations for visitors. From March through May, Pakistan experiences a dry, hot spring.

The monsoon season lasts from June to September, followed by a dry, cool winter from December to February.

This variety ensures there’s something beautiful to see whenever you plan your vacation to Pakistan.

Pakistan Fact File

• Location: Asia
• Population: 216,565,318
• Ethnicity: Pakistan is a multiethnic country with major groups including Punjabis, Pashtuns, Sindhis, Baloch, and Muhajirs.
• Area: 340,509 square miles
• Languages: Urdu and English are official languages. Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Saraiki are also widely spoken.
• Religion: Islam is the state religion.
• Current Prime Minister: Imran Khan
• Time Zone: GMT +5
• Currency: Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
• Country Dialing Code Prefix: +92
• Emergency Numbers: Police – 15, Ambulance – 115, Fire – 16

Safety and Practical Tips

The best parts of Pakistan attract the most foreign attention and are very safe for tourists, with a high police and security presence. However, always practice being a savvy traveler: stay informed, respect local laws, and maintain awareness of your surroundings.

Pakistan Adventure

A holiday to Pakistan is an adventure into one of the world’s most underrated and beautiful countries. From the majestic mountains to the rich cultural heritage, a vacation in Pakistan offers something for every traveler.

Airports & Entry

For your Pakistan vacation, you will need to secure a visa. The tourist visa for US citizens starts at $60. Registering for an e-visa through the online visa portal takes 7-10 days.

Pakistan has six international airports and 134 airfields. The main gateways are Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, and Islamabad International Airport in Islamabad. These airports are equipped with modern facilities and serve many international airlines.

When traveling, remember to stay smart. Some airport staff may occasionally ask for a bribe or a fake airport tax.

A Brief History of Pakistan

Pakistan’s rich history dates back to 7000 BC and is linked to the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the oldest civilizations in the world. The country gained independence from Great Britain in 1947, creating the Union of India and the Dominion of Pakistan. Pakistan became an Islamic republic in 1956.

Pakistan’s history is intertwined with various cultures, religions, and peoples, contributing to its complex and diverse heritage.

Getting Around Pakistan

Plane: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operates domestic flights to key trekking destinations like Gilgit, Chitral, and Skardu.

Train: The Pakistan Railway offers passenger rail services. Visitors with a verification certificate from the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) can get a 25% discount on all rail tickets.

Bus: Buses are the cheapest way to travel between major cities. Minibuses are available for city travel, while companies like Daewoo Sammi and Northern Areas Transport Corporation (NATCO) operate intercity buses.

Rickshaw: Rickshaws are a flexible mode of transport within cities.

Cab & Rideshare: In major cities, you can hire taxi cabs or ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem, which may be more affordable than traditional taxis.

Bike: In cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, you can hire bikes through services like Bykea.

Types of Accommodation in Pakistan

Tourists can choose from hotels, guest houses, government rest houses, or Airbnb accommodations. If cleanliness is a priority, top-end hotels like Serena, Marriott, and Pearl Continental are recommended. Prices range from Rs 6,000 to 10,000 per night, depending on the city and hotel rating.

Mid-range hotels, including government-run PTDC hotels, offer a balance between cost and facilities, with prices ranging from Rs 2,000 to 6,000 per night. Budget travelers can find local hotels, but checking the room conditions before booking is important.

Explore Pakistan’s Landmarks

During your vacation to Pakistan, don’t miss its famous landmarks. Visit the Lahore Fort, the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro, and the modern Faisal Mosque in Islamabad. These landmarks reflect Pakistan’s rich history and cultural diversity, making them essential stops on your holiday.

Cultural Insights and Travel Tips

Understanding Pakistan’s cultural and social norms is crucial for a respectful and enjoyable trip. Pakistan has a complex history of political instability, so staying informed about travel advisories is important.

Always follow local customs, avoid political or religious discussions, and respect the country’s laws.

Top 5 Cities to Visit on Your Pakistan Vacation

Islamabad

When planning a vacation in Pakistan, Islamabad should be at the top of your list. As the capital city, Islamabad has numerous museums, art galleries, mosques, monuments, and parks.

Popular activities in the city include rock climbing and cycling, thanks to its mild climate, though temperatures can drop close to 0°C at night.

Karachi

Karachi, Pakistan’s financial capital and largest city, is a vibrant destination for adventure and sports. The former capital features numerous sea and waterfront areas, museums, colonial buildings, beaches, and parks.

A trip to Pakistan wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the hustle and bustle of Karachi.

Lahore

Known as the city of the Mughals, Lahore is Pakistan’s cultural capital and a must-visit for history lovers.

The second-largest city in the country, Lahore, is said to have been founded by Loh, the son of Rama, around 4,000 years ago. Its rich history and numerous Pakistan landmarks make it a fascinating destination for a holiday in Pakistan.

Faisalabad

Famous for its textile industry, Faisalabad is the third-largest city in Pakistan and is located in Punjab. It’s a great place to shop for high-quality curtains, sofa fabric, and clothing at affordable prices. A vacation to Pakistan should include a stop in Faisalabad for an authentic shopping experience.

Multan

Multan, known as the City of Saints, is one of the oldest cities in Pakistan. It’s famous for its blue pottery, mangoes, khussa shoes, and ornamental glasswork. Including Multan in your trip to Pakistan will allow you to experience its unique cultural and historical offerings.

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4 Exciting Pakistan Tours

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Top 5 Unique Activities for Your Pakistan Vacation

Shopping in Pakistan

Shopping in Pakistan is an experience in itself. Karachi is known as one of the world’s cheapest cities to shop, while Faisalabad offers garments from international brands like Adidas and Levis at reduced prices. A vacation in Pakistan provides numerous opportunities to buy unique and affordable items.

Enjoying Delicious Pakistani Food

The food in Pakistan is as unique as it is delicious. Street food markets offer a variety of flavors, including kebabs and biryani. Must-try dishes include nihari, a popular gravy item, and a variety of flatbreads like naan, paratha, roti, sheer mal, and taftan.

Witnessing a Sufi Dhamal

For a truly unique experience during your vacation to Pakistan, attend a Sufi dhamal in Lahore. These ceremonies are held every Thursday by Sufi mystics and include pounding drums and smoking incense, creating a spiritual atmosphere. It’s believed these ceremonies help participants communicate with God.

Discovering Old Havelis

Pakistan has many Havelis, or mansions, with significant architectural and historical value. Exploring these properties offers a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the country. Many caretakers are happy to show visitors around, providing a unique addition to your holiday in Pakistan.

Visiting Ancient Ruins

Mohenjo Daro is one of the world’s earliest major civilizations in Pakistan. The ruins spread over 1.5 square miles beside the Indus River in Sindh province, are best visited during the winter due to the hot summer temperatures. Don’t forget to hire a guide to enhance your exploration of this ancient site.

Top 5 Outdoor Recreational Activities for Your Pakistan Vacation

A vacation in Pakistan offers numerous activities for adventure sports lovers, thanks to the country’s diverse terrain and beautiful landscapes. Here are some of the top outdoor recreational activities to enjoy during your trip to Pakistan:

Trekking & Hiking

Pakistan is a world-class hiking destination with many mountains, including some of the tallest. The Margalla Hills in Islamabad are ideal for hiking, while Gilgit-Baltistan offers trekking adventures to witness K2, Nanga Parbat, Rakaposhi, and the Hindu Kush and Karakoram mountain ranges.

Skiing

For a great skiing experience, visit Malam Jabba in the Swat Valley. This area features local dwellings at an elevation of 9,200 feet amidst the Hindu Kush mountains. Alternatively, you can enjoy skiing at Nathiagali or Kalabagh.

White Water Rafting

Pakistan’s rivers, such as the Chitral, Indus, Gilgit, Swat, Hunza, Kunar, and Neelam, are perfect for whitewater rafting, canoeing, and kayaking. These activities provide thrilling experiences for adventure enthusiasts on a vacation to Pakistan.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Churna Island, located between Balochistan and Sindh near the Hub River, offers beautiful clear blue waters for snorkeling and scuba diving. This destination is ideal for underwater adventures during your holiday in Pakistan.

Paragliding

Paragliding over the Salt Range or near Khanpur Lake in Punjab provides an exhilarating experience. The Gliding Club of Pakistan and Sky Hawk Paragliding and Adventure Club are popular facilities for paragliding in the country.

Top 5 Day Trips During Your Pakistan Vacation

When planning a trip to Pakistan, consider these exciting day trip destinations from major cities:

Khewra Salt Mines

Located 95 miles from Rawalpindi and 100 miles from Islamabad, the Khewra Salt Mines are the world’s second-largest salt mines. Explore the mine tunnels and witness amazing salt sculptures by taking a train ride within the mines.

Taxila

Just 22 miles from Islamabad, Taxila is known for its rich Buddhist history. The Taxila Museum and over 50 archaeological sites, including Bhir Mound, Dharmarajika Stupa and Monastery, Jaulian Monastery, Jandial Temple, and Sirkap, are must-visit spots during your vacation to Pakistan.

Hasan Abdal

About 30 miles from Rawalpindi, Hasan Abdal is a holy town featuring the Sikh Gurdwara Panja Sahib, which houses a sacred rock with Guru Nanak’s handprint. Other attractions include the chilla gah of Baba Wali and the tomb of royal hakeems who served Emperor Akbar.

Mausoleum of Emperor Jahangir

The majestic tomb of Jahangir, the fourth emperor of the Mughal dynasty, is located just three miles from Lahore. Built with marble and red sandstone, it was constructed by his son, Shahjahan, and queen, Noor Jahan, around 1637 AD.

Haleji Lake

Located in the Thatta district, 57 miles from Karachi, Haleji Lake is a great spot for bird-watching during the winter. You might see cotton teal, purple moorhen, spot-billed duck, and pheasant-tailed jacana. The site also includes the tomb of Baba Qasim Ali Shah and the Shahjahan Mosque.

Visiting Pakistan Safely

To ensure a safe vacation in Pakistan, follow local rules and customs and avoid areas with high political activity. Stay away from the Afghan border, Federally Administered Tribal Areas, Balochistan, and military or intelligence facilities. Use common sense and courtesy when interacting with locals, and avoid sensitive topics like politics, religion, India, or Kashmir.

Always drink bottled water and avoid unboiled or unfiltered tap water. Ensure the bottle’s seal is intact, and avoid consuming ice unless you’re sure of the water source.

What I Like About a Pakistan Vacation

One of the highlights of a vacation to Pakistan is the warmth and hospitality of its people. Locals often invite travelers to their homes for meals, offering a chance to experience traditional Pakistani hospitality.

Additionally, Pakistan’s diverse geography, with historic sites, glaciers, deserts, beaches, and mountains, makes it a unique and fascinating destination for any traveler.

From thrilling outdoor activities to cultural and historical explorations, a holiday in Pakistan promises unforgettable experiences.

Map of Pakistan & Travel Guide