Pakistan presents a unique mix of bustling energy, family-like warmth, and enlightening spirituality. It embraces and welcomes anyone travelling solo to Pakistan looking to explore its understated beauty and historical mysteries. Being one of the most populous countries in the world, Pakistan is demographically and culturally diverse, boasting at least fifteen major ethnic groups that add up to its vibrant culture. Each culture is unique and differs from the other in terms of customs, food, apparel, and music.
Sadly, due to consistent exaggerations by media, foreign tourists often postpone travelling to Pakistan in favour of other destinations that are perceived to be safer. Well, thanks to global connectivity, growing tourism, and vigilant laws, Pakistan has made it on the list of the safest places for women to travel alone – let not the news-media tell you otherwise. So, for your next visit, we’ve compiled a list of things women should keep in mind while travelling to Pakistan.
Travelling Solo to Pakistan – Is It A Safe Option for Female Travellers?
Pakistan is an Islamic country, so the religious influence is often reflected in the lifestyle of its citizens. The religious and spiritual roots of Pakistanis require them to show gratitude and respect towards women. Besides being highly influenced by Islam, particularly Sufism, the urban areas of the country are an exciting fusion of liberal and traditional values.
Perhaps more importantly, women constitute 49% of Pakistan’s overall population and around 24% of them are actively participating in the country’s economy, which implies that the country is not only safe for working women but also for women travellers.
Let’s get to know Pakistan a little better by exploring what female travellers, who have already travelled here, have to say about their experience:
- “I can say it is one of my favourite countries in the world. Pakistan is the land of hospitality and you will find the kindest people you will ever meet. The security situation in Pakistan is totally fine. I never faced any issue and every time I needed some help with language or directions, I always found someone willing to help me.” – Alessia Ramponi, sourced from “We Are Travel Girls”
- “Throughout my travel in Pakistan, I felt very welcomed and supported as a female traveller in Pakistan. The call to prayer ringing out over the town, the mountains that go on forever and the best cherries I’ve ever eaten all made it incredible!” – Lizzy, sourced from “The Broke BackPacker”
- “Whenever anyone asks me if Pakistan is safe to visit as a woman, I say yes. I never felt unsafe in Pakistan. The people are so respectful, going out of their way to make sure you’re ok and having a good time. Female travel in Pakistan does mean adjusting to their point of views and accept their religion.” – Emma, sourced from “The Broke BackPacker”
Undoubtedly, Pakistan is a safe option for anyone who wants to witness and experience the natural beauty of southeast Asia. However, first-timers will need a list of particular set questions to ask before travelling solo to Pakistan, while being entirely sure and confident that Pakistan is a safe tourist destination for women.
So, here’s a list of things that female backpackers should know before coming to Pakistan:
What Are Some General Customs of Pakistan?
Pakistanis are greatly known for their warm hospitality, kind nature, and unmatched generosity, but few things should be taken into consideration by women travelling solo to the country. Due to religious influences, societal values, and modest customs, Pakistanis usually opt for community living, and family bonds are stronger – which explains that the society is not led by individualism but rather by communalism, where adults are highly esteemed for their experience and are regarded as mentors by the rest of the family members. The life of an average Pakistani revolves around family and religious customs, which are also a great element of support for them in every walk of life.
What Languages do Pakistanis Speak?
The national language of Pakistan is although Urdu, there are around 75 languages actively spoken in different regions. As they say, the language shifts within hours from one district to the other as you keep travelling. Some major local languages are Sindhi, Balochi, Punjabi, Pashto, and Siraiki. Apart from that, a significant part of the country’s population is highly proficient in English, whereas others have a basic understanding of it.
Does Pakistan Offer Something Special for Women?
Women travelling solo to Pakistan can be sure of one thing; their shopping carts will never go empty since the country has a lot to offer. The bazaars are full of handcrafted jewellery, artistic accessories, and modern and traditional clothing – especially in major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Plus, it is important to note here that the Pakistani and Islamic traditions put guests in a place of esteem, so travellers might witness instances where vendors will just refuse to take money from them since they are guests.
As mentioned earlier, urbanisation is stitched deeply in Pakistani culture, so contemporary malls and shopping plazas are also found in abundance.
What are Pakistanis Like?
Needless to say, Pakistanis are highly cordial due to their religious and family values – guests and visitors are always embraced and greeted with warmth and open hearts. Owing to such beliefs, Pakistanis show love, hospitality, and respect to their guests in the most pleasant of ways. The only thing that should worry you is to have a greater appetite because Pakistanis are extremely fond of food and won’t let you be at peace until you participate in their food adventures equally.
Furthermore, due to the amalgamation of cultural and Islamic values, Pakistanis tend to dress extremely modestly; women usually wear headscarves – which isn’t a condition since it is a free state and people are allowed to dress according to their convenience but as they say, “When in Rome, do as the Roman do”.
As mentioned earlier, life in Pakistan is an epitome of cultural richness and people like to celebrate everything with full zeal. A single event in Pakistan is enough to introduce you to abundant elements of local traditions. All religious and national events are loaded with energy, alluring colours, beautifully designed clothes, handcrafted jewellery, music, and tantalizing food, of course.
What Are Some General Tips for Solo Female Travellers to Pakistan?
As mentioned earlier, Pakistan is one of the safest destinations for solo women travellers but here a few general safety tips to know before you pack your bags:
- Some areas in Pakistan are moderate while others have peak weather. Pack clothes according to the weather of the place you’re most likely to travel. Blend in where it’s necessary and dress like a local – if need be.
- Book your abode in advance and have a conversation with locals before heading to a destination because winging it might not work every time.
- Keep your research intact including alternate commute options, estimated time of arrival, and weather conditions – some areas in Pakistan get extremely dangerous during winters.
- Read Zameen Area Guides – your digital guide to anywhere in Pakistan – and plan your trip accordingly.
What are the Safest Areas in Pakistan for Female Travellers?
For solo travellers, Pakistan can be a little awe-inspiring, eventful, and somewhat mystifying at times. The country offers some truly remarkable and incredible places that have no match in the world and boasts thousands of tourists’ destinations with each of them offering something exceptional in terms of aesthetically pleasing landscapes, finger-licking food, and unique cultural experiences. Although the northern areas of Pakistan have always been a favourite destination for travellers, if you’re travelling solo to Pakistan, keep these places on your list:
- Baltit Fort and Altit Fort
- Makra Peak
- Ayubia
- Sphinx of Pakistan
- Arang Khel
Also, after the launch of the e-visa application portal, getting a tourist visa in Pakistan has become entirely hassle-free. The portal enables an applicant to register and make all the required transactions online to get a visa in just 48 hours.
Since you have made till the end of the blog, subscribe to our newsletters by entering your email address into the box on the right side. Wish to explore more of Pakistan? Follow Zameen Blogs – Pakistan’s #1 blog for tips on tourism. Have you ever travelled alone to Pakistan? Share your experience with us at blogs@zameen.com.
