Group trips to Pakistan
Our organized trips to Pakistan
Imagine a destination where ancient civilizations whisper tales and towering peaks touch the sky, a country ready to redefine your perception of wonder. From the bustling, historic streets of Lahore, a city vibrant with Mughal grandeur and unparalleled culinary delights, to the serene, majestic landscapes of the Hunza Valley, cradled by the formidable Karakoram mountain range and adorned with glacial lakes and verdant terraced fields, Pakistan offers an unparalleled journey into rich cultural heritage and awe-inspiring natural beauty. This is an invitation for the intrepid explorer, the culture seeker, and anyone yearning for authentic discovery, to immerse themselves in a land where every vista is a masterpiece and every encounter a treasured memory.
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FAQs about Pakistan
Pakistan operates on Pakistan Standard Time (PKT), which is 5 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+5). Pakistan does not observe daylight saving time. So, if it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 5pm in Pakistan. If it's 12pm Eastern Time in the USA, it will be 10pm in Pakistan. Make sure to adjust your plans accordingly when making calls or scheduling activities.
The currency used in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). As of the latest rates:
- 1 GBP is approximately 356 PKR
- 1 USD is around 280 PKR
- 1 EUR is about 300 PKR
You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels. It's a good idea to compare rates to get the best deal.
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas in Pakistan, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors and rural areas where card payments might not be available. ATMs are common in cities, so you can withdraw local currency easily. While Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted, check with your bank about international transaction fees.
In Pakistan, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If you receive good service in restaurants, hotels, or from taxi drivers, leaving a tip is a nice gesture. Here is a general guideline for tipping in Pakistan:
- Restaurants: Leave around 5-10% of the bill.
- Hotels: Give porters around 50-100 PKR per bag, and tip housekeeping staff around 100-200 PKR per day.
- Taxis: Rounding up the fare is common, but not obligatory.
Remember, tipping in local currency is preferred.
In Pakistan, buying a local SIM card is a good idea for staying connected. Major providers like Jazz, Zong, and Telenor offer a variety of data plans to suit your needs. You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or from authorized retailers in major cities. Wi-Fi is available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in urban areas, but it might be less reliable in rural regions. Having a local SIM card ensures you have internet access wherever you go, especially if you're venturing outside major cities. Remember to bring an unlocked phone to use a local SIM.
In Pakistan, the official language is Urdu, and English is also widely used, especially in business and government. Here are some useful Urdu expressions you might hear or want to use:
- Hello: Assalam-o-Alaikum
- Thank you: Shukriya
- Yes: Haan
- No: Nahi
- Please: Meherbani se
Being familiar with these phrases can make your interactions more enjoyable and help you connect with locals.
In Pakistan, they use Type C and Type D plugs. The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you're coming from a country that uses a different plug type, like the UK or the USA, it's a good idea to bring a universal adapter with you to keep your devices charged. Always double-check your device voltage compatibility to avoid any mishaps.
The main religion in Pakistan is Islam, with the majority of the population being Muslim. If you're visiting, especially as a woman, it's important to dress modestly. This typically means covering your shoulders and knees. Some key religious holidays you might encounter include:
- Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan
- Eid al-Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice
Packing for Pakistan can be a unique experience due to its diverse climate and cultural expectations. Here’s what you should put in your backpack:
Clothing:
- Lightweight long-sleeved shirts
- Loose pants or long skirts
- Warm jacket or sweater for cooler regions
- Scarf or shawl for modesty and sun protection
Shoes:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals for warmer weather
- Hiking boots if you plan to explore mountainous areas
Accessories and Technology:
- Sunglasses
- Universal travel adapter
- Portable charger
- Camera or smartphone for photos
Toiletries and Medication:
- Basic toiletries like toothpaste and soap
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Common travel medication like painkillers, antihistamines, and diarrhea tablets
Make sure to respect the local culture by dressing modestly, especially in religious or rural areas.
Pakistan's weather varies greatly depending on the region and time of year:
- Northern Areas (Gilgit-Baltistan): Cold winters with heavy snowfall, summers are mild and pleasant. Best time to visit is from May to September.
- Punjab and Sindh (Lahore, Karachi): Hot summers, mild winters. Monsoon season is from July to September. Visit from October to March for cooler weather.
- Balochistan: Hot and dry summers, cold winters, especially in western areas. Best to visit from November to March.
Overall, plan your visit based on the region you want to explore.