Unforgettable Pakistan: Uncovering Overlooked Travel Essentials
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 planning your trip to explore Pakistan, there are a few factors to consider.
INCREASING NUMBER OF FOREIGN TOURISTS
The first mistake you might make is considering yourself indulging in quite a tight and challenging spot while visiting Pakistan. While different social networking platforms disapprove of travelling to Pakistan, the country, on the other side of the coin, offers 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 us 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 with much 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. Regarding 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 paying less attention to the expenses they might have to bear. Travelling pan-Pakistan can encompass various destinations, each with unique characteristics and costs. It’s essential to consider various expenses when planning a trip across the country. Here is a detailed account of the potential expenses you might encounter while travelling 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.
- Public buses are generally more affordable if you prefer road travel, 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 city traffic congestion 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. Respecting local customs, religious practices, and social norms is essential. 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 travelling in Pakistan, it’s worth considering using satellite phones, as they offer good coverage. 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.