If you plan on visiting Pakistan or have just landed here, you need to know a few things to adjust and feel the love.

1.   “How am I Ever Going to Find My Way Around In This Traffic?”

This is absolutely true, just be well aware of the fact that traffic rules are only followed if we see a traffic warden standing right in the corner. So if you have an international driving license and are visiting Pakistan for the first time, just try not to drive. ‘Need for speed’ does not have auto rickshaws and donkey carts, so the challenge is severe, my friend.

Take a rickshaw.

2.   Always bargain

Whether you are taking a rickshaw or buying a shirt from a bazaar, bargain will save you money. Don’t bargain if you are at a branded store.

3.   “How Do I Ask For Things in Stores?”

If you want to ask how much the item you wish to have is for, you have to point at the item you want to purchase and say, ‘ki-taney ka?’

4.   “Why Won’t Everybody Accept My Credit Card?”

Pakistan is largely a cash-based society, so most places will not accept your credit card. ‘Bazaars’ are often cash-only. That means you’ll need to convert your money if you want to buy anything – or eat. I recommend transferring cash to rupees before arriving in the country. But don't worry, we have ATMs everywhere.

5.   Summer is dreadful

I’d recommend tying your hair up in a bun or get a super slick and short haircut. Then wearing nice loose-fitting cotton or breathable clothing would help. You’ll probably need to carry around some water with you to stay hydrated.

6.   “What’s the Deal with the Bathrooms?”

Not only public toilets are scarcely available, but the bathrooms do not typically stock toilet paper! If you forget, buy some from the local stores.

7.   You’ll need voltage converters and adapter plugs for your electronics

Since the modern day traveller rarely goes anywhere these days without a horde of things that need to be plugged into the wall, you want to make sure you’ve got the proper adapter plugs before you take off. Pakistan runs on 220 volts, so some of your electronics (like blow dryers) will need a converter switch as well, so you don’t fry it when you plug it in.

8.   Breathtakingly beautiful landscape

The valleys, lakes and hill-stations of Pakistan are the most beautiful places in the world. If you dig a little adventure go see the majestic K-2 as well and feast your eyes.

The beautiful Hunza Valley

The K-2

9.   Ask Locals For Restaurant/Cafe Recommendations

Play it safe and get a recommendation from either the internet, your hotel reception, a local friend or just go through our restaurant reviews.

If you visit Pakistan you have to try ‘desi food’ Tikka, Nihari, Biryani etc. Choose your meals wisely because sometimes desi food or street food might cause some stomach problems.

10.   Learn a few words of Urdu, but people get English too

You’re not going to fool anyone into believing you’re a local, but it communicates a clear and very important message for the proud local population: that you are trying to be Pakistani or ‘Desi’ (local) and making an effort.

 

11.    Visit the historical sites

From oldest civilizations of Harappa and Mohenjo-daro,

to the regal Mughal architecture and many historic forts, you will enjoy every moment of it.

12. Fruits and Vegetables are almost free

The best part about staying in Pakistan is, you will enjoy the delicious fruits and vegetables of the season for just a few rupees. So fruit salads, milkshakes and fresh juices will make you feel amazing.

But when all the sight-seeing is over and you decide to go back I bet what you will cherish the most are the hospitable and loving Pakistani people.