Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: Pakistan is a Muslim country, and local laws reflect this. Local customs and sensitivities should be respected at all times, especially during Ramadan and when visiting religious areas.

There are strict laws concerning alcohol, which is only available in major hotels to visitors who have been issued a liquor permit from the Excise and Taxation Office. During Ramadan, most restaurants close during the day, and there is a restriction on smoking and drinking in public places.

Photographs must not be taken at military establishments, airports, or any infrastructure, including bridges and dams, or from aircraft.

Importing alcohol is illegal. Possession of small quantities of illegal drugs can lead to imprisonment and drug smuggling can attract the death penalty.

Handshaking is the usual form of greeting and only the right hand should be used for the passing or receiving of objects.

Informal dress is acceptable for most occasions, but all visitors should dress modestly at all times. Appointments are necessary for business meetings and should be made well in advance. Business cards are customary. Office hours are Mon–Thur and Sat 0900–1700, Fri 0900–1230. (During Ramadan normal business hours may be interrupted.)

Immigration and customs: Most nationals require a visa to enter the country and passports must be valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. Visitors should carry with them at all times a photocopy of their passport and Pakistani visa.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by those travelling from an infected area.

The import of alcohol, matches, plants, fruit and vegetables is prohibited. The export of antiques is prohibited.

Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the left and car hire is available in major cities, as well as at Karachi, Lahore and Rawalpindi airports. An international driving permit is required. Tourists are advised to travel with local drivers or guides.

Pakistan Railways operates the rail network throughout the country; reservations are advised on long journeys. Regular bus services run between most towns and villages. Air-conditioned coaches are recommended for long distances and should be booked in advance.

Taxis are reasonably priced and widely available, and are by far the most efficient means of getting around urban areas. Autorickshaws are also available.

Most domestic flights are operated by Pakistan International Airlines.

Travel health: Comprehensive medical insurance is strongly recommended. Visitors will need protection against malaria, and should take insect repellent and suitable clothing to discourage bites. Mosquito-borne dengue fever also exists and similar precautions should be taken. Vaccinations against Japanese B encephalitis, tuberculosis and Hepatitis B are sometimes recommended, but visitors should check current inoculation requirements well before travel.

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available.

Money: American Express is the most widely accepted card, although Visa and Mastercard can also be used. Travellers cheques are generally accepted at most banks, the larger hotels and major shops, and should be taken in US dollars or pounds sterling to avoid additional charges. Banking hours are Mon–Sat 0900–1330, Fri 0900–1230.
There were 798,260 tourist arrivals in 2005.