Pakistan is a land that offers cultural diversity, and promises delightful experiences to its visitors and tourists. A warm welcome from the locals here can imbue you with blissfulness. But before you begin planning your trip to explore Pakistan, there are a few factors to keep in mind.
Increasing Number of Foreign Tourists
First mistake that you might make is considering yourself indulged in quite a tight and difficult spot while visiting Pakistan. While different social networking platforms seem to be disapproving of travelling to Pakistan, the country on the other side of the coin, offers a safe travel to its visitors.
- According to the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC), the number of foreign tourist arrivals in Pakistan increased by 37.6% in 2019 compared to the previous year, reaching a total of 1.9 million visitors.
Alyne from Nas Daily: “People think that Pakistan is dangerous. They think you’ll get kidnapped. This was the general impression of Pakistan that the media has shown is and that we heard over the years,” she says in the video. “This is why I’m excited to show you the home of Pakistan; a country that has a lot more to offer than you might have imagined. Once you see its cities, you’ll see the nature is incredibly underrated, the geography is undiscovered and the generosity of the people is unparalleled.”
Exploring Pakistan Beyond the North
Although the Northern beauty of the country is captivating to the hilt, the cities can surprise you too. When it comes to tourism in Pakistan, the stunning landscapes of the northern regions, such as Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, often steal the spotlight. However, Pakistan offers much more than just the mesmerizing mountains and valleys. Pakistan is a destination of importance for religious tourism. The country is home to various sites revered by different faiths, including the ancient Buddhist rock carvings in Taxila, the Katas Raj Temples complex, and numerous Sufi shrines.
Avoiding Costly Blunders on Your Budget
The most common mistake tourists make is to pay less heed to the expenses they might have to bear. Traveling pan-Pakistan can encompass a wide range of destinations, each with its own unique characteristics and costs. It’s important to consider various expenses when planning a trip across the country. Here is a detailed account of the potential expenses you might encounter while traveling pan Pakistan:
- The cost of domestic flights within Pakistan can range from around USD 50 to USD 150 per person for one-way travel, depending on the distance and the airline you choose.
- If you prefer road travel, public buses are generally more affordable, with fares starting from around USD 5 for shorter distances.
- Mid-range hotels or guesthouses in cities and northern areas typically range from USD 30 to USD 70 per night
- Eating at local eateries and street food stalls can cost as little as USD 2 to USD 5 per meal, providing delicious and affordable options.
- Dining at mid-range restaurants in cities may cost around USD 10 to USD 20 per meal, while upscale restaurants can range from USD 20 to USD 50 or more per meal.
- The cost of guided tours can vary, ranging from USD 20 to USD 100 or more, depending on the duration, complexity, and the inclusion of transportation.
Underestimating Travel Times
Pakistan is a large country with diverse landscapes, and travel times between destinations can be longer than expected. Roads in remote areas may be challenging, and traffic congestion in cities can cause delays. Plan your itinerary with realistic travel times to avoid rushing and to ensure you have enough time to explore each location.
Disrespecting Local Customs
Pakistan has a rich cultural heritage and traditions. It’s important to respect local customs, religious practices, and social norms. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of local sensitivities. Seek permission before taking photographs of people, particularly women, and be respectful when engaging with locals.
Having Hampered Connections
When traveling in Pakistan, it’s worth considering using satellite phones, as they offer good coverage in the country. It’s advisable to purchase them in your home country before your trip, as the purchase and activation process in Pakistan can take time (around 2-3 days). If you’re interested in satellite phone rentals in Islamabad, you can send an email for recommendations. Alternatively, local tour operators may also offer satellite phone rentals.
So, keep these essentials in mind and have a heavenly journey. For more informative posts, subscribe to Zameen Blog, the best tourism blog in Pakistan. If you know anything about the best ski resorts in Pakistan, do write to us at blog@zameen.com. We would love to incorporate your feedback into our blogs.
