South Asia
Pakistan
Famous hospitality and some of the world's great mountain scenery in Hunza, Skardu and Fairy Meadows. Security varies sharply by region; checkpoints, permits and conservative norms shape every trip.
- US travel advisoryLevel 3Reconsider travelDetails
- Visa9 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyPKRUS$1 ≈ Rs276.82Details
- Price level24%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English3/5Common in tourist areasDetails
- PlugsType C, D230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency15Police 15 · Ambulance 1122 · Fire 16
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledNever drink tap water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedDeeply taboo; vigilante violence and police extortion are real risks.Details
- Internet18 MbpsMedian fixed broadband · mobile 32 MbpsDetails
- DrivingOn the leftIDP with home licence accepted; most visitors hire a car with driver, especially on the Karakoram Highway.
Where to go in Pakistan
7 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LahoreCity | 3/5 | $722–1,160 | Feb–Apr, Oct | 50/100 |
| IslamabadCapital city | 3/5 | $795–1,260 | Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov | 57/100 |
| Hunza ValleyRegion | 4/5 | $542–903 | Apr–May, Sep–Oct | 80/100 |
| KarachiCity | 3/5 | $722–1,190 | Nov–Feb | 52/100 |
| SkarduMountain town | 4/5 | $542–903 | Jun–Sep | 82/100 |
| GilgitMountain town | 3/5 | $470–722 | May–Jun, Sep–Oct | 78/100 |
| Swat ValleyRegion | 2/5 | $397–614 | Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct | 67/100 |
When to visit Pakistan
North (Hunza, Skardu): May–October, with April blossoms and late-October autumn colours. Plains and cities: November–March; summers there exceed 40°C.
Good to know
Entry
- Apply online at visa.nadra.gov.pk well ahead; since January 2026 fees vary by nationality and processing takes about 7–10 working days.
- Areas near borders, former tribal districts and much of Balochistan need a No Objection Certificate or are off-limits to foreigners.
- Carry your passport and visa copies; police and army checkpoints are frequent, and hotels register foreigners with police.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Blasphemy laws are strictly applied and can carry the death penalty; avoid religious debate.
- Alcohol is illegal for Muslims; non-Muslim foreigners can buy it only at licensed hotel outlets.
- Photographing military sites, checkpoints, bridges or dams can lead to detention.
Etiquette
- Dress modestly; women should carry a dupatta or scarf
- During Ramadan, don't eat, drink or smoke in public by day
- Accept tea and hospitality graciously; flat refusals can offend
- Ask before photographing women
Tipping
Service charge is sometimes added; otherwise leave about 10% in restaurants. Tip drivers and guides, and give hotel staff small change.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Pakistan Online Visa System (NADRA)
- Directorate General of Immigration and Passports
- Pakistan Railways
- Speedtest Global Index: Pakistan
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.