Mountain town in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan
Is Skardu LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Skardu LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex relations are criminalised nationally under Section 377 and widely taboo. Stay private; avoid public displays or dating apps.
LGBTQ+ laws in Pakistan
Deeply taboo; vigilante violence and police extortion are real risks. Khawaja sira (trans) communities are visible but marginalised. Total discretion advised.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | No |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | Partial |
| Legal penalty | Two years to life imprisonment under Section 377. |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Pakistan
| Place | Rating |
|---|---|
| Lahore | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Islamabad | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Hunza Valley | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Karachi | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Skardu | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Gilgit | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Swat Valley | 1/5 · Dangerous |
Quick answers
Is Skardu safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex relations are criminalised nationally under Section 377 and widely taboo. Stay private; avoid public displays or dating apps.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Pakistan?
No.
More about Skardu
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- Pakistan Online Visa System (NADRA)
- Directorate General of Immigration and Passports
- Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.