Warnings & Dangers in Pakistan
OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
Pakistan as a whole is a relatively safe country to travel, although its geographical proximity to conflict zones in this region makes moving around the country not always entirely reliable. Check with your country's embassy which areas of Pakistan it is not recommended to visit.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
Public transport in Pakistan may not be safe; it is best avoided. Plan your trip on a rented car or use a taxi service. Be sure to use licensed taxi services with a taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpockets and minor thefts sometimes occur in Pakistan. Typically, criminals target foreign tourists. Travelers should be cautious in monitoring their belongings and surroundings. Often people who offer or ask for your help can be pickpockets.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Pakistan is prone to various natural disasters. The most damaging are cyclones, droughts, earthquakes, floods, and landslides. Examine the weather conditions in your country before you visit Pakistan.
MUGGING RISK : HIGH
Unfortunately, armed attacks and even kidnappings can occur in Pakistan. This rarely affects tourists and is usually related to the political situation in the country. Avoid the dangerous areas of Pakistan and try not to travel alone, it is better to stay at the hotel in the dark.
TERRORISM RISK : HIGH
Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Pakistan. There’s a high threat of terrorism and sectarian violence throughout the country. The main terrorist threat comes from Tehrik-e Taleban Pakistan (TTP), an umbrella organization of groups primarily based in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Daesh is also active.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud in Pakistan does happen, but not often. The usual precautions will help to avoid trouble. Everything is checked twice, not trusted, unknown, not transferred to third parties. It is better to withdraw money at ATM at banks.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : MEDIUM
Women traveling to Pakistan alone may not be safe to be in this country. Take care of escorts, better than men, avoid walking late at night, respect the local culture, and wear modest clothes.
How Safe Is Pakistan for Tourists?
Pakistan is a medium crime country.
The crime index ranges from low to medium.
The main problems are associated with high levels of corruption and bribery, robberies, vandalism, and violence.
Pakistan is generally safe enough for travel.
However, certain precautions must be taken to avoid danger.
This is a rather hospitable country, but social protests tend to turn into violence, and political demonstrations are always sensitive.
Before traveling, you must check your embassy for restricted areas, recent political and military events, and closely monitor current issues with independent news sources.
Stay away from military convoys as they are a potential target for suicide bombers.
Similarly, it is dangerous to approach military or survey sites.
When talking with Pakistanis, use common sense and a healthy dose of courtesy.
Kashmir is a particularly delicate topic that is best avoided.
The discussion about religion and Islam should remain respectful and positive.
Some Pakistanis are not tolerant of other faiths, and if they are spoken about negatively, this can lead to violence.
Visitors are strongly advised to refrain from drinking tap water; many Pakistani locals drink boiled or purified water.
Take all precautions to drink only boiled, filtered, or bottled water.
Unpasteurized dairy products can spread tuberculosis, so be careful with people with coughs.
Take precautions against mosquito-transmitted malaria.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Pakistan?
Pakistani missions abroad offer various categories of visas, with some travelers eligible for visa on arrival if traveling as part of a group tour, or for business. Pakistan also offers electronic visa applications and electronic travel authorization for issuance of visa on arrival. A valid passport is a must.
Which Currency Is Used in Pakistan?
The Pakistani Rupee is the official currency of Pakistan since 1948. It has a sign: ₨ and a code PKR. The Pakistan Rupee is divided into 100 paisa.
How's the Weather like in Pakistan?
May to October is generally considered the best time to travel to Pakistan, as there is little to no snow in the entire country, and the summer holidays make the country rather lively. This is the best time to travel to the northern reaches of the country, where the beautiful valleys and stunning peaks lie.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Pakistan?
There are many airports in Pakistan. The primary and busiest airport is located in the capital of the country, Islamabad. Islamabad International Airport is the leading international airport serving the Islamabad-Rawalpindi metropolitan area and its suburbs. It is built 20 km west of the twin cities near the Kashmir Highway and Motorway Interchange.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
Just like anywhere else, the travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country. Make sure you got it before starting your journey, the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Pakistan?
Pakistan is a Muslim state in southern Asia. Travelers come here to get acquainted with the unique culture of the country, visit amazing mosques, stroll along the Kaghan Valley, visit Lahore Fort, and many other places.
Is the Water in Pakistan Safe to Drink?
Drinking water sources, both surface and groundwater are contaminated with coliforms, toxic metals, and pesticides throughout the country. Tap water isn’t drinkable.
Is Uber Safe in Pakistan?
There is an Uber taxi service in Pakistan. Taxis can be called from the application on the smartphone. The price of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.
