Pakistan

Pakistan rewards travellers who build an itinerary around regions rather than trying to cover the whole country in one trip. Start with Lahore for Mughal architecture, lively bazaars and exceptional food, then continue to Islamabad for a calmer base near the Margalla Hills. Karachi offers a very different experience, with coastal scenery, museums and a fast-moving urban food scene. For mountain landscapes, allow extra time for Hunza, Skardu or Gilgit; domestic flights can save long hours, while road journeys are scenic but weather-dependent.

Use Hello’s trip planning tools to group destinations by region and leave buffer days for delays. Mountain roads can close because of snow, landslides or heavy rain, particularly in winter, so check local conditions before committing to a transfer. Obtain the required Pakistani visa before departure through the official online system, and confirm entry rules for your nationality. Avoid restricted border areas and regions covered by current government advisories, especially parts of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

In major cities, ride-hailing apps and reputable taxi services are usually more convenient than flagging down a vehicle. For intercity travel, buses connect Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar and Karachi, while trains offer a slower but memorable way to experience the country. In the north, a private car with an experienced local driver is often the most practical choice, especially for routes around Hunza, Fairy Meadows and Skardu.

Traffic can be intense, with motorcycles, minibuses and pedestrians sharing crowded roads. Avoid driving after dark, and do not assume that mountain routes will be open or clearly marked. Keep passports, phones and cash secure on buses and trains, where pickpocketing can occur. Ask your accommodation to arrange drivers for remote journeys and share your planned route with someone you trust.

Download important maps and booking details before leaving reliable coverage. A Hello eSIM, purchased and activated before landing, helps with navigation, translation and contacting drivers without unexpected roaming charges.

Pakistan’s food is regional, generous and best approached with curiosity. In Lahore, try nihari, haleem, grilled kebabs and buttery naan around the old city, then make time for a plate of smoky chargha. Karachi is famous for spicy biryani, bun kebabs and seafood, while Peshawar is known for tender chapli kebab and slow-cooked meat dishes. In the north, look for trout, dumplings called momos and hearty noodle soups influenced by neighbouring mountain cultures.

Street food can be a highlight, but choose busy stalls with rapid turnover and food cooked in front of you. Drink sealed bottled water, check that ice is made from safe water, and carry hand sanitiser. Vegetarian travellers will find lentils, vegetable curries, rice and breads widely available; say “kam mirch” if you prefer less chilli.

Meals are often shared, and splitting the bill among companions can become confusing when everyone orders something different. Hello’s expense splitting feature keeps track of shared dinners, while budget tracking lets you monitor spending in Pakistani rupees.

Pakistan is a hospitable country, and respectful curiosity goes a long way. Dress modestly, particularly away from tourist centres and when visiting mosques or shrines; shoulders and knees should generally be covered. Remove your shoes before entering a mosque or private home, ask before photographing people, and use your right hand when accepting food or money. During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight may be discouraged, so follow local customs.

The Pakistani rupee (PKR) is the local currency. Pakistan remains largely cash-based outside major hotels, shopping centres and established restaurants, so carry smaller notes for taxis, snacks, entrance fees and rural stays. ATMs are common in cities, but withdrawals can fail or incur fees; keep a backup payment method and avoid displaying large amounts of cash. Track costs in PKR with Hello’s budget tools, especially when moving between cities and booking domestic transport. Learn a few words such as “shukriya” (thank you) and “salaam” (hello)—they are simple ways to make daily interactions warmer.