Tourism in Pakistan has been on a steady incline over the past few years, with more and more people becoming interested in traveling. Forbes even named the country one of the most underrated places to visit. Even though the law-and-order situation in the country has improved, there are certain safety concerns that you should take quite seriously as a traveler in Pakistan.
In this blog, we will go over all the best safe travel tips in Pakistan so that you can enjoy your trip without any stress from anything getting out of hand. Let’s start!
Responsible Tourism Guidelines for Traveling in Pakistan
When compared to the 2019 ranking of Pakistan on the Travel and Tourism Development Index, the country has significantly worked on improvement and climbed more than 20 ranks in 2024. Here are all the safe travel practices you can employ as a tourist in Pakistan:
1. Places to Avoid
You should avoid places with a tumultuous political status. Such areas are prone to terrorist activity and, therefore, are not safe for travel. The former FATA region, places near the Line of Control (LOC), and Balochistan are just a few areas you should avoid just to be safe.
2. Mode of Travel
If you do not wish to travel by bike or car, the public transport system of Pakistan is well-developed and relatively safe. There is no likely threat of life. However, stealing is a very common crime in Pakistan, and you need to be vigilant when taking public transport. Here are some Pakistan travel safety measures you can take:
- Keep your hand-carry bags within your reach at all times.
- Lock your valuables using a luggage lock.
- If you plan on sleeping on the bus or train, make sure your phone, wallet, and passport/identity card are in a safe place.
- Do not leave your bags unattended under any circumstance.
- Most people in Pakistan tend to be quite helpful and may look after your luggage for you if you ask.
3. Female Travelers
Pakistan is quite a safe country for female travelers. The only thing you need to be careful of is to wear modest clothing. The country is becoming more liberal, so you do not need to cover your head. The only real issue for female travelers in Pakistan is online harassment, so do not give out your number to anyone whom you do not know personally.
4. Local Cuisines
If you are not accustomed to Pakistani food, you may need to be a bit careful when trying out the local cuisine. Pakistani foods are very spicy and full of rich flavors, which may not suit you. So, you need to avoid street food that may be too spicy.
5. Events
Most events and festivals in Pakistan are safe to attend and super fun. However, it is always a smart move to avoid any event with a religious connotation attached to it. These events include Sufi festivals, Shia processions, Rabi ul Awal marches, and so on. Other events like Coke Fest, Karachi Eat, and Silk Route Festival are safe to attend and enjoy.
To Wrap Up
Traveling to Pakistan can be a rewarding and enriching experience if you keep these tips in mind. By staying informed about potential risks, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Remember, the key to a great travel experience is to embrace the culture while staying cautious.
If you are looking for a reputable Pakistan tour and travel agency, iMusafir.pk is your best bet for safe and affordable travel packages in Pakistan. So, pack your bags, keep these tips handy, and get ready to start your journey through the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of Pakistan. Safe travels!