tourism in pakistan meaning in urdu

• Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
• Azad Kashmir
• Balochistan
• Travel Tips
• Dos and Don’ts
• Solo Female Travel
• Travel Safety Tips
• What To Wear
• Travel Guide
• Visa to Pakistan
• Visa from Pakistan
• Itineraries
• Emergency Resources
• Guide Books
• Trip Reports
• Food Reviews
• List of Tour & Travel Companies in Islamabad
• 55 Things to do in Lahore
• K2 Base Camp Trek - A Complete Guide
• 75 Things to do in New York City
• Submit Guest Post
• Request A Review
• Invite to your event
• Collaborate
• Store Inquiry

20 Helpful Urdu Phrases for Travel in Pakistan

As a foreigner travelling in Pakistan, you will often be in the limelight, and people will come up to talk to you. This encounter gives you a chance to win the hearts of the locals and possibly make strong bonds of friendship, especially if you respond to them in some simple Urdu sentences like the ones mentioned below.

Table of Contents

Greetings and Introductions

Eating and shopping, impressing locals, 1: asalaam-walaikum or salam – may peace be with you/hello.

This phrase is the most common way to say hello in Pakistan, as the population is predominantly Muslim. Non-Muslims use the word as well, but the regular hello also works in most urban areas. Urdu is a combination of Persian from Iran, Sanskrit from India and Arabic; therefore, Urdu has many words in common with these languages. Salam is, however, a word related to the word Islam, and most Muslims from the farthest corners of the world will recognise it. If you meet Hindus, you can be more appropriate by greeting them with Namaste.

2: Aapka naam kia hai? – What is your name?

A simple way to get acquainted with a new person in Pakistan is to say this phrase. You can also just say ‘Apka naam?’, which means ‘Your name is?’ In return, they will ask for your name in the very same manner.

3: Mera naam ____ hai. – My name is ____.

When someone asks you your name, this phrase would be the proper reply.

4: Aap kaise (for male)/ kaisi (for female) hou? – How are you?

In order to know how someone is doing, you can ask this question. It is a ubiquitous phrase in Pakistan, and everyone poses this question to each other when they meet, whether it’s the next day or years later. The word Aap here is a formal way to say you, but if you know the person well, you can replace it with the more casual Tum. In an informal setting amongst friends, one may simply say ‘Kaise (male)/Kaisi (female) hou’.

5: Mai Bilqul Theek. – I am fine.

This phrase is a non-gendered term where Mai means I; bilqul means totally or completely, and theek means alright or fine.

6: Main ___ se ayi hu. – I am from _____ (country).

When you’re in Pakistan, people are going to be very curious about you and will want to know where you are from. You should know how to respond to the very common question of ‘Ap kahan se hu?’, meaning ‘where are you from?’ In reply, you will use this phrase. People will be delighted to know that you are from a different country and will be very hospitable towards you. You can also use this phrase while introducing yourself to someone new.

7: Shukeriya – Thank you

Simple and precise, this word can be used in all social interactions in all parts of the country’s diverse cultural landscape. Even locals from villages where only a folk or regional language is spoken will know this term.

8: Han/Nahi – Yes/No

As simple as it can get.

9: Theek Hai – Okay

Pakistanis use this word all the time, slipping it in at the end of the majority of their sentences. For example, ‘Hmmm Theek hai. Han theek hai’, or just simply ‘Theek’.

10: Muje _____ jana hai. – I want to go to______ (place).

You can use this phrase to tell someone where you want to go, and they will in return help you with the directions.

11: Aapko English ati hai? – Do you know English?

Before you sweat your wits trying to communicate in difficult situations with locals in Urdu, you can inquire if they speak English. Many urbanites and white-collar workers are quite fluent in English thanks to the country’s colonial past. Additionally, even in far-off towns and villages, there will be some people, such as guest house owners, who will be able to communicate with you in English because of tourism in that area.

12: Maaf kijeah – Pardon me/Excuse me/Sorry

You can use this term if you want to be excused from a formal meeting or apologise in a situation where your phone shouldn’t have rung, such as during prayers, or when you want to ask someone to repeat what they said.

13: Khuda Hafiz – Goodbye

This phrase literally translates to ‘May God be your protector,’ but it’s commonly used in Pakistan, Iran, Tajikistan, Bangladesh and India as a parting greeting, which is what makes it similar in use to goodbye. The phrase ‘Khuda Hafiz’ is a combination of the Persian word Khoda, meaning God, and the Arabic word Hifz, meaning protection.

14: Shabba Khair – May the night pass well/Good Night

Shab in Urdu means night, whereas khair translates to well. People in Pakistan typically use this phrase when saying bye to someone at night, along with ‘Khuda Hafiz’, but mostly in formal settings.

15: Ap se mil ker khushi huwi. – I am pleased to meet you.

This phrase can be used to express that it was lovely to meet someone who may be a new friend, a colleague or a stranger.

16: Meri madad Karien. – Help me.

Madad itself means help, but unlike in English where one can simply shout ‘Help’, in Urdu, you can’t use the word Madad on its own. So, it is used as the word ‘assist’ in English.

17: Iss ki Keemat kitni hai? – How much is this?

Many local shops don’t have prices written on their merchandise, be it fabric, jewellery or general items. This question will surely come in handy.

18: Bhot mazaydar – Very tasty

When you eat or drink something that is delicious, you say that it’s mazaydar, which means tasty, or you can add bhot for emphasis. When dining in someone’s house, the person who cooked the food may ask you ‘Khana kesa laga?’ or ‘How did you find the food?’ So, you can reply with ‘Bhot mazaydar.’

19: Ek karak Chai hojaey. – Let’s have a cup of strong Chai (Milk Tea).

No one in Pakistan is ever going to say no to a cup of chai. Pakistanis love chai, and if you take an interest in this national beverage, they are going to love you for it. Chai is something that the locals drink at any and all times of the day, sometimes for a good reason or none at all.

20: Zaberdast – Excellent!

Zaberdast is a strong complimentary word that you can use for anything – whether it’s food, service, your health, an event or time spent in the country. It’s one of the longer words, but it’s full of zeal and zest.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Subscribe to receive Free Event Invitations & Coupons!

• StumbleUpon

Pin It on Pinterest

Solo female travel anywhere and everywhere.

Pakistan travel guide: everything to know before you go

Updated in 2024: After years of both independently traveling in Pakistan and later running tours there, it’s safe to say I know a lot about travel in Pakistan. Here’s my complete Pakistan travel guide with information on visas, transportation, costs, and everything else you need to know about travel in Pakistan.

Curious about traveling to Pakistan but nervous about going alone? Check out my tours: I run both women’s tours and biker tours in Pakistan.

Jaw-dropping nature, diverse cultures, and delicious food—these are but a few of the things you’ll experience when you visit Pakistan. Most importantly, it’s home to the most hospitable people I’ve met in my travels. It’s no wonder more and more people want to travel to Pakistan!

However, Pakistan ain’t as easy to travel in as some will have you believe . But no worries, I got you. This guide was created after more than six visits and almost a year of travel in Pakistan. I have visited Pakistan more than any other travel blogger and traveled to Pakistan both with friends and by myself. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about travel in Pakistan.

Pakistan travel guide: index

• Pakistan basics
• Languages of Pakistan
• Regions of Pakistan
• Culture in Pakistan
• Gender in Pakistan
• Drinking and drugs
• Religion and Pakistan
• Pakistani food
• Money in Pakistan
• Visas for Pakistan
• Entering and exiting Pakistan
• Accommodation in Pakistan
• Transportation in Pakistan
• Safety in Pakistan
• SIM cards and WiFi
• Responsible tourism in Pakistan
• Resources for Pakistan travel

Pakistan travel guide: the basics

Pakistan is officially called “The Islamic Republic of Pakistan.” A populous country in South Asia—no, it’s not in the Middle East—with more than 200 million people, it’s the 6th most populous country in the world. TL;DR: Lots and lots of people. Everywhere.

Pakistan was founded on the 14th of August 1947 after an event known as Partition : when British India created the modern states of India and Pakistan. The event was bloody, its ramifications still visible today. The country became an Islamic Republic in 1956. During partition, Pakistan was divided into West and East Pakistan. In 1971 East Pakistan became Bangladesh after another bloody war for independence .

Although Pakistan is a young country, its history is ancient. Ruins of one of the oldest civilizations in the world, the Indus Valley Civilization , lie in southern Pakistan. Multiple conquerors and civilizations took hold in parts of modern-day Pakistan, including Alexander the Great, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughal Empire, and the British Raj.

The ruins of Moenjo Daro in Sindh province are from the Indus Valley civilization, the oldest known civilization

Pakistan’s recent history is marred with conflict, both internal and external, most notably with India. It’s struggled with military coups, terrorist attacks, war, and secessionist tensions. Its army has strengthened throughout the years as a result; it’s now a nuclear power and has the sixth-largest standing armed forces in the world.

I could go into it more, but you can only cover so much in one Pakistan travel guide! If you want to get more in-depth with Pakistan’s history, I highly recommend getting a copy of Pakistan Traveller – it’s the best Pakistan travel guide book on the market.

Pakistan travel guide: Language in Pakistan

Myriad languages are spoken in Pakistan. Most people speak two or three languages. At least!

Urdu is Pakistan’s national language, as well as the language of officialdom together with English. Most middle and upper-class Pakistanis will speak (some) English. It’s rare to find a place where absolutely no one speaks English. However, it’s always good to pick up a phrase or two in Urdu before you visit Pakistan. I highly recommend Pimsleur for learning language basics .

Besides the two official languages, there are many local languages: Pashto, Sindhi, Balochi, Punjabi, Potohari, Shina, Wakhi, Burushaski… the list goes on! Every province has its own regional language, such as the aforementioned Punjabi and Sindhi. In major cities people mostly speak Urdu, but in towns and villages local languages reign supreme.

Urdu basics

• Salaamu aleikum: Hello
• Walaykum asalaam:  Hello (in response)
• Shukriya:  Thank you
• Kya haal hai?:  How are you?
• Mai thik hoon:  I am fine.
• Aap ka naam kya hai?:  What is your name?
• Mera naam Alex hai: My name is Alex.
• … kaha hai?: Where is… ?
• Kitnay paisa?:  How much?
• Ji / haan:  Yes/yeah
• Jao:  Go away
• Nehi chahiye:  I don’t need it
• Angrezi ata/ati?: Do you know English?

Interested in learning more conversational Urdu? I’ve been taking virtual lessons with a teacher, Naveed Rehman, for several years now (on and off). He’s very patient, excellent at explaining grammar, and focuses on practical conversational Urdu rather than rote memorization. I highly recommend his online Urdu classes —they’re quite affordable by Western standards, so they’re well worth a try!

Pakistan travel guide: Regions of Pakistan

The country of Pakistan is divided into four provinces and three territories, each with its own distinct culture and flavor:

Sunset at Gorakh Hill in Sindh

Sindh (province)

Major cities/destinations: Karachi, Hyderabad, Sehwan Sharif

The southernmost province of Pakistan is home to its biggest city, Karachi. But venture out into the rural areas, known as “interior Sindh”, and you’ll find a mystic realm of moody deserts, Sufi shrines, and abandoned forts.  Don’t miss my guide to traveling in Sindh.

Shalimar Bagh (Shalimar Gardens) in Lahore, Punjab

Punjab (province)

Major cities/destinations: Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan

Pakistan’s wealthiest province sits in the middle of the country. Though vast fields of wheat and other crops make stereotypical Punjabi landscapes, there are also plenty of massive Mughal relics and nature tinged with green to keep travelers busy. It’s also home to my absolute favorite city in Pakistan, Lahore .

Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (province)

Major cities/destinations: Peshawar, Chitral, Kalash Valleys

Far to the west of the country, and now including what was once known as the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), this province borders Afghanistan. Home primarily to the Pakhtun (Pashtun) people , many parts of this province are evocative of traveling Afghanistan . Some parts are off-limits—especially the south and regions along the Afghan border—but natural areas such as Swat Valley and the Kalash Valleys are popular… for good reason!

Lonely road in Balochistan province

Balochistan (province)

Major cities/destinations: Quetta, Gwadar, Hingol National Park, Makran Coastal Highway

Bordering Iran and Afghanistan, the country’s largest province is also one of the least traveled. Home to deserts, dusty mountains, and azure coastlines, this province is unfortunately off-limits to foreign travelers aside from those doing the Iran-Pakistan overland border crossing .

Islamabad, Pakistan from above

Islamabad capital territory

The country’s capital is also its own territory. Many tourists start their Pakistan travels in Islamabad, but I’ll be honest with you: I’m not the biggest fan. Though there are many things to do in Islamabad , the capital is far from representative of the rest of the country, and is on the verge of boring much of the time. Still, it’s a comfortable and relatively developed place to rest, relax, and pick up some necessities while traveling in Pakistan.

Autumn in Khyber village, Gilgit Baltistan

Gilgit Baltistan (territory)

Major cities/destinations: Gilgit, Central Hunza (Karimabad), Passu

When people come to Pakistan looking for mountains, this is where they end up. Also known as “Northern Pakistan”, the vast territory of Gilgit Baltistan is home to three major mountain ranges—Himalayas, Karakoram, and the Hindu Kush—as well as several of the world’s tallest mountains (K2, Nanga Parbat, and Rakaposhi). It’s by far the calmest and easiest to travel of all the country’s provinces, especially for female travelers . If you’re in search of nature, you’re probably heading north to Gilgit Baltistan.

Ramkot Fort in Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir (territory)

Major cities/destinations: Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley

This narrow territory to the east of Pakistan on the border with India has been disputed ever since Partition, the dividing of India and Pakistan in 1947. Tensions occasionally flare up between the Pakistani military and the Indian military, and so the territory was off-limits to foreign travelers for a long time. As of 2019, the territory has opened up slightly, though foreigners are still not allowed to go within 10 km of the border, known as the Line of Control (LOC). However, you can at least visit Muzaffarabad, Mirpur, and their surrounding areas… though security forces might hassle you a bit.

People enjoying the night air at Faisal Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Pakistan travel guide: Culture in Pakistan

Pakistan’s culture is varied and vibrant, albeit very conservative. Religion dictates and influences culture at almost every level. Keep that in mind and tread carefully when traveling to Pakistan. Keep this Pakistan travel guide handy to help you avoid any cultural faux pas situations.

Due to its diversity, it’s difficult to make generalizations about Pakistani culture… but try, I shall! This is a Pakistan travel guide, after all. Here are some cultural nuances travelers should be aware of:

Hospitality

Pakistan’s hospitality is renowned. In Pakistan, guests are a gift from God, and many people are honored to treat them as such. During my travels through Pakistan, people have…

• Invited me to stay in their homes despite not knowing me at all.
• Slept on the floor so I could sleep in their bed.
• Fed me a million and one times, even when they were fasting during Ramadan.
• Taken the time to show me around their cities, villages, regions.
• Gifted me everything from clothing to food to souvenirs.
• … and then some.

The hospitality is incredible and continues to amaze me even after repeat visits to the country.

However, in recent times—and due to some careless influencers —I feel some travelers are interpreting this hospitality the wrong way.

Pakistan is NOT a place to go because ~*everything is freeeee!!!*~. By all means, enjoy their hospitality—I sure do—but don’t take advantage of it. Give back where you can.

You can give people small tips (maybe 20 to 50 rupees) if they do something to help you out, or if they’re visibly poor but still feed you or give you things. More if they help you a lot over a period of time. Help out around the house, or buy gifts of fruits, sweets, or nuts (called “dried fruits” in Pakistan). Meat is also a good gift for poorer people in villages. Bring small gifts from your own country or home for people who host you (think postcards, sweets, trinkets, etc.).

Sometimes people will not accept, but it doesn’t hurt to offer. If it’s a matter of pride over money, you can always give a little financial gift to the kids, or leave money somewhere in their house where they’ll find it.

TL;DR: don’t be a mooch. Pakistani hospitality is something to appreciate and learn from, not take advantage of. Enjoy, then pay it forward!

The Pakistani mindset

Let me preface this by saying Pakistanis are the most hospitable people I’ve met in my travels (shout out to Iranians and Bangladeshis as runners ups).

Pakistanis make you feel wholly welcome and are the country’s greatest asset. Some of the best friends from my travels are Pakistani. I’m not sure there’s a country where it’s easier to meet and interact with locals than Pakistan.

The flip side: Pakistanis can be difficult people to deal with.

Because the country is conservative and religiously homogenous ( about 97% of the population is Muslim ), I’ve found people can be very intolerant. There is a way to do and think about things in Pakistan, and those who do or believe otherwise are often met with opposition. Though many people harbor “alternative” opinions, they are often hesitant to speak them unless in close company. People are not used to differing opinions.

Pakistanis also do not handle criticism well. I knew this, but had a nice reminder (translation: aggressive awakening) of this inability when I posted a critical video about Pakistan’s tourism scene this year. I had to field hate for weeks on end despite constructive intentions.

Don’t let me put you off Pakistan and its people; my point is that you should be very cautious when speaking about sensitive subjects and be careful to respect Pakistan’s culture. By all means discuss, but choose your battles wisely.

The rest of this guide is meant to help you get a grasp on what is and is not okay in Pakistan, and how to act once there. Read through, and you won’t need to worry about clashing with locals. As I said, Pakistan is a brilliant country for adventurous travelers… so long as you respect local culture.

Overlooking the streets of Karachi in standard wear – kurta, jeans, and a dupatta (scarf)

People who want to travel to Pakistan often ask me about the types of clothes they have to wear. Although dress codes are less strict than they used to be, it’s best to come prepared when you visit Pakistan.

There’s no official rule about what to wear ( unlike Iran ), so long as you’re somewhat modest.

If you want to wear “western” clothes such as t-shirts and jeans, go ahead; many people wear western clothes in cities, especially in wealthy areas such as malls and Defence neighborhoods. Gilgit Baltistan sees plenty of trekkers wandering about in western outdoor attire.

Women: Pakistan is a very conservative country; unless you’re in a liberal/wealthy part of a major city, I recommend dressing modestly. That means long pants and a loose shirt or dress that ideally covers your bum. Although headscarves aren’t mandatory, it pays to have one on you for entering mosques.

The local pant/shirt combination, salwar kameez , is immensely comfortable and colorful. You can pick them up in bazaars and malls throughout Pakistan—locals will appreciate it!

Men: Shorts are okay, but you won’t see many locals wearing them, and they’re not allowed in mosques. In general, it pays to dress modestly—no tank tops or shorts. Again, salwar kameez is recommended.

Buy some local clothes at one of the many bazaars, like this one in Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province

Women in Pakistan

Unfortunately, Pakistan is lagging when it comes to women’s rights. There are many places where you won’t see women on the street. Especially in rural areas, women are treated as second class citizens, domestic workers, and baby-making machines.

Foreign women are mostly be treated with respect. As an outside traveler, you straddle the line between men and women; you’re unusual enough to sit with men, but feminine enough to access women’s spaces, too.

Alas, harassment is still common, though it’s mostly restricted to unwanted touching and commentary. If a man does something to you, slap them or make a scene. Pakistanis are very protective of women and someone will likely come to your aid.

For more info, check out my guide to female travel in Pakistan .

Tipping in Pakistan

Tipping is not mandatory. Instances where you might tip someone include:

• Hiring a driver who did a good job – Several hundred PKR
• Take a private tour with a good tour guide – Several hundred PKR per day
• Dining at a fancier restaurant – Round the bill up to a more even number
• If someone goes well out of their way to help you or give you access to something – 50 to 100 PKR

If you do tip, don’t tip too much, else you’ll raise expectations for future travelers. Don’t feel pressured to tip someone if they ask you for a tip—they’re being cheeky because you’re foreign.

Pakistan travel guide: Gender divides, relationships, and sexuality in Pakistan

Pakistan’s gender divide is massive. Fly in, and you’ll see what I mean 30 seconds after stepping outside the airport.

Because of both Islam and regional culture, men and women are separated in society. Streets are a world of men, women rule in the home. Society tries to separate boys and girls until marriage… after which couples are expected to produce babies ASAP. Go figure.

That’s not to say there’s no intermingling, but it might not be what you’re used to at home. Public displays of affection—kissing, holding hands, touching in public—are taboo. Unmarried couples are subtle when they meet; you might notice them hiding in parks or behind tinted car windows. Openness about boyfriends or girlfriends is unusual. Elite Pakistanis are sometimes an exception… until their parents are involved.

My “husband” and I back in the days when I traveled as a couple/before my solo travel began

Couples travel in Pakistan

Unmarried foreign couples should just pretend to be married. Otherwise, hotels might cause problems, and people might be uncomfortable hosting you.

Tip: Make sure you have some kind of story worked out—people are probably going to ask you about your wedding!

If you’re married, no problem! You just have to deal with constant questions about children. If you already have children, you’re on a perfect life path in most Pakistani’s eyes. Well done, you.

Women to men  

Women should be on guard when interacting with men. That’s not to say all men are evil, nor should you fear speaking with men. Just know many men interpret friendliness as flirtation.

In my experience, even men I thought friends ended up hitting on me hours, days, or weeks later. To establish boundaries with men, you can call young men bhai or brother, and older men chacha or uncle.

To keep men at bay, you can say you’re married. Weirdly enough, people are more likely to believe you’re married but traveling alone than accept that you’re unmarried.

Do not say that you have a boyfriend. If you do, men will interpret that as you being sexually loose and thus willing to sleep with them. Respectable ladies do not admit they have boyfriends to men. Or so Pakistanis think.

Men to women

Boys, be cautious when interacting with women… if you can find them.

Many male travelers struggle to meet women in Pakistan. Unless hanging out with liberal/wealthy folks in cities, most women will keep their distance from you. Or stay out of sight completely.

If you do encounter women be respectful and distant with unmarried girls. Be careful if flirting. Pakistanis upset quickly; many male family members will not react well to foreign men flirting with their sister/daughter/cousin.

On the bright side, it’s more socially acceptable for men to have a girlfriend(s) than vice versa. Saying you have a girlfriend implies you’re a bit of a player, but the average man will probably respect you for it, not shame you. Mmmm toxic masculinity.

LGBTQ+ in Pakistan

As you might have guessed, Pakistan isn’t a good place to be queer.

Interestingly enough, gay couples can fly under the radar long as you don’t kiss in public or admit you’re gay. Men hold hands and put arms around men. Women hold hands and touch other women. People of the same gender share hotel rooms without issue. Basically, so long as men and women aren’t touching in public, all is well. Don’t tell anyone you’re gay and you’ll be okay.

Gay communities do exist. I’ve only met one lesbian couple in Pakistan, but I know several gay men who traveled the country and said there’s a thriving underground gay scene to be found in cities (try Grindr, Tinder, or Couchsurfing). Women, you unfortunately might have to look a bit harder.

The idea of transgenders is established in Pakistan, but not in a positive way.

Hijras are men dressed as women who traditionally beg on the streets and at weddings. Some also work as prostitutes or dancers. Aside from hijras , people aren’t familiar with transgenders or genderqueers. Brace yourself for a lot of questions and looks. If male passing, know identifying as male will save you a lot of hassle.

Hookups and relationships in Pakistan

Relationships/hooking up with Pakistanis is possible, mostly in the liberal cities of Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. Tinder is very active in Pakistan, and a good place to start fishing.

Dating is manageable… but if you want to actually sleep with someone you might encounter problems. Unless someone has their own place—meaning they don’t live with their family—you’ll have to find either an Airbnb or an expensive hotel room.

Men, please be careful if trying to hook up with women: their reputation can really be damaged if word gets out that they sleep with [foreign] men. In Pakistan, reputation is everything. You can leave Pakistan—and a bad reputation—more easily than they.

For love? Or for visa?

Beware declarations of love, marriage proposals, etc in Pakistan. Pakistani men commonly try to seduce foreign women in the hopes of marrying and getting a visa to another country. It’s not impossible to have a legitimate relationship… just more likely that ulterior motives are involved.

Ex-cans of Murree, the only local beer in Pakistan

Pakistan travel guide: Drinks and drugs in Pakistan

The Quran forbids substances… but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist in the Islamic Republic!

Be sensible with substances in Pakistan; Pakistanis tend to go overboard and authorities will not play nicely if they find drugs on you.

Alcohol in Pakistan

Believe it or not, there’s one legal brewery in Pakistan: Murree Brewery. They have a monopoly on all alcohol in the country, and produce everything from beer (passable, try the light blue wheat beer) to all kinds of liquor (beware).

Foreigners/non-Muslims can legally purchase alcohol from shops and high-end hotels. Wine shops are relatively common in multicultural Sindh province , but further north, you’ll need to look to five-star hotels and “permit shops” attached to them where drinks are sold at market cost. The shopkeepers can often arrange imported drinks for you under the table for an extra fee.

“Bootleggers” are the go-to choice for Muslims. Pakistanis who drink likely have phone numbers of several bootleggers who can deliver alcohol discreetly. Bootleggers are easy in this regard, though their drinks are usually more expensive than the shops’.

Hash (cannabis) in Pakistan

Hashish is everywhere in Pakistan.

It comes from the region around the Afghanistan-Pakistan border. Most Pakistani boys have tried hash at least once, and it’s easy for men to find someone to smoke with. Girls get raised eyebrows if they partake, though elite young women in cities do smoke. Ask around and you’re sure to find “stuff” everywhere in the country.

Read: Rolling with the stoners in Hunza

The best stuff is in/from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. Look for hash that’s relatively dry and a dark greenish brown. Despite boastful city kids’ claims, the sticky tar-like substance they smoke there is adulterated.

Other drugs in Pakistan

Yes, you can find other drugs in Pakistan.

Some pharmacies are… flexible. Heroin is widespread in the country as it comes from Pakistan’s next-door neighbor, Afghanistan. Party drugs circulate in elite society; if you’re attending a big party in Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad, there’s a decent chance someone is on drugs. LSD, MDMA, cocaine, speed, meth, they’re all there.

Whether or not you partake is on you. I won’t judge drug usage *cough* but do be careful taking substances, especially from people you don’t know well. Just because someone says white powder is cocaine doesn’t mean it’s actually cocaine (remember, cocaine comes from South America, thousands and thousands of kilometers away ).

The drug scene in Pakistan is not so developed that you can expect the average drug user to know quality from fake. Besides, in a country where even simple things like milk are faked or cut with toxic ingredients , how can you expect illicit substances to be pure?

Be careful. And drink lots of water!

Pakistan travel guide: Religion in Pakistan

The vast majority of Pakistanis are Muslim, with scattered Christian and Hindu communities. Islam is the official state religion, the head of state has to be a Muslim, and people’s religion is stated on their identity cards.

Because Pakistan is an Islamic Republic, its laws are based on Sharia law. It has some of the most draconian blasphemy laws in the world. Foreigners won’t be held to the same standards as locals, but you should always be respectful of Islam, the Prophet Muhammad, and religious culture.

Atheism, though not officially illegal, can be punishable by death under the blasphemy law . Even if you’re not religious, it’s best to say you have a religion when asked (And you will be asked about this. A lot ) .

Pakistan is one of the worst countries in the world when it comes to the treatment of religious minorities. There are specific laws persecuting the Ahmadi sect of Islam, although few Pakistanis will want to talk about this.

It’s best to steer clear of religious discussions unless you’re well acquainted with the person you’re talking to.

Sufism is a kind of Islam widely practiced in Pakistan, yet it can be a sensitive topic for very strict Muslims

Pakistan travel guide: Food in Pakistan

Pakistani food is delicious and diverse, but not particularly healthy. It involves lots of oil, meat, and bread—prepare to pack on the pounds. Outside of (village) homes, don’t expect any fresh salads when traveling in Pakistan aside from sliced onions, cucumbers, and maybe carrots or cabbage.

Food in Pakistan is full of flavors and spices, but rarely too spicy except for those with zero spice tolerance. However, hygiene standards are lacking. Most visitors to Pakistan will have some stomach trouble at one point or another.

Many cities have their own food culture and specialties. Lahore and Karachi compete for the title of the best foodie city in Pakistan. In major cities, more and more cafes and restaurants are attempting international flavors. Quality still varies widely; in general, it’s best to stick to local food. Don’t expect well-executed Western food unless you’re paying a premium.

Some famous Pakistani dishes include:

• Karahi : Meat stir-fried in a large pan
• Biryani : Spiced rice with meat
• Pulao : Rice cooked with animal fat or oil, usually containing carrots, raisins, and meat
• Dal : Lentils
• Channa : Chickpeas
• Roti : Thin round bread
• Naan : Thicker round bread
• Chapli kebab : The best kebab (in my humble opinion), somewhat like a burger patty… but 10x better. The best chapli kebab is found in K hyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province.

Karachi’s street food scene is on

Vegetarians and vegans in Pakistan

Traveling as a vegetarian in Pakistan can be difficult… but it is possible. Affluent Pakistanis understand (and sometimes scoff at) the concept. Except for the poorest of people, meat is a daily staple. Chicken and fish aren’t even considered “meat”—meat means mutton or beef.

If you’re a strict vegetarian, tell your host beforehand. Otherwise, it will lead to awkward situations when someone cooks up a meaty feast in your honor and you have to reject it.

Vegans will have a much harder time traveling in Pakistan. Many dishes include butter or yogurt, and explaining you can’t eat eggs will be interesting. Dal and channa are sometimes cooked in the same pot as meat, or with meat stock. Veganism hardly exists in Pakistan. Be firm, but know you’ll be restricted to dal , channa , and “mix  sabzi “(mixed vegetables). You’ll need to be very clear about no butter or  ghee  (clarified butter).

Pakistan travel guide: Money and the cost of travel in Pakistan

Pakistan uses the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, and 5000 Rs. There are also coins, but these are virtually useless. Some shops will give change in small candy, rather than coins!

Getting money from ATMs can be a struggle, especially in the north. Not all banks accept foreign cards. Several banks (hi Standard Chartered) charge a 500 Rs fee per withdrawal. Islamic banks do not work with foreign cards . ATMs in the mountains often run out of cash.

In my experience, Bank Alfalah , Habib Bank , and MCB Bank ( not M I B Bank) are your best bet for withdrawing cash from ATMs in Pakistan.

Northern Pakistan is beautiful… but can be a nightmare when it comes to finding cash. Stock up before you head up!

Cost of travel in Pakistan

Pakistan is a relatively cheap country to travel, although it can be tricky to find budget accommodation outside of the popular tourist destinations or in high season (June – August). Below is a breakdown of the average cost of traveling in Pakistan on a backpacker budget.

At the time of writing, US$1 = 155 Rs.

Food & drinks

• Water or soda : 30 – 100 Rs
• Tea:  10 – 50 Rs
• Breakfast and lunch:  50 – 100 Rs each
• Dinner:  50 – 250 Rs (street food ahoy!)

Accommodation

• Budget hotels:  800 – 1,500 Rs
• Mid-range:  1,500  – 4,000 Rs

Cultural outings

• Museums:  200 – 500 Rs
• Historical sights:  500 – 1,000Rs
• National Parks:  800 Rs
• Mosques: Free

For more info, check out this backpacking in Pakistan budget report.

If you do travel to Pakistan during high season, try to book accommodation ahead of time. Popular places along the Karakoram Highway, such as Hunza, are really popular with Pakistani tourists, and places can be full. Pakistan Traveller is a fantastic Pakistan travel guide that has a multitude of hotel recommendations for everywhere and anywhere you might want to travel in Pakistan.

Famous sights like Baltit Fort in Hunza will cost around 1,000 Rs for a foreigner ticket

Pakistan travel guide: Visas for Pakistan

Almost everyone needs a visa for Pakistan. It used to be a real pain in the butt to get a visa for Pakistan, but the recent e-visa introduction made things much easier. The e-visa form is still way too long and full of irrelevant questions, but at least it’s a start in the right direction.

To find out if you’re eligible for a Pakistani e-visa, go to the e-visa portal of Pakistan . It also mentions a visa on arrival scheme, but many have reported problems with it. It’s better to apply for an e-visa .

How to apply for a Pakistan e-visa

Ensure you have JPEG files of:

• Passport information page
• Passport photo with a white background
• Letter of invitation by a tour company or hotel booking confirmation. I work with a local company to offer cheap letters of invitation for Pakistan evisas . Don’t miss out!

Go to the Pakistan e-visa portal and register yourself. To do this, click the “Tourist Visa” button under “Visa Categories”. It will lead you to the info page about tourist visas. If you click “Apply now”, you’ll be prompted to create a new account or log in to an existing account.

Once registered you can start your application. Allow you have plenty of time, as it can easily take an hour or more to fill out all the questions. Many of them seem unnecessary (and probably are) but alas, you have to fill in the entire form.

Once you’ve finished your application, it’s time to pay. The visa costs US$35 for most nationalities. You can pay with Visa or MasterCard. I’ve heard reports of the payment not working all the time, so check you actually paid.

After you’ve paid, click “Submit your Application”. If you don’t do this, the application will remain pending.

The e-visa portal states it takes 5-7 working days for a visa to be approved, but turnaround can be much faster. If you haven’t heard anything after 7 working days, contact them directly via the e-visa portal. It’s possible they need additional documentation from you.

Pakistan travel guide: Entering and exiting Pakistan

Pakistan shares a border with Afghanistan, China, India, and Iran. It also has multiple international airports. There are no international ferry services to or from Pakistan.

To enter Pakistan you need a valid visa, and you need to fill out an arrival form at customs. The arrival card asks the usual questions such as your name, address, name of the hotel you’ll be staying in, etc.

Exiting Pakistan is straightforward, and no forms have to be filled out.

Land borders

• Afghanistan : This border is at the famous Khyber Pass. Technically, this border is closed to foreigners, but there have been reports of people successfully crossing this border. However, we don’t recommend using this border, as traveling overland in Afghanistan comes with considerable risk.
• China : The land border with China at the Khunjerab Pass is the highest paved border crossing in the world. This border should be open year-round, but heavy snowfall in the area sometimes leads to closures. Check ahead if crossing this border during winter months. For more info, check out my guide on crossing the border between Pakistan and China at the Khunjerab Pass .
• India : Many people believe that the Wagah border isn’t open to foreigners. This is not true. Provided you have a visa, this is actually a pretty easy border to cross. For more info, check out my detailed guide on crossing the famous Wagah border between India and Pakistan . The Wagah border is the only border between India and Pakistan that is open to tourists.
• Iran : There is only one border crossing open to tourists, and it’s not the most relaxing experience. The crossing is located in the Baluchistan province of Pakistan, an area that the government deems too unsafe for independent travel. You’ll get a security escort on the Pakistan side. For detailed info about this border crossing, check out my guide to crossing the border between Iran and Pakistan .

International airports

The main airports in Pakistan are in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Several major airlines fly into Pakistan, and more routes are being added regularly. These include routes to London, Dubai, Istanbul, and Kuala Lumpur.

Pakistan travel guide: Accommodation in Pakistan

Booking a place to sleep in Pakistan ahead of time can be challenging. Although websites and online booking are becomig more common in Pakistan, it’s still not as widespread as in surrounding countries. Pakistanis usually call ahead to reserve rooms.

Finding hotels to stay at in less-visited places—especially ones that accept foreign guests—can be quite the challenge. That’s where having a Pakistan travel guide in print can make a huge difference; all the information is already there. If you’re open to carrying a Pakistan travel guide book with you, I can’t recommend Pakistan Traveller by Urbanduniya enough.

Online booking in Pakistan

Booking.com and Airbnb are growing in Pakistan. The former is still mostly for mid-range to luxury hotels, and the latter works… sometimes. There are an unfortunate amount of creepy men on Airbnb offering rooms in their homes to female travelers only; beware and steer clear.

Facebook pages are increasingly common for mid-range accommodation options, and can be useful for contacting a property to ask questions or reserve a room.

How to find cheap guesthouses in Pakistan

Want to find a cheap place to rest your head? You’ll need to rely on the traveler grapevine. Guidebooks are not very reliable for prices— Pakistan Traveller by Tim Blight being the only exception—and not all cheap hotels and guesthouses accept foreign travelers.

Facebook groups like Backpacking Pakistan and Female Pakistan travelers are your best bet for information on cheap places to stay. Use the search function to find accommodation discussions.

It’s a bit of a hassle, but there’s a plus side: you can haggle over accommodation price upon arrival . Don’t feel bad about it, especially in touristic areas with inflated seasonal prices; Pakistanis expect it, and will take advantage of foreigners who do not haggle. If you can get 15-25% off of the quoted price—up to 50% if it’s particularly inflated—you’re doing well.

Some popular accommodation for backpackers in Pakistan you might want to be aware of include:

• Lahore Backpackers (US$6 for dorm bed)
• Five Giants (US$15-20 for a shared room in homestay)
• Adam’s House (US$10 for a private room)
• Islamabad: Backpackers’ Hostel & Guesthouse Islamabad (US$8 for dorm bed)
• Madina Hotel and Madina Hotel 2 (around US$10-20 for a double)
• Karimabad: Old Hunza Inn
• Peshawar: Hidayat Hotel

Lunch with my host at a homestay I found through Let’s Home

Homestays in Pakistan

Until recently, there weren’t many homestay options in Pakistan, but that is changing. Check out my article on homestays in Pakistan to get all the latest info.

A special shoutout goes to Seema, a motivated Hunzai woman, who recently started a booking platform called Let’s Home . She offers a variety of accommodation including homestays around Gilgit Baltistan. I used it to find a family in old Altit, and had a great experience.

Couchsurfing in Pakistan

The Couchsurfing community is highly active in Pakistan’s cities, and local CSers are eager to host foreigners. Most of the CS community is male, but there are few female members in major cities and many men are trustworthy. Always read the host’s references before agreeing to stay.

Since CS has become a paid service now, check out the Facebook group for CSers in Pakistan.

Being hosted in Pakistan

It’s remarkably easy to be hosted once on the road.

Unbelievable until you’re in Pakistan, but many people will simply offer you a place in their homes if you chat with them long enough. Their overwhelming hospitality is a privilege; make sure not to abuse their kindness. Don’t overstay your welcome, help around the house (they won’t accept at first), and bring small gifts from your country or tokens of appreciation like fruits or sweets.

Another bonus to being hosted: in Pakistan, family and friends are everywhere and it’s normal to stay with them when visiting places. Your host will probably offer to find a friend for you to stay with in your next destination. Make one friend, and their whole social network opens up!

Pakistan travel guide: Transportation in Pakistan

Pakistan has a myriad of transport options. Train, bus, and minibus are most common for long-distance travel. For shorter distances use either rickshaws (south of Islamabad), taxis (Islamabad) or Jeeps (north of Islamabad).

Pakistan has an extensive rail network. Trains are relatively comfortable, albeit a bit slow. Prices are reasonable unless you want AC class. It is advisable to book your ticket ahead of time, and with the help of a local.

Check the Pakistan Railway website for schedules and fares. The website is not the easiest to use, but it’ll do. If you have a local friend with a credit card and phone number, they can book you a ticket online. Don’t roget to read my guide on train travel in Pakistan before you do!

Buses and minibuses

Pakistan’s multitude of bus options are sometimes overwhelming. But that’s where this Pakistan travel guide can help you out!

From crappy minibus, to bedazzled local buses, to well-run Daewoo and Faisal Movers services, there are a lot of ways to get from A to B.

High-end bus services

When I’m in a rush and want to make sure I reach my destination on time, I prefer Faisal Movers, Daewoo, or for Gilgit-Baltistan, NATCO. These services are professional, leave on time and are very comfortable. Definitely worth the extra rupees.

• Schedules for Daewoo
• Schedules for NATCO

Ticket prices depend on the type of bus. I’ve had luxurious buses with reclining seats and AC… and passable contraptions with no AC. Different buses go at different times. To get an idea of prices, a Daewoo from Lahore to Islamabad (Rawalpindi) goes for 1,000 to 1,500 Rs for the four-hour journey .

You can usually book tickets on the same day at the bus station or through your hotel. Note that Daewoo has its own stations, so make sure you go here and not to the local bus station.

Local buses and minibuses

Prices for local buses are much cheaper, but you’ll be packed in like sardines in a can.

Minibuses are usually available for shorter hops between towns. Sometimes there’s a minibus yard, sometimes they leave from a specific point on the road, and sometimes… nobody knows where they leave from! Ask locals to figure out where you can find a bus to your next destination, or wait on a roadside and try flagging down passing minibuses—they can stop anywhere.

Minibus prices should be set, but ticket hawkers are likely to try making some extra money off of you. A minibus shouldn’t be much more than 200 Rs for a five-hour journey . Ask a fellow passenger what the price is, or watch to see what other people around you are paying.

Local bus and a Qingqi in Sehwan Sharif

To save yourself some hassle, download the taxi app Careem , which most Pakistanis use to get taxis. Uber (now the owner of Careem) also operates in major Pakistani cities.

Both offer a variety of vehicles ranging from motorbikes to rickshaws to air-conditioned cars, and they’re by far the easiest and most hassle-free way to get around cities.

Rickshaws and Qingqis

Rickshaws (with doors) and Qingqis (pronounced “ching-chee”, totally open) have a somewhat bad reputation, but in my experience, they’re the fastest way to get around in cities. There are no set prices, though, and sometimes you have to drive a hard bargain.

As a basic rule of thumb, for foreigners, the actual price is probably around 50-75% of what the rickshaw driver initially quotes you. Offer half of what he’s saying, then bargain up from there. Alternatively, check the price of a rickshaw to your destination using the rideshare apps Uber and Careem—yes, they offer rickshaw rides, too—and use that as a bargaining point.

Don’t be afraid to walk away if the price seems too high. There are thousands of rickshaws around; another rickshaw driver is sure to appear if you’re not satisfied with the price.

Pricing is a bit tricky, but a 10-minute drive should cost about 150 Rs.

Many places in the mountains, such as Fairy Meadows and Deosai, are only accessible by jeep. There are public transport jeeps for remote valleys like Chapursan and Shimshal , but in other areas you’ll have to hire a private jeep.

Prices to popular places such as Fairy Meadows are fixed and non-negotiable, while others are more… flexible. It pays to wait around and see if you can share a jeep with other people going your way. Alternatively, you can post in the Backpacking Pakistan Facebook group to find someone to share a ride with.

A jeep to Fairy Meadows is 7,500 Rs, and a jeep to Deosai is 8-10,000 Rs for a day trip. Overnight trips are more expensive. Hotels can arrange jeeps for you, at a higher cost. Your best bet is to ask friendly locals what a decent rate should be.

A private jeep hired during one of my unique women-only tours of Pakistan

Pakistan travel guide: Safety in Pakistan

One of the things people want to know before going: is Pakistan safe? A fair question!

For years, Pakistan was associated with violence. Terrorist groups were in power in many rural areas and terror attacks were common in cities.  Heck, even now many governments advise against travel to (parts of) Pakistan. There’s no denying the country is still perceived as dangerous.

Although terrorist attacks still happen—and not all places in Pakistan are safe for travel—the security situation has largely improved. The Pakistani military has stabilized the security situation. Places that foreigners are likely to visit, such as the cities of Lahore and Islamabad or the mountains of Gilgit Baltistan are generally safe to travel, given you take standard precautions. The fact that you’re reading through this Pakistan travel guide means you’re already more prepared than others.

Legitimately dangerous areas are off-limits to foreign visitors, so the chance of something serious happening to you is slim. The biggest dangers of traveling in Pakistan are traffic-related, pollution, and getting sick from poor hygiene standards. Oh, and hospitality 😉

To be fair, there’s a good chance you’ll still feel uncomfortable at times with the current security situation. Pakistan is still a police state. There’s a lot of heavily armed personnel on the streets, and many security checkpoints throughout the country. Sensitive sites such as shrines and religious minority gatherings will be filled with army/police/security. Don’t let it intimidate you—these people are there for safety purposes.

To learn more about safe travel in Pakistan, check out my article on whether it’s safe to travel in Pakistan .

That time I had a security escort with me during the urs of Lal Shahbaz in Sehwan Sharif

Dealing with security in Pakistan  

When people ask me about the security situation in Pakistan, I usually respond with “Pakistan doesn’t have a security problem, in Pakistan security is the problem.”

Security agencies are a sore spot for many foreign travelers in Pakistan, though don’t say so to any Pakistani.

To be fair, it’s in the agencies’ interests to keep foreign travelers out of trouble. If anything happens to a foreigner it will be all over the news and Pakistan’s international image will sink further.

Agencies are overbearing with foreigners because of this. In my years of travel in Pakistan, I’ve had intelligence agency stalkers, confrontational encounters with police, mandatory armed guards. Police and army stopped me from going places saying I needed permission or an NOC (non objection certificate) but didn’t say how to get one.

On the bright side, things have vastly improved in the last year. Gilgit Baltistan and the Chitral region almost entirely removed the need for NOCs and armed escorts in 2019 .

However, you’ll likely encounter issues if traveling to less-visited destinations, especially in southern Punjab and Sindh province . Common problematic places for travelers include:

• Multan – Foreigners are often required to leave immediately if discovered by police. Can only stay if unnoticed residing at luxury hotels.
• Bahawalpur – Foreigners are not allowed into army-occupied palaces, and can again only stay at expensive hotels.
• Sukkur – Multiple travelers reported questioning and harassment by security agencies when visiting Sukkur.

Hopefully security won’t be an issue for you, but if you must deal with security, be polite but firm. Ask them to show their identification first. Save phone numbers of Pakistanis you meet in the government or army; power and connections go a long way with security agencies. If what they’re asking of you doesn’t make sense, stand your ground.

Protip: Never insult the army. Most Pakistanis love the army. Despite their rather ominous not-so-secret control of the country, they did help stabilize it and don’t ask for bribes like police do. Pakistanis will not take kindly to army insults.

Pakistan travel guide: Connectivity in Pakistan

Connectivity in Pakistan is hit-and-miss. Wifi is often bad—if present at all—and mobile signals can go down at any time for no reason. Signals are often blocked during large events that may pose a security threat. Cities have decent 4G coverage, but especially in the rural north, there are many places with no coverage at all. If you want to have the widest range of coverage, you’ll need two or three different sim cards from several mobile operators.

Mobile SIM cards for calling and data in Pakistan

Overall, Zong and Telenor are your best bet in cities and rural areas. In northern Gilgit Baltistan, Zong and Telenor work in  some  areas, but it’s a better idea to buy a SCOM SIM card instead. You can buy them at customer service centers in hubs such as Gilgit, Aliabad, and Karimabad.

Getting a SIM card can be an annoying process. Foreigners cannot buy SIM cards at any outlet—you have to go to an official “customer service center” of the mobile provider to get one. You must fill out a registration form to buy a SIM, so bring copies of your passport.

It usually takes 4-12 hours for your card to activate (24 for SCOM). Your SIM card will expire when your visa expires.

WiFi in Pakistan

WiFi in Pakistan is spotty at best. Upscale cafes will have Wifi that may or may not work, as will high-end hotels. Besides that, you’re pretty much lost.

Rather than relying on WiFi networks, I usually buy a large mobile data pack (10GB, mmm blogger life) and use my mobile phone as a WiFi hotspot. If you’re going to do that, buy a power bank so you don’t have to worry about your phone running out of battery while you do so.

Pakistan travel guide: Being a responsible tourist in Pakistan

Pakistan encourages many bad habits; it’s easy to forget to be a responsible tourist in the face of it all.

Nevertheless, we visitors have a responsibility to Pakistan and its people to leave a positive impact on the country, especially as tourism develops. Here are some suggestions for visiting Pakistan responsibly:

• Always ask before taking someone’s picture, especially women . Many women (and their male family) are sensitive about having their photo taken.
• Don’t take photos of children unless you have permission from their parents . Share sparingly. Pakistani photographers abuse this all the time; that doesn’t make it right.
• Keep places clean . If you find a plastic bag or have one to spare, use it to collect trash while walking in nature. Dispose of trash somewhere where it might be disposed of properly.
• Hire local guides and drivers. Punjabis tend to dominate the tourism scene, but they are not locals outside of Punjab.
• Support female-run businesses . Pakistan is far from gender equality, but many women in the country are trying to change that. Some totally female-run examples are Let’s Home for accommodation, The Mad Hatters for organized tours, and A Piece Of Cake café in Lahore.

Useful? Pin it!

Other useful resources for planning Pakistan travel

Want more sweet Pakistan travel deliciousness? Below are several of my favorite posts to help you plan your trip to Pakistan. They’re full of all kinds of things to know before going to Pakistan.

Pakistan tours I run

• 3 weeks: Pakistan for women, by women
• 2 weeks: Pakistan adventure motorcycle tour

Best Pakistan travel guide book

Pakistan Traveller by Urbanduniya is hands down the best printed Pakistan travel guide on the market. I know; I helped him with the latest edition!

Pakistan travel guides on Lost With Purpose

• Is Pakistan safe to travel?
• Guide to traveling in Sindh province
• Is it safe for women to travel in Pakistan?
• Female traveler’s guide to Pakistan
• First timer’s guide to train travel in Pakistan
• Experiences to add to your Pakistan bucket list
• Traveling Pakistan during Ramadan

Region-specific Pakistan travel guides

• Things to do in Lahore
• Chapursan Valley travel guide
• Phander Valley travel guide
• Kalash Valley travel guide
• Guide to trekking in Swat Valley

Epic Pakistan experiences

• The longest border crossing in the world
• Desert trippin’ at the urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar in Sehwan Sharif
• Sufi nights in Lahore
• Learning to motorbike in Pakistan
• Rolling with the stoners in Hunza
• Bloodbaths in the Walled City: Eid al Adha in Lahore

Need even more tips about travel in Pakistan? Ask them in the comments or get in touch .

Alex Reynolds

33 thoughts on “ pakistan travel guide: everything to know before you go ”.

Very good and creative method for building backlinks to your site and also traffic. It’s very good! Thanks a lot for this post!

Outstanding read!

Very Informative and funny.

Thanks for sharing.

great article thanks for sharing. i always struggeld with finding an ATM, so then i foudn this travel app ” ATM Fee Saver” it shows ATMs close by and gives information about their fees and limit. super useful 🙂 maybe you wanna check it out.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Voice speed

Text translation, source text, translation results, document translation, drag and drop.

Website translation

Enter a URL

Image translation

30+ Useful Urdu Travel Phrases For You

• , February 20, 2023

Did you know that Urdu is one of Pakistan’s two most-spoken languages? While the majority of people talk in Punjabi and Pushto, along with English as one of the country’s official languages, there is still a huge population in Pakistan that uses Urdu. So, if you are traveling to Pakistan soon, you must get in touch with some Urdu travel phrases to have a smooth journey.

In today’s post, we will walk through some basic Urdu vocabulary and essential phrases that will come in handy throughout your journey. Learning some travel phrases like یہ کتنا ہے؟- yeh kitna hai ? , یہ کیا ہے؟- yeh kya hai ? etc., is a must no matter where you are traveling. Even if the country is well equipped with English-speaking persons, knowing the official language is a way of showing respect for their culture and making communication easy.

So, if you want to learn more, continue reading!

Pakistani Travel Tips

Before we improve our poor speaking skills with some basic Urdu phrases, let us first get a quick travel guide to make your trip to Pakistan free of any trouble.

The first thing you need to keep in mind is the cultural sensitivity of the country. There are many ethnic groups with their own beliefs, cultural food, traditions, and distinctions, like Punjabi, Sindhi, Hazara, Baloch, and more. However, all of them have some decent and all-encompassing norms like wearing modest clothes, respecting elders, and having distant interactions between men and women. So, once you land in the country, you must become well aware of the changes in your surroundings.

The next important thing is to carry cash at all times. Pakistan is still trying to catch up with the digital world. People still don’t use online or card payments as such and prefer cash. Especially if you visit roadside cafes or stores, you will have very less chances of getting card-paying subscriptions. So, keep your currency exchanged and research well to get the best rates.

Learn important words in Urdu. Another very essential tip is to learn some essential phrases and words in the Urdu language. While Pakistani people understand and speak English to a good extent, most people still prefer Urdu. So, if you keep some useful phrases intact, you will get a more endearing response from the locals. Moreover, the language learning journey will help you in mastering Urdu if you are a keen language learner.

Research well before you leave. While Pakistan is an adventurous country to explore, you must always be vigilant if you want to be safe. There have been a lot of border activities in the past, and there are chances of happening in the future. So, always read the news, heed warnings, and keep primary valuables inconspicuously.

Urdu Travel Phrases

Let us start with the most comprehensive phrase guide to make your Pakistani trip a success. Here, we will learn many phrases under different categories so that you can figure out your required tab easily and learn them by heart. If you are ready, let’s get started and master Urdu today.

Greetings: Five Most Essential Phrases And More

First, we will learn all the greeting words in the Urdu language. Pakistani people usually greet each other by using the phrase Salaam-vaalaikum- السلام علیکم and the other person replies with Vaalaikum-salaam – وعلیکم السلام. Men shake hands and hug each other, whereas women kiss and hug each other. Be careful to not hug or shake hands with a person of the opposite sex in public.

Below are more greeting phrases to help you communicate with your new friends.

Mealtime Phrases In The Official Language

Here you will find all the words you will need to clarify your queries in a restaurant. Travelling to a new country, you will always be wary of what to order and how to order . But with the phrases mentioned below, you will soon start speaking confidently to people and get your required meal without any confusion.

Shopping Phrases In Urdu

How can we not talk about shopping when it comes to vacation trips? We always go with one bag and return with five. Well, that’s a rule of the traveling world. However, to make that happen, you must know some bargaining words and phrases. So, give the table below a good read.

Transportation In Urdu

Let us now come to some transportation phrases. If you are planning to take the public transportation system in Pakistan, you will need this. You cannot be simply relying on google maps. Sometimes, only the locals can be your guide.

Directions Urdu Phrases

You will always get lost in a new place. So, to save yourself from being lost forever, learn the phrases given below and easily communicate with the locals.

Emergency Basic Urdu Vocabulary

Lastly, it is very important to be ready for emergencies. No matter where you travel, emergencies have their way of surprising you. However, it is not impossible to face them. To keep you safe even in urgent times, the table below has all the travel words ready for you.

Over To You!

Well, that was a lot of phrases to remember. But once you get used to these, nothing can stop you from becoming a pro-Urdu speaker. Learning these will not only bring you close to the locals but also help you understand the Urdu language deeper.

Talking about the language, if you want to learn more and continue exploring the Urdu world, download the Ling app today.

Ling is a revolutionary language learning application that covers 60+ foreign languages and curates many other blog posts on topics such as food , business , weather , culture, and more. It hires expert writers and native speakers for that and ensures you learn your specific language with precision.

Moreover, the web platform or the app has an AI chatbot that allows you to learn anytime through conversational lessons. Doing so helps you improve your communication skills and makes retention easy. So, if you want to connect to the world from a different perspective of language courses and enjoy an exciting experience, go to the App Store or Play Store , download Ling, and start learning Urdu today!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Discover more​

People also read

Introduce Yourself In Greek: #1 Amazing Guide

No greek on babbel 2 most powerful apps exposed.

#1 Best Guide For Countries And Nationalities In Greek

Numbers In Greek: An Easy Way To Count From 1 To 1000!

6 best ways to say thank you in greek.

Greek Flag: 6 Fun Facts You Need To Know Today

Southeast asia, east europe.

© 2024 Simya Solutions Ltd.

• 2024 IHG DIPLOMAT of the Year Awards
• Weaving International Fashion: A Diplomatic Fashion Show
• VFS Global appointed to deliver UK Government visa and passport services across 142 countries

PAKISTAN’S TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

With some of the most diverse natural beauty on the planet, Pakistan’s High Commissioner says it’s no wonder that Forbes  ranked his country one of the ‘10 Coolest Places to go’

Pakistan is a kaleidoscope of some of the most diverse natural beauty in the world; it’s a cradle of ancient civilizations and a ‘melting pot’ of religions and cultures. The World Economic Forum placed Pakistan among the top 25 per cent of global destinations for its UNESCO ‘World Heritage Sites.’

From the stretches of great mountain ranges in the north, to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the south, Pakistan remains a land blessed with nature’s beauty and majestic mountains. With shining deserts and some of the world’s highest peaks, the country has myriad attractions for sightseers, skiers, trekkers and mountaineers. For those interested in white water rafting, trout fishing, jeep, camel and yak safaris and out of this world flora and fauna, Pakistan is the place to be.

 It’s a land that holds a reservoir of knowledge for archaeologists, historians, artists, teachers and anthropologists, and it contains contains deep religious heritage for pilgrims of various faiths and beliefs.

These attributes mean that the tourism sector in Pakistan has started to register exponential and speedy growth. From less than half a million foreign tourist arrivals in 2015, the world tourism monitoring agencies recorded over two million tourist arrivals during 2019. Domestic tourism crossed the 40 million mark last year. last year.

World view of tourism potential in Pakistan

Pakistan is ranked No. 1 on Condé Nast Traveller’s  list of 20 best holiday destinations for 2020.

Lonely Planet  called Pakistan ‘tourism’s next big thing.’

Forbes  ranked Pakistan as one of the ‘10 Coolest Places to go in 2019.’

The British Backpacker Society (BBS) declared Pakistan as the world’s third best potential adventure destination for 2020. The year before, the BBS declared that ‘Pakistan tops the list of world’s best travel destinations’, describing it as ‘one of the friendliest countries on earth.’ A land of splendour, the landscape stretches remarkably from the high mountain ranges in the north to the plains and deserts of central Pakistan, and the Arabian Sea in the south. In addition to the natural beauty in the four provinces of Pakistan, the people are very hospitable and generous toward foreign tourists.

Five of the world’s highest mountain peaks

Pakistan’s mountain ranges include the famous Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush. There are several high peaks in Pakistan, with the tallest being K 2 (at 8,611 metres), the second highest in the world. The country is blessed with five out of the 14 highest mountain peaks of the world. From April to September, domestic and international mountaineers throng the area.

Highest Trade Route in the World

The 806km Karakorum Highway constructed along the ancient Silk Road linking Pakistan to China is the highest trade route in the world. Additionally, the nearby Mintaka Pass lies along the fabulous ancient Silk Road that linked Europe to Asia and over which history’s most famous tourists once travelled. These include the Venetian trader Marco Polo in the thirteenth century (the wild Marco Polo sheep was named after him), the Chinese Monk Fe Hien in the fourth century, and Arab historian Al-Beruni in the eleventh century.

Punjab (Mughal era monuments and Gandhara Buddhist civilisation)

The Punjab province comprises rich agricultural lands, an extensive network of rivers and channels, shrines, ancient forts and gardens from the Mughal era. Over 2,000 years ago, the world famous Gandhara Buddhist civilisation flourished in northern Pakistan, with Taxila as the principal seat of Buddhist learning.

Balochistan (Mountain Ranges and Caves)

The Balochistan province is the largest in the country in terms of area. Besides being blessed with nature’s bounty of mineral resources, it also has immense natural beauty comprising mountain ranges, mines and a very long coastal belt, including the newly developed Gwadar Port. In Balochistan there are many caves for tourists to visit, including the Juniper Shaft Cave, Shahre-e-Roghan, the Murghagull Gharra cave, Mughall saa cave, and Pakistan’s naturally decorated cave, the Mangocher Cave.

Sindh (Moenjodaro, Karachi, Arabian Sea)

In the south, the province of Sindh also abounds in natural beauty. It is most famous as home to the ancient city Moenjo-daro (Indus Valley Civilisation), the commercial hub city of Karachi, plus its seaports and beautiful beaches, spread over hundreds of miles of coastline.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Kaghan and Swat Valleys)

Again, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is well known for its varying natural beauty, comprising some awe-inspiring valleys and mountains in the north, including the Kaghan and Swat valleys, and the famous Khyber Pass.

Northern areas (Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu)

Spread over 72,496 square km, the northern areas of Pakistan are as captivating and mesmerising in beauty as the other regions. Amid towering snow-clad peaks, several over 8,000 metres, the beautiful serene valleys of Gilgit, Hunza and Skardu are magnificent. 

Forty skiers from 13 countries including Greece, Turkey, Ukraine, Hong Kong, the UK and Belgium participated in the International Skiing Cup in Pakistan in February 2019 at Naltar, Gilgit Baltistan. The cultural patterns in this region are as varied and interesting as its topography.

Vegetation and Fauna

Pakistan is also rich in vegetation and fauna. With their alpine meadows and permanent snow line, coniferous forests down the sub-mountain scrub, the vast Indus plain merging into the great desert, the coastline and wetlands, the Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush ranges all offer a remarkably rich variety of vegetation and wildlife including avifauna, both endemic and migratory. 10 of 18 mammalian orders are represented in Pakistan with species ranging from the world’s smallest surviving mammal, the Mediterranean Pygmy Shrew, to the largest mammal ever known, the blue whale.

Indus Valley Civilisation

Through the centuries, waves of invaders and migrants settled down in the land that is now Pakistan, influencing the locals and slowly being absorbed among them. Modern Pakistanis are a blend of Harappan, Indo-Aryan, Indo-Iranian, Saka, Parthian, Kushan, White Hun, Afghan, Arab, Turkic and Mughal heritages. Thus, the region encompassing modern-day Pakistan is home to the oldest Asian civilisation (and one of the oldest in the world after Mesopotamia and Egypt ), the Indus Valley Civilisation (2,500-1,500 BC).

Religious Tourism

Pakistan is a land of love and hospitality. A land of spiritual endowment, it is also the resting place of many spiritual saints from all religions, be it the sufi mystics of Islam; the Hindu Tiraths dating back to 3,000BC; the disciples of Buddha attaining ‘nirvana’ buried under the remains of Gandhara civilisation; or Baba Guru Nanak Ji, the founder of the Sikh religion who was born in 1,469AD at Nankana Sahib, about 72km north of Lahore. Pakistan has always whole-heartedly worked to preserve its historical sites — whether it’s a church, Gurdwara, temple, mosque, museum, tomb, fort or shrine.

Pakistan’s Buddhist Heritage

Born in the foothills of the Himalayas, Buddhism found avid followers, supporters and patrons in Gandhara, the Land of Fragrance. Pakistan became the custodian of rich collections of sacred relics and superb specimens of art and architecture from Buddhist civilisation. For example, the Buddhist ruins of Taxila are priceless treasures of immense interest to Buddhists and researchers around the world. Taxila became a centre of excellence when the first ever university was founded there in the 10th century BC.

Pakistan’s Christian Heritage

Thomas the Apostle came to present day Taxila in the first century AD. Pakistan has historical churches in various locations, and these religious buildings symbolise the spirit of a community and the cultural context of centuries. Our Lady of Fatima Church, Islamabad, Christ Church, Kotri, St Paul’s Church, Rawalpindi, Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Lahore, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Karachi, Holy Rosary Church, Quetta, St Mary’s Cathedral Church, Multan, and St Luke’s Church, Abbottabad are just a of the few churches in Pakistan well worth visiting.

Pakistan’s Sikh Heritage

Sikhism was founded by Guru Nanak, who was born in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan. Since Punjab was the centre of activities for Sikh Gurus, and later the political power base of the Sikhs, there are numerous sites in Pakistan that are sacred to the Sikh community. Thousands of pilgrims visit these places from all over the globe.

Among the sacred shrines is Gurdwara Darbar Sahib, Kartarpur, near Lahore. Pakistan’s government opened the Kartarpur Corridor to allow visa-free access to Sikh pilgrims from India . In 2019, the government renovated and expanded Kartarpur Corridor to celebrate the 550th birth anniversary of Baba Guru Nanak, and it has thus emerged as a centre of interfaith harmony and a symbol of goodwill of the people of Pakistan for the Sikh community.

Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Gurdwara Choa Sahib, Rohtas, Gurdwara Bhai Joga Singh, Peshawar, Gurdwara Sadhu Bela, Sukkur, and Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Lahore are just a few of the many Gurdwaras that are visited by thousands of Sikhs from around the world each year.

The Gurdwara has become the centre of the annual pilgrimage by Sikh communities the world over. All Gurdwaras and Sikh shrines in Pakistan have been declared sacred places and are meticulously maintained by our government. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) offers special pilgrimage tours, and Pakistani embassies and consulates abroad issue expeditious pilgrimage visas for that purpose.

Saints, Sufis, and Shrines

Pakistan is a land of saints and sufis who preached amity, peace and universal love. Their teachings promoted religious co-existence, communal harmony and tolerance in society, which is why there has always been communal harmony in Pakistan. This provides further opportunities for religious tourism in the country.

History reveals that various Sufi saints have bestowed Pakistan with messages of adoration and peace to promote Islamic virtues. Pakistanis consider the country to be blessed as the resting place of Saints in the Shrines of Data Ganj Bakhsh Hajveri, Lahore, Hazrat Abdullah Shah Ghazi, Karachi, Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, Sehwan Sharif, Sachal Sarmast, Khairpur, and Hazrat Bahauddin Zakaria, Multan.

Royal Couple’s visit to Pakistan

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s visit to Pakistan was an important milestone in bilateral relations. After all, HRH Prince William had accompanied HRH Princess Diana to Pakistan at a very young age. Attracting international attention with huge media coverage, the visit was a boost of confidence for Pakistan’s tourism and cherished by Pakistan and its people.

[email protected]

Review overview

Related articles.

DIPLOMATIC MEMBERSHIP AT ROSL

IS DIPLOMACY BECOMING TOO DIFFICULT?

Advocacy and Public Diplomacy

No comments.

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.

Countries and continent

Tourism in Pakistan

Disclaimer: Some posts on Tourism Teacher may contain affiliate links. If you appreciate this content, you can show your support by making a purchase through these links or by buying me a coffee . Thank you for your support!

Tourism in Pakistan has a lot of potential. But why is this industry so important and what does it all mean? Read on to find out…

Pakistan, positioned at the crossroads of South and Central Asia, is a burgeoning presence in the global tourism industry. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from the towering peaks of the Karakoram Range to the historical cities of Lahore and Mohenjo-Daro, Pakistan presents a tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. In this article, I’ll navigate the intricacies of Pakistan’s tourism sector, highlighting its rich heritage, scenic beauty, and the efforts in place to foster its growth. Join me as we journey through the multifaceted allure of Pakistan.

Geography of Pakistan 

Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan to the west, Iran to the southwest, and China to the northeast. The country’s coastline runs along the Arabian Sea, and it shares maritime borders with Oman and Iran. With an area of approximately 796,000 square kilometres, Pakistan is the 33rd largest country in the world. The country is also home to some of the highest peaks in the world, with the Himalayas in the north and the Karakoram range in the northwest.

The geography of Pakistan is quite diverse, with different landscapes and features found throughout the country. In the north, the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges are home to a number of high peaks, including K2, the second-highest mountain in the world. The Indus River, which is one of the longest rivers in the world, flows through the country from north to south and is a vital source of water for irrigation and hydropower.

In the east, the Thar Desert covers parts of the provinces of Sindh and Punjab. The desert is home to a unique ecosystem, with a variety of flora and fauna adapted to the arid climate. The coastline along the Arabian Sea is also an important feature of Pakistan’s geography, with several important ports located along the coast.

Pakistan is also prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and droughts, which can have a significant impact on the country’s population and infrastructure. The 2005 earthquake in northern Pakistan, for example, killed over 80,000 people and caused widespread destruction, highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness and response measures.

Overall, the geography of Pakistan is an important factor in shaping the country’s economy, culture, and society. The country’s diverse landscapes and natural resources provide opportunities for agriculture, tourism, and energy production, while also posing challenges in terms of infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and disaster management.

Tourism Industry in Pakistan

Tourism industry in Pakistan has a lot of potential due to the country’s diverse geography and rich cultural heritage. Despite this, tourism has historically been underdeveloped in the country, although there has been a recent push to increase investment in the industry. Pakistan offers a range of attractions for tourists, including historical sites, stunning landscapes, and friendly people.

One of the most famous tourist destinations in Pakistan is the northern region, which is home to some of the highest mountain peaks in the world, such as K2 and Nanga Parbat. These mountains attract mountaineers and trekkers from around the world who come to challenge themselves and enjoy the stunning views. Additionally, the region is known for its scenic valleys, including Hunza, Skardu, and Chitral, which offer a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the people living in the area.

Pakistan also has a rich cultural heritage that can be traced back thousands of years. Historical sites such as the ancient city of Mohenjo-Daro and the Mughal-era Badshahi Mosque in Lahore attract tourists interested in history and architecture. Additionally, the vibrant street culture and delicious cuisine of Pakistan are popular with tourists who want to experience the local way of life.

Despite these attractions, tourism in Pakistan faces a number of challenges, including security concerns and poor infrastructure. However, the government is taking steps to address these issues, such as investing in tourism infrastructure, improving security for tourists, and promoting the country’s image abroad.

Pakistan has a lot to offer tourists, and the tourism industry has the potential to be a significant contributor to the country’s economy. With the right investment and policy measures, Pakistan can attract more tourists and showcase its unique attractions to the world.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Pakistan

Pakistan is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse geography that offers a variety of attractions for tourists. Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Pakistan are:

The Northern Region: The northern region of Pakistan is famous for its stunning landscapes and mountainous terrain. The region is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2 and Nanga Parbat, as well as picturesque valleys such as Hunza, Chitral, and Skardu. Tourists come to the northern region for trekking, mountaineering, and to experience the traditional way of life of the local people.

Lahore: Lahore is the cultural capital of Pakistan and is home to many historical and cultural landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks in Lahore is the Mughal-era Badshahi Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world. Other attractions in Lahore include the Lahore Fort, Anarkali Bazar, and the Walled City of Lahore.

Islamabad: Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan and is known for its modern architecture and scenic locations. One of the most iconic landmarks in Islamabad is the Shah Faisal Mosque, which is the largest mosque in Pakistan and can house up to 100,000 worshippers. Other attractions in Islamabad include the Margalla Hills, Daman-e-Koh, and Rawal Lake.

Karachi: Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan and is known for its vibrant culture and stunning beaches. Some of the most popular attractions in Karachi include Clifton Beach, the National Museum of Pakistan, and the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum.

Mohenjo-Daro: Mohenjo-Daro is an ancient city located in the province of Sindh and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Pakistan. The ruins of the city provide a glimpse into the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, which dates back to 2500 BCE.

In conclusion, Pakistan offers a range of attractions for tourists, from stunning mountain ranges and valleys to rich cultural and historical landmarks. These attractions have the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s tourism industry if the infrastructure and security measures are improved to attract more locals and tourists alike.

Popular Types of Tourism in Pakistan

Pakistan offers several types of tourism due to its rich diversity, history, and geography. Some of the popular types of tourism in Pakistan are:

Adventure Tourism: Adventure tourism is a popular type of tourism in Pakistan, thanks to the country’s diverse geography, including high peaks, treacherous passes, high-altitude lakes, and vast deserts. Pakistan’s Northern region, including valleys such as Hunza, Skardu, and Chitral, are popular among tourists interested in trekking, hiking, and mountaineering. The region is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including K2, Nanga Parbat, and Gasherbrum. Besides trekking and mountaineering, river rafting, paragliding, and skiing are also popular in the northern region.

Religious Tourism: Pakistan is home to several holy sites of different religions. The country’s most famous religious tourist destination is the city of Multan, where Sufi saints are buried. Each year, millions of pilgrims from different parts of the world visit Multan. Similarly, the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore is a popular place of worship for Muslims, while Sikh pilgrims visit Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal.

Cultural Tourism: Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage with a diverse mix of cultures, religions, and traditions, which makes it an excellent destination for cultural tourism. Pakistan’s cities, including Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad, are home to many historical landmarks, such as forts, palaces, mosques, and tombs. Additionally, Pakistan’s street markets, bazaars, and cuisine offer a glimpse into the local culture and way of life.

Ecotourism: Pakistan offers many protected areas for wildlife, including national parks and nature reserves. These areas provide opportunities for eco-tourism, such as birdwatching, wildlife safaris, and nature walks. National Parks such as Khunjerab and Margalla Hills National Park attract tourists interested in nature and wildlife.

In conclusion, Pakistan offers diverse types of tourism, ranging from adventure and cultural to religious and eco-tourism, due to its diverse geography, rich heritage, and striking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking adventure, adventure, and spiritual fulfilment. The potential for Pakistan’s tourism industry to grow further can only be increased by promoting sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices while providing better host infrastructure and safety measures.

Economic Impacts of Tourism in Pakistan

Tourism has the potential to bring strong economic benefits to Pakistan. By creating jobs, supporting local businesses and promoting cultural exchange, the industry can boost the country’s economy. Some of the key economic impacts of tourism in Pakistan are:

Employment Generation: Tourism creates jobs in many sectors such as hospitality, food and beverage, transportation, and entertainment. The sector provides direct employment to tour guides, hotel staff, and artisans, among others. Furthermore, the industry generates indirect employment in related sectors such as construction, farming, and manufacturing.

Business Development: The tourism industry benefits local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops, and transportation services. Small businesses such as souvenir shops and handicraft dealers gain from an increase in tourist activity as they cater to tourists looking for local products and gifts. This increased business often leads to numerous entrepreneurial opportunities that help develop remote and rural areas.

Foreign Exchange Earnings: Tourism is a significant source of foreign exchange earnings for Pakistan. Tourist spending generates revenue for businesses, and foreign exchange earnings from the sector contribute to economic growth through increased exports and import substitution. This increased revenue can help balance the country’s trade deficit, which can contribute to better currency stability and foreign reserves.

Improved Infrastructure: Tourism plays a significant role in infrastructure development, especially in remote and rural areas. Improved infrastructure such as roads, airports, and accommodations, among others are required for boosting tourist activity, which in turn can benefit the entire population by improving the area’s connectivity and transportation facilities.

Promoting Cultural Exchange: Tourism promotes cultural exchange, showcasing local cultures, customs, and traditions, which also promotes social cohesion between visitors and locals. The interaction between tourists and the local community can create an environment that fosters mutual respect and understanding of each other’s lifestyles and cultures.

In conclusion, the tourism sector provides a range of economic benefits, including the creation of employment opportunities, business development, foreign exchange earnings, infrastructure development, and promoting cultural exchange that can impact Pakistan’s development positively. By investing in the tourism industry, Pakistan can leverage its rich heritage, culture, and geography to promote tourism that can benefit the entire country.

Social Impacts of Tourism in Pakistan

In addition to economic benefits, tourism in Pakistan can also have significant social impacts. The sector can promote cultural exchange, social interaction, and create opportunities for local communities. However, tourism can also have negative social impacts, such as increased crime or exploitation of local residents. Some of the key social impacts of tourism in Pakistan are:

Promotion of Cultural Exchange: Tourism in Pakistan promotes cultural exchange, which is beneficial for both tourists and locals. Visitors can learn about the local culture through interactions with people, experiences of cultural traditions, and trying local food. These interactions can increase cultural awareness and promote mutual respect between people from different backgrounds.

Preservation of Local Traditions: Tourism in Pakistan can contribute to the preservation of local traditions, as they help maintain the cultural heritage of local communities, such as folk music, dance, and art. Visitors can support local artisans and craftspeople, by purchasing their products or participating in cultural shows or events that celebrate the local culture.

Improved Social Infrastructure: Tourism development can lead to improved social infrastructure, such as healthcare and education, for the local population. The development of the tourism industry can encourage private sector investment in such areas, leading to social progress and sustainable growth in local communities.

Increased Awareness of Environmental Issues: The tourism industry can raise awareness of environmental issues and promote responsible tourism practices. Living locally, tourists learn about the impacts of littering, deforestation, and pollution on local ecosystems, which as a result, can inspire them to practise responsible and sustainable practices.

Potential for Negative Impacts: However, the tourism industry also has the potential to negatively impact local communities, such as the exploitation of residents and their cultural and social extinction. Additionally, tourism can lead to increased crime, overcrowding and inappropriate behaviour that can negatively affect the community’s values, customs and traditions.

Tourism in Pakistan can provide significant social benefits by promoting cultural exchange, preserving local traditions, improving social infrastructure, and increasing awareness of environmental issues. However, its negative impacts such as social exploitation, cultural erosion, and increased crime rates need to be carefully monitored and addressed to ensure maximum social benefits for both visitors and local communities.

Environmental Impacts of Tourism in Pakistan

The tourism industry provides many socio-economic benefits, but it can also have significant environmental impacts on Pakistan’s ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and natural resources. Significant developments can result in deforestation, water pollution, and the degradation of the ecosystem, which can negatively impact the local ecosystem and wildlife. Some of the key environmental impacts of tourism in Pakistan are:

Resource Consumption: Tourism in Pakistan can lead to the excessive consumption of natural resources like water, energy, and timber. In areas with limited resources, tourist development can result in water shortages and energy outages, taking a toll on the surrounding ecosystems and harming the local community’s livelihoods.

Deforestation and Land Use: Tourist development can result in the clearing of forests and the destruction of habitats due to the construction of resort facilities, roads, and other infrastructure, risking biodiversity and the depletion of natural resources. Overdevelopment can also lead to soil erosion, habitat fragmentation, and the displacement of wildlife.

Waste Generation: Tourism in Pakistan can generate significant amounts of waste, including plastic waste and food waste. Improper waste management can lead to environmental pollution, posing serious risks to ecosystems, marine life, and public health.

Climate Change: Tourism in Pakistan is a significant contributor of greenhouse gas emissions, mainly due to transportation, and energy consumption. As a result, touristic development can contribute to climate change which can have negative impacts on the country’s ecosystems and natural resources, such as increasing temperatures, changing weather patterns, and sea-level rise.

Marine Life: Pakistan’s 1,064 km coastline and associated marine ecosystems provide a significant attraction for tourists. However, unrestrained touristic development like land-based pollution, and overfishing, compromise marine ecosystems and negatively impact local communities reliant on the sea for their subsistence, livelihoods, and tourism services.

Effective sustainable management and mitigation practices can help reduce these impacts of tourism in Pakistan, and the industry can adopt sustainable tourism practices such as responsible waste management, water conservation, and renewable energy. This can help minimise the negative environmental impact of tourism and protect the local ecosystem, wildlife and natural resources.

In conclusion, the tourism industry has significant environmental impacts on Pakistan’s delicate ecosystems, natural resources, and wildlife habitats. It is essential to preserve Pakistan’s biodiversity and mitigate the impacts of development by using environmentally responsible tourism practices to mitigate the negative impact of tourism on the environment.

FAQs About Tourism in Pakistan

Now that we know a bit more about tourism in Pakistan, lets answer some of the most common questions on this topic:

1 – Is Pakistan safe for tourists?

Pakistan is generally safe for tourists as the government has increased security measures in popular tourist destinations. That being said, visitors should exercise caution in certain areas, particularly in border regions and areas known for criminal activity.

2 – What is the best time to visit Pakistan?

The best time to visit Pakistan is typically between the months of October and April when the climate is mild and temperatures are lower. Summers can be hot and humid, particularly in the southern parts of the country.

3 – What should tourists wear in Pakistan?

Tourists should dress modestly, particularly in religious or conservative areas. Women should dress in loose clothing that covers their shoulders and legs, and men should avoid shorts.

4 – What are the main tourist destinations in Pakistan?

Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Pakistan include Islamabad, the Northern Areas, Lahore, Karachi, and Multan.

5 – What is the currency used in Pakistan?

The currency used in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR).

6 – Is it possible to get a visa for Pakistan on arrival?

Visas are not normally issued on arrival in Pakistan. Tourists must obtain a visa before arriving in the country.

7 – What languages are spoken in Pakistan?

The official language of Pakistan is Urdu, but English is widely spoken, particularly in urban areas. Several regional languages are also spoken throughout the country.

8 – What is the cost of travel in Pakistan?

Pakistan is considered to be a budget-friendly destination with many low-cost options for accommodation, food, and transportation. The cost of travel can vary based on individual preferences and the activities that visitors want to experience.

9 – Can tourists purchase alcohol in Pakistan?

Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Pakistan for Muslims and is not readily available for tourists. Visitors can only consume alcohol in designated areas of hotels.

10 – What are the customs and etiquette in Pakistan?

Visitors should respect local customs and traditions in Pakistan, dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection. Additionally, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a household or mosque, and visitors should respect religious and cultural practices during their stay.

To Conclude: Tourism in Pakistan

Pakistan, with its diverse landscapes ranging from towering mountains to historical sites, offers untapped potential for the discerning traveller. As tourism in the region grows, so too do the challenges and responsibilities of preserving its cultural and natural treasures. For Pakistan to thrive as a sought-after destination, it is imperative to address the multifaceted impacts of tourism. Through sustainable and responsible practices, Pakistan can ensure that its rich heritage and breathtaking vistas remain intact for future generations to explore and appreciate.

If you enjoyed this article about tourism in Pakistan, I am sure you will love these too:

• 25 Fascinating Facts About Pakistan
• 20 important facts about the glaciers of Pakistan
• 25 Fascinating Facts About the Indian Ocean 
• 25 Fascinating Facts About Iran 
• 25 Fascinating Facts About Saudi Arabia

Liked this article? Click to share!

Search results

Saved words

Showing results for "tourism"

graph, plotting a graph

taar-e-shama'

candle's thread which burns within

tarsiimii-qaa'ida

Tarsiim kaa kaagaz, tarsiimii-kaagaz.

graph paper

tarsiimii-tariiq

Tarsiimii-tariiqa, tarsiim khii.nchnaa, tarsiim-e-'adadii, tarsiimii-hindisa, taraash-mudavvar, tiresomeness, tarsiimiyaatii, tarsiimiyaatii-lisaaniyaat, tarsometatarsal.

ٹارسَل اور میٹا ٹارسَل حِصّوں کے مُتَعلِق

tursh-mizaaj

surly, harsh

taraash-mukaafii

Tursh-mizaajii, tarsaa maarnaa, terii shaamat ne dhakkaa diyaa hai, taar-shumaar.

fabric used for making brides' stoles

turra-e-shamshaad

(met.) long tresses of the beloved

taa.iid-e-aasmaanii

divine help

Ginaa.ii-tarsiim

Qirtaas-e-tarsiim, urdu words for tourism, ˈtʊə.rɪ.zəm, tourism के उर्दू अर्थ, tourism کے اردو معانی, tags for tourism.

English meaning of tourism , tourism meaning in english, tourism translation and definition in English. tourism का मतलब (मीनिंग) अंग्रेजी (इंग्लिश) में जाने | Khair meaning in hindi

Top Searched Words

today, present moment

Citation Index : See the sources referred to in building Rekhta Dictionary

Critique us ( tourism )

Upload image let’s build the first online dictionary of urdu words where readers literally ‘see’ meanings along with reading them. if you have pictures that make meanings crystal clear, feel free to upload them here. our team will assess and assign due credit for your caring contributions.">learn more.

Display Name

Attach Image

Delete 44 saved words?

Do you really want to delete these records? This process cannot be undone

Want to show word meaning

Do you really want to Show these meaning? This process cannot be undone

Download Mobile app

Urdu poetry, urdu shayari, shayari in urdu, poetry in urdu

The best way to learn Urdu online

World of Hindi language and literature

Online Treasure of Sufi and Sant Poetry

Saved Words No saved words yet

Support rekhta dictionary. donate to promote urdu.

The Rekhta Dictionary is a significant initiative of Rekhta Foundation towards preservation and promotion of Urdu language. A dedicated team is continuously working to make you get authentic meanings of Urdu words with ease and speed. Kindly donate to help us sustain our efforts towards building the best trilingual Urdu dictionary for all. Your contributions are eligible for Tax benefit under section 80G.

Start Learning Urdu in the next 30 Seconds with a Free Lifetime Account

The Magnificent Himalayas & Karakoram Ranges

The Fascinating Cultures and Colors of the Land

The Surreal and Enchanting Glory of Nature

The Contrast of Spellbinding Grandeur and Sheer Simplicity

The Most Spritutal and Ancient Places

Pakistan's National Tourism Brand Salam Pakistan by PTDC , launched by Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Click here to Explore PTDC's Official Tourism Facilitation E-Portal

Tourism in Pakistan

The Land Of Adventure And Nature

Mr. Wasi Shah Minister Of State - PTDC

MR. AFTAB UR REHMAN RANA Managing Director - PTDC

Welcome to Pakistan

From the mighty stretches of the Karakorams in the North to the vast alluvial delta of the Indus River in the South, Pakistan remains a land of high adventure and nature. Trekking, mountaineering, white water rafting, wild boar hunting, mountain and desert jeep safaris, camel and yak safaris, trout fishing and bird watching, are a few activities, which entice the adventure and nature lovers to Pakistan.

Pakistan is endowed with a rich and varied flora and fauna. High Himalayas, Karakoram and the Hindukush ranges with their alpine meadows and permanent snow line, coniferous forests down the sub-mountain scrub, the vast Indus plain merging into the great desert, the coast line and wetlands, all offer a remarkably rich variety of vegetation and associated wildlife including avifauna, both endemic and migratory. Ten of 18 mammalian orders are represented in Pakistan with species ranging from the world's smallest surviving mammals, the Mediterranean Pigmy Shrew, to the largest mammal ever known; the blue whale.

The Ministry of Tourism has begun work on launching a "Tourism App" aimed at providing convenience and information to the public. Through this app, tourists will be able to access all the information they desire about various destinations. Minister of State for Tourism, Mr. Wasi Shah, announced this initiative, showing the government's commitment to enhancing the tourism experience for visitors. As the Minister for Tourism in Pakistan, I am taking practical steps to promote tourism and turn Pakistan into a paradise for tourists. The fruits of these efforts will soon reach the tourists, and we are committed to making Pakistan a top tourist destination. Minister of State for Tourism, Mr. Wasi Shah. (October 04, 2023)

Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) along with with its collaborators organized a one day Culture Caravan to Taxila in connection with World Tourism Day, 2023. The participants of Culture Caravan was also given a tour of the archaeological sites there, the 2200- year old University Taxila, UNESCO World Heritage site Jaulian and Gandhara Art and Craft Village Taxila. The Culture Caravan to Taxila was led by State Minister for Tourism Mr. Wasi Shah while Minister for Education and Tourism Baluchistan Dr. Qadar Bakhsh Baloch, Managing Director Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Ambassadors and Diplomats from different countries, media persons, stakeholders of tourism industry, students and various scholars. The event was organized to explore the rich history of the region and engage with experts to provide insight into the significance of Gandhara Heritage. (September 27, 2023)

Minister of State for Tourism, Mr. Wasi Shah, commended the noble efforts of the Austrian mountaineer Wilhem Stendl, who raised $170,000 for the children of Pakistani porter Muhammad Hasan, who tragically lost his life during the K2 expedition. Minister Wasi Shah expressed his admiration for Wilhelm Stendl's unwavering commitment and stated, "What truly astonished and touched me was that Mr. Wilhelm Stendl, despite not being Pakistani, felt a selfless connection to Muhammad Hasan and his family. He took concrete steps to help them during a time when many others act solely in their own interests. People like Mr. Wilhelm reaffirm my faith in humanity." (September 20, 2023)

Minister of State for Tourism, Mr. Wasi Shah, has stated that the government is taking all possible measures to promote tourism, create employment opportunities for the youth, and achieve significant economic gains through increased tourism activities. The government is also focusing on providing quality education in the field of hospitality and tourism management to students, with the College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM) playing a significant role in this endeavor. Minister Wasi Shah expressed these views during his media interaction at the Kothm Head Office in New Garden Town, Lahore, on Monday. He emphasized the government's commitment to boosting tourism and highlighted the positive role that COTHM is playing in providing education and training in the hospitality sector. (September 18, 2023)

Dubai: The Minister of State for Tourism and Chairman of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation, Mr. Wasi Shah, visited the exhibition titled 'The North' held in Dubai by ICD Brook Field Palace. The curator of 'The North,' Imad Mian, briefed the Minister Wasi Shah about the event. Minister Wasi Shah appreciated this unique initiative and highly praised the work of artists. He emphasized that this project holds cultural, economic, and global significance for Pakistan. Showcasing Pakistan through photography is a beautiful endeavor. Pakistan's Ambassador to the UAE, Faisal Tirmizi, was also present alongside Minister Wasi Shah during the occasion. (September 14, 2023)

Minister of State for Tourism/Chairman Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Mr. Wasi Shah Tuesday said that Pakistan and China Year of Tourism celebrations 2023 would pave the way to further enhance the journey to promote the country’s tourism industry. Addressing a ceremony of Pakistan and China Year of Tourism-2023 organized by Pakistan-China Friendship Association - Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chapter in collaboration with Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), the minister said that the friendship of Pakistan with the brotherly nation of China was stronger than mountains, deeper than oceans and sweeter than honey, whereas Pakistan welcomed its Chinese friends to invest with open arms in the country. (September 06, 2023)

Minister of State for Tourism, Mr. Wasi Shah met with the family of the deceased porter in Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan, who had tragically lost his life while working. During the meeting, in addition to Hasan's family, officials from the Skardu administration and Assistant Commissioner Shigar, Hamza, were also present. The Minister expressed deep sorrow over Hasan's death and assured that his sacrifice would not be in vain. He pledged the government's full support to Hasan's family, including providing a job for his widow, covering all educational expenses for their three children, and covering all medical expenses for their elderly mother. (September 05, 2023)

Minister for Tourism and PTDC Chairman, Wasi Shah, met with the delegation from the Woking Borough Council, who came from the United Kingdom under the leadership of Mayor Muhammad Elias. Minister for Tourism, Wasi Shah, stated that there are ample opportunities for foreign investment in the tourism industry in the northern regions of Pakistan. By providing modern facilities in these areas, foreign tourists can be attracted. He also mentioned that a theme park for children will soon be established in Skardu. (September 02, 2023)

Minister of State for Tourism/Chairman PTDC, Wasi Shah, presided over a meeting held at the PTDC Head Office today, addressing proposals for the training and welfare of porters in the mountaineering community. The meeting was attended by Managing Director of PTDC, Aftab ur Rahman Rana, Manager (P&P)-PTDC, Sadia Nauman, President of the Alpine Club of Pakistan, Abu Zafar, Deputy Director of the Gilgit Baltistan Tourism Department, Sajid Husssain, accomplished Mountaineer and Alpine Club Member of the Investigation Committee, Rehmatullah, and distinguished Adventure/Tour Operator Qarar Haidri. (August 30, 2023)

Chief Secretary Gilgit-Baltistan, Mohiuddin Ahmad Wani called on the Minister of State for Tourism, Wasi Shah, to engage in an extensive discourse on the captivating allure of Gilgit-Baltistan and the strategic measures essential for the augmentation of tourism within the region. The Chief Secretary Gilgit Baltistan presented a comprehensive overview of Gilgit-Baltistan's tourism landscape to Minister of State for Tourism Wasi Shah. Managing Director PTDC, Aftab ur Rahman Rana was also present on the occasion. (August 23, 2023)

Renowned poet, media person, columnist and recently appointed Minister for State on Tourism and Chairman of PTDC Board of Directors, Mr. Wasi Shah, paid a visit to the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Head Office where he assumed the charge of Chairman PTDC. On his arrival he was welcomed by the Managing Director of PTDC, Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana. Later MD PTDC gave him a comprehensive briefing on the functions, operations, and role of PTDC as a national tourism organisation. (August 22, 2023)

For booking of Government Rest Houses in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa while travelling to KP, please visit https://booking.kptourism.com/

Pakistan Showcasing its Rich Tourism Potential in World Leading Travel Show - Arabian Travel Mart 2023 Islamabad (1 May 2023): A 25-members’ delegation of Pakistan under the leadership of Mr. Awan Chaudhry, Advisor To Prime Minister on Tourism and Sports is participating in ATM Dubai 2023 from 1st to 4th May to showcase the rich tourism potential of the country. Mr. Awn Chaudhry, Advisor to Prime Minister on Tourism and Sports and Mr. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador of Pakistan in UAE jointly inaugurated Pakistan’s Pavilion at ATM 2023, Dubai. (May 01, 2023)

PTDC is excited to share with you the news that Pakistan has won the award of Best New Exhibitor at the Travel and Adventure Show 2023. This leading trave and tourism expo was recently held at New York,USA from 28 to 29 January. Mr. John, the CEO of Travel and Adventure Show presented the award to Mr. Aftab Rehman Rana, MD of PTDC. In his comments on this occasion, Mr. Rana mentioned that Pakistan's participation in Travel and Trade Show at New York has been highly impactful in terms of response from the public and engagement of all the team members throughout two days of the show. The management of the show highly appreciated it a lot and has awarded Pakistan as the Best New Exhibitor of this year. Mr. Awn Chadhury, Chairman of PTDC and Advisor to PM in Tourism congratulated all the members of Pakistan's delegation including the provincial tourism departments and private sector tour operators for their dedication and commitment. He also highly appreciated the support of team of PTDC, TDAP and Pakistan Consulate General at New York to make all this happen. (January 29, 2023)

Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director PTDC held a meeting with Mr. Zhang Heqing, Cultural Counsellor, Embassy of The People’s Republic of China in Islamabad to discuss the promotion of bilateral tourism between Pakistan and China. Discussion was held on improving facilitation for the tourists on both sides to enhance people to people contact. Mr. Heqing informed that year 2023 will be celebrated as the year of China-Pakistan Year of Tourism Exchange. In this regard a Gandhara Art Exhibition is already planned at Palace Museum in Beijing to showcase Pakistan’s rich potential of diverse culture and long history. Mr. Rana said, that two brotherly counties need to further enhance cooperation in tourism sector to increase the flow of tourists from both sides which will be greatly helpful in improving the people to people contact between to two counters. He especially emphasized on the need to promote group tours through the registered and licensed tourism operators of both the countries to provide convenient way to enjoy touristic sites through guided tours. He also highlighted the need of Chinese language tour guides in Pakistan for which help is required from Chinese side to arrange special training courses. He also recommended about the opening of Khunjrab Pass for tourist traffic as it provide easy access to the visitors of both the sides. He also shared various other recommendations with the Cultural Counsellor of China in this regard. It was also agreed that a working committee having representatives of both the sides will be formed to make the collaboration in tourism promotion more meaningful and fruitful. (November 24, 2022)

PAKISTAN READY TO SHOCASE ITS RICH TOURISM POTENTIAL AT WORKDL TRAVEL MARK LONDON FROM 7 TO 9 NOVEMBER 2022 03-11-2002 Islamabad: Pakistan is in the final stages of preparation to showcase its rich tourism potential at World Travel Market (WTM) which is scheduled to be held from 7th – 9th November 2022 at Excel London. Managing Director PTDC, Aftab ur Rehman Rana informed that PTDC after the interval of almost 14 years is going to setup an impressive Pakistan Pavilion in WTM London in collaboration with provincial tourism departments and private sector companies. He said, Promotion of Pakistan as a top tourist destination is the prime focus of government of Pakistan. Pakistan is blessed with breath-taking natural beauty, rich culture and heritage and great diversity of landscape offering an un-matched tourism potential. Government of Pakistan aims to enhance the influx of foreign tourists to explore the rich touristic potential of this country and contribute in in the socio-economic development of its people through tourism. He said, World Travel Market (WTM) London is one of the largest international tourism exhibitions which will provides a unique platform to Pakistan to interact with global tourism organizations, top tourism experts and professionals, exhibitors and visitors from a variety of sectors including tourism, hospitality, aviation, transport, travel technology, resort management companies and various other sub-sectors of tourism industry. It is an event of global significance where more than 180 countries come together and showcase their tourism potential under one roof. Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) has put together a high level delegation of 39 members led by Mr. Awn Chaudhry, Advisor to Prime Minister on Tourism & Sports and Chairman PTDC. Delegation also includes Mr. Abdul Khaliq, Tourism Minister - Balochistan, Raja Nasir Ali, Tourism Minister – Gilgit Baltistan, Mr. Faheem Akhtar, Minister for Tourism, Law & Parliamentary Affairs, Government of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), CEOs and MDs of eight private tour operation and hotel management companies and senior officials from PTDC, AJK, GB, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab tourism departments. It is hoped that participation in World Travel Mark London will provide a great opportunity to Pakistan to showcase its rich tourism potential at this global platform and help in develop G2G, B2B and G2B linkages with the leading players of tourism industry. (November 03, 2022)

Rohtas Paintings and Heritage Crafts Exhibition Marks Intl Tourism Day on Sept 27 Celebrating World Tourism Day 2022, an exhibition of paintings and Heritage Crafts from Rohtas Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage Site at PNCA Islamabad was inaugurated today at PNCA. Ms. Fareena Mazhar, Federal Secretary National Heritage and Culture Division, Mr. Youssef Filali Meknassi, Director of UNESCO Pakistan and Ms. Emanuela Benini, Director of Italian Agency for Development Cooperation jointly inaugurated the exhibition. Art works showcasing collection by as many as 13 talented artists from across the country are on exhibit experimented with oil, acrylic and watercolor mediums to promote sustainable and responsible tourism at the World Heritage Site of Rohtas Fort. The event is was organized by Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), Sustainable Tourism Foundation Pakistan (STFP) in collaboration UNESCO Islamabad and Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), PNCA and Serena Hotels.

Experts discuss challenges, opportunities in Tourism Sector Experts including policy makers, federal and provincial government representatives and heads of various tourism related companies here Monday discussed the challenges as well as opportunities in the tourism sector during the five sessions of National Tourism Conference here Monday. The conference was organized by Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) on the theme “Rethinking Tourism” to celebrate World Tourism Day at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA). (26th September 2022)

PTDC organized Three-day photography, art exhibition on International Tourism Day. As many as 322 photographs and around 100 paintings were submitted by established and amateur photographers and painters from across the country in the Photography and Painting competition that was displayed at Pakistan National Council of the Arts (PNCA) on September 26, 2022. The competition was organized by Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) to celebrate International Tourism Day 2022. The themes for the competitions included Tourist Attractions of Pakistan, Landscapes, Culture and Life, Adventure Sports and Flora & Fauna. While the painting competition was in two age categories including youth and kid competitions.

Pakistan’s Tourism Potential Highlighted in Myanmar . Pakistan Embassy in Yangon, Myanmar in collaboration with Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) organized a one-day seminar on Tourism Potential of Pakistan at Wyndham Grand Yangon Hotel. (27th July 2022)

The 97th meeting of Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Board of Directors was held in the head office of PTDC on May 30th. Mr. Awn Chaudhry, Special Advisor to Prime Minister/Minister of Tourism and Sports attended this meeting as special invitee. Managing Director, Aftab Rana, welcomed Mr. Awn Chaudhry and the member of board of directors of PTDC. MD PTDC informed the board members that Pakistan has made a significant improvement on the International Travel and Tourism Development Index by moving up six places as per the latest report released by the World Economic Forum (WEF). (May 31, 2022)

PTDC and World Bank jointly organized workshop on National Tourism Competitive Index for Pakistan Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) and The World Bank (WB) jointly organized a workshop in Islamabad on National Tourism Competitiveness Index (NTCI) for Pakistan. The workshop was attended by relevant federal and provincial stakeholders, private sector, industry experts and the academia. Tourism remains a priority sector for the government and is identified as one of the key drivers of economic growth. (May 23, 2022)

Advisor to PM Aoun Chaudhry visits PTDC after taking charge as Minister of Tourism and Sports. Mr. Aoun Chaudhry has been appointed as advisor to the Prime Minister on Sports & Tourism. On the advice of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, President Dr. Arif Alvi approved the appointment of Awn Chaudhry as his advisor. Aoun Chaudhry’s post will be equal to that of Federal Minister.

Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) joins hands with Silk Road Center to organize International Conference and Art festival on Buddhism in Pakistan. This event is going to be held at PNCA Islamabad on 14 and 15 March 2022. Interested people can get themselves registered at this link: https://buddhisminpakistan.org/

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Tourism (SAPM) / Chairman PTDC held meeting with the Ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE H.E. Afzaal Mahmood and Head of the Pakistan Pavilion at the Dubai Expo Rizwan Tariq during his visit to Dubai. (March 04, 2022)

Online Consultative B2B Webinar between Tour Operators of Pakistan and China was organized by PTDC to enhance bilateral linkages between two countries. (March 03, 2022)

A Seminar was held at Xenia School of Hospitality on "How to Promote Tourism in Pakistan at International level and introduce the concept of Halal Tourism". Mr Tariq Mehmood, founder Director of Halal Gateways UK gave an informative presentation on Halal Tourism which is now gaining popularity at global level. Mr. Aftab Rana, MD of PTDC was invited as Chief Guest to attend this event. (February 27, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Tourism (SAPM) / Chairman PTDC chaired PTDC's 96th Board of Directors meeting at PTDC Head Office, Islamabad. (February 23, 2022)

Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director PTDC, held a meeting with Dr. Kasir, CEO of Discover Pakistan TV to develop a collaborative partnership between the two organisations for the promotion of Tourism in Pakistan. (February 19, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Tourism (SAPM) / Chairman PTDC visited Lahore Fort and appreciated the restoration and conservation efforts of Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA). (February 14, 2022)

Winter Sports Festival was successfully held at Ganga Choti, Bagh AJK in collaboration with AJK Winter Sports Association. The festival included activities like Ice and Snow Competitions, Cross Country Ski Marathon, colorful cultural show, Alpine Skiing and Ice Skating performances while the closing ceremony will by followed by prize and medals distribution. (February 12, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Tourism (SAPM) / Chairman Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) visited Peshawar Museum, Gor Gathri and Sethi House Peshawar. Director Archeology, Khyber Pakhtunkhaw gave a detailed briefing to SAPM about Historical Places of Peshawar. (February 09, 2022)

Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director PTDC, delivered a presentation on tourism sector performance at President House, Islamabad. He highlighted the significance of tourism and hospitality sector and tourism potential of Pakistan. (February 09, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Tourism & Chairman Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) Called on Chairperson TEVTA Mr. Ali Salman to discuss Skill Set Required in Tourism Industry, Progress on TEVTA Based Centre of Excellence for Tourism & Hospitality at GSTC Murree. The Meeting also Discussed Skill Based Programs, Job Opportunities & Scope for Tourism Sector in Pakistan in Future. Chairperson TEVTA Congratulated Azam Jamil, for joining as SAPM & Assured his full support for Promoting Tourism in Pakistan. (February 02, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) for Tourism Coordination / Chairman PTDC called on Prime Minister Imran Khan. Matters related to the promotion of tourism sector in the country were discussed in the meeting. (January 27, 2022)

Managing Director PTDC, Mr. Aftab Ur Rehman Rana attends finals of National Ice Hockey Championship at Ghulkin, Upper Hinza to promote winter tourism in Gilgit-Baltistan. 16 boys and 5 girls teams participated in this event, sponsored by PTDC. (January 24, 2022)

Webinar - Roundtable on Heritage Legislation of Pakistan: Issues, Constraints and Challenges was held at PTDC Head Office, Islamabad. A roundtable discussion was held to review the heritage legislation in Pakistan, explore the potential of heritage tourism and look for the source of funding for heritage. (January 20, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) for Tourism Coordination / Chairman PTDC inagurated "Akhuwat School of Hospitality and Tourism". He appreciated the efforts of TDCP and highlighted the significance of tourism and hospitality sector. (January 16, 2022)

Mr. Aftab ur Rehman Rana, Managing Director PTDC, was invited as Guest of Honor in COTHM Islamabad Annual Convocation 2022 at Marriott Islamabad. He appreciated the efforts of COTHM institution and highlighted the significance of tourism and hospitality sector. (January 12, 2022)

Mr. Azam Jamil has been appointed Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) for Tourism Coordination. With an illustrious career in the Hospitality and Tourism industry starting with Intercontinental Hotels in the mid-seventies and spanning well over 4 decades, Mr. Azam has been responsible for spearheading some of the key projects and institutions that shape Pakistan’s tourism industry today. (December 31, 2021)

Latest Updates

Honorary Tourism Ambassador for Germany

Promotion of Bilateral Tourism Between China and Pakistan

Pakistan’s Tourism Potential Highlighted in Myanmar

Pakistan’s Participation in New York Travel & Adventure Show 2023

World Travel Martket (WTM) - London (06-08 November 2023)

Validation Workshop on Development of National Tourism Competitiveness Index - NTCI - May 23, 2022

Destinations.

Kaghan Valley

Neelam Valley

Hunza Valley

Tourism is a focused area of the present government. Several initiatives are being undertaken to garner the potential offered by the tourism industry. To develop and enhance coordination with provinces, federal ministries, and private actors, facilitate in the development of policies, strategies, framework, etc, to market and promote tourism potentials nationally and internationally; and capacity building for the provision of quality human resource, the Government has constituted the National Tourism Coordination Board (NTCB). NTCB is mandated to:

Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) was incorporated on March 30, 1970, under the repealed Companies Act 1913 (now the Companies Ordinance, 1984) as a Public Corporation Limited by shares.

PTDC is owned by the Government of Pakistan (99.75% share). The Principal objective of the corporation is to promote and develop tourism in Pakistan.

WHERE TO GO

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Balouchistan

Azad Kashmir

Gilgit Baltistan

World travel martket (wtm) - london (07-09 november 2022).

Subscribe to our Newsletter

• Coordinate with provincial, national and international organizations dealing with the tourism sector.
• Market and Promote tourism potential of Pakistan.
• Facilitate the provinces in developing a regulatory framework for quality standards in the Hospitality sector.
• Coordinate national participation in tourism related international expos and events.
• Develop synergies amongst provinces and regions.
• Provide Technical assistance to provinces to develop institutions in tourism sectors.

As a part of the strategy, the NTCB formulated following thematic working groups to develop strategies and action plans in their assigned specific areas:

• Cultural, Heritage & Archaeology Tourism Working Group
• ECO Tourism Working Group
• Tourism Branding & Marketing Working Group
• Regulatory & Policy Reforms Working Group
• Religious Tourism Working Group
• Investment Promotion Working Group
• Infrastructure & Facilitation Working Group
• Adventure Tourism Working Group
• Trans Himalayan Jeep Rally Working Group

Coming Soon

• EXPRESS NEWS
• URDU E-PAPER
• ENGLISH E-PAPER
• SINDHI E-PAPER
• CRICKET PAKISTAN
• EXPRESS LIVE
• CAMPUS GURU
• EXPRESS ENTERTAINMENT
• FOOD TRIBUNE

Need to promote tourism culture in Pakistan

Tourism is source of huge earnings in many countries, but Pakistan fetched less than $700 million in 2021 from tourism

A healthy and a civilised nation requires excellence in sports and education and a culture of vibrant tourism. When a country is known for a culture of tourist hospitality, it means international recognition because of safe, affordable and hygienic facilities for both local and international tourists.

A recent travel by the author to different parts of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Azad Jammu & Kashmir and Islamabad led to interesting revelation reflecting enormous opportunities to promote tourism. While a network of motorways and roads from Karachi to the northern areas of Pakistan is functional, one is disappointed to encounter discomfort because of broken roads, lack of tourism facilities and unhygienic conditions rampant in parts of AJK and KP. There is no visible change in terms of tourist facilities reflecting the absence of amenities to people expecting to take a break from their routine life and enjoy beautiful landscape.

While not much has changed in Pakistan to establish a viable tourist culture and hospitality to visitors, the launch of foreign flights from Dubai to Skardu from August 14 this year is termed a great leap forward in attracting tourists from abroad to explore majestic northern areas and world’s tallest peaks.

In many countries, tourism is a source of huge earnings but Pakistan fetched less than $700 million in 2021 from tourism whereas the country has a potential to earn $20 billion if proper facilities are ensured to those who want to travel and enjoy beautiful destinations. India earns more than $20 billion from tourism whereas the US earns 199 billion dollars, China 225, Spain 79, France 63, UK 58, Italy 49, Germany 39, Turkey 34 and Greece 20. The global tourism industry has a worth of more than $1 trillion.

Pakistan — despite being blessed with world’s tallest peaks, vast deserts, sprawling coastline and religious and archeological sites — earns less than $1 billion from tourism for a host of reasons like lack of security particularly for tourists from abroad, meager modern facilities like good and affordable hotels, unhygienic conditions which discourage local and foreign tourists to spend their holidays in famous tourist destinations. With the growing rise in foreign air travel costs, the elites of Pakistan who prefer to spend their holidays abroad would want to visit tourist destinations of their own country if proper facilities are ensured.

A recent visit by the author to beautiful Neelum Valley in AJK reflected poor road conditions. A 200 km travel from Muzaffrabad to the end point of Neelum Valley takes around 10 hours because of broken roads. Lack of proper facilities like hygienic food, washrooms and well-maintained hotels causes enormous hardships for tourists. Same is the case with tourist destinations in Hazara division, Swat, Naran and other famous tourist spots in KP and Gilgit-Baltistan. Still the road in Naran leading to the legendry Saiful Mulook lake is broken. Landslides in different mountainous areas of KK, northern areas and AJK block traffic and cause serious hardships to locals and tourists. When the culture of tourism and hospitality is almost non-existent and there is lack of will, skills, capacity and capability on the part of policymakers, Pakistan would not be able to earn revenue from tourism despite a $20 billion a year potential.

How can the culture of tourism and hospitality be established in Pakistan? Why is there a lack of awareness among local people where known tourist destinations are located? How can the stakeholders in the tourist industry of Pakistan cause a paradigm shift in transforming the country into a tourist-friendly destination? What are the major issues that impede modernisation of tourist industry and how could such obstacles be removed? When China, India, Turkey and the UAE can earn several hundred billion dollars from tourism, why can’t Pakistan augment revenue from tourism?

One can figure out three solutions for a paradigm shift in the tourist industry of Pakistan.

First, institutional measures are required from Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation and provincial tourist bodies to take coherent measures to provide comfortable and affordable tourist motels, hotels and guest houses. Hygienic conditions particularly providing clean washrooms after every 25 km on roads and highways must be the priority of government-led tourist organisations. Furthermore, creating awareness among local people who are hospitable and helpful to professionally deal with issues which cause discomfort to tourists should be a priority. Safety and security, particularly for foreign tourists, must be taken seriously by government authorities. The shift from terrorism to tourism will go a long way for providing safe travel and accommodation. Pakistan’s image of an unsafe country for foreign travelers can only be mitigated if steps are taken on ground by police and law enforcement agencies along with their civilian counterparts. Learning from countries where basic facilities are provided for safe travel, affordable, clean and hygienic accommodation and good roads along with modern infrastructure can go a long way in motivating both local and foreign tourists.

Second, in countries where the culture of tourism and hospitality exists, travelers feel comfortable and safe in spending their holidays. In Pakistan, given its multibillion dollar tourism potential, it is imperative that the subjects of hotel management and tourist guide are offered in universities so that a critical mass is produced in coming 10 years which will be instrumental in modernising tourist industry. Departments focusing on tourism, hotel management and hospitality in the universities of KP, AJK and G-B should be established where specialised course on tourism and travel are offered. Experts from abroad should be engaged by such universities to train local students on how to promote the culture of tourism.

Third, proper connectivity — both cyber and physical — is essential. While there is need for high-speed internet, is a must too, as they cut travel time and ensure comfortable journey. Corruption and laziness tend to delay construction and maintenance of roads which discourages tourists to visit such scenic and beautiful places.

Promoting a culture of tourism and hospitality in Pakistan is an uphill task but not impossible. Sense of ownership, leadership with vision, competence, skills and integrity can certainly transform Pakistan into a hub of tourism, augmenting its soft image.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 15 th , 2023.

Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook , follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ

Imran Khan appears before SC | PM in AJK | Express Tribune News Headlines 10 PM

Xi and Putin Cement Strategic Partnership with New Agreements | Latest News

Bennifer Divorced? J.Lo and Ben Affleck's Marriage Hits Rocky Patch | Breaking News

Rishi Sunak Clarifies UK's Position on Arms Sales to Israel in Parliament | Breaking News

Former PM Imran Khan's First Court Appearance in Nine Months | Pakistan News | Breaking News

Record-Breaking X8.7 Solar Flare Lights Up the Sky - Insights and Impacts | Breaking News

Ismail Haniyeh Blames Israel for Stalled Ceasefire Talks | Latest News

Imran Khan to Appear in Supreme Court Following Bail Grant

Govt slashes petrol price | Imran Khan Bail Granted | ISPR | Express Tribune News Headlines 10AM

Faisal Vawda takes a jab at the judiciary over interference claims | Babar Sattar | Breaking News

Imran Khan's Comeback: Public Appearance Via Supreme Court Livestream | Breaking News

Supreme Court Notice| Azad Kashmir Protest Updates | Adiala Jail |Express Tribune News Headlines 3PM

Modi Vows to 'Make Pakistan Wear Bangles' in Election Speech | Latest News

Kashmir Protests Conclude After Government Concedes to Protesters | Pakistan News | Latest News

King Charles Unveils First Official Portrait Since Coronation by Artist Jonathan Yeo | Breaking News

Hamas, Israel and a changed world

Lurking fears

All of my days

A true ustad who painted love and hope

Enhancing employability of the youth

Overcoming trust deficit in state-centrism

Petrol price cut by Rs15.39 per litre

Suspend parliament if ordinances are to be enacted: CJP

Pakistan’s debt soars to record Rs81tr

Will CJ be amenable to tenure extension move

SC takes notice of Vawda’s presser

IHC responds to Vawda on Justice Babar Sattar’s citizenship

Perils of uncontrolled exposure in the age of AI-driven social media

The question of PTI talking to the government

Lost in the dream: the fantasy epidemic

• Life & Style
• Prayer Timing Pakistan
• Ramazan Calendar Pakistan
• Weather Forecast Pakistan
• Online Advertising
• Subscribe to the Paper
• Style Guide
• Privacy Policy
• Code of ethics

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, redistributed or derived from. Unless otherwise stated, all content is copyrighted © 2024 The Express Tribune.

I left Miami for a remote village in Pakistan. I have no running hot water and limited electricity — but my quality of life here is infinitely better.

• Samantha Shea had never been outside the US before she started college in 2014.
• After graduating in 2019, she visited India and Pakistan while developing her travel writing.
• She moved to Hunza Valley in Northern Pakistan in 2021, where she's lived ever since.

When I tell people from back home that I live in Northern Pakistan, I'm usually met with shock.

Their disbelief escalates when I show them pictures of the snow-capped Karakoram mountain range that surround the village where I live.

"I thought Pakistan was a desert" is the most common response. As wrong as they are, I don't blame them. I didn't know much about Pakistan before traveling there after college.  

I live in Hunza Valley, 8,500 feet above sea level on the border with Western China, where I work as a digital nomad.

When I first came to Pakistan in 2019, I was a recent University of Miami grad who'd never lived outside the US. 

In Hunza, electricity comes on for only a few hours a day, you walk to the local market if you need anything – Amazon doesn't deliver to the mountainous valley region – and running hot water isn't guaranteed. 

The valley has, despite these elements, become my home. Here, I don't lock up my bike or my front door, I can walk everywhere, and my recent major home renovation cost me only $3,000. 

Current guidance around traveling to Pakistan 

The US travel advice for Pakistan is to avoid traveling to Balochistan province, many parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Indian-Pakistan border because of the potential for terrorist attacks, kidnapping, and armed conflict at the border.

The US government warns that the assistance it can provide citizens traveling in Pakistan is limited because of these security issues. However, I have personally traveled to some of these areas and did not feel unsafe at the time.

Although this doesn't mean these threats aren't real and something to consider, many foreign nationals and local Pakistani people travel to the Hunza Valley without incident. Forbes recently named Pakistan an up-and-coming adventure vacation . CN Traveller also awarded Pakistan as their  top holiday destination in 2020 .

My journey to a remote village in Northern Pakistan 

My love of travel began at college. From 2014 to 2019, I was a student at the University of Miami in Florida. While I loved my school, being by the beach, and Florida's eternal summer, I never felt settled in Miami. 

Because I grew up in suburban Connecticut, the move to a busy city was a big adjustment. It was noisy and fast-paced, and the proximity to crime, common in urban areas, put me on edge. 

I had never traveled outside the US growing up, but I fell in love with backpacking at college. My trips became more and more offbeat. I was traveling through India the summer before my senior year in 2018 when I decided to pursue a career in travel. 

I wanted to become a freelance travel blogger after graduation

Shea graduated from the university of miami in 2019. samantha shea.

I worked three part-time jobs while finishing my degree to save up for my indefinite adventure.

After graduating in 2019, I set off for India again, traveling around the country and into neighboring Pakistan. 

Despite media negativity and concerns from family and friends, I didn't feel nervous crossing the border from India. I traveled from the historical city of Lahore to the Hindu Kush mountains of Upper Chitral — a region that directly borders Afghanistan — and felt comfortable everywhere I went. 

I found it easier and more fun to travel here than in India, a much more "mainstream" backpacking destination. I encountered fewer scammers traveling in Pakistan. I also found Pakistan had less trash on the streets, and the roads were in better condition.

I worked for DoorDash and learned Urdu while waiting out COVID-19 limitations

In December 2019, I returned to my family home with the plan to move to Pakistan full time in the spring as a digital nomad.

My plans were halted by COVID-19. I spent the next year learning Urdu, the national language of Pakistan, and delivering for DoorDash. I also finally saw some freelance traction. 

I got my first paid byline, increased my blog traffic, and freelanced in content writing and social-media management. I wanted to have established myself as a digital nomad before I left home.

In April 2021, I traveled alone to Pakistan's capital, Islamabad. I hadn't arranged a guide and had no plan beyond my first few nights at a hostel. To many, my trip seemed insane, but I was committed. 

Shea's views on a multiday hike to the Shimshal Pass, not far from the Chinese border. Samantha Shea

Why hunza valley .

My 2021 journey brought me to Hunza Valley for a reason. I'd head it was well known as the safest destination for solo female travelers , largely due to its liberal culture toward women .

Hunza Valley is a remote area in Northern Pakistan. The Gatorade-blue rivers and snow-capped mountains make Hunza a popular tourist destination. The local community is known for its hospitality, and I immediately felt at home – something I'd never felt in big-city America.

The community is welcoming of outsiders — respecting and taking care of guests is a core value here. Before 9/11, there were droves of foreign travelers coming to Hunza, and many locals and their families worked in tourism, so I was welcomed readily. 

Hunza is home to a majority Ismaili community , a liberal sect of Islam. Teens hang out in mixed groups, women own restaurants and shops, and it's common for girls to receive higher education.

I settled in Hunza and have lived here for nearly two years.

Many Westerners I've spoken with have trepidations about Pakistan

Shea with some local women in their home in a small seaside village on the border of sindh and balochistan in southern pakistan. samantha shea.

Hunza itself could not be safer. I don't worry about locking my bike, or even my doors. I've never witnessed a crime of any kind, nor any of the terrorist incidents the US State Department warns travelers of.

Related stories

Barely a day after I'd arrived, I found myself lost on a 5-mile trek I set out on alone. Wandering, I ran into a young male shepherd. He insisted on showing me the route back and carrying my bag.

I kept waiting for "that moment" for which all solo female travelers are on high alert — but it never came. The shepherd was polite and helped me safely find the trail.

I think I felt more comfortable in Hunza than I did in Miami for several reasons: The local cuisine shared many similarities with my Polish grandma's recipes, I experienced daily peace, and being surrounded by 20,000-foot peaks made me feel like I positively was on another planet.

I didn't have great WiFi for the first few months of living in Hunza, which was stressful at times. I've since found work-arounds, but it's not simple. 

The biggest issue is that electricity comes on for only  around 5 or 6 hours a day, primarily at night

I knew Northern Pakistan didn't have great electricity from my 2019 trip to other mountain valleys. Regardless, I always travel with a power bank.

I remember times when the electricity wouldn't come on as planned and I'd forgotten to charge my devices properly. I found it incredibly stressful, especially if I had a lot of work.

Once, while on a road trip through Upper Chitral, another mountainous region in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, my power bank fell in water and wouldn't turn on.

I was in an area even more remote than Hunza and knew the power bank likely wasn't sold anywhere in Pakistan. The bank amazingly came back to life, but I did end up breaking another one a year later.

When these things happen, it makes me miss conveniences like Amazon, but a company called Daraz does manage to deliver plenty of items to Hunza within two or three days. 

Power banks and other electronics can also be sourced from other countries via Packr, an app I've used several times to receive items from the US.

Now I have a permanent home, I've arranged more long-term solutions. 

I bought a $35 UPS car battery at a local market, which keeps my WiFi router and basic lights working 24/7. I also have two 26,800-mAh Anker power banks as backups, the 2nd of which I purchased after that road-trip scare.

Shea uses a car battery to keep her electricity on 24/7. Samantha Shea

How i live and work in hunza valley.

One month of accommodation costs between $150 and $250 on average — a far cry from the $1,300 I paid in Miami to share an apartment with roommates.

My life in Hunza began in Gojal, the local name for the northern portion of the region. When I arrived, I stayed in hotels. Nowhere I stayed cost more than $15 a night, and if I got a long-stay rate, they averaged closer to $8 a night.

Hunza was slightly more expensive than I thought, especially before I found permanent accommodation. 

I was shocked by how expensive some hotels were. Budget options are available, but a large portion of Hunza's tourism caters to the wealthy sector of the domestic market.

This experience has positively influenced my career as a freelancer. I've had my stories published in major media outlets. I also run an Instagram account and a YouTube channel focusing on life here and helping travelers plan their trips.

Shea speaking at a tourism event in Hunza. Samantha Shea

I now live in aliabad in central hunza, the largest town in the district .

I met my now partner, Fareed, in a local coworking space a few months after I arrived in Hunza. He was born and raised in Hunza and now works in trekking tourism.

We're happily settled in Aliabad in central Hunza, close to my partner's family, who have become a second family to me. 

I've started learning Burushaski, one of the two major languages spoken in the valley. My partner speaks perfect English, so there's no language barrier.

Aliabad has high-speed fiber-cable WiFi, which makes uploading content or taking Zoom calls easy, and it's where you'll find amenities like ATMs, stores, small hospitals, and a few restaurants and shops.

Even so, Aliabad is still a village in many ways

The main roads are paved, but many residential areas have dirt roads. Everything from the doctor to my cellphone provider is within a 15-minute walking radius. 

My partner and I moved into a house his parents owned. It had no electricity, flooring, or running water. We recently renovated two rooms and added a bathroom with running water and a Western toilet. It ended up costing about $3,000.

If we were renting, it would cost around 20,000 Pakistani rupees a month, or about $50. Renting might have been cheaper in the short term, but I love having a space all our own.

A meal at a restaurant is usually between $2 for local spots and $7 for Western fare, but cooking at home is much less expensive and often tastier. WiFi costs around $8 for unlimited data each month, and I pay $4 for 10 gigabytes of data for my SIM card.

Hot water is also not a given in Hunza — but an $80 gas-powered water heater solved that, with refills totaling about $20 a month. The electricity that does come is only about $2 a month, and the cold running water, sourced from a glacier, is free.

Aliabad has a cold desert climate.

The coldest month is January, with temperatures averaging 25 degrees Fahrenheit. Frequently frozen pipes and a lack of central heating mean winter can be difficult.

Having spent most of my life in Connecticut, I was used to cold, long winters, and I find Hunza's to be shorter. 

Winter limits my daily activities, but it almost feels like a cozy hibernation period.

I spend lazy days working by my bukhari — a traditional fireplace.

The benefits of living in Hunza Valley far outweigh any negatives

I save thousands each month compared with living in a US city, and my quality of life is infinitely better.

I avoid the American hustle culture, which I find toxic. The people I meet in Hunza are generally quiet, polite, and respectful. I breathe clean air and eat organic, home-cooked food for every meal. 

Though my solo journey to Pakistan started as a trip, Hunza Valley is now my home. I've even obtained the equivalent of permanent residency. With the money I've saved, I hope to travel to other countries, with Hunza as my base.

Watch: Meet the block printers keeping an ancient art alive in Pakistan

• Main content

• สมัคร / ล็อกอิน
• ความช่วยเหลือ

Air Force 1 x Tiffany & Co.

Air Force 1 เป็นที่รู้จักครั้งแรกในปี 1982 และสร้างนิยามใหม่ให้รองเท้าบาสเก็ตบอลตั้งแต่คอร์ทพื้นไม้ไปจนถึงพื้นคอนกรีต แถมยังเป็นสนีกเกอร์บาสเก็ตบอลคู่แรกที่ใช้ Nike Air แต่ความล้ำนวัตกรรมก็ยังต้องหลีกทางให้ความเป็นไอคอนในแนวสตรีทของรุ่นนี้