Pakistan

Pakistan: general info for travelers

Pakistan is a country in South Asia, bordering India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China. It has a population of over 220 million people and is the fifth most populous country in the world. Its official languages are Urdu and English, while Punjabi, Sindhi, and other regional languages are also widely spoken.
Pakistan has a diverse landscape, with the northern region being home to some of the world's highest mountain ranges, including K2, the second-highest peak in the world. The southern region is mostly a plateau and has a coastline along the Arabian Sea. The country has a rich culture and history, with influences from various civilizations that have inhabited the region over the centuries.
Islam is the dominant religion in Pakistan, with over 96% of the population being Muslim. Pakistan's economy is predominantly agricultural, with significant contributions from the textile and manufacturing industries. Overall, Pakistan is a fascinating country with much to offer in terms of culture, history, and natural beauty.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Pakistan, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Pakistan: places to visit

Certainly, I'd be happy to help you plan your trip to Pakistan. Here are some of the top places to visit in the country: 1. Lahore Fort: Also known as the Shahi Qila, Lahore Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the must-visit attractions in Pakistan. The fort complex includes stunning buildings and structures that date back to the Mughal era, like the Sheesh Mahal and the Naulakha Pavilion.
2. Badshahi Mosque: Located in Lahore, the Badshahi Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and another must-visit attraction in Pakistan. It was built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate designs.
3. Faisal Mosque: Located in Islamabad, the Faisal Mosque is known for its modern architectural style and is one of the largest mosques in the world. The mosque was a gift from King Faisal of Saudi Arabia, and its unique design is said to resemble a Bedouin tent.
4. Hunza Valley: Considered one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, the Hunza Valley is a stunning region in the northern part of the country. It's known for its beautiful landscapes, traditional culture, and the ancient forts and palaces that are located throughout the valley.
5. Swat Valley: The Swat Valley is a popular tourist destination in Pakistan, known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient Buddhist ruins of Swat, go hiking in the beautiful mountains, or simply enjoy the stunning views of the valley.
6. Shandur Pass: Located in the northern part of Pakistan, the Shandur Pass is a famous high mountain pass that connects the Chitral and Gilgit regions. The pass is known for its stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for hiking and trekking.
7. Mohenjo-daro: Located in the Sindh province of Pakistan, Mohenjo-daro is an ancient city that dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization. It's one of the best-preserved ancient sites in the world and is a must-visit for history buffs and archaeology enthusiasts.
These are just a few of the top places to visit in Pakistan. There are many other stunning destinations in the country, including beautiful lakes, stunning mountain ranges, and vibrant cities full of culture and history.
There is more to see and do in Pakistan: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Pakistan: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Pakistan, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Pakistan has a varied climate due to its diverse topography with mountain ranges, lakes, and desert regions. Generally, the best time to visit Pakistan is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear. Winters (December to February) can be very cold, especially in northern areas, while summers (June to August) can be hot and humid in the southern regions.
In the northern mountainous areas, such as Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it can be cold all year round, and the best time to visit is during summer (June to September) when the weather is mild and you can enjoy trekking or hiking. The southern coastal areas, such as Karachi and Balochistan, are hot and humid, and the best time to visit is during winter, from November to February when the temperatures are cooler.
It is important to note that specific locations in Pakistan may have different weather patterns. Therefore, it is recommended to check the weather forecast for your desired destination before finalizing your travel plans.

Pakistan: activities and what to do

Pakistan offers a variety of activities and sports to indulge in during your trip, such as: 1. Trekking and hiking: Pakistan is home to some of the world's highest mountain ranges, such as the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindukush, providing excellent opportunities for trekking and hiking.
2. Mountain Climbing: Adventurers can climb some of the world's highest peaks, such as K2, Nanga Parbat, and Broad Peak.
3. Polo: Polo is a popular sport in Pakistan, and the country is known for producing some of the best polo players in the world.
4. Cricket: Pakistan is a cricket-crazy nation, and cricket grounds can be found in almost every city in the country.
5. Rafting and Kayaking: The rivers in Pakistan, particularly in the northern region, offer some of the best rafting and kayaking experiences.
6. Paragliding: You can enjoy the breathtaking views of Pakistan from the sky by taking part in paragliding.
7. Camel and Jeep Safari: You can explore the desert regions of Pakistan on a camel or jeep safari.
8. Wildlife Safari: Pakistan has several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries where you can go on a wildlife safari to spot some rare and unique species.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports to try on your next trip to Pakistan.

Pakistan: few words on history and culture

Pakistan has a rich and diverse history that spans over 5,000 years. The Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world's oldest, originated in what is now present-day Pakistan around 3300 BCE. Subsequently, the region was ruled by various empires, including the Maurya, Kushan, Gupta, and Mughal empires.
Pakistan also has a rich cultural heritage that reflects the influences of its various rulers and the diverse ethnic groups that make up its population. The country is known for its music, and traditional instruments such as the sitar and tabla are still commonly used today. Pakistani cuisine is also renowned for its unique blend of Indian, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors.
Islam is the dominant religion in Pakistan, and the country has a strong tradition of Sufi mysticism that is reflected in its music, poetry, and art. Pakistan is home to numerous historical and cultural landmarks, including ancient ruins, mosques, and mausoleums. Some of the most well-known include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens, the Badshahi Mosque, and the historic city of Taxila.

Pakistan: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach Pakistan will depend on your starting location and budget. However, here are some popular modes of transportation to reach and travel around Pakistan: 1. Air travel: There are several international airports in Pakistan that connect major cities worldwide. Pakistan International Airlines and other international airlines offer direct or indirect flights to Pakistan.
2. Road travel: You can reach Pakistan through India, Afghanistan, and Iran. However, it can be a longer journey and may require multiple visas and permits.
3. Train travel: Pakistan is connected to India through a rail network, and there are trains that run between major cities in Pakistan.
4. Local transport: To travel around Pakistan, you can use buses, taxis, or rickshaws. However, it's advised to take necessary safety precautions while using local transport.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Pakistan. To hire a car to visit Pakistan, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Pakistan: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Pakistan with a full stomach:D
Here are some of the main typical foods of Pakistan along with their descriptions: 1. Biryani: This is a popular mixed rice dish served with meat or vegetables, herbs, and spices.
2. Karahi: This is a spicy and tangy curry made with either chicken, mutton or beef along with tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices.
3. Haleem: A slow-cooked dish made with wheat, lentils, and meat seasoned with spices. 4. Nihari: A meat-based curry stew accompanied by bone marrow, spices, and herbs.
5. Pulao: A rice dish cooked with meat or vegetables, and flavored with various fragrant spices.
6. Kebab: These are bite-sized pieces of meat, usually served on skewers along with chutney or raita.
7. Chapli Kebab: A meat patty with a rich blend of spices, herbs, and tomatoes that is fried in oil or grilled.
8. Samosas: A triangular deep-fried pastry filled with spiced meat or vegetables. 9. Barbeque: An assortment of roasted or grilled meats like chicken, beef, and mutton served with naan bread and chutney.
10. Halwa Puri: A breakfast meal consisting of fluffy deep-fried bread served with a sweet semolina pudding.

Pakistan: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Pakistan can be an affordable country for tourists compared to many other countries in the world. Accommodation, transportation and food can be relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of your trip will vary depending on your travel style and itinerary. For example, luxury hotels and international flights can be costly, while local modes of transportation and street food can be very cheap. Additionally, some tourist attractions may have admission fees, which can add to the overall cost of your trip. Overall, Pakistan can be a budget-friendly destination for travelers looking for an adventure in a culture-rich country.

Pakistan: where to find accodation

There are several online platforms that you can use to search for accommodation options in Pakistan. Some of the popular ones include: 1. Booking.com: It offers a wide range of options for accommodation all over Pakistan including guest houses, hotels, resorts, and apartments.
2. Airbnb: This platform offers unique and authentic accommodation experiences in Pakistan, ranging from budget-friendly to luxurious options.
3. Agoda: It offers great deals on hotels, resorts, guest houses, and apartments in various cities of Pakistan.
4. Expedia: It provides a variety of accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences. 5. Tripadvisor: This is a great platform to check out the reviews and ratings of different accommodations in Pakistan to make an informed decision.
Alternatively, you can also contact local travel agencies or tourist information centers in Pakistan for assistance in finding suitable accommodation options.
You can check hotel prices in Pakistan here:
Booking.com

Pakistan: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the data from the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation, Pakistan received around 1.9 million foreign tourists in 2019. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism has been significantly reduced. In terms of crowded periods, peak tourist season in Pakistan is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. This is especially true for northern areas like Hunza, Gilgit, and Skardu. During this time, popular tourist destinations can be quite crowded and accommodations may be fully booked. However, it is still possible to plan a successful trip during peak season with proper planning and reservation of accommodations.
Pakistan has made significant improvements in security in recent years, and most areas of the country are considered safe for tourists. However, as with any country, there are some areas that should be avoided due to safety concerns. The north of Pakistan is generally considered safe for tourists and is a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering. However, there are some areas closer to the border with Afghanistan that are considered unsafe due to the presence of terrorist groups. The areas to avoid in this region include Balochistan, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, and the Federally Administered Tribal Areas.
It is always a good idea to check for the latest travel advisories from your home country's foreign office or embassy before planning a trip to Pakistan. It is also recommended that tourists hire a reputable local guide during their visit to ensure their safety and to have a better understanding of the local culture.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Pakistan on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Pakistan: events for tourists

Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage and there are several interesting events throughout the year that attract tourists. Some of the most interesting events for tourists in Pakistan are: 1. Basant Festival: Basant is the kite flying festival that is celebrated in Punjab Province during the months of February and March.
2. Shandur Polo Festival: The Shandur Polo Festival is held annually in July on the Shandur Polo ground, which is situated at an altitude of 3,730 meters above sea level.
3. Urs Festival: Urs is a Sufi festival that is celebrated in different parts of Pakistan throughout the year. The most popular Urs festivals are held at the shrines of Pir Baba and Baba Farid, and attract tourists from different parts of the world.
4. Mango Festival: The Mango Festival is held annually in Multan City during the months of June and July. The festival is a celebration of the Mango fruit, which is known as the King of Fruits in Pakistan.
5. Pakistan Fashion Week: Pakistan Fashion Week is a popular event for tourists who are interested in fashion. The event is held twice a year in Karachi and Lahore and showcases the latest fashion trends in Pakistan.
These are just a few examples of the many interesting events that take place in Pakistan throughout the year.

Pakistan: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Pakistan, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here's a two week itinerary that covers some of the most popular destinations in Pakistan: Day 1-2: Karachi - Visit the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum, the National Museum of Pakistan, and the Clifton Beach - Take a stroll through the historic streets of the old town (Saddar and Empress Market area) Day 3-4: Lahore - Visit the Lahore Fort and the Badshahi Mosque - Explore the old Lahore bazaar, including the Walled City and the Anarkali Bazaar Day 5-7: Islamabad and Rawalpindi - Visit the Pakistan Monument, Faisal Mosque and the Saidpur Village - Explore the lively streets of Rawalpindi, including the Raja Bazaar, the Saddar Bazaar and the Murree Road Day 8-10: Northern Areas (Gilgit-Baltistan) - Explore the Hunza Valley, including the Altit Fort, Baltit Fort and the scenic Karakoram Highway - Visit the Khunjerab Pass, Pakistan's border post with China Day 11-13: Peshawar and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa - Explore the historic streets of Peshawar, including Qissa Khawani and the Bazaar-e-Kalan - Visit the Mughal-era Shalimar Gardens and the Uthman Khel Museum in Mardan Day 14: Multan - Visit the historic shrines and mosques of Multan, including the Mausoleum of Rukn-i-Alam and the Shrine of Bahauddin Zakariya Of course, this itinerary can be adjusted to suit individual preferences and time constraints. Enjoy your trip to Pakistan!

Pakistan: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Pakistan described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Abbottabad is a city located in the Hazara region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is situated in the Orash Valley and is surrounded by the beautiful hills of the Himalayas. Abbottabad i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Abbottabad
- Attock is a city located in the northern part of Pakistan. It is the headquarters of the Attock District in the Punjab province. The city is located on the bank of the Indus River and is considered an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Attock
- Bahawalpur is a city located in the southern region of Punjab province in Pakistan. It is the 12th largest city in Pakistan and has a population of over 800,000 people. Bahawalpur is known for its ric... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bahawalpur
- Chilas is a small town located in the Diamer District of Gilgit-Baltistan province in northern Pakistan. It is situated on the bank of the Indus River at an altitude of around 1,270 meters (4,170 feet... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chilas
- Chitral is a district and region in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is located in the northern part of the country, bordering Afghanistan to the north and west. The region is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Chitral
- Dera Ghazi Khan is a district and city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is situated in the southwestern part of the province and is known for its rich culture and historic significance. The area... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dera Ghazi Khan
- Dera Ismail Khan is a district in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is situated in the southern part of the province and borders South Waziristan district to the west and Tank district t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dera Ismail Khan
- Faisalabad, also known as the "Manchester of Pakistan", is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is the third most populous city in Pakistan, with a population of over 3 million people... CONTINUE here for a trip to Faisalabad
- Gilgit is a city located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is considered as the hub of tourism for northern Pakistan due to its strategic location and proximity to some of the world's hig... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gilgit
- Gujranwala is a city located in Punjab province of Pakistan. It is the seventh largest city in the country and is known for its thriving industrial and agricultural sectors which contribute significan... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gujranwala
- Gwadar is a port city located on the southwestern coast of Pakistan. It is situated in the province of Balochistan and borders the Arabian Sea. Gwadar is known for its strategic location as it is a ke... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gwadar
- Haripur is a city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is situated in the Haripur District and lies at the border of Islamabad Capital Territory and the province. The city is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Haripur
- Hunza Valley is a mountainous region located in the Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 8,200 feet above sea level and is known for its lush green landscapes, snow-ca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hunza Valley
- My apologies, but Hyderabad is actually a city located in the southern state of Telangana in India. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and historic monuments such as the Ch... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hyderabad
- Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan, located in the north-central region of the country, in the province of Punjab. It has a population of over 1 million people and is known for being a planned ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Islamabad
- Jhelum is a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan, situated on the right bank of the Jhelum River. The city has a rich history and was an important center during the Indus Valley Civilization. It is... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jhelum
- Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan and is located on the southern coast of the country. It is a bustling metropolitan city with a vibrant cultural and economic scene. The city has a rich history ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Karachi
- Khuzdar is a district and city located in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It is situated at about 400 kilometers south-west of Quetta, the provincial capital. The city has a diverse population, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Khuzdar
- Kotli is a small city located in the Poonch district of Pakistan-administered Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated on the banks of the Poonch River, surrounded by mountains and lush green valleys. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kotli
- Lahore is the capital city of the province of Punjab in Pakistan and is known as the cultural and historic hub of the country. With a population of over 11 million, it is the second-most populou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Lahore
- Mansehra is a city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is situated in the Himalayan foothills, approximately 205 kilometers north of Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The city... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mansehra
- Mardan is a city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is the second-largest city of the province and is often referred to as the "City of Hospitality". Mardan has a rich history ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mardan
- Mirpur is a city located in the Mirpur District in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. It is situated on the banks of Mangla Dam, one of the largest dams in the world. The city has a rich history and cu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mirpur
- Multan is a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is known as the "City of Saints" due to its large number of shrines and Sufi saints. The city is situated on the banks of the Chenab River, and ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Multan
- Murree is a popular hill station located in the Rawalpindi district of Punjab province in Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,291 meters above sea level and is surrounded by lush green forest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Murree
- Muzaffarabad is the capital city of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, a self-governing region in northern Pakistan. It is located in a valley surrounded by mountains and sits at an elevation of 725 meters above... CONTINUE here for a trip to Muzaffarabad
- Nankana Sahib is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is considered one of the most important religious sites for Sikhs as it is the birthplace of the founder of Sikhism, Guru Nanak D... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nankana Sahib
- Peshawar is a city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. It is the capital and largest city of the province, and is situated near the country's border with Afghanistan. Peshawar is k... CONTINUE here for a trip to Peshawar
- Quetta is the capital of the Balochistan province in Pakistan. It is located in the western part of the country near the border with Afghanistan. The city sits at an elevation of 1,680 meters above se... CONTINUE here for a trip to Quetta
- Rahim Yar Khan is a city in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is the capital of Rahim Yar Khan District and is located on the eastern bank of the river Indus. The city is known for its agriculture, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rahim Yar Khan
- Rawalpindi is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is the fourth-largest city in Pakistan and is adjacent to the capital city of Islamabad. The population of Rawalpindi is around 2.1 ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rawalpindi
- Sahiwal is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is situated approximately 180 kilometers from Lahore, the provincial capital of Punjab. The city has a population of around 235,000 and... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sahiwal
- Sargodha is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is also known as the "City of Eagles" due to its rich wildlife. The city has a population of approximately 1.5 million people and is p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sargodha
- Sheikhupura is a city located in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is situated approximately 40 km northwest of Lahore, the provincial capital. With a population of over half a million, it is one of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sheikhupura
- Sialkot is a city located in the northeast region of the Punjab province in Pakistan. It is situated near the borders of India and is known for its rich history, culture and tradition. Sialkot is reno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sialkot
- Sibi is a city located in the Balochistan province of Pakistan. It is the capital of the Sibi District and is situated at an altitude of 130 meters above sea level. The city has a rich history and has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sibi
- Skardu is a town in Gilgit-Baltistan, a province in the northern areas of Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 2,438 meters (7,999 feet) above sea level. Skardu is a popular tourist destination,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Skardu
- Sukkur is a city located in the southern province of Sindh, Pakistan. It is situated on the banks of the Indus River and is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant baza... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sukkur
- Swat Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. It is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas and is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Swat Valley
- Taxila is an ancient city located in the northern part of Pakistan. It is known for its rich archaeological history and was once an important center of learning and culture in the region. Taxila was f... CONTINUE here for a trip to Taxila


Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: