Exploring Pakistan Independently: Insider Tips

1. Is Pakistan Safe for Travel?

Pakistan might not be the go-to tourist destination, and many still have reservations about traveling here. However, after extensive research and personally traversing Islamabad, Hunza Valley, and the Khunjerab Pass, I cannot definitively claim the safety of the entire country. Yet, the provinces of Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan are remarkably secure. Police and military presence is widespread, with military escorts in some areas to ensure tourists' safety. No country is 100% safe, but thorough research and preparation are essential. Beyond popular and safe tourist spots like Lahore, Hunza, Karachi... it's advisable to minimize visits to sensitive areas near the Afghanistan border or regions like Waziristan, Balochistan, Cholistan Desert, and Tharparkar.

The paradise lies in the North of Pakistan

5. Visa Information

You can apply for an e-visa or get a visa stamped in your passport

6. How to Travel to Pakistan?

Pakistan shares borders with Afghanistan, China, India, and Iran.

3.1 By Road

3.2 By Air

The safest and most convenient way is to fly to Pakistan. Major airports in Pakistan are in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi. Many airlines operate flights to Pakistan from London, Dubai, Istanbul, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and more.

There are no direct flights from Vietnam to Pakistan. The easiest and most convenient option is to purchase tickets from Thai Airways flying from Hanoi/Ho Chi Minh City to the capital, Islamabad (with a layover in Bangkok). Ticket prices range from $500 to $800 for a round trip, depending on the timing (equivalent to 11,750,000 - 18,800,000 VND).

4. Currency

The currency in Pakistan is the Pakistan Rupee (PKR). The exchange rate is 1 USD = 100 PKR, which is quite easy to remember. However, there are not many places in Pakistan where you can withdraw money from credit cards. Therefore, it's best to carry USD and exchange it for Pakistani currency, keeping cash on hand throughout your journey.

It's advisable to carry USD and exchange it for Pakistani currency during your journey.

5. Best Time to Visit

Spring (March - May): The season of blossoms, with apricot, apple, and cherry blossoms flourishing everywhere. The weather remains cool with plenty of sunny days.

Spring in Hunza

Summer (June - August): Ideal for walking, hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing. It's the best time to trek to K2 Base Camp, Nanga Parbat Base Camp, Karambar Lake, etc. During this period, the meadows are lush green, wildflowers bloom everywhere, and the high mountains are not too cold.

Autumn (October and November): The most beautiful season of the year when Northern valleys are bathed in shades of yellow, orange, and red, resembling a paradise.

Winter (November - February): Extremely cold with snowfall, affecting road conditions. Some areas may have closed roads for several months.

6. Transportation

- In major cities, you can use Uber and Careem apps for affordable transportation.

- Public buses are the cheapest option, though they may be slow, requiring multiple transfers to reach a destination. From Islamabad, you can take long-distance buses to Hunza, Lahore, etc. Some private bus companies like Daewoo and Faisal Movers offer higher quality but more expensive tickets. You can find information on their websites:

- Renting a chauffeur-driven car: If you want comfort, speed, or are traveling in a large group, you can opt for a chauffeur-driven car. The roads in Pakistan involve many high mountain passes and unpaved routes, making self-driving tiring and challenging. The rental cost depends on your itinerary, but the average rate is $30-$50 per person per day (equivalent to 700,000 - 1,175,000 VND).

7. Main Tourist Attractions

7.1 Capital City Islamabad

Through pottery tools and excavated traces, archaeologists believe that Islamabad was once inhabited since the Stone Age and is one of the earliest human settlements in Asia. It has been invaded by numerous empires in history, including the Mughals, Mongols, Central Asians, and Persians. In 1849, the British colonialists occupied Pakistan and began constructing residential areas in Islamabad. In 1947, Pakistan gained independence, and by 1967, the Pakistani government selected Islamabad as the capital. Islamabad translates to the city of Islam or the city of peace, reflecting the Pakistani government's commitment to peace.

The Faisal Mosque has a unique architecture, deviating from the typical domes found in other mosques. Faisal draws inspiration from the Bedouin tent - the nomadic tribe in Arabia, and the cubic Kaaba in Mecca. Flanked by four minarets inspired by Turkish architecture, Faisal can accommodate up to 10,000 worshipers inside and over 100,000 in the surrounding courtyard. Faisal was once the world's largest mosque from 1986 to 1993 and currently ranks fifth.

The National Monument, with architecture rooted in the Mughal style. Four large petals represent the four main cultures: Punjabi, Balochi, Sindhi, and Pakhtun. Three smaller petals represent: minorities, Azad Kashmir, and Gilgit Baltistan. All seven petals stand together to form the nation of Pakistan. The star inside the monument is designed with black granite symbolizing those who sacrificed their lives for Pakistan.

Lok Virsa is the ethnological museum providing extensive information and artifacts to understand the traditions, culture, both past and present, throughout Pakistan. Lok Virsa is just a few minutes' walk from the Pakistan Monument, making it convenient to explore both places in a single day.

Faisal Mosque

7.2 Lahore

Lahore stands as a testament to a glorious history with its majestic architectural marvels from the Mughal Empire. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1981, Lahore captivates with its vibrant yet serene atmosphere, rich flavors, distinctive sounds, and the unique soul of the city. Ideal for capturing street life photos, Lahore may require a week to explore its intricate alleys. Must-visit attractions include the Badshahi Mosque - one of Pakistan's largest pilgrimage sites, an emblem of Mughal power built in the 17th century; the Shalimar Royal Garden with its regal beauty, showcasing the pinnacle of Mughal civilization in the 16th and 17th centuries; and the Lahore National Museum with its unique architecture and a plethora of artifacts related to ancient Indian, Greek, and Gandharan Buddhism.

Lahore is also a culinary paradise, so take the time to savor numerous local dishes. Enjoy a sunset dinner at Haveli Restaurant with a stunning view of the Badshahi Mosque and indulge in traditional Mughal cuisine. Don't miss the Sufi Dhamal dance every Thursday at the shrines of Baba Shah Jamal and Madho Lal Hussain.

Badshahi Mosque

7.3 Fairy Meadow

Fairy Meadows stands as one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan, offering a breathtaking view of Nanga Parbat, the 8th highest mountain in the world. It serves as the meeting point of three major mountain ranges: the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush. You can trek, spend the night at Behal Camp, and continue to Nanga Parbat Base Camp the next day to witness the majestic mountain up close. Alternatively, take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a good cup of coffee, and engage in conversations with the locals.

7.4 Hunza Valley

Hunza Valley, nestled in the Northern part of Pakistan, is a paradise best visited from late March to November. In spring, particularly March and April, the entire Hunza Valley transforms into a fairyland adorned with blossoms of apricot, cherry, and apple trees. Summer, from June to August, is perfect for activities like trekking, mountain climbing, and enjoying a variety of fruits such as apricots, apples, and ripe cherries. Hunza's autumn is a magnificent spectacle, truly justifying its title as a heavenly destination for the earthly realm. With enchanting places like Karimabad, Passu, Hopar Valley, Chitral, Ishkoman, and Attabad Lake, there's a plethora of beauty waiting to be explored.

The road from the capital, Islamabad, to the Hunza Valley is the second-highest paved international road in the world, the Karakoram Highway. At Khunjerab Pass, you'll find the world's highest border crossing between Pakistan and China.

Autumn in Hunza Valley

7.5 Deosai National Park

The ideal time to visit Deosai National Park is from mid-July to mid-August when the entire park is blanketed with exquisite wildflowers. It's one of the best places in the world for stargazing, and I highly recommend camping overnight. From here, you can venture to the Astore Valley, known as the 'Switzerland of Pakistan,' and Rama Lake where you can marvel at Nanga Parbat. You can also embark on a trek to Nanga Parbat Base Camp from the quaint village of Tarashing.

7.6 Trekking to K2 Base Camp

K2, a renowned and challenging peak in Pakistan and worldwide due to its altitude and difficulty, can be approached through a trek to its Base Camp. The journey lasts about two weeks, taking you above 5000m and bringing you close to one of the wildest mountains on the planet. However, along the trek to K2 Base Camp, there are no accommodations or eateries, so you'll need to purchase a tour or hire a guide and porter, carrying tents and provisions throughout the expedition.

Trekking in Pakistan is highly favored by many adventurers.

8. Accommodation

Pakistan offers a range of accommodations, from budget to 5-star hotels, guesthouses, and local homestays. If you opt for a land tour, the tour operator often selects guesthouses with beautiful views and clean facilities. Prices vary from 10-100USD (equivalent to 230,000 - 2.3 million VND). You can explore room options on booking websites like Mytour.

Some hotels for your reference:

9. Internet and Phone SIM

Except in the Gilgit-Baltistan region, the internet works well throughout the country. SCOM is the sole 4G provider in Gilgit Baltistan, while Zong, Jazz, and Telenor have good coverage elsewhere. There is no WIFI or phone signal in Fairy Meadows and Astore. It's recommended to ask a guide or a local to help you register a 4G SIM as foreigners need to visit central offices and pay a significant amount for registration (around 20 or 30USD, equivalent to 470,000 - 700,000VND).

Zong is one of the four internet providers in Pakistan

10. Average Expenses

The famous Karakoram Highway in Pakistan

Children in Pakistan are adorable with a mix of Western features

11. Recommended 2-week Itinerary

Collaborative article between Mytour and blogger Tran Hong Ngoc.
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