Things To Do
in Pakistan
Pakistan is a South Asian country known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning landscapes, ranging from the lush greenery of Punjab, the arid deserts of Sindh, to the towering mountains of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan. It is the worldโs fifth-most populous country, with Islam as its dominant religion, deeply influencing its culture, legal system, and daily life.
Pakistan boasts a mixed economy with agriculture, textiles, and technology sectors playing significant roles, amidst challenges related to political instability and social issues.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- ๐ Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- ๐ฝ๏ธ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- โ Coffee: $1 - $3
- ๐ Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- ๐ Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- ๐๏ธโโ๏ธ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Clifton Beach, enjoying the sunrise and fresh sea breeze. Grab a traditional breakfast at a local eatery.
Visit the Quaid-e-Azam's Mausoleum to learn about Pakistan's founder. Take a stroll in the nearby Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim for a relaxed afternoon.
Enjoy dinner at a local BBQ spot, savoring delicious grilled meat dishes. End the day by exploring the vibrant nightlife of Karachi.
Wake up to breathtaking mountain views and have breakfast with a view. Visit Baltit Fort for stunning panoramas of the valley.
Explore the local markets for handicrafts and traditional foods. Enjoy a leisurely hike to Ultar Sar Base Camp to take in the natural beauty.
Dine at a local restaurant offering authentic Hunza cuisine. Relax by the river and enjoy the serene atmosphere under the starlit sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity
- Strategic geographical location
- Natural resources, including agricultural land and mineral deposits
- Young and vibrant population
- Emerging market potential with opportunities for investment
- Political instability and governance challenges
- Security concerns including terrorism and regional conflict
- Economic issues such as inflation and unemployment
- Infrastructure deficits and energy shortages
- Social issues including poverty and education gaps
Best Activities in Pakistan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and challenging trekking routes in the Karakoram Mountains, including the famous K2 base camp trek.
Experience the breathtaking views and serene natural beauty of the Fairy Meadows while camping amidst the picturesque surroundings.
Enjoy thrilling water adventures by river rafting in the Indus River, surrounded by the scenic valleys and rugged terrains of Pakistan.
Tours
Uncover the best of Pakistan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Pakistan
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its stunning landscapes, including the iconic Eagle's Nest viewpoint.
Offers breathtaking views of Nanga Parbat, the ninth highest mountain in the world.
Boasts picturesque scenery with the Kachura Lake and surrounding mountains.
Features lush greenery, beautiful valleys, and the mesmerizing Shounter Lake.
Famous for its turquoise blue waters and the submerged village, making it a unique photo spot.
Food in Pakistan
Pakistan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with a variety of tender meats or vegetables, infused with aromatic spices such as saffron and cardamom. Try it at 'Student Biryani' in Karachi.
Must-Try!
Flaky, savory pastries filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes minced meat. Sample the best samosas at 'Bundu Khan' in Lahore.
Whole lamb or chicken marinated in a mixture of spices and then roasted to tender perfection. Delight in Sajji at 'Karez Restaurant' in Quetta.
A slow-cooked stew of tender meat, often beef or mutton, simmered in a flavorful broth until it reaches soul-warming perfection. Have a taste at 'Gawalmandi Nihari' in Lahore.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Pakistan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An iconic food street offering a variety of traditional Pakistani dishes, from kebabs to falooda, in a vibrant and bustling setting. Don't miss the aromatic Gol Gappay and freshly prepared Jalebi.
Explore the bustling streets of Saddar Bazaar for an authentic street food experience, including Bun Kebabs, Karachi Biryani, and the beloved Gola Ganda.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect to elders in Pakistani culture, such as addressing them with proper titles and using polite language.
Hospitality is highly valued in Pakistan, and guests are often treated with great warmth and generosity.
It is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices in Pakistan, and to dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Pakistan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Pakistan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Pakistan, tipping is not customary in most places. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a 10-15% tip may be given if a service charge is not included in the bill.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Pakistan, although credit and debit cards are also accepted in larger establishments. It's always a good idea to carry some cash, especially in more rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Pakistan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Pakistan. Pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and colorful landscapes.
Hot weather, especially in the plains. Ideal for trekking and exploring the northern areas.
Mild weather, beautiful autumn foliage, and clear skies. Good for outdoor activities.
Cold weather, snowfall in the northern areas, and ideal for winter sports.
Pakistan at Night
Hiking in Pakistan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located near Nanga Parbat, Fairy Meadows offers breathtaking views of the mountain and lush green meadows. It is a popular trekking destination that provides a serene environment and a chance to experience the beauty of the Himalayas.
Hunza Valley is famous for its stunning landscapes, high peaks, and rich culture. There are multiple trekking routes available, including the trek to Passu Glacier and the iconic Baltoro Glacier trek.
Situated in Azad Kashmir, Ratti Gali Lake is a high-altitude alpine glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The trek to the lake is an adventurous experience with panoramic views.
Located near Islamabad, Margalla Hills offers various hiking trails that are easily accessible. The trails vary in difficulty and offer beautiful viewpoints of the capital city and surrounding areas.
Naltar Valley is known for its vibrant lakes and lush forests. The trek to Naltar is relatively easy and provides scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Located in the Shounter Valley of Azad Kashmir, Shounter Lake is a picturesque high-altitude lake that can be accessed by trek. The area is rich in natural beauty and offers great camping spots.
Kaghan Valley is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including lakes like Saif-ul-Malook and trekking routes such as the trek to the beautiful Naran Valley.
A stunning meadow at the base of Nanga Parbat, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and experience the unique culture of the local people. This area is perfect for camping and trekking.
The Biafo Glacier trek is a challenging yet rewarding experience that showcases the Karakoram mountain range. The trek offers views of unique landscapes and the chance to explore remote valleys.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Pakistan through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Pakistan by plane.
Located in Delhi, India, it is the busiest airport in India and serves as a major hub for international and domestic flights.
Located in Dubai, UAE, it is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major international gateway.
Located in Kabul, Afghanistan, it serves as the main international airport in Afghanistan.
Located in Tehran, Iran, it serves as the main international airport for Iran.
Located in Karachi, Pakistan, it is the largest airport in Pakistan and serves as a hub for international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Pakistan, primarily found in the Punjab province.
Indigenous to the Sindh province, they are the second largest ethnic group.
Predominantly found in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, they make up a significant ethnic group.
Mainly located in Balochistan province, known for their distinct culture and language.
Descendants of Urdu-speaking Muslims who migrated to Pakistan from India after the partition in 1947.
Primarily found in southern Punjab, they have their own language and cultural identity.
Spoken in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and northern Punjab; associated with the Hindkowan ethnic group.
An ethnic group primarily found in Balochistan, known for their unique language.
Comprising expatriates and urban professionals who are fluent in English, often from various ethnic backgrounds.
Residents of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir region and the Northern Areas, having a distinct cultural identity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Pakistan, known for its passionate fan base and historical significance, including victories in World Cup events.
Field hockey has a rich history in Pakistan, with the national team having won multiple Olympic medals and World Cups.
Football has been growing in popularity, with local leagues and international matches drawing considerable attention.
Pakistan has produced world-class squash players, notably Jahangir Khan and Jansher Khan, who dominated the sport in the 1980s and 1990s.
Kabaddi is a traditional contact sport in Pakistan, especially popular in rural areas and among local communities.
Badminton is becoming increasingly popular in Pakistan, with national-level competitions and a growing number of players.
Wrestling has a long-standing tradition in Pakistan, with various styles and cultural significance in different regions.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are readily available, with popular choices including Daal Chawal, Paneer dishes, and a variety of vegetable curries. 'Yasir Broast' in Karachi offers delectable vegetarian selections.
While vegan options may be limited in some traditional restaurants, urban areas like Lahore and Islamabad boast vegan-friendly cafes such as 'The New Yorker Pizza' and 'The Vegan Hangout'.
For gluten-free options, grilled meats, fresh fruit chaat, and rice-based dishes provide delicious alternatives. 'Kababjees' in Karachi offers a range of gluten-free grilled delicacies.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pakistan.