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3,750 mi away
£1 PKR 380
Today
4:22 pm
+5h from you
Travel warning
There is a high and widespread risk of terrorist attacks, including in major cities and tourist spots, and significant regional tensions could disrupt travel at short notice.
Weather & climate
Weather in Pakistan
Pakistan
37°
Mainly clear
Sat
23°
37°
Sun
24°
37°
Mon
23°
35°
Tue
21°
30°
Wed
19°
33°
Thu
19°
35°
Fri
21°
37°
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:
Be aware of a high threat of terrorist attacks in places like hotels, restaurants, shopping areas, and popular tourist sites.
Avoid using the railway network and be cautious using public transport due to the risk of terrorist attacks and crime.
Dress modestly in public by covering your shoulders and legs, and women should cover their heads in mosques and rural areas.
Public drinking and drunkenness are illegal and can lead to detention, and it is illegal to supply alcohol to Muslims.
Always carry photo identification as you may be detained until you can show it.
Bonus tips:
During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, smoke, or play loud music in public during the daytime.
Be cautious when taking photos and avoid photographing military areas, airports, or people without permission.
Stay connected on your trip
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.
No vaccinations required
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
UK adapter needed
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
Urdu(primary)
English
UK Embassy
British High Commission Islamabad
Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad, Pakistan
Phone
Website
Recent updates
Warnings and insurance
21 days ago
Safety
- There is now an increased security presence and new checkpoints in and around Islamabad which may impact movement and travel times.
- The advice to be careful around specific locations now explicitly includes security checkpoints and tourist sites.
Regional risks
23 days 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
23 days 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.
Airports in Pakistan
Beaches in Pakistan
Frequently asked questions
Safety conditions can vary significantly across Pakistan. It's essential to check the latest travel advice from the UK government before you travel and remain vigilant. Some areas have a higher risk of terrorism or political instability. Be aware of your surroundings and follow local advice.
The best time to visit Pakistan is generally during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November). The weather is milder during these months, making it more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summers can be extremely hot, especially in the plains, while winters can be very cold in the northern regions.
Yes, British citizens require a visa to enter Pakistan for tourism purposes. You can apply for a visa online or through the Pakistan High Commission in London. Ensure you apply well in advance of your travel dates as processing times can vary.
The local currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). It's advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments in major cities, but cash is essential in smaller towns and rural areas. Exchange currency at official exchange bureaus or banks for the best rates.
Pakistan is a predominantly Muslim country, and it's essential to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours. Be respectful of religious practices.
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Pakistan. Always drink bottled water, and avoid ice in drinks unless you are sure it is made from purified water. Be cautious when eating salads and raw vegetables, ensuring they have been properly washed.
It is advisable to dress modestly in Pakistan, especially for women. Opt for loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. While headscarves are not always mandatory, they can be useful when visiting religious sites. Loose trousers or long skirts for women and long sleeves for men are good choices.
Be wary of overly friendly individuals offering unsolicited help, as this could be a setup for a scam. Agree on taxi fares in advance and use reputable taxi services. Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded areas to avoid petty theft. Always be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.
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.