Best Destinations to Travel to in Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Best Destinations to Travel to in Islamic Republic of Pakistan
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About Islamic Republic of Pakistan
Pakistan is a country at the crossroads of Western, Central, South, and East Asia, conceived as a separate homeland for Muslims in South Asia. Its tourism industry had its heyday during the 1960s thanks to the Hippie Trail, though the country has faced challenges since then. Despite this, Pakistan continues to attract tourists with its unique, diverse cultures and landscapes.
The country encompasses every kind of geological structure: sea coasts, deserts, green and dry mountains, snow-covered peaks, rivers, fertile plains, waterfalls, and forests. The northern regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan contain parts of the Himalayas, the Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush, including K2, the second-highest peak in the world. History lovers can explore ruins of ancient civilizations such as Mohenjo-daro, Harappa, and Taxila, while architecture enthusiasts can admire Mughal-era masterpieces.
Pakistan is home to numerous ethnic groups including Punjabis, Sindhis, Seraikis, Pashtuns, Mohajirs, and Balochs, each with their own languages, cultures, and histories. The culture is greatly influenced by Northern India, Afghanistan, and Iran, and emphasizes traditional Islamic values alongside local traditions. Visitor information is available through the Pakistan Tourism website.
Content adapted from Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0
Location
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Weather Climate Summary
- Pakistan's climate varies from tropical to temperate, with arid conditions in the coastal south. The north features arctic conditions, while the northwest is temperate, and much of the country experiences hot, dry desert weather. There are four distinct seasons: a cool, dry winter from December through February; a hot, dry spring from March through May; the summer rainy season (southwest monsoon) from June through September; and the retreating monsoon period of October and November. The monsoon brings frequent heavy rainfall and potential flooding, especially along the Indus river in July and August. Rainfall varies greatly from year to year, and patterns of alternate flooding and drought are common.
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Things to Do
- Trek and hike in Gilgit-Baltistan, a mountain paradise featuring five peaks over 8,000 m, many over 7,000 m, and the largest glaciers outside the polar region.
- Horse riding is very affordable and available in many areas.
- Cycling opportunities abound throughout the country.
- Enjoy water activities in Karachi, the only coastal destination, offering snorkeling, scuba diving, boating, fishing, and cruise dining.
- Shop in a massive range of markets and bazaars — Karachi has been named one of the world's most affordable cities for shopping.
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Things to See
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Archaeological ruins of Moenjodaro (Indus Valley Civilization); Buddhist ruins at Takht-i-Bahi and Sahr-i-Bahlol; ruins of Taxila (Gandhara Civilization); Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens; monuments of Thatta; and Rohtas Fort.
- Natural wonders: K2 (8,611 m, the world's second-highest peak), the Karakoram Range, Hindu Kush, and Himalayas — plus 29 national parks.
- Mughal architecture in Lahore: Badshahi Masjid, Shalimar Gardens, Tomb of Jahangir, and Lahore Fort.
- Northern valleys: Hunza and Chitral valleys, home to pre-Islamic Kalasha communities and ancient fortresses.
- Post-independence monuments: Pakistan Monument (Islamabad), Minar-e-Pakistan (Lahore), Mazar-e-Quaid (Karachi).
- Museums: Lahore Museum, National Museum of Pakistan (Karachi), Pakistan Railways Heritage Museum (Islamabad), and more.
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Best Time to Visit
- October and November (retreating monsoon): Pleasant weather with less rainfall; good for general travel across many regions.
- December to February (cool, dry winter): Ideal for visiting southern and lowland areas; cold in the north but offers clear mountain views.
- March to May (hot, dry spring): Suitable for high-altitude trekking before summer rains; lowland areas can be very hot.
- June to September (monsoon): Heavy rains and potential flooding, especially along the Indus; northern areas remain popular for trekking despite occasional rain.
- Best for mountaineering: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) for K2 and other high peaks.
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Planning Tips
- Visa requirements: Citizens of 24 "Tourist Friendly Countries" can get a one-month visa on arrival through an authorized tour operator. Most others need to apply in advance. E-visas are available for 191 countries.
- Health precautions: Drink only bottled or boiled water; take measures against mosquitoes (dengue and malaria); avoid raw or street food that has been sitting out.
- Security awareness: Check your embassy's travel advisories; avoid the Afghan border, former FATA, and areas near the Line of Control; stay away from military convoys and political demonstrations.
- Transport: Domestic flights (PIA, SereneAir, Airblue) cover key cities; the motorway network connects Peshawar, Islamabad, Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad; avoid driving after dark.
- Cultural etiquette: Dress conservatively — women should wear long skirts or trousers; use only your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items; remove shoes before entering mosques.
Content from Wikivoyage contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0