My Journey Through Pakistan: A Traveler’s Story
Hey there! My name is Arif, and I just got back from an unforgettable adventure in Pakistan. I’ve always been someone who loves to travel and experience new cultures, but let me tell you—Pakistan completely blew my mind. From the jaw-dropping beauty of its northern mountains to the vibrant streets of its cities, this country has so much to offer. If you’re thinking about traveling to Pakistan, let me take you through my journey and share some tips, so you can have the best trip ever.
So, you might be wondering—why Pakistan? Honestly, it wasn’t on my radar for a long time. But as I started reading more and hearing stories from people who’d been, I realized that Pakistan is a hidden gem. It’s got everything—stunning landscapes, rich history, delicious food, and the friendliest people you’ll meet. So, I packed my bags and headed to Pakistan, and here’s what happened.
I started my journey by flying into Islamabad, the capital. The airport was clean and modern, and getting through immigration was easy. If you’re planning to visit, I highly recommend checking if you can get an e-visa, like I did—it’s super convenient.
Now, let’s talk about currency—Pakistan’s currency is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). I brought some cash with me, but I used ATMs for most of my withdrawals. A quick tip: not all places accept cards, especially in smaller towns, so always have cash on hand.
I traveled in the fall, and I’d say that’s the best time to visit. From May to October, the weather in the northern regions (think stunning valleys and mountains) is perfect for trekking and sightseeing. But if you’re heading south—like Karachi and Lahore—November to March is better, as it can get super hot in the summer.
Let me start with Hunza Valley, which was probably the highlight of my trip. It’s about a 12-hour drive from Islamabad, but believe me, it’s worth every minute. As you drive through the valleys, the scenery just keeps getting more and more beautiful. Think towering snow-capped mountains, clear blue rivers, and lush green fields.
I visited Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, both of which are over 700 years old! Walking around these historic forts made me feel like I was traveling back in time. And don’t even get me started on the food in Hunza—fresh apricots, honey, and local bread. So delicious!
Skardu is another place that felt like a dream. It’s the gateway to some of the world’s tallest mountains, including K2. I trekked to Shangrila Resort, which has the most incredible views of lakes and mountains. It’s a peaceful, serene place that makes you forget about the hustle of everyday life.
If you love adventure, the Deosai National Park is another must-visit. It’s known as the “Land of Giants” because of its massive, grassy plains. And trust me, the views here are out of this world.
If you’re into history and culture, Lahore will blow you away. It’s a city full of life, from the Badshahi Mosque to the Lahore Fort—both of which are stunning examples of Mughal architecture. I spent hours exploring the Walled City and trying the local food—Biryani, Nihari, and of course, the famous Karahi (a spicy meat dish that I can still taste in my dreams).
The streets of Lahore are lively, full of energy, and bursting with color. And don’t forget to visit Shalimar Gardens and the Minar-e-Pakistan, which are just as beautiful as they sound.
Karachi is Pakistan’s largest city, and it’s a place where tradition meets modernity. I loved walking along the Clifton Beach and trying local street food. If you’re a foodie, Karachi is heaven—especially if you love seafood.
I also visited the Mohatta Palace, which was originally the home of a wealthy family but now serves as a museum. And, of course, I couldn’t leave without trying some Samosas and Pakoras—they’re crispy, spicy, and the perfect snack.
Transportation in Pakistan is pretty straightforward. I took local flights to travel between cities like Skardu and Islamabad, which saved a lot of time. For getting around within the cities, Uber and Careem are available in major cities, and they’re very affordable. But if you’re feeling adventurous, hop into a rickshaw—it’s an experience in itself.
For longer distances, I also took a few long-distance buses. They were pretty comfortable, and I even had WiFi in some of them! If you’re planning on renting a car, just be prepared for crazy traffic, especially in the big cities.
I’ll be honest—Pakistani food is one of the main reasons I fell in love with the country. Whether you’re sitting down at a fancy restaurant or enjoying some street food, the flavors will hit you in the right way.
In Karachi, I tried some of the freshest fish I’ve ever had. In Lahore, I couldn’t stop eating Chapli Kebabs, and in the mountains of Hunza, I had the best apricot jam with fresh bread. If you’re a foodie, Pakistan will definitely satisfy your cravings.
My favorite drink? Lassi. It’s a yogurt-based drink, and whether you go for the sweet or salty version, it’s perfect after a long day of sightseeing.
Pakistan is much safer than many people think. Sure, you need to stay cautious, just like you would in any other country, but I never felt unsafe. I traveled solo, and I can tell you that the people here are some of the friendliest you’ll meet.
One important thing to keep in mind is that Pakistan is a conservative country. Be respectful of the culture, especially in rural areas. Women should dress modestly, and it’s best to avoid public displays of affection.
Always have bottled water with you, and if you’re sensitive to spicy food, let your stomach adjust slowly! I learned that the hard way.
Looking back, my trip to Pakistan was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. It’s a country full of beauty, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re into hiking, history, food, or just exploring new places, Pakistan has something for you.
If you’re planning your own trip, just go for it. You’ll be amazed by what you find and the people you meet. Pakistan has a lot of surprises in store, and it’s a place I’ll definitely be visiting again.
So, are you ready to pack your bags? Let me know your thoughts and experiences in the comments—I’d love to hear about your adventures!
Happy travels, Arif 🌍✈️
