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Language: Urdu | Currency: Pakistan rupee | Local time: GMT+5 hrs | Avg. Flight time: 11 hrs 50m
Road conditions throughout Pakistan are hazardous and it can feel as if there are no driving rules in the major cities, especially during rush hour when motorbikes weave through cars, rickshaws and overcrowded buses at will. Elsewhere it’s essential to be vigilant, as the mountainous terrain is hazardous and potholes are frequent.
Driving in Pakistan is not for the faint of heart, so hiring your own chauffeur is recommended – using a designated driver is the safest and most cost-effective way to travel around the country.
While Pakistan may have some dangerous areas, this does not mean this affects the whole country. A chauffeur who knows the area will ensure your safety, as he will have indispensable local knowledge and enough experience to navigate through poor road conditions. Before making any plans to travel to Pakistan, consult the FCO’s advice thoroughly, as certain parts of the country are not considered safe to visit.
Car hire companies operate from the country’s major airports, including Benazir Bhutto Airport in Islamabad, Allama Iqbal International in Lahore, Jinnah International in Karachi and Bacha Khan International in Peshawar. Booking your rental in advance is your best bet if you’re looking for a cheap car hire deal.
Major car hire companies such as Avis, Europcar and Hertz offer 24/7 service and the best drivers, and rentals start at roughly at around £36 a day – driving yourself is cheaper, but it’s a far more stressful option. In Pakistan, people drive on the left-hand side due to the country’s former status as a British colony.
Pakistan is a country of breath-taking natural beauty and immense cultural heritage, but a history of instability and a tumultuous political system have led to large swathes of it becoming off-limits to most travellers.
That said, there are still areas of Pakistan that you can visit, provided you take the proper safety advice from the FCO.
Cruise down Karakoram Highway (the FCO advises against travel on the highway between Islamabad and Gilgit) for stunning views of the valleys and rugged terrain of the Himalayas which are topped with snow caps. Many people don’t realise that skiing is a popular pastime here from December to March, especially at Malam Jabba ski resort, which is located in the Hindu Kush mountain range, 314km from Islamabad.
If you’re more of a sun worshipper, Hawks Bay Beach, 22km (14 miles) from Karachi offers water sports, scuba diving, fishing trips and camel rides across the shoreline. Hire a car from Karachi and make it an unforgettable day trip.
Gaze upon a religious landmark of architectural beauty with a visit to the Moghul-era Badshahi Mosque, located on the outskirts of the northern city of Lahore. Construction on this stunning mosque finished in 1673 and the intricate details make it an iconic monument in Pakistani culture.
Looking to visit Pakistan? Make sure to check out our Tips and Advice first.