tour guide in urdu

• , February 20, 2023

30+ Useful Urdu Travel Phrases For You

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.

People also read

Irish Weather Vocabulary: 4 Seasons Of Bad Rain?

Your #1 Fun Guide On How To Read Irish Addresses

How To Say Yes/No/Ok In Irish: 10+ Easy Ways

Introduce Yourself In Irish: 40+ Useful Phrases

Personality Vocabulary In Irish: 30+ Awesome Examples

Irish Phrases For St Patrick’s Day: The #1 Great Irish Festival

What makes learning with ling special, interactive exercises.

Improve your pronunciation by starting a conversation with our app’s interactive chatbot

Engaging activities

Practice your skills with mini-games and track your progress with fun quizzes

Mix of languages

Choose from over 60 languages, both big and small, and listen to audio from native speakers

Proven results

Backed by linguistic research, our learning methods can help you achieve fluency in record time

Southeast Asia

East europe.

© 2024 Simya Solutions Ltd.

• 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

• For tour guides
• For tourists

• All countries ―
• Pakistan ―

Find a local private tour guide for sightseeing in Lahore in Pakistan using Private Guide World by filtering your preferred language in the box at the top of this page in the center

Choose a local private tour guide in Lahore, Pakistan

Thanks to the Private Guide World service in a few clicks you can choose a personal tour guide to local attractions of Lahore city in Pakistan. Enter the destination, search parameters, and preferred language to see the results. You can use the filter ONLINE ONLY to see which local tour guide in Lahore is currently online!

Our private tour guides know Lahore and the surrounding region very well, speak the local urdu language plus the other languages, too, and can help you to understand the local people, culture, traditions, and history better while you are in Lahore. During the tour in Lahore, you will not have any problems with locals if a tour guide is by your side. Your local personal tour guide in Lahore will help you learn a lot about the region and share only the most exciting knowledge and best experiences with you. Check out some of the local sights & attractions of Lahore, wildlife & nature, and ask your personal tour guide to show you the local gems hidden from a regular tourist without a professional tour guide. Before you travel to Lahore, be sure you have enough local currency Pakistani rupee with you in case you need to buy a souvenir or tip a tour guide!

New GENERIC REQUEST

Please add some text to the message. The tour guide will answer you in a private message

• Already have an account? Log in
• Don’t you have an account? Sign up

• Latest Posts
• Work with us
• Privacy Policy

Most beautiful places in Pakistan – a complete Pakistan tour guide

There are countless attractions and many beautiful places in Pakistan . We spent more than two months travelling in Pakistan and we can safely say that we don’t know even half of what the country has to offer. Pakistan is a place with hospitable people, extremely diverse culture and unspoiled natural beauty . It is a destination to be absorbed with no rush. For travellers who don’t have a lot of time, we’ve made this Pakistan tour guide with the most important Pakistan points of interest you cannot miss during your tourist travel to Pakistan .

Most beautiful places in Pakistan

• Is it safe to visit Pakistan?
• Best time to travel to Pakistan
• About Pakistan – basic information
• Pakistan tour – travel tips
• Karachi tour guide
• Lahore tour guide
• Islamabad tour guide
• Fairy Meadows tour guide
• Hunza Valley tour guide
• Kalash Valley tour guide
• Lake Shangri-la tour guide

Is it safe to visit Pakistan?

Many people think that travelling to Pakistan is dangerous, but in our own experience as well as of many other travellers we know, shows the opposite. We went through different places of Pakistan , sometimes with a guide, sometimes alone, and we didn’t have any problems whatsoever. Of course, as in so many other countries in the world, you have to be smart and avoid certain areas, but if you follow some basic government and local recommendations, you’re unlikely to have any problems.

All these years of problems and instability in Pakistan seem to be in the past now and, both the army and the government, are striving to keep the country safe and attractive to domestic and international travellers.

Best time to travel to Pakistan

The best time to visit Pakistan will depend on the type of trip you want to take. Pakistan is huge and the most beautiful places in Pakistan will have a quite diverse climate. So, it’s hard to generalize. Nevertheless, in our opinion, the most beautiful and interesting regions of Pakistan are in the autonomous territory of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. These are mountainous areas in north Pakistan that should be avoided in the cold months though.

On the other hand, the large Pakistani tourist places, such as Karachi, Islamabad and especially Lahore, have very high temperatures in summer. So, you might have to pick and choose here. But worry you not! You can check below the Pakistan tour guide we made and see a little bit of everything, and for that, we recommend to visit Pakistan during spring and autumn.

About Pakistan – basic information

• Where is Pakistan : Pakistan is in Asia and borders Iran , Afghanistan, China and India. Until 1947, the year of Pakistan’s independence, the country was part of the Indian Subcontinent, along with India and Bangladesh.
• Capital of Pakistan : Islamabad.
• Pakistani currency : Pakistani rupee (1 USD = 205 rupees)
• Official language of Pakistan : Urdu and English. A lot of people speak English in Pakistan, especially those who have completed higher education, but not so often you find people who only speak Urdu or other local dialects.
• Religion of Pakistan : 95% of the population is Muslim (75% Sunni and 25% Shia), 1% Christian, 1% Buddhist and 3% other minorities.
• Flag of Pakistan : the origin of the flag of Pakistan has a super curious story that we told in an Instagram post. Take a look below! Also, take the opportunity to like the Monday Feelings page and stay on top of tips and news about Pakistan and other corners of the world!

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Monday Feelings (@mondayfeelings)

Pakistan tour – travel tips

Travel insurance

We really recommend travelling to Pakistan with a travel insurance. The level of hygiene in some establishments is quite low. We both got food poisoning and Fernanda even needed to be seen by a doctor. Our insurance covered everything and it was superb. Our partner is SafetyWing Insurance .

The distances between tourist places in Pakistan are quite large and you can choose to travel by plane, train or bus. For trips within cities, we recommend downloading the Uber app, which works super well;

How to dress in Pakistan

There is no dress code in Pakistan, but it is recommended for women to cover legs, shoulders and arms. Men must cover their legs. In big cities, the rule is much more flexible and men can wear shorts and women can wear short-sleeved shirts;

Infrastructure

Pakistan’s infrastructure can be a little precarious in some regions. Plus, trains and buses constantly change schedules. We’re talking about a country that’s less than 80 years old, so don’t be picky about punctuality and other more organizational issues :);

Is Pakistan expensive?

Pakistan is pretty cheap – a plate of food costs between $1 and $3 and a hotel room between $5 and $15.

Internet in Pakistan

We bought the Telenor mobile chip. The data package was cheap and worked well in big cities. Forget about connectivity in more remote places like Fairy Meadows, Kalash Valley and even some areas of Hunza.

Travel agency in Pakistan

Part of this trip was made with the help of Magellan Travels . There are some areas of Pakistan that you as an international tourist need permission to visit. In addition, day-to-day logistics can be difficult, considering that not everyone speaks English and that there is a certain unpredictability in Pakistan. If you are looking for a travel agency to help you during your visit, contact them through their website or by calling Usman, the owner of the company.

Flights to Pakistan

A low-cost option to arrive in Pakistan is Air Arabia . If you are coming from Europe, Air Arabia offers flights from Prague .

The most beautiful places in Pakistan

With 15 million inhabitants, Karachi is Pakistan’s most populous and chaotic city. We spent a week there and honestly didn’t like it very much, but there’s no denying its cultural importance.

Karachi was the last stop on the train that brought people from Indian territories during the “Partition” (a post-independence period of great tension between India and Pakistan) and as many of the newcomers chose to settle there, this is for sure. Pakistan’s most diverse city.

Most international flights arrive in Karachi and one day is enough to see its main attractions.

Karachi beautiful places to visit

• Mazar-e-Quaid Museum and Mausoleum: a very important place for Pakistanis, as it is where the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, is buried;
• National Museum of Pakistan;
• Mohatta Palace;

Hotel in Karachi : we stayed at Avari Towers , a 4 star hotel in Pakistan very well located with a delicious breakfast. The rooms are beautiful and modern and the daily rate is around U$ 80. As we visited Karachi at the invitation of the University of Karachi, they arranged our stay at Avari Towers, but if you are looking for a more affordable option hotel in Karachi, take a look here .

Of all the large cities of Pakistan, Lahore is the one we liked the most. It is known as the Cultural Capital of Pakistan and the city is one of the oldest in the country as well. It is full of many historical monuments.

Lahore beautiful places to visit

• Badshahi Mosque : Probably the most beautiful mosque in Pakistan;
• Lahore Fort ;
• Minar e-Pakistan Monument : place where Pakistan’s independence agreement was signed;
• Iqbal Park ;
• National History Museum : great museum for anyone who wants to know more about the Partition, developed by the amazing film director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy;
• Lahore Museum : museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region;
• Delhi Gate ;
• Watch the changing of the guard at the border with India : we had to skip this activity, because when we were in Lahore the situation with the neighbouring country was more tense than usual;
• Shahi Maham Bath : a recently restored former public bath.
• Eat at Haveli Restaurant overlooking the Badhsahi Mosque.

See where to stay in Lahore here .

The capital of Pakistan was planned, so it makes much more organized, leafy and peaceful than Karachi and/or Lahore. The main attraction of the Pakistani capital is the Faisal Mosque, but during your tour of Islamabad, be sure to also visit:

• Pakistan Monument : go early, when there is almost no one;
• Lok Virsa Heritage Museum ;
• Daman-e-Koh Lookout ;
• Dinner at the delicious Manal restaurant .

Find accommodation in Islamabad here .

Fairy Meadows

Fairy Meadows is arguably one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan . It is a mountainous region with a view of the Nanga Parbat Mountain, the 9th highest mountain in the world!

Access to Fairy Meadows is quite exciting and consists of a Jeep trail along a narrow road surrounded by cliffs that will make even the least religious person adhere to prayer. If you survive the Jeep trip, which though terrifying, incidents on this road are virtually non-existent, you’ll still need to take a three-hour hike to the village that sit high in the mountains. You have the option hike up on horse for a price negotiable with the locals.

Just a head-off: all the efforts to make to this place will be well paid-off.

Hunza Valley

The Hunza Valley is our favourite region in Pakistan and you can’t miss this Pakistani beauty .

Hunza has its own culture and religion and is so interesting and beautiful that we recommend spending at least four days exploring it at leisure. We have an entire article about Hunza Valley and all its attractions .

Where to stay in Hunza? We recommend the guest house Gulmit In. This is simple but cosy and owned by a very dear local family. See other hotel options in Hunza here . If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, Hard Rock Hunza came highly recommended.

Kalash Valley

The Kalash Valley region is not usually on the itinerary of many travellers, but it should be a must for anyone who wants to understand what makes Pakistan such a fascinating destination.

Despite being an area of ​​ natural beauty of Pakistan , the highlight of this valley is the history and culture of the local population. The Kalash Valley is home to about 3,000 “kalashas”. They are an ethnic group on the brink of extinction that has inhabited the region for thousands of years. The kalashas have a very different look and culture from the rest of Pakistan. No one is quite sure how they got there. The most widespread theory, however, says that they are direct descendants of Alexander the Great, who left part of his army behind when he passed through there.

Located on the border with Afghanistan, so you need to get a special permit to visit the region – Magellan Travels took care of this bureaucracy for us.

When in the Kalash Valley, try to eat and stay in establishments run by Kalasha families. They suffer a lot of discrimination from some Islamic fundamentalists and have a harder time capitalizing. We recommend the guest house KFU, owned by the family of Faizi Khan, a super nice and attentive gentleman we met. In addition to the hotel being very cosy, all made of wood and glass, the family that owns the place also serves spectacular homemade food full of traditional dishes. Another high point is that as Faiza speaks English relatively well. He is also super communicative, so you can learn several curiosities about the region.

The internet in Kalash Valley is pretty bad, so obviously the guest house doesn’t have a website, but here are the contact numbers and address: 0344 98 34 036 / 0347 07 00 221

Kalash Valley, Batreek Bumburet, Chitral – Pakistan.

Lake Shangri-la

This lake was highly recommended to us, but unfortunately we didn’t have time to visit it. Note that the picture above is from Attabad Lade. Anyway, here’s our two cents for this most beautiful regions of Pakistan tour guide. The lake is near the city of Skardu. It is at 2,500 meters of altitude and is one of the postcards of Pakistan.

Find accommodation near Shangri-la Lake here .

Pakistan certainly has many other attractions, but as we explained, it is difficult to visit everything in one trip. Here are our tips with the places you should not miss on your first visit to Pakistan. Any questions or suggestions, let us know in the comments, or contact us here!

Her Fernanda,

So many great places across the entire country! I’m in Islamabad right now but my dream is to visit Balochistan. I’m already in love with your blog, your photos made me feel to visit these places as soon as possible.

Hello Zahid. Thank you!! We actually can’t wait to visit Baluchistan. Definitely going when we next visit Pakistan. Safe travels, Fernanda and Tiago

Thank you for sharing your incredible travel experiences and creating a virtual space that allows us to escape, dream, and wanderlust along with you. Your blog is an invaluable resource for travel enthusiasts like myself, and I eagerly await each new post, eagerly anticipating where your next adventure will take us.

Thank you so much Shreya. Very nice words 🙂

I Like Your In-Depth Article as It is Fully Informative. I Recommend You travel to other Places In Pakistan Such as Gwadar, Astola Island, Skardu, Skardu Cold Desert, and Babusar-Top.

Thank you, Sharjeel! I can’t wait to visit Pakistan again

Reading this travel experience from Pakistan. The way you noticed everything is more than amazing.

Thank you very much, Muhammad!

Very beautifully written article. I love traveling, I will definitely go to the places which you have mentioned. Thank you for the blog and keep it up the best.

Hello Benton, We are glad to hear that! Safe travels

You should add Ghizervalley, also.

Hey, thank you so much! I haven’t heard of Ghizer Valley but will definitely look into it. Cheers

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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

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

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.

How to Learn Urdu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning Urdu is not just about acquiring a new skill; it's a journey into a rich culture filled with history, tradition, and opportunities. In this guide on how to learn Urdu, we'll provide you with practical ideas and resources to set you on the right path to mastering the language.

When you learn Urdu, you not only gain language proficiency but also develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and adaptability. Additionally, it opens doors to connect with new people and cultures, which can be incredibly enriching both personally and professionally.

Urdu, spoken by millions worldwide, is gaining increasing global influence. It's not just a language; it's a bridge to a diverse world.In today's interconnected world, knowing Urdu can be a valuable asset in fields like international business, diplomacy, and even cultural exchange programs.

Getting Started with Urdu Language

Urdu alphabet: the building blocks.

The Urdu alphabet may seem intimidating at first, but fear not; it's unique and manageable. Here's a simplified list of the Urdu alphabet with pronunciation:

To master the Urdu alphabet, consider using resources like flashcards. Follow these steps:

• Create a set of flashcards, each featuring one Urdu letter on the front and its pronunciation on the back. 
• Start with a small batch, gradually adding more letters as you progress. 
• Review the cards regularly, practicing both recognizing the letter and pronouncing it correctly. 
• To reinforce your memory, write down the letter and its pronunciation while saying it out loud.
• Additionally, consider incorporating the flashcards into your daily routine, spending a few minutes each day to ensure consistent practice. 

Flashcards can be a powerful tool for mastering the Urdu alphabet, helping you build a solid foundation for your language learning journey. 

Basic Grammar: Constructing Sentences in Urdu

The main rules of Urdu grammar involve constructing sentences using a subject-verb-object (SVO) structure, where the subject is followed by the verb and then the object. Verb conjugation is crucial, as it changes depending on the gender and number of the subject. Urdu nouns are gendered, with masculine and feminine forms, and adjectives must agree in gender and number with the nouns they modify. 

Verb tenses, such as past, present, and future, are used to indicate the timing of actions. Word order can be flexible, but the subject is often placed before the object. Lastly, Urdu uses postpositions instead of prepositions , which means that modifiers come after the noun they modify. Understanding these fundamental rules is essential for constructing grammatically correct Urdu sentences. Here's an example:

Subject + Verb + Object

- میں کتاب پڑھتا ہوں (Main kitab parhta hoon) - I read a book.

- وہ خوش ہے (Woh khush hai) - She is happy.

To avoid common grammatical errors, remember these tips:

• Verb Conjugation: Pay special attention to verb conjugation patterns in Urdu, as they change depending on the gender and number of the subject. Practice conjugating verbs in various tenses and moods to become more comfortable with different verb forms. Additionally, familiarize yourself with irregular verbs and their conjugations.
• Word Order: While Urdu has a flexible word order, understanding when and how to use different word orders is important. Learn how to emphasize different elements of a sentence by rearranging words. Pay attention to the use of subject-verb-object (SVO), object-verb-subject (OVS), and other word orders in different contexts.
• Punctuation and Sentence Structure: Correct punctuation and sentence structure can significantly impact the clarity of your writing. Understand the use of commas, periods, question marks, and other punctuation marks in Urdu sentences. Also, practice constructing complex sentences and using appropriate connectors and conjunctions to link ideas together coherently.

Common Phrases: Start Speaking Urdu

Learning common phrases can kickstart your Urdu conversations. Here are 20 everyday phrases with pronunciation and English translations:

1. سلام (Salaam) - Hello

2. شکریہ (Shukriya) - Thank you

3. خدا حافظ (Khuda Hafiz) - Goodbye

4. براہ کرم (Barah-e-karam) - Please

5. ہاں (Haan) - Yes

6. نہیں (Nahi) - No

7. میں نے سمجھا (Main ne samjha) - I understand

8. میں نے نہیں سمجھا (Main ne nahi samjha) - I don't understand

9. کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟ (Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?) - Do you speak English?

10. میرا نام ______ ہے (Mera naam ____ hai) - My name is ___

11. میں نے آپ کو دیکھا (Main ne aap ko dekha) - I saw you

12. کیا حال ہے؟ (Kya haal hai?) - How are you?

13. آپ کا شکریہ ہ (Aap ka shukriya) - You're welcome

14. برسات کا موسم ہے (Barsaat ka mausam hai) - It's raining

15. میں طالب علم ہوں (Main talib ilm hoon) - I am a student

16. آپ کیسے ہیں؟ (Aap kaise hain?) - How are you?

17. یہ کتاب کتنی قیمتی ہے؟ (Yeh kitaab kitni qeemti hai?) - How much does this book cost?

18. میں وہ کام کرتا ہوں (Main woh kaam karta hoon) - I do that work

19. کرپایہ (Karpaaya) - Excuse me

20. میں گم ہو گیا ہوں (Main gum ho gaya hoon) - I am lost

To pronounce common phrases in Urdu accurately, consider these three tips:

• First, familiarize yourself with the unique sounds in Urdu, such as 'ṛ,' 'ṣ,' 'ẓ,' 'ṭ,' and 'ain,' by listening to native speakers or language resources.
• Second, practice the correct pronunciation of individual words, paying attention to stress patterns and syllable emphasis to ensure clarity. 
• Third, practice speaking the phrases in context by engaging in conversations with native Urdu speakers or using language exchange apps to receive feedback on your pronunciation and intonation.

Tips and Tricks

Here are three useful tips for your studying daily routine to kickstart your Urdu language journey:

• Morning Vocabulary Practice: Start your day by dedicating the first 15-30 minutes to expanding your Urdu vocabulary. Create flashcards with new words or phrases in Urdu and their English translations. Review and memorize them while paying attention to pronunciation. Use language learning apps or online resources that offer daily word-of-the-day features to introduce new vocabulary. 
• Grammar Focus in the Afternoon: In the afternoon, allocate time for grammar exercises and practice. Choose a specific aspect of Urdu grammar to work on each day, such as verb conjugation, noun-adjective agreements, or sentence structure. Utilize grammar books, online courses, or language apps that provide exercises and explanations. Practice writing sentences and paragraphs to reinforce what you've learned. 
• Evening Language Immersion: In the evening, immerse yourself in Urdu language and culture. Watch Urdu movies, TV shows, or YouTube channels with Urdu content. Listen to Urdu podcasts, music, or news broadcasts. Try to comprehend the content as much as possible, even if you start with simple materials. This routine helps improve your listening comprehension, exposes you to different accents and dialects, and reinforces your connection with the language. 

Learning Urdu can be more effective when integrated into your daily routine. Here are three ways to do it:

• Label Objects: Stick labels on objects around your home with their Urdu names. This constant exposure will reinforce your vocabulary.
• Watch Urdu Media: Tune in to Urdu news, movies, or TV shows. It helps you get accustomed to the language's rhythm and pronunciation.
• Join Language Groups: Find online or local language exchange groups where you can practice with native Urdu speakers.

Advanced Urdu Language Learning Tips

Once you've mastered the fundamentals, it's time to delve deeper into the language. Explore more complex grammar rules, expand your vocabulary, and engage in meaningful conversations to enhance your fluency.

Some of the main songs, movies, and books for practicing Urdu include timeless classics like the songs of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, renowned for his qawwali performances, which offer beautiful Urdu lyrics and rich cultural expressions. In the world of movies, classics like "Mughal-e-Azam" and "Umrao Jaan" showcase Urdu dialogue, poetry, and melodious songs, providing a glimpse into the language's cinematic history.

For literature, beginners can explore simple Urdu books like "Urdu Ki Pehli Kitab" by Ibn-e-Insha or "Urdu Ki Akhri Kitab" by Ibn-e-Insha, while more advanced learners can delve into the works of poets like Mirza Ghalib or read modern Urdu novels like "Basti" by Intizar Hussain. These resources offer a diverse range of language experiences, from poetic verses to everyday conversations, making them valuable for practicing and deepening your understanding of Urdu.

Practical experience is invaluable when learning a language. Here are three ways to interact with native Urdu speakers:

• Language Exchange Apps: Platforms like Tandem or HelloTalk connect you with native Urdu speakers for language exchange.
• Online Communities: Join Urdu language forums or social media groups dedicated to language learners.
• Local Meetups: Look for language exchange meetups or cultural events in your area.

Online Urdu Language Courses

Online courses provide structured learning opportunities. Here are three popular online courses for learning Urdu:

• University of California, Berkeley - Urdu Language Program : This program is suitable for beginners and provides a comprehensive introduction to Urdu, covering vocabulary, grammar, reading, writing, and conversation skills. It's a structured course with a focus on building a strong foundation in the language. The university's reputable faculty and resources ensure a high-quality learning experience.
• University of Michigan - Elementary Urdu Course: This course is designed for beginners and covers basic grammar, vocabulary, and communication skills. It provides a solid foundation for those who want to start learning Urdu. The University of Michigan is known for its language programs, making this course a reliable choice for beginners.
• Harvard University - Intermediate Urdu Course : Offers an intermediate Urdu course online, which is ideal for learners who have already mastered the basics. This course focuses on developing more advanced language skills, including reading and analyzing Urdu literature, and engaging in complex conversations. Harvard's prestigious language department ensures the course's academic rigor and quality.

Tutoring: Personalized Guidance for learning Urdu

Tutoring can provide personalized guidance and accelerate your language skills. Here are three platforms to find Urdu language tutors:

• Italki: Provides a platform where you can connect with native Urdu speakers and experienced tutors for personalized one-on-one lessons via video chat. This personalized approach allows you to tailor your learning experience to your specific goals and needs, whether it's improving speaking, listening, grammar, or vocabulary. You can choose from a variety of tutors with different teaching styles and schedules, making it convenient to find a tutor who fits your preferences.
• Preply: It provides access to a diverse pool of experienced Urdu tutors from around the world, enabling you to choose a tutor whose teaching style aligns with your learning preferences and goals. Preply's platform offers flexibility in terms of scheduling, allowing you to set lesson times that suit your availability.
• Verbling: It provides access to a global community of experienced language tutors, including native Urdu speakers, allowing learners to choose a tutor who matches their learning style and objectives. Verbling's platform offers live one-on-one lessons via video chat, ensuring interactive and personalized instruction.

Mobile Apps: Learn Urdu Anytime, Anywhere

Learning Urdu is more accessible than ever with mobile apps. Here are three popular apps to facilitate your Urdu language journey:

• Memrise: Its spaced repetition system helps learners remember words effectively, and the user-generated content ensures a wide range of courses suitable for various levels. It also provides audio and visual cues for pronunciation, making it excellent for building vocabulary and improving listening skills. Memrise's engaging format encourages consistent practice, making it an enjoyable resource for language learners.
• HelloTalk: You can engage in text, voice, or video conversations, allowing you to practice speaking and listening skills with real native speakers. It offers language correction features, so you receive feedback on your messages, ensuring accurate communication. The app also includes translation tools, a language partner finder, and a news feed for language learning content, creating a well-rounded language learning experience.
• UrduPod101: Its content includes grammar explanations, vocabulary lessons, cultural insights, and practical dialogues, offering a holistic approach to language learning. The lessons are suitable for learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced, and come with downloadable materials and lesson notes. Additionally, UrduPod101 offers a community aspect where learners can engage with teachers and fellow students, fostering a supportive and immersive learning environment.

Books: A Rich Resource for learning Urdu

Teaching books are a valuable resource for in-depth learning. Here are three teaching books for Urdu:

• "Teach Yourself Urdu" by David Matthews and Kasim Dalvi : It offers a comprehensive introduction to the language, covering essential grammar, vocabulary, and cultural insights. The book includes dialogues, exercises, and pronunciation guides to help learners grasp the basics of Urdu effectively. "Teach Yourself Urdu" is known for its user-friendly approach and gradual progression, making it an excellent choice for self-study.
• "Urdu: An Essential Grammar" by Ruth Laila Schmidt : It is a highly regarded reference book. It delves into the intricacies of Urdu grammar, providing explanations of key concepts, rules, and examples. This book is particularly useful for those who want to understand the structural aspects of the language and gain a solid foundation in Urdu grammar.
• "Complete Urdu: A Teach Yourself Guide" by David Matthews and Mohamed Kasim Dalvi: It covers various aspects of the language, including grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation, in a structured and accessible manner. The book includes dialogues, exercises, cultural insights, and audio recordings to help learners develop their listening and speaking skills. It's suitable for beginners and those looking to build a strong foundation in Urdu.

Videos and Podcasts: Immersive Learning

Videos and podcasts offer immersive language learning experiences. Here are three channels offering Urdu language content:

• UrduPod101 (YouTube Channel): Offers an extensive collection of YouTube videos for learning Urdu. These videos cover a wide range of topics, from grammar lessons and vocabulary explanations to cultural insights and practical conversations. They are suitable for learners at various levels, from beginners to advanced, and are accompanied by visual aids and subtitles to enhance understanding.
• Learn Urdu with UrduPod101 (Podcast) : It is an audio-based resource that offers a convenient way to improve your Urdu listening and speaking skills on the go. It features a series of audio lessons that cover different aspects of the language, including pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and cultural topics. The lessons are designed to be practical and engaging, making them suitable for learners of all levels. 
• Urdu Studio: It  is a YouTube channel dedicated to teaching Urdu to learners of all levels. The channel offers a wide range of videos covering Urdu grammar lessons, vocabulary building, pronunciation guides, and practical conversations. The lessons are presented in a clear and engaging manner, making it accessible for beginners while also offering content for more advanced learners. Additionally, the channel provides cultural insights and tips for better understanding Urdu language and culture.

Conclusion: How to learn Urdu

In this guide, we've explored "How to learn Urdu" step by step. From mastering the alphabet to finding the right resources and engaging with native speakers, you now have a roadmap to start your learning process. 

Remember, consistency, practice, and a love for the language are your keys to success. So, get started, and soon you'll find yourself conversing fluently in Urdu, opening doors to a world of culture and connection.

How long does it take to learn Urdu?

The time it takes to learn Urdu depends on various factors, including your prior language learning experience, the amount of time you dedicate daily, and your learning methods. On average, it may take several months to become proficient in basic conversation, and years to achieve fluency.

How hard is it to learn Urdu?

Learning Urdu can be challenging, but it's certainly achievable with dedication and the right resources. The script and grammar may seem complex at first, but with consistent practice and effective learning strategies, you can make steady progress.

How can I learn Urdu quickly?

To learn Urdu quickly, immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Practice regularly, engage with native speakers, and use a combination of resources like language apps, books, and courses to expedite your learning.

How can I learn Urdu at home on my own?

Learning Urdu at home is entirely feasible. Start by mastering the alphabet, then progress to basic grammar and common phrases. Use online courses, mobile apps, books, and videos to supplement your learning. Engage with native speakers through language exchange platforms or local meetups.

How can I become fluent in Urdu?

Becoming fluent in Urdu requires consistent effort and practice. Beyond the basics, focus on expanding your vocabulary, improving your listening and speaking skills, and engaging in meaningful conversations with native speakers. Immersion in Urdu media, such as movies, music, and books, can also aid fluency development.

Related articles

• How to Learn Farsi
• How to Learn Tamil
• How to Learn Cantonese

We’re in Myanmar right now and it’s SO epic… click here to follow along on Instagram.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Asia » Pakistan » The 4 BEST Adventure Tours to Pakistan: Roam Wild in 2024

The 4 BEST Adventure Tours to Pakistan: Roam Wild in 2024

Ahhh Pakistan, you will forever hold a special place in my heart…

I first visited Pakistan in 2015 and in 2016 I solo-founded a tour company leading expeditions into this amazing country. I led the first expedition to Pakistan in 2017 and I have been to Pakistan six times over the last few years. I take great pride in my part of opening up Pakistan to the world, promoting this very misunderstood country at a time where that promotion was not often positively received.

I am no longer leading expeditions to Pakistan, read on to the end of the post to find out why, but I am still just as passionate about promoting this wonderful land and so, I am delighted to share with you… My four hand-picked choices for incredible leaders to take you around my favourite country in the world 🙂

I know Pakistan and, as far as I know, I was the first blogger to bring group tours to the country. I am proud of my part in opening up Pakistan to the world and I am stoked to see worthy and passionate adventurers continuing the good work…

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Quick Answer: These Are the 4 Best Pakistan Adventure Tours

• Intentional Detours : Best Northern Pakistan Tour
• Against the Compass : Best Co-Ed Pakistan Tour
• Lost With Purpose : Best Pakistan Women’s Tours
• Karakoram Bikers : Best Pakistan Bike Tours

Hunza Valley + Chitral Women’s Tour by Intentional Detours

• Price > $2200
• Trip length > 16 days
• Start/End > Islamabad/Islamabad
• Accommodation > Hotels/Homestays/Guesthouses
• Highlights > Offbeat Hunza Valley, Upper Chitral, Ghizer Valley

Northern Pakistan Tour by Against The Compass

• Price > $3072
• Trip length > 14 days
• Accommodation > Hotels
• Highlights > Hunza Valley, Nanga Parbat Base Camp, Astore Valley

Women’s Tours by Lost With Purpose

• Price > $2750
• Trip length > 20 days
• Start/End > Islamabad/Lahore
• Accommodation > Hotels/Camping/Homes
• Highlights > Yasin Valley, Nanga Parbat Rupal Face, Hunza Valley, Lahore

Biking Tours by Lost With Purpose

• Price > $2350
• Highlights > Ishkoman Valley, Hunza Valley, Chitral

Pure Pakistan by Karakoram Bikers

• Price > $3282
• Trip length > 19 days
• Highlights > Hunza Valley, Skardu, Deosai Plains

Why THESE Pakistan Adventure Tours?

In the past few years since I ran my first tour to magical Pakistan, foreign tourism to Pakistan has absolutely exploded, with many people choosing to travel with a tour group .

While this is great in some aspects, it’s also, to be frank, cheapened Pakistan travel as the tour space is now VERY full and, frankly, some people who are operating tours to Pakistan should not be.

I know of a few instances where influencers who have NEVER stepped foot in the country are bringing groups with them on their first time-visit, which in my view is undeniably irresponsible and is not going to lead to the kind of depth of experience that one can have by traveling with somebody who really knows the country well.

While Pakistan is safe even for independent travel, If I WAS opting to go on a guided tour, I would want to feel confident that my tour guide knows their shit. I’d want a guide that could really improve my experience and make it better because of unique knowledge, experience and connections within the country.

Diving in, here are just a few things that set the four operators I am recommending apart from the rest…

Prior Pakistan Travel Experience

Every single one of our epic tour leaders has spent a SIGNIFICANT amount of time exploring Pakistan independently. We’re talking real budget backpacking , hitchhiking and motorbiking to some of the least visited spots in the country, AND a whole host of mountain adventures under their belt.

More importantly though, what sets the folks I am recommending apart from some other folks who really don’t care about Pakistan all that much is that have collectively spent years travelling through these lands on their own, for the pure love of Pakistan travel. Some of them (Samantha and Alex) speak Urdu, and all have extensive local contacts you can only garner from some serious time spent in the country.

Immersive Itineraries

Most Pakistan tour itineraries rarely careen off the beaten path. To be fair, it’s a fucking great path which I helped beat myself but Pakistan has more to offer than the classic; Fairy Meadows , the parts of Hunza that lie along the Karakoram Highway, Lahore.

Such tours these days can feel a bit less authentic as these areas have now been seeing tourists in significant numbers for a few years. With a bit more effort, or the help of an expert tour guide, one can still pretty easily get off the beaten path to explore parts of the country that are still relatively untouched.

By going with one of my buddies though you’ll see a totally different side to the country and explore snazzy locales, hidden hideaways, and genuine experiences that will make you feel more like you’re backpacking Pakistan with a group of buddies, rather than being led around on a bus-tour.

You’ll hike, camp, and even spend some of your nights in cozy traditional homes sharing laughs and making memories around an old-school fireplace. These are tours by adventurers, for adventurers through and through and I’ve been careful about who I do and don’t recommend for your tour guides; choosing folks I know and trust to put your experience above making money.

Connections

Pakistan is a country that lives and breathes on connections, and as we all know, real connections cannot be built in a day. These four tour leaders have extensive on-the-ground experience which has allowed them to build enduring local relationships. You’ll see this in the itineraries, and in how they handle things on the fly.

As mentioned, both Samantha, Alex and the Karakoram Biker founders also speak Urdu – though this isn’t necessary for you as a tourist, it can make a big difference in daily logistics from an operator’s perspective.

Alex, Joan and Lizzy were all travelling in Pakistan by early 2016. Samantha has more than made up for it with spending the last two years in the country, plus a cheeky 4-month stint back in 2019. You want somebody who really has traveled extensively BECAUSE they actually love the country, rather than because they are trying to extract money or Instagram followers out of it.

484 pages with cities, towns, parks, and ALL the out-of-the-way places you will WANT to know. If you truly want to discover Pakistan , download this PDF .

Pakistan Adventure Tours Breakdown

Thinking about a journey to the most underrated country in the world but aren’t sure where to begin? Let’s have a look into the most epic Pakistan adventure tours on the market:

#1 Hunza Valley + Yasin Women’s Tour by Intentional Detours

• Price : $2100
• Trip length : 16 days
• Start/End : Islamabad/Islamabad
• Accommodation : Hotels/Homestays/Guesthouses
• Highlights : Offbeat Hunza Valley, Ghizer Valley

Why choose THIS Pakistan adventure tour?

Samantha literally lives in Pakistan. I met her two years ago at the guesthouse I had helped fund, we hiked together, we smoked together, we hung out… I went back to Bali, she stayed in Pakistan and spent the next two years exploring and learning the lingo.

Absolutely no backpacker (except locals themselves) knows more about the Hunza Valley than she does, as it’s specifically a village of Central Hunza that she now calls home. As such, you can expect a seriously local and certifiably unique adventure that will bring you a mountain experience like no other.

But that’s not all- Intentional Detour’s Pakistan’s women tour also coasts through Yasin Valley, a fantastical hamlet of the Hindu Kush that 9/10 foreigners ignore. It’s a truly special place to get off the beaten path .

Samantha’s tour begins and ends in Islamabad, and will take you along on some of the most stunning road trips in Pakistan. Your first main stop after coming up the 3000+ meter Babusar Pass will be Hunza in Gilgit Baltistan, where you’ll really get a heavy dose of local life thanks to her unparalleled connections in the region. The tour includes time spent in two side valleys of Hunza that other companies simply aren’t visiting.

You’ll then move along over the exquisite Gilgit-Shandur Road to Yasin, which also surpasses 3000 meters. Samantha has visited every single destination herself, including all chosen hotels and local homestays .

As Hunza and all of Gilgit Baltistan are indigenous lands, this tour also makes a pointed and conscious effort to ONLY support 100% locally owned businesses in the region.

So you can rest assured that your money is being well-placed whereas sadly many tour operators to Pakistan pretty much book everything through travel agents in Lahore and not enough of the money makes its way into local hands.

DISCOUNT : Also, to further entice you, TBB readers can get a 5% discount on the tour by entering the code “ TBB ” on the sign up form.

Who is Intentional Detours?

Samantha is my buddy, through and through, she’s an impressive fucking lady and she has the coveted Will seal of approval. I vouch for her, she knows her stuff and, more importantly, she is a good and kind human.

An intrepid traveller who set out to backpack full-time in 2019, Samantha has visited virtually every corner of Pakistan. This includes the Neelum and Broghil Valleys, the former of which only a small handful of foreigners have ever seen as it involves complicated permits and permissions which, thanks to her Urdu and connections, Samantha managed to arrange.

Samantha has now collectively spent 36+ months living and journeying about the country, and even speaks Urdu, which is Pakistan’s national language. Most other foreign tour guides don’t speak fluent Urdu.

You can find her on her blog , Youtube and Instagram which all feature an array of fantastic content about her life in Pakistan.

#2 Northern Pakistan Tour by Against The Compass

• Price : $3072
• Trip length : 14 days
• Accommodation : Hotels
• Highlights : Hunza Valley, Nanga Parbat Base Camp, Astore Valley

With Against the Compass, you’ll be taken care of by true professionals who know how to run an expedition. Joan runs and organizes more tours to more far-flung lands than anyone else on this list, and his experience will shine through as he starts off his Pakistan group expeditions in 2023. Joan has traveled extensively in Pakistan and first rocked up in 2016 (I think).

In just two weeks, you’ll get to visit the highlights of the Hunza Valley and also get to know Astore, one of Joan’s favourite places in Pakistan and a place he has some unique contacts. The journey will both start and end in Islamabad, with the final hurrah of the trip being an epic trek to Nanga Parbat Basecamp, Rupal Face that’s more off-beaten path than the more famous face on the Fairy Meadows side.

You’ll stay in tried and tested hotels throughout, and overall a high standard of comfort while still getting off the typical tourist trail as you learn about Pakistan through experience.

DISCOUNT: TBB readers are also in for a cheeky discount, just enter the code TBB when checking out with Joan.

Who is Against The Compass? 

Joan Torres quit a corporate career and started travelling the world full time in 2016. From the beginning, he always sought out some truly epic and unvisited destinations – from Mali to Yemen, he’s been to every country your government warns you about.

His travel blog, Against the Compass , quickly rose to success as he published more and more content on the world’s less-visited locales. I have a lot of respect for Joan and his blogging style. A few years ago, Joan registered his own tour company, Against the Compass Expeditions, and has since gained unparalleled experience in bringing travellers to difficult destinations. I’m a big fan of Joan, we’ve been in touch many years and more recently got drunk together in Barcelona. He knows his shit and his passion shines through.

#3 Women’s and Biking Tours by Lost With Purpose

Women’s Tour

Biking Off The Beaten Path

• Price : $2750
• Trip length : 20 days
• Start/End : Islamabad/Lahore
• Accommodation : Hotels/Camping/Homes
• Highlights : Yasin Valley, Nanga Parbat Rupal Face, Hunza Valley, Lahore
• Price : $2350
• Highlights : Ishkoman Valley, Hunza Valley, Chitral

Lost With Purpose runs two different twos to Pakistan – one for bikers (open to all) and the other specifically for female travelers . Her Pakistan women’s tour will ensure you get a fantastic taste of everything North Pakistan has to offer. From the less-visited Yasin Valley to the “other” Nanga Parbat Basecamp, the tour highlights places that most tourists don’t go and features a mix of hotel and homestay experiences.

Alex’s tour partner, Aneeqa, is a female Pakistani traveller who runs her own licensed company as well. In a country as patriarchal as Pakistan, it’s bloody awesome to see two bad-ass, independent women partnered like this. You’ll even get to do a few epic treks , like Rakaposhi Basecamp and Nanga Parbat – Rupal Face, too.

As far as motorbiking in Pakistan goes, Alex also runs several tours that wind through a mind-blowing loop of the Karakoram Highway and onward to the stunning Gilgit-Shandur Road that connects to Chitral. This tour is an ideal introduction to the mountains of Pakistan, as you’ll get to see a ton of major mountain sites fairly quickly.

Who is Lost With Purpose?

A fierce solo female adventurer and riveting storyteller, Alex Reynolds has been on the road full-time since 2016 and honestly, Alex is fucking awesome. She’s spent years dirt-bagging around South Asia, and like myself, quickly found herself enthralled by Pakistan.

Her travel blog Lost With Purpose features some of the best writing in the industry – you’d be hard-pressed to find travel guides as honest and thorough as hers. I’ve shared many a hilarious WhatsApp message with Alex and, again, I vouch for her, she is an awesome person who truly cares about the personal development opportunities afforded by raw and rugged travel.

Alex not only travels solo – she does so on her motorbike, which led to her adding motorbike tours to her yearly lineup. In addition to getting lost all over Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, Alex has also gotten well off the beaten path in the likes of Tajikistan, Iran, and Iraq. I have an adventure crush on her.

We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.

Want more deetz on why these packs are so  damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!

#4 Best Motorbike Tour in Pakistan – Pure Pakistan by Karakoram Bikers

• Price : $3282
• Trip length : 19 days
• Highlights : Hunza Valley, Skardu, Deosai Plains

Why should you choose this Northern Pakistan tour package? 

This is the ultimate motorbike tour of Pakistan! It combines two of Karakoram Bikers’ top itineraries – Hunza and Skardu – into one epic trip across nearly every paved surface in Gilgit-Baltistan. If you want to experience one of the best road trips in the world , then this Northern Pakistan tour package is for you.

The tour starts in Islamabad and proceeds to head north to Hunza via Naran. You’ll get to experience the best of the Karakoram Highway. You’ll visit Karimabad, see the majestic Attabad Lake and the Passu Cathedral. Your group will finish the KKH off at the Chinese border at the Khunjerab Pass.

But there’s more! 

You’ll then head back toward the KKH to coast through the pastoral Astore Valley, Rama Lake, and the famous plains of Deosai.

By the time you reach Skardu and the “Cold Desert” of Shigar, you will have ridden through an enormous variety of landscapes. 

In terms of logistics, Karakoram Bikers will organize everything for you. This includes the bikes themselves, fuel, maintenance, tasty local food , and accommodation. They also utilize an assistance vehicle, which is full of water and first aid supplies. Sounds pretty comprehensive if you ask me. 

Who are the Karakoram Bikers? 

Karakoram Bikers is the motorcycling wing of the famous Karakoram Club – a home-grown Pakistani initiative of explorers and hikers who have made huge efforts to open up Pakistan to tourism.

Shah and Lizzy are the heads of the club and have lead numerous tours around the mountains of Gilgit Baltistan and beyond. I know Shah personally and we’ve hiked, biked and smoked together many times. He’s the fucking man.

DISCOUNT: TBB readers also get a $130 discount with Karakoram Bikers! Once you’ve selected your Pakistan adventure, just use the code “Backpacker” when checking out.

Final Thoughts on These Pakistan Adventure Tours

My own history with Pakistan tours is… complicated. I first visited the country in 2015, and in 2016 I solo-founded a tour company, Epic Backpacker Tours, leading tours to Pakistan and Iran (leaning on my wife’s contacts and my own extensive time in the country). I led the first tour to Pakistan in 2017.

After three years of running the company, I bought in outside help and gave them 50% of the company as I wanted them to feel ownership; a concept I was passionate about at the time but which was ultimately rooted in misunderstood communism.

I continued to solo-fund the tour company during challenging times (looking at you, Covid) to support my Pakistani friends on the ground. All the while, the ‘help’ I had brought on kept asking me for more money in different ways and trying to get a larger percentage of the company off of me, despite the fact I was funding an unprofitable business.

After a mental breakdown on account of a challenging divorce and other personal reasons – very difficult times friends – I made a snap-decision to move away from this toxic relationship and I relinquished my share of the company, to be rid of a relationship that was causing me daily stress. The one condition was that my legacy contributing to the Pakistan tourism scene would be respected.

But unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. My history in the company hasn’t been preserved, and information on the internet has been manipulated to remove my contributions, and credit my former partner for all the work I had done. My former partner claims he first visited Pakistan in 2015, and that he founded the company.

I learnt some big lessons here, I had major heeby-jeebys about the guy I bought in to help me with the project from the start but I needed the help and he was available, so I ignored my intuition. Interestingly, this guy was the only person my dog ever tried to attack… I should have listened to my wise adventure doggo because my ‘partner’ turned out to be manipulative and, simply put, a liar. Today, the tour company Epic Backpacker Tours is still in operation but the guy I brought in has written me out of the story, inserting himself into my copy and attempting to dilute my legacy; He claims he visited Pakistan in 2015 (This is when I first visited, the first time he visited Pakistan was 2018, as an employee) and that he founded the tour company himself (a bald-faced lie).

This false information is still up upon the internet, and whilst I have a dizzying amount of voice messages, invoices, emails and Whatsapp messages showing the true story of this person coming on as an employee, I have at this point decided to let it go and not engage unless engaged. If I am engaged in any way, I’ll pop it all up online. Obviously, I strongly recommend NOT traveling with somebody who lies about when they first stepped foot in the country.

Losing the tour company did however make me truly sad, as I poured my heart and soul into this project. Despite everything that happened afterwards and the friction caused by it, it was still my baby, and I was proud of being one of the first (or maybe the first) travel bloggers to bring a group to Pakistan. It was also an important moment in my journey as launching the tours is what enabled me to scrape funds together to grow The Broke Backpacker.

I could go on and on with more details, but I don’t think this’ll serve you, dear reader. I have, at this point, let go of my mistake. The mountains know, and they shall avenge me.

The thing is, Pakistan IS an absolutely amazing country, it is also somewhere that often DOES make sense to travel with a tour group, especially if you are shorter on time, as logistics can be challenging and quality contacts hard to make. There are now however SO MANY operators out there that it’s hard to find the best tour options for Pakistan and so I sat down and penned this out, to assist you dear reader in picking the best experience for your journey to Pakistan.

Pakistan truly is the trip of a lifetime and I’m delighted to be able to advise you on how to find an honest, experienced, guide who can show you this marvelous destination.

Now go, friends! Embark on an amazing adventure to Pakistan with someone who truly cares and has taken the time to develop new routes, connections, and language skills!

But first, let me give you a bit of extra juice before you move on with your grand adventure plans.

Pakistan Travel Tips

A few more cheeky Pakistan travel tips to get you excited for a tour of a lifetime…

You will need a visa to travel to Pakistan, which can these days be obtained online at their E-visa website . Each operator will provide you with a “letter of invitation” (or LOI) to ensure you get the visa, but you’ll have to cover the application costs yourself, which range from $10-$60 depending on your nationality.

Camping in Pakistan

Not every tour will involve camping, but for those that do, you might want to invest in a piece or two of a quality tent . Camping under the billion-starred skies of Pakistan have been some of my favourite nights on the road.

Food + Water

Pakistani food is spicy AF – though in the mountain regions you’ll find very different dishes that seem to more closely resemble European tastes. While it is a heavily meat-focused nation, vegans and vegetarians will find themselves satisfied – the hoilo garma in Hunza is a particularly epic meatless dish.

Tap water in Pakistan is NOT SAFE to drink ANYWHERE. I recommend grabbing yourself a Grayl before heading out on your adventure, not only will it save you money but it also does something for Pakistan’s trash problem. (Which isn’t as bad as India’s at least.)

What to Wear

Respect goes a long way in Pakistan – this is a conservative country, and you do want to show that you care about cultural norms. No, you don’t need to wear a hijab (except in mosques) BUT modest clothing like long, loose shirts are a must.

Many men wear Western clothes, which is fine, but shorts will make you stick out. It’s also important to mention that while places like Hunza are quite liberal, that doesn’t mean you should dress like you’re in Bali. 99% of women still wear the local outfit, the shalwar kameez, which also happens to be one of the comfiest outfits out there.

Alcohol and Beyond

As an Islamic Republic, Pakistan is nearly 97% Muslim, BUT alcohol isn’t fully illegal. While you certainly won’t find bars, liquor stores, or clubs, some “wine shops” and upscale hotels are legally allowed to sell to foreigners and non-Muslim Pakistanis.

I think you’ll be just as surprised as I was with how open Pakistan really is – the country also has some of the best hashish in the world (which is technically illegal but not policed). The Hunza Valley and parts of Upper Chitral are also known to brew their own moonshine from local fruit – though do be warned that it is STRONG.

Pakistan Travel Insurance

Travel insurance (that actually covers Pakistan) is a MUST, amigos. While basic medical care is super cheap, you want to be prepared for absolutely everything… these days more and more companies cover Pakistan, and some tours will even require you have it.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

FAQ About the Best Pakistan Tour Packages

Is pakistan safe.

Indeed it is! In fact, it’s the most hospitable place I’ve ever been. The mountain regions are particularly secure, which is where all these Pakistan adventure tours are focused on. Hunza Valley in particular is one of the safest places in the world.

What is the food like in Pakistan?

Food in Pakistan’s major cities is spicy as can be – but very meaty. Do try the chicken karahi. Hunza food (and that of other mountain areas) is very different and spice-free.

What level of fitness is required for these Pakistan adventure tours?

None of the tours involve any serious or technical hiking, but you’ll need to be moderately fit to keep up with the day hikes and active itineraries of each tour.

What is accommodation in Pakistan like?

You’ll encounter a variety of Western-style hotels, local guesthouses, and actual homes on any of these tours. While Western comforts may not always be available, clean and cozy spots will be.

What’s the weather like in Pakistan?

Pakistan’s major cities will likely be a minimum of 30 degrees during any of these Pakistan tours. The mountains, however, have a much nicer climate that can be compared to what you’d find in Northern Europe or the Northeastern United States. While a good jacket is absolutely needed, you will not freeze.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Will Hatton

Share or save this post

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.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Take A Skardu Tour Today

Complete Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu 

Table of Contents

If you are planning to travel to the northern part of Pakistan, you may come across the name Skardu. This important city in Gilgit-Baltistan may be less famous than the Hunza Valley in the north or Ferry Meadows in the west. However, it is still one of Pakistan’s top tourist destinations due to its unique natural attractions nearby.

Skardu is the perfect destination in Pakistan if you dream of visiting a cold desert or alpine plateau. If you’re also in the mood to sample some of Balti’s delicacies, it’s time to pack your bags and plan your vacation in Skardu.

Here’s the complete travel guide to Skardu that you should consider before heading to Skardu.

Where is Skardu?

Skardu is located in northern Pakistan’s eastern part of the Gilgit-Baltistan region at an altitude of about 2230 meters. It is one of the most important cities in the area, alongside the majestic Himalayas. This place brings a unique landscape and ecosystem to the region, which can be found in very few other locations worldwide.

Weather in Skardu

Compared to the rest of northern Pakistan, Skardu has a relatively m

Travel Guide to Skardu- Weather Update of Skardu

ild climate. The hottest months are from June to September, when temperatures can reach 30 degrees Celsius, and the coldest months are from December to February when temperatures often drop below zero. In the months in between, expect temperatures around 10°C. The highest precipitation occurs from December to May.

The best time to visit Skardu

The best time to visit Skardu is the summer months, from June to September. It’s the perfect time to enjoy lush green landscapes at a comfortable temperature, avoid heavy rain, and escape the oppressive heat of the rest of Pakistan. October is another great time to visit Skardu to experience the region’s golden fall in autumn. Winter turns the area around Skardu into a beautiful white wonderland, but during this season, the city will be hard to reach.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Best Time to visit Skardu

Are you confused about what to wear in Skardu? Most of the time, you can wear warm clothes as the nights in Skardu are too chilled.  

How to get to Skardu?

Entering Skardu is both a blessing and a curse. You have more options than most other places in northern Pakistan, as Skardualready has its airport.

Here’s how to get to Skardu:

Daily Flight Operation for Skardu

There are daily direct flights from Islamabad and Karachi to Skardu Airport. Flights are operated by the national airline PIA with small aircraft. Despite the relatively short flight time, flights to Skardu are expensive, ranging from $80 to $200 per round trip. Getting into the mountains (scenic) is very difficult for pilots, but it’s still safer to fly to Skardu than to reach the city by road.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Skardu Flight Operations

Drive To Skardu

Are you confused about what to wear in Skardu? Most of the time, you can wear warm clothes as the nights in Skardu are too chilled.   Driving to Skardu is a lot cheaper than flying. You can hire an experienced driver with a private car to take a bus for that route. There are four ways to reach Skardu by road from Islamabad:

First: Islamabad > Mansehra > Basham > Dasoo > Chilas > Jaglot > Skardu

Second: Islamabad > Mansehra > Basham > Dasoo > Chilas > Deosai > Skardu

Then we have, Islamabad > Mansehra > Balakot > Naran > Babusar Top > Chilas > Jaglot > Skardu

Last: Islamabad > Mansehra > Balakot > Naran > Babusar Top > Chilas > Deosai > Skardu

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Drive to Skardu

You can also travel to Skardu from Gilgit. The total length is 256 kilometers.

Best Hotels in Skardu

There are many hotel options in and around Skardu. If you’re looking for an upscale experience, you might consider staying at one of the popular hotels near Skardu. This includes the Serena Higg Hotel within Fort Higg and the Shangri-La Resort around Lower Kachula Lake. However, Shangrila Resort Skardu is the most famous resort in Skardu.

Travel Guide to Skardu- best hotels in Skardu

If you’re looking for something low-end and still want a central location, you’d prefer to be close to the actual city. Our best recommendation is Cherry Inn Skardu, where you get all the amenities and a homely atmosphere.

How to get around in Skardu?

The best way to visit Skardu is with a private driver or guide. Our tour guides are the most experienced and know every inch of the areas you are visiting. So, it is always recommended that you stay with a professional tour guide. Are you looking for the Skardu tourist map? Here, you can find it ultimately. 

Is it Safe to Travel to Skardu?

Overall, Skardu is a very safe travel destination in Pakistan. However, to ensure a smooth ride, there are a few things to remember. Many hidden places in Skardu are still unexplored. Skardu is famous for its mesmerizing places, natural beauty, and fantastic weather. A Skardu trip is one of the best decisions you can make.

Road Condition in Skardu

The best route for Skardu is by air or Gilgit. As mentioned, the road connecting Skardu and Gilgit is the most dangerous. If you decide to travel by road, make sure to:

• Hire an experienced driver.
• Only use vehicles in good condition and avoid large buses.
• Avoid traveling in the dark and during the landslide season.
• Budget a lot of time for this adventurous trip.

Usually, this is not a big problem in cities, but when you are outside Deosai National Park, avoid getting too far from your car if you encounter a brown bear in the Himalayas.

Food in Skardu

Papua is a traditional Balti dish consisting of buckwheat pasta in a creamy pesto sauce. Balti is probably the most popular food in Pakistan. The flavor and spice of Balti are pretty different from those of the rest of Pakistan you may be familiar with, as it has far more carpi comfort food than spice. Since Balti is hard to find in other parts of Pakistan, it should be eaten as much as possible in Skardu.

First Aid in Skardu

As elsewhere in Pakistan, food safety is your biggest health concern, so avoid tap water and unfinished food.

Also, it’s a good idea to keep some altitude sickness drops with you in case the altitude affects you.

Some popular balti dishes include:

Papua: Korean TikTok-like soba noodles served with creamy pesto

Mamtu: Steamed Wheat Dumplings Stuffed with Beef, Lamb, or Yak

Balti Lentil Soup: A thick, mild and vegetable soup similar to German Lentil Soup.

Namkin Chai: Milk tea flavored with a pinch of salt to create a fantastic flavor.

Travel Guide to Skardu- Famous Food of Skardu

Best places to visit near Skardu

The area around Skardu is full of fantastic tourist destinations. Some of the best places to visit in Skardu are worth seeing. 

Here are some suggested attractions near Skardu, arranged in perfect order:

From the city itself, despite its regional importance, Skardu is a relatively small town so it can be easily explored in a few hours.

Visit Skardu Bazar and shop for local handicrafts and textiles at the town’s souvenir market. Don’t forget to haggle!

Deosai National Park

The Deosai Plateau near Skardu is between 3,000 and 5,000 meters above sea level, making it the second-highest plateau in the world. Deosai National Park was established initially to protect the Himalayan brown bear and other endangered species and is now included in UNESCO’s Temporary World Heritage List. Visit Deosai National Park and admire the vast and empty landscape, along with the Kalapani and Barapani waters and Sheosar Lake, a 1-2 hour drive south from Skardu to Deosai National Park through the mountain pass.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu-Deosai National Park

Mantuka Falls

Mantuka Falls is a beautiful waterfall about an hour’s drive southeast of Skardu. Surrounded by a serene green valley, Mantuka Falls emerges from towering and luxurious mountains; it is hard to believe the waterfall is artificial! Bask in the crystal clear waters of waterfalls, snap photos of silky streams and rainbows, and enjoy a relaxing picnic in one of the most beautiful places around Skardu.

Travel Guide to Skardu- Mantuka Falls

Shigar Valley

The beautiful Shigar Valley is located along the Shigar River, about an hour’s drive northeast of Skardu. Follow the scenic road to the beautiful village of Shigar, where you will see not only local architectural gems such as the Shigar Fort or the old wooden Khilangrong Mosque but also the traditional Balti village life.

Sarfaranga Desert

Sarfaranga Desert is one of the famous cold deserts around Skardu. It is located in the Shigar Valley along the Shigar River, so it is the perfect result for a visit to Shigar. Stay on the soft sand and bounce around the tall dunes with friends. But beware, some thorns may be hidden under the sand!

Travel Guide to Skardu- Safarranga Desert

Katpana desert

Closer to the city is the Katabana desert, another cold Skardu desert. Surrounded by towering mountains and beautiful lakes, the Katapana Desert is incredibly stunning in winter when its sand is covered in soft snow. Also, it is close to Skardu Airport and has easy access to the Katapana Desert all year round.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Katpana Desert

Upper Lake Kachura

Kachura, a settlement about an hour northwest of Skardu, is known for its two lakes: Upper Kachula and Lower Kachula. A 15-minute hike can reach the first through a small forest. Popular activities on Lower Kachula Lake include swimming, fishing, and jet skiing.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Upper Khachura Lake

Shangri-La Resort 

Lower Kachura Lake is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, if not the world, located in the majestic Shangri-La resort. Spend a relaxing afternoon in one of the greenest gardens in paradise on earth, and be sure to enjoy some organic cider in front of the heart-shaped lake. If you’re feeling more gifted, consider staying overnight at the resort.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu-Shangrilla Lake

Manthal Rock

A short drive south of Skardu, Manthal is home to an ancient Buddhist monument known as Manthal Buddha Rock. The rock is around 1,200 years old and contains a Buddha image. While you won’t have the chance to visit Manthal alone, it’s a great addition to your Skardu itinerary if you have the time.

Ultimate Travel Guide to Skardu- Manthal Rock

Also, visit if you have time to explore beautiful Pakistan:

K2 : Skardu is the gateway to the summit of K2, the second-highest peak in the world, and more than 8,000 peaks. While the summit is reserved for the best climbers in the world, you can visit K2 Base Camp alone or on tour.

Fairy Meadows:  Fairy Meadows is a beautiful mountain paradise surrounding Nanga Parbat. Your journey to this remote paradise begins near Chiras, which means you’ll pass through the area on your way out of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Hunza Valley:  The Hunza Valley is the most popular tourist destination in Pakistan and a must-see when you travel in Pakistan. The beautiful valley is located north of Skardu on the Karakoram Highway.

Islamabad: If you’re flying to Skardu, this could be the start and end of your trip, so it never hurts to spend a day or two exploring the Pakistani capital.

Go through our ultimate travel guide to Skardu , and let us know if you need any queries.

Book your Skardu Tour Package Today and experience the most fantastic time of your life. 

Since 2017, Saba Ghani has been serving as the talented and dedicated chief content writer for Pakistan Tour and Travel & EMHI Solutions. With her exceptional writing skills and in-depth knowledge of the travel industry, she has been instrumental in crafting engaging and informative content that captivates the audience. You can catch her at [email protected] or Twitter

Related posts

TOP 10 FAMILY PLACES IN PAKISTAN

Interesting Facts About The Soul-Enchanted Places Of Saudi Arabia

Is Pakistan The Cheapest Country In the World?

Share your social moments, #pakistantours, follow us on instagram.

Offering Pakistan Tour And Travel plans from Islamabad , Lahore & Karachi

Call Us: +92335 5577443

Whatsapp: +92335 5577443, office # e2, 5th floor, khalifa heights, near chaklala road, committee chowk rawalpindi, pakistan, destination.

• Naran Kaghan Tours
• Hunza Valley Tours
• Murree Tour Packages
• Lahore Tour Packages
• Azad Kashmir Tours
• Swat Valley Tours
• Skardu Valley Tours

Honeymoon package pakistan

• Pakistan Couple Tours 2024
• Neelum Valley Tour Packages
• Fairy Meadows Tour Package – 15 % Off Fairy Meadows Tours
• Azad Kashmir Tour Packages 2024
• Skardu Tour Packages by air & by road

© 2014- 2023 Pakistan Tour and Travel . All Rights Reserved.. Developed By: Emhi Solutions

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Translation of tour – English–Urdu dictionary

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 audio

• She spent three months touring her empire .
• The prime minister toured the flooded regions .
• I spent a month touring round Europe.

(Translation of tour from the Cambridge English–Urdu Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

Examples of tour

Translations of tour.

Get a quick, free translation!

Word of the Day

a type of singing in which four, usually male, voices in close combination perform popular romantic songs, especially from the 1920s and 1930s

Alike and analogous (Talking about similarities, Part 1)

Learn more with +Plus

• Recent and Recommended {{#preferredDictionaries}} {{name}} {{/preferredDictionaries}}
• Definitions Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English English Learner’s Dictionary Essential British English Essential American English
• Grammar and thesaurus Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English Grammar Thesaurus
• Pronunciation British and American pronunciations with audio English Pronunciation
• English–Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Simplified)–English
• English–Chinese (Traditional) Chinese (Traditional)–English
• English–Dutch Dutch–English
• English–French French–English
• English–German German–English
• English–Indonesian Indonesian–English
• English–Italian Italian–English
• English–Japanese Japanese–English
• English–Norwegian Norwegian–English
• English–Polish Polish–English
• English–Portuguese Portuguese–English
• English–Spanish Spanish–English
• English–Swedish Swedish–English
• Dictionary +Plus Word Lists
• English–Urdu    Noun Verb
• Translations
• All translations

Add tour to one of your lists below, or create a new one.

{{message}}

Something went wrong.

There was a problem sending your report.