Pakistan is a treasure trove of culture, history, and breathtaking natural landscapes. From the stunning peaks of the Karakoram Range to bustling markets and historic cities, Pakistan is an unforgettable destination. This guide will take you through selecting hotels, airlines, activities, food, and cultural highlights for a comprehensive journey through Pakistan.
Choosing the Best Hotels in Pakistan
Pakistan’s hotel offerings range from luxurious accommodations to budget-friendly guesthouses and unique local stays. Here are some standout options:
Luxury Hotels
- Serena Hotel Islamabad: Situated in the heart of the capital, this 5-star hotel combines elegance with traditional Pakistani design. It’s close to top attractions, making it a perfect base for exploring the city.
- Pearl Continental Hotel, Lahore: This hotel combines luxury with proximity to Lahore’s key landmarks, including the Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort.
- Shangri-La Resort, Skardu: Nestled amidst Skardu’s stunning mountain landscapes, this resort offers a luxury retreat with panoramic views and access to top outdoor activities.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Envoy Continental Hotel, Islamabad: A popular mid-range option with modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and a prime location for exploring Islamabad’s main sites.
- Hunza Serena Inn: Located in the scenic Hunza Valley, this inn provides comfortable lodging with access to the stunning landscapes and cultural sites in the area.
Budget Options
- Backpackers Hostel, Lahore: A budget-friendly option in Lahore with a friendly atmosphere and easy access to local landmarks.
- Gilgit Serena Hotel: Located in Gilgit, this budget-friendly hotel is ideal for travelers planning to explore the northern regions of Pakistan, offering comfortable rooms with scenic views.
Choosing the Right Airline
Flights to Pakistan are available through several major airlines. Whether you’re flying in from North America, Europe, or elsewhere in Asia, here are some top choices:
Top Airlines Flying to Pakistan
- Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): PIA offers direct flights from major cities, including London and Dubai, to key Pakistani cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi.
- Qatar Airways: Known for its high-quality service, Qatar Airways operates frequent flights to Pakistan with layovers in Doha, providing a comfortable option for international travelers.
- Emirates: With direct flights to Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, Emirates is a preferred choice for travelers seeking comfort and premium service.
It’s advisable to check for deals, especially if traveling during peak season, and keep an eye on airline travel updates, as they sometimes adjust routes based on seasonality and demand.
Getting Around Pakistan
Pakistan has varied transportation options, from domestic flights and trains to rental cars and intercity buses.
- Domestic Flights: PIA and AirSial offer domestic flights connecting major cities and regional hubs, making it easier to reach areas like Gilgit, Skardu, and Multan.
- Trains: Pakistan Railways operates a comprehensive rail network, providing scenic and comfortable journeys between cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
- Car Rentals and Private Drivers: For those looking to explore rural areas or go off the beaten path, renting a car with a driver is a practical and popular choice. Roads to the north can be challenging, so hiring an experienced local driver is recommended.
Must-Do Activities in Pakistan
Pakistan’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites offer endless possibilities, from historical exploration to adventure sports.
Historical and Cultural Sites
- Lahore Fort and Badshahi Mosque: These iconic landmarks in Lahore are must-see for their architectural splendor and historical significance, reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal Empire.
- Mohenjo-Daro: One of the oldest civilizations, Mohenjo-Daro in Sindh offers insights into the ancient Indus Valley civilization with its preserved ruins.
- Taxila: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Taxila is an ancient city that was once a major center of learning and culture, with Buddhist stupas and monasteries.
Nature and Adventure
- Fairy Meadows: Situated near Nanga Parbat, Fairy Meadows is known for its breathtaking views and trekking opportunities, offering a gateway to the ninth-highest peak in the world.
- Deosai National Park: Known as the “Land of Giants,” this plateau offers unmatched scenery, wildlife encounters, and wildflower meadows, especially during spring and summer.
- Hunza Valley: With its picturesque villages and panoramic views, the Hunza Valley is a traveler’s paradise, perfect for trekking, photography, and experiencing local culture.
City Experiences
- Islamabad’s Faisal Mosque: Pakistan’s largest mosque is an architectural marvel and a symbol of the nation’s capital, attracting visitors with its modern design and stunning backdrop.
- Karachi’s Clifton Beach: Experience Pakistan’s bustling coastal city with a trip to Clifton Beach, where you can enjoy local street food, camel rides, and views of the Arabian Sea.
- Shopping in Lahore: Lahore’s markets, like Anarkali Bazaar, offer unique shopping experiences, with handcrafted jewelry, textiles, and traditional clothing available.
Food and Dining in Pakistan
Pakistan’s food is a feast for the senses, with rich flavors, aromatic spices, and regional variety that showcases its culinary heritage.
Must-Try Pakistani Dishes
- Biryani: A spicy rice dish, often made with chicken or mutton, biryani is a favorite in cities like Karachi and Lahore.
- Nihari: A slow-cooked stew typically made with beef or lamb, Nihari is a breakfast specialty in Pakistan, especially popular in Lahore.
- Chapli Kebab: Originating from Peshawar, these spiced ground meat patties are a street food favorite in Pakistan.
- Sajji: A Baluchi specialty, Sajji is marinated chicken or lamb roasted to perfection, often served with naan.
Top Dining Spots
- Cooco’s Den, Lahore: Known for its rooftop views of Badshahi Mosque, Cooco’s Den offers a traditional menu with local delicacies in a heritage-rich ambiance.
- Monal, Islamabad: Perched on the Margalla Hills, Monal provides an extensive menu and panoramic views of Islamabad.
- Burns Road, Karachi: Karachi’s famous food street is home to some of the city’s best street food, including kebabs, samosas, and ice cream.
Food Markets
- Liberty Market, Lahore: A lively spot for local snacks, such as gol gappay and samosas, as well as traditional sweets like jalebi and gulab jamun.
- Sunday Market, Islamabad: A great place to experience local produce, handicrafts, and a variety of food stalls with traditional snacks.
Understanding Pakistani Culture and Etiquette
Pakistan’s culture is deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality, with a strong sense of respect for family, faith, and customs.
- Hospitality: Pakistanis are known for their hospitality. If you’re invited to a local’s home, it’s customary to bring a small gift or gesture of appreciation.
- Greetings: Men often greet each other with a handshake, while women may greet with a verbal exchange. In some conservative areas, interactions between men and women may be more formal.
- Dress Code: Modesty is valued, especially in rural areas. For women, wearing a scarf in certain areas may be advisable. Traditional attire, like the shalwar kameez, is common and comfortable in the climate.
- Respecting Religion: Islam plays a central role in daily life in Pakistan. Be respectful during the call to prayer, and remember that some practices, like fasting during Ramadan, are widely observed.
Best Time to Visit Pakistan
Pakistan’s climate varies from region to region, so the best time to visit depends on your planned destinations.
- Spring (March-May): This is a pleasant time for visiting most regions, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures. It’s ideal for city visits and trekking in areas like the Swat Valley.
- Summer (June-August): Summer is perfect for visiting the northern areas like Gilgit, Hunza, and Skardu, where temperatures are cooler. However, lowland cities can be hot.
- Autumn (September-November): The fall colors in Hunza Valley make this a popular time for photography and hiking.
- Winter (December-February): Winter is suitable for those interested in winter sports in the north but can be challenging for travel due to snowfall and road closures.
Nightlife and Entertainment
Pakistan’s nightlife is limited compared to Western countries, but major cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi have a variety of options for evening activities.
- Café Culture in Islamabad: With a burgeoning café culture, Islamabad has many popular coffee spots like Mocca Coffee and Loafology.
- Lahore’s Food Streets: Lahore’s food streets, especially at night, are lively with street performers, music, and food stalls.
- Art and Culture Shows: Major cities host cultural events, including Sufi music nights, theater performances, and art exhibitions, offering an authentic cultural experience.
Shopping in Pakistan
Pakistan offers an array of handicrafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs.
- Peshawari Sandals: These traditional leather sandals are crafted in Peshawar and are a unique, stylish souvenir.
- Handmade Carpets: Pakistan is known for its intricate, high-quality carpets, available in markets and specialty shops.
- Chiniot Woodwork: The woodwork from Chiniot is famous
