£1 PKR 379
Today
11:12 pm
+5h from you
Travel warning
There are serious security risks right now, including a very high threat of terrorist attacks in places like hotels, restaurants, and tourist sites, with flights frequently being cancelled or disrupted.
Weather & climate
Weather in Pakistan
Pakistan
28°
Slight rain showers
Thu
18°
28°
Fri
18°
28°
Sat
17°
26°
Sun
18°
27°
Mon
17°
30°
Tue
18°
32°
Wed
20°
33°
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.
Before you go
Entry requirements for Pakistan
What British travellers need to know
You need a visa to visit Pakistan and you must apply in advance.
Your passport must have an expiry date at least 6 months after the date of your visa application.
Make sure you get your passport stamped on entry, or leaving will be difficult.
You must have an unexpired visa, a Pakistani national identity card, or a Pakistani passport to leave Pakistan.
You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty upon entry.
Good to know:
If entering Pakistan via the Torkham border crossing with Afghanistan you will need a valid Pakistan visa.
Travelling with a child as a single parent or not the child's parent may require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before leaving Pakistan.
Safety in Pakistan
Tips when travelling
Pakistan is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Avoid using the railway network or public transport due to the risk of terrorist attacks.
Always carry photo ID as you might be detained until you can show it.
During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime.
Dress modestly by covering your shoulders and legs in public.
Avoid using street taxis and only use taxis from reputable, licensed companies you call directly.
Bonus tips:
Be cautious about attending public events like sports matches, concerts, or religious gatherings due to security risks.
Credit card fraud is common, so be aware of scams and protect your financial information.
More information
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%
Health 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.
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.
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
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
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
10 GB for 1500 PKR (~£4)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Electrical in Pakistan
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type D
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.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
1122
Police
15
Ambulance
115
Fire
16
Save 1122 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Pakistan
Country code
+92
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'.
Languages in Pakistan
UK Embassy
British High Commission Islamabad
Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad, Pakistan
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Regional risks
about 18 hours ago
Regional risks
- A section on reports of unrest and protests in Gilgit-Baltistan has been removed.
- New advice for Gilgit-Baltistan now mentions elections scheduled for 7 June 2026 and local government elections on 14 June 2026.
Warnings and insurance
about 18 hours ago
Regional risks
- The section on regional escalation has been simplified and now refers to 'ongoing regional tensions'.
- Advice against all but essential travel to Gilgit-Baltistan has been removed.
Warnings and insurance
14 days ago
Staff guidance removed
- The instruction for UK staff in Pakistan to restrict their movements at this time has been removed.
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.
