£1 PKR 374.10
Today
8:56 am
+5h from you
Travel warning
There is a very high risk of terrorist attacks throughout the country, including in major cities, airports, hotels, and tourist sites.
Weather in Pakistan
Pakistan
27°
Slight rain showers
Wed
14
27
Thu
16
22
Fri
15
27
Sat
15
25
Sun
16
26
SPF level in Pakistan
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Pakistan
Languages in Pakistan
Tipping in Pakistan
Tipping is not mandatory in Pakistan, but it is a common practice, especially in tourist-related services. It's a way to show appreciation for good service.
Restaurant
5-10% of the bill, or round up the bill for smaller amounts if service is good
Bar/Café
5-10% of the bill if service is good
Taxi
Round up the fare or a small tip for good service (e.g., 50-100 PKR)
Hotel Porter
100-200 PKR per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
100-200 PKR per day
Tour Guide
300-500 PKR per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour
Safety in Pakistan
Tips for British travellers
Pakistan is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Always carry photo identification with you as you may be detained without it.
Dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and legs, and women should cover their heads in rural areas or mosques.
Do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime in the month of Ramadan.
Public drinking and drunkenness are illegal and can lead to detention.
Avoid using public transport, including trains and buses, due to the risk of crime and terrorist attacks.
Bonus tips:
Do not take photographs of people, military sites, airports, or infrastructure without prior permission.
Credit card fraud is common, so be wary of scams and protect your financial details.
Driving in Pakistan
A UK driving license is generally accepted for a short period, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
50-60 km/h (varies by city)
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
1122
Police
15
Ambulance
115
Fire
16
Save 1122 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Pakistan
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type D
UK adapter needed?
Yes
The voltage in Pakistan is 230V at 50Hz. Plug types C and D are used. Visitors from the UK will require a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Card acceptance is growing, especially in major cities, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, cash is still widely preferred, particularly in smaller establishments and rural areas.
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in Pakistan
ATMs are available in major cities and tourist areas, but less common in rural areas. It's advisable to carry cash when travelling outside major urban centers.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs in Pakistan generally accept international cards, but it's always a good idea to check with your bank beforehand. Look for ATMs of major banks in urban areas. Using ATMs at night may present a security risk.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be high in Pakistan. Check with your UK mobile provider for roaming packages before travelling. EU roaming regulations no longer apply post-Brexit.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 1500 PKR (~£4)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Jazz, Zong, Telenor
WiFi & internet
WiFi is available in many hotels, cafes, and restaurants in urban areas, but connectivity can be unreliable and slower than in the UK.
Average speed
10 Mbps
Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more reliable internet access, especially if you plan to travel outside major cities. Public WiFi networks may not be secure.
Health & vaccinations in Pakistan
As a British tourist, ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, repatriation, and unexpected events. While GHIC/EHIC is not applicable in Pakistan, your travel insurance will be essential to cover any medical costs you incur.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance of your trip to discuss necessary vaccinations and health precautions. Pakistan has specific health risks, including waterborne diseases. Drink bottled water, and be cautious about food hygiene. Check the NHS website or consult with your GP for up-to-date health advice before travelling.
Calling Pakistan
Country code
+92
To call Pakistan from the UK, dial 00 92 followed by the local number (excluding the leading zero).
To call a landline in Islamabad, dial 00 92 51 [local number].
The country code for Pakistan is 92. When calling from abroad, use the exit code of your country followed by 92 and the local number. Mobile numbers start with a '3'.
UK Embassy in Pakistan
British High Commission Islamabad
Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad, Pakistan
Airports in Pakistan
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.
