Pakistan

Why visit Pakistan?

Pakistan is one of the most magical places on earth, yet still largely untouched by masstourism. You will experience the most dramatic landscapes, cities full of history and the most hospital people anywhere on earth. Pakistan might just be one of the most rewarding places you’ll ever visit.

Quick Country Facts

Capital

Islamabad

Currency

Pakistani Rupee (PKR)
1€ = 343,3 PKR

Population

260 Million

Languages

Around 75 different languages, including Punjabi, Urdu & Pashto

Best time to visit

All year around

Food

Gol Gappay – Dough Balls with filling
Nihari – Beef Stew
Biryani– Spiced Rice and Meet

Safety

Safety in Pakistan varies significantly by region. It’s a huge country, and you simply can’t summarize it with one blanket statement. While some areas like districts of Balochistan remain sensitive or restricted, others, like the Hunza Valley, Lahore, and Skardu, are seeing a growing trickle of curious travelers and improved infrastructure.

Personally, I felt very safe during my time in Pakistan. I was consistently met with kindness, generosity, and genuine curiosity. That said, I won’t pretend that safety isn’t a concern. Incidents do happen, especially in places like Quetta, where sporadic attacks still occur. I also know travelers who have been robbed in Lahore.

The question “Is Pakistan safe?” doesn’t have a simple yes or no answer and could never be answered in a sentence or two. Context, location, timing, and your own travel style all matter. In my full post “Is Pakistan Safe To Travel”, I take a closer look at the realities on the ground and how to approach travel here responsibly.

Before you go

Visa

Since August 2024, Pakistan has simplified its tourist visa policy. Citizens of 126 countries can apply online through the official Pakistan Online Visa System operated by NADRA. Visa fees were waived under the new policy and the application process was simplified.

Previously, a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from a tour operator was needed before applying. With the tourist e-visa system, an LOI is usually no longer required. Instead, you can just show proof of a hotel booking or tour confirmation.

Alternatively you can still arrange a Letter of Invitation, which you can purchase for roughly 100$ on several websites.

In 2024 I obtained my Letter of Invitation through Caravanistan (not sponsored):
https://caravanistan.com/visa/pakistan/loi/

Getting around in Pakistan is extremly affordable. Taxis and TukTuks are everywhere in the cities and a train connects the major cities.While there is public transport in the rural areas of Pakistan it’s tough to navigate and unreliable.

Transport

Difficulty

Traveling independently in Pakistan comes with its share of challenges. Exploring cities like Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, or Peshawar is fairly easy thanks to a decent train network and available transport options.

However, the northern areas of Pakistan can be much more difficult to navigate because public transportation is limited and less reliable.

Langauge can be another barrier, as many people, especially in rural areas, don’t speak english. Also internet in Gilgit-Baltistan was pretty much non-existent.

That said the trainsystem, cheap taxis, helpful locals as well as Airbnb and Booking.com will make your trip a lot easier.

Pakistan is connected by air to many major hubs around the world, making it relatively easy to reach for most travelers. Land border crossings are more limited and sometimes complicated, so flying in is usually the best bet.

✈️ Arrival by Air

Pakistan’s main international airports are:

Jinnah International Airport (KHI) – Karachi’s main airport and Pakistan’s busiest international gateway.
Allama Iqbal International Airport (LHE) – Serving Lahore, a major cultural and historical center.
Islamabad International Airport (ISB) – The newest airport near the capital, with growing international connections.

🚗 Arrival by Land

Crossing into Pakistan overland is possible but more challenging:

From Iran: The Taftan border crossing is open but remote, mainly used for trade and some travelers heading to Balochistan. You might get a police escort.
From Afghanistan: Extremly busy due to the immigration crisis. Definetly possible but very stresful.
From India: The Wagah border near Lahore is a popular crossing for people traveling between Pakistan and India.
From China: The Khunjerab Pass is open seasonally for tourists traveling overland between Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region and China’s Xinjiang province, mainly accessible in summer.

Getting in

Budget

Pakistan is the most affordable country on earth.

🛏️ Accommodation

In major cities and touristy areas, budget hotels or guesthouses start around €10–15 per night.

🗺️ Guides & Tours

You usually don’t need a guide in cities, but in places like Hunza, Skardu, or Fairy Meadows, hiring a local guide for hikes or logistics can be helpful. Expect to pay €500 for a one week trip. While there are several Tour Guides from western Organizations they are heavily overpriced. For more information on Pakistan’s North I can recommend my Guide:
Northern Pakistan Travel Guide: Fairy Meadows, Hunza, Skardu, Gilgit, Kalash Valleys & Khunjerab Pass

🍛 Food & Transport

You can eat well for a euro or two a meal. Taxis, minibuses, and ride-hailing apps are all budget-friendly. Long-distance buses and trains between cities are also cheap.

💶 Estimated Daily Budget

If you’re staying in budget hotels, eating local food, and taking public transport, you can easily get by on €15–35 per day. Add more if you’re flying domestically or hiring private drivers in the north.