50 Tips and Hacks for Travellers Going to Pakistan from India - Before You Travel

Pakistan offers a beautiful landscape, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Here are 50 tips and hacks to ensure a smooth and enriching trip to Pakistan from India:

Visas and Border Crossing:

1. Visa Requirements: Double-check visa requirements with the Pakistani embassy/consulate in India. Pakistani visas can be obtained online or upon arrival at designated airports https://visa.nadra.gov.pk/.
2. Visa Processing Time: Allow ample time for visa processing, especially during peak seasons.
3. Travel Documents: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and carry copies of travel documents.
4. Border Crossing: Be patient and courteous during border crossings. Carry all documents readily available.

Planning and Booking:

5. Research Destinations: Pakistan has diverse regions. Choose destinations that align with your interests (history, culture, adventure, etc.). Research places to visit in each location.
6. Travel Seasons: Consider travel seasons. Summer can be hot, especially in southern Pakistan. The northern mountains are pleasant during summers but receive snowfall in winters.
7. Accommodation: Book hotels or guesthouses in advance, especially during peak seasons. Consider homestays for a more local experience.
8. Transportation: Pakistan offers flights, trains, and buses for intercity travel. Local transport includes rickshaws, taxis, and car rentals. Decide based on budget and comfort.
9. Budgeting: Set a realistic budget considering accommodation, transportation, food, activities, and miscellaneous expenses. Pakistani Rupee (PKR) is the local currency. You can exchange Indian Rupee (INR) for PKR at money changers.

Language and Communication:

10. Basic Urdu Phrases: Learn a few basic Urdu phrases like "Hello" (Assalam-u-Alaikum), "Thank You" (Shukria), and "Please" (Meherbani). Pakistanis appreciate the effort.
11. Download Translation Apps: Download offline translation apps like Google Translate to help with communication.

Culture and Etiquette:

12. Dress Modestly: Dress modestly, especially in religious places. Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that covers shoulders and knees for both men and women.
13. Greetings: Handshake is a common greeting. Men might greet men with a slight hug or pat on the back. It's respectful for women to wait for initiation from the opposite sex.
14. Photography: Ask permission before photographing people, especially women in religious attire.
15. Gifts: If invited to someone's home, bring a small gift like sweets or flowers.

Safety and Security:

16. Register with Indian Embassy: Register with the Indian embassy in Pakistan upon arrival.
17. Stay Informed: Stay informed about the current security situation in Pakistan. Avoid restricted areas.
18. Be Discreet: Avoid carrying excessive valuables or openly displaying expensive electronics.
19. Women's Safety: Women travelers should dress modestly and be aware of surroundings, especially at night. Consider traveling with a companion.

Money and Expenses:

20. Currency Exchange: Exchange INR for PKR at reputable money changers. Keep receipts.
21. ATMs: ATMs are available in major cities. Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid card blockage.
22. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at bazaars and some shops. Be polite and respectful while negotiating.
23. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A small tip (around 10% of the bill) is customary at restaurants.

Packing Essentials:

24. Comfortable Clothing: Pack loose, comfortable clothing that adheres to local dress codes.
25. Sun Protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny weather.
26. Woolen Clothing: If traveling to the northern mountains, pack woolen clothing for colder temperatures.
27. First-aid Kit: Carry a basic first-aid kit with essential medicines.
28. Universal Adapter: Pack a universal adapter for electronic devices as plug types might differ.

Food and Restaurants:

29. Local Cuisine: Try the local Pakistani cuisine, which offers a variety of flavorful dishes. Vegetarians will find plenty of options too.
30. Street Food: Sample Pakistani street food, but ensure hygiene by checking vendor cleanliness.
31. Stay Hydrated: Drink bottled water to avoid dehydration, especially during summers.
32. Beverages: Try Lassi & Chai. Must-have: Biryani. Sample clean street food stalls.

Communication and Technology:

33. SIM Card: Consider purchasing a local SIM card for affordable internet access and calls.

Culture and Etiquette (contd.)

34. Ramadan: If traveling during Ramadan, be respectful of the holy month. Public eating and drinking during the day might be restricted.
35. Social Interactions: Pakistanis are generally hospitable. Be polite and respectful in interactions.

Health and Hygiene:

36. Vaccinations: Ensure you have the recommended vaccinations before travel.
37. Medical Facilities: Research available medical facilities in your destination, especially in remote areas.
38. Hygiene Practices: Wash hands frequently, especially before meals. Carry hand sanitizer for convenience.

Exploring and Activities:

39. Hire a Guide: Consider hiring a local guide for a deeper understanding of places and culture.
40. Public Transport: Public transport can be an affordable way to experience local life. However, research comfort levels beforehand.
41. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at bazaars and some shops. Be polite and respectful while negotiating.
42. Learn a Craft: Learn a local craft like carpet weaving or pottery for a unique souvenir.

Mobile Apps:

43. Ride-hailing Apps: Download ride-hailing apps like Uber or Careem for convenient transportation in major cities.
44. Navigation Apps: Download offline navigation apps like Google Maps for easy exploration.

Money and Expenses (contd.)

45. Credit Cards: Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but carrying cash is recommended for smaller shops and rural areas.

Photography (contd.)

46. Mosques: Photography might be restricted inside some mosques.

Souvenirs and Shopping:

47. Support Local Crafts: Purchase souvenirs from local artisans and shops to support the local economy.
48. Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at bazaars and some shops. Be polite and respectful while negotiating.

Miscellaneous:

49. Power Outages: Power outages can occur. Pack a portable charger for your devices.
50. Learn Some Urdu Phrases: Learn a few basic Urdu phrases like greetings and thank yous. Pakistanis appreciate the effort.

Bonus Tip: Be open to new experiences and enjoy the warmth and hospitality of Pakistan!

Remember, this is not an exhaustive list, and research specific to your destinations is recommended. Have a wonderful trip to Pakistan!