11 Exciting Activities for Kids in Pakistan

Renowned for adventure tourism, Pakistan also boasts a rich culture and warm hospitality, making it an excellent destination for family travel.

Pakistan is a deeply family-oriented society where children are cherished. Families often live in large, close-knit groups, and locals warmly welcome you and your children into their homes, creating lasting bonds.

Here’s what you need to know for an unforgettable family trip to Pakistan, with advice on the best places to visit and activities to enjoy, along with helpful planning tips.

Is Pakistan a suitable destination for children?

Pakistan's diverse historical background adds to its vibrant cultural heritage, offering families a wealth of experiences to explore during their travels. Many Pakistani families travel together, so most hotels feature spacious rooms with ample beds for everyone, and staff are happy to provide extra mattresses if needed. In urban areas, you can find a range of accommodations from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels, though infrastructure may be limited in less popular destinations.

While established hotels typically have Western-style toilets, not all offer specific family-friendly amenities like diaper changing facilities. In other places, squat toilets are common, so it's wise to carry hand sanitizer and toilet paper, as these may not be readily available. In cities, supermarkets offer a broad selection of groceries and imported items, so stock up on essentials in larger towns before venturing to remote areas.

In urban areas and tourist spots, wearing t-shirts and pants is perfectly fine. Women are advised to opt for slightly longer, loose-fitting tops that cover their shoulders and arms. Kids have more relaxed clothing options, and it's common to see local children in Western-style attire.

Pakistani cuisine is as varied as its culture and tends to be quite spicy. Don’t worry! Most restaurants are willing to adjust the heat level of dishes upon request. If your kids aren’t keen on local flavors, there are international chains and local fast-food places that serve familiar options for them.

What are the best places in Pakistan for kids?

You and your children are sure to create unforgettable memories in this country, regardless of your interests. Discover lively cities, dive into the nation's rich history, experience its diverse culture, enjoy thrilling hikes in the mountains, relax on beautiful beaches, stargaze at night, and uncover countless adventures that will spark young imaginations.

Start your family adventure in Lahore, where you can soak up the vibrant culture and modern amenities. Then, head to Islamabad to explore the nearby hills—or if you’re feeling adventurous, journey to the breathtaking mountain valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan. Alternatively, travel south from Lahore to appreciate the stunning crafts and architecture of South Punjab and Sindh before wrapping up your trip on the beaches of Karachi.

Top activities in Pakistan for babies and toddlers

Construct a sandcastle on the beach

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a leisurely day at the beach with your kids while exploring Pakistan's coastal regions. Karachi serves as a convenient base for beach outings, with popular spots like Clifton Beach (Seaview), French Beach, Hawke’s Bay, and Sandspit Beach. The beaches come alive in the evenings with vendors offering camel and horseback rides, beach buggy adventures, and a range of local street food.

In Pakistan, people typically swim in regular clothing rather than swimwear. To adhere to cultural norms, it’s essential to dress modestly while swimming—bikinis and revealing beachwear are not appropriate here.

Visit the shopping malls

There are many malls that meet international standards, combining shopping, food courts, cinemas, and play areas, all usually air-conditioned. Great starting points include Packages Mall and Emporium Mall in Lahore, Centaurus Mall in Islamabad, and Dolmen Mall in Karachi.

Enjoy a day at an amusement park

While Pakistan may not boast theme parks like Disneyland, there are still plenty of thrilling options to get your kids' hearts racing. Exciting rides await at popular locations such as Joyland in Lahore, Lake View Park in Islamabad, and Sindbad Wonderland in Karachi, offering a mix of adrenaline-pumping attractions and gentler options for younger visitors.

Unwind in a public park

Take your little ones for a relaxing stroll in one of Pakistan’s parks to connect with nature. Most parks feature playgrounds and tranquil green spaces perfect for picnics, with some even housing historical monuments. These parks are favorite spots for locals, who often gather in the evenings with their children, making it a great chance to meet local families.

In Lahore, visit the serene Lawrence Gardens and Model Town Park, while Islamabad features the lovely Fatima Jinnah Park. Rawalpindi boasts the kid-friendly Ayub National Park, home to Jungle World fun park. In Karachi, consider the beachside Bagh Ibn-e-Qasim and the lush Hill Park.

Top activities in Pakistan for older kids

Explore Pakistan’s museums

Although the museums in Pakistan might not align with every international standard, they provide a valuable opportunity for kids to deepen their understanding of the country’s rich history. Discover the narratives of Pakistan’s pre- and post-Independence eras at the Lahore Museum, the Pakistan Museum of Natural History in Islamabad, and the Lok Virsa Museum, as well as the fascinating Mohatta Palace Museum and Quaid-e-Azam House Museum in Karachi.

Visit the villages

Discovering the rural regions of Pakistan offers your kids a wonderful chance to witness the simple lifestyles of the locals. Engaging in traditional games with local children can help them immerse themselves in the culture.

There are many intriguing villages just a short drive from major cities. For easy access to rural areas, smaller towns like Kasur, Sheikhupura, Gujranwala, Multan, and Hyderabad serve as excellent launch points.

Enjoy fruit picking

Your kids can gain a valuable hands-on experience by harvesting fresh vegetables and fruits at local farms, learning about the journey of their food from the field to the table. If you visit during the right season, gathering delicious, ripe fruits from orchards can become a cherished activity for them.

Rural tourism in Pakistan is still developing, but villagers are exceptionally welcoming to guests. A simple conversation with a farmer could easily lead to permission for your children to pick some fruits from the orchard.

In the regions of Punjab and Sindh, you'll find key crops such as mangoes, oranges, dates, guavas, pomegranates, grapes, bananas, melons, and watermelons. Meanwhile, Gilgit-Baltistan boasts orchards filled with cherries, apricots, apples, mulberries, walnuts, and almonds. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, look for apples, pears, grapes, and plums among other fruits and nuts.

Explore the Jhelum salt mines

The Khewra salt mine in Jhelum is one of the largest sources of Pakistan’s renowned pink Himalayan salt. This popular tourist site allows you to journey deep into the tunnels and marvel at breathtaking salt formations. It’s an intriguing location for kids to learn about the mining and production of this essential kitchen ingredient.

Negotiate for local crafts

Local artisans offer wonderful learning experiences for children, giving them opportunities to engage in various Pakistani crafts, like pottery making, which can spark their creativity. Equip the kids with some pocket money so they can practice their bargaining skills at local markets.

Multan and Bahawalpur are renowned for their blue pottery and camel-skin goods, while Peshawar is a key hub for handmade rugs and chappals (sandals). Hala excels in embroidery, woodwork, pottery, and Ajrak (block-printed textiles), and Lahore is famous for its woodwork and traditional carpets.

Top activities for tweens and teenagers in Pakistan

Immerse yourself in history, archaeology, and architecture

If your teens are passionate about history, they'll find Pakistan to be a treasure trove! This region's strategic location has attracted various invaders over the centuries, each leaving an indelible mark. From the Aryans and Persians to the Greeks and Mughals, the historical remnants of these conquerors await exploration.

The ancient Indus Valley Civilization flourished along the Indus River, providing budding archaeologists the chance to explore key sites like Harappa and Mohenjodaro. The Gandhara Civilization, which thrived in central Pakistan until the 5th century CE, left behind captivating stone sculptures depicting the life and teachings of Buddha; remarkable archaeological sites like Taxila and Takht-i-Bahi offer a glimpse into this fascinating era.

Pakistan was a central hub of the Mughal Empire, featuring numerous breathtaking architectural wonders from that time. Lahore showcases particularly stunning examples, such as Lahore Fort, the majestic Badshahi Mosque, Wazir Khan Mosque, the beautiful Shalimar Gardens, and Jehangir’s tomb.

Head to the mountains

If your young explorers are passionate about nature, you've chosen the ideal spot. Among the fourteen peaks over 8000m (26,246ft) worldwide, five are nestled in Pakistan—your kids are sure to love the thrill!

The mountains of Pakistan are rich with glaciers, lakes, and a variety of flora and fauna, offering endless opportunities for exploration. For families, Hunza and Skardu stand out as the premier destinations in Gilgit-Baltistan, boasting solid infrastructure and excellent amenities for mountain adventures.

Driving overland to Gilgit-Baltistan with children can be challenging due to the lengthy and bumpy journey of over 20 hours. Alternatively, you can catch a one-hour flight from Islamabad to Gilgit or Skardu, though flight schedules can be unreliable due to weather. However, once you reach the stunning mountain valleys, the breathtaking views will more than compensate for any travel discomfort.

Other top mountain destinations include the Kalash region near Chitral, where you can immerse yourselves in the unique culture and traditions of the Kalasha people, known for their colorful attire and lively festivals that will captivate visitors of all ages. North of Islamabad, Malam Jabba transforms into a winter wonderland from December to February, offering skiing for both novices and experienced skiers alike.

If you're pressed for time, check out the hiking trails in Islamabad's picturesque Margalla Hills. For a quick weekend retreat, visit Murree and Nathia-Gali just northeast of Islamabad, where you can enjoy gentle, family-friendly strolls amidst the fresh mountain air and the aromatic scent of pine trees.

Tips for planning a family trip to Pakistan

The ideal times to visit the mountains of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are from spring to early summer (March to May) and again from late summer to fall (September and October). For exploring Punjab and Sindh, the winter months (November to February) are preferable, helping you avoid the intense summer heat that can soar above 40°C (104°F).

Renting a private car and driver is the most convenient way to travel with kids, offering reasonable costs and greater flexibility compared to public transport (including the option for restroom breaks). Vibrant local buses are budget-friendly and provide a fun ride for little ones. Train travel can also be an exciting adventure for kids, especially if you opt for air-conditioned classes for added comfort and space.

Cities in Pakistan feature modern hospitals with reliable medical services. However, in rural areas and remote valleys, healthcare may be limited. Hygiene standards might not meet Western expectations, so it's wise to bring hand sanitizer and drink filtered water. Be cautious with uncooked street food and dairy products, particularly for children with sensitive stomachs.

Before your trip to Pakistan, consult your family doctor for advice on necessary vaccinations for children. Common health risks in Pakistan include hepatitis, typhoid, cholera, dengue, malaria, and polio.

Staying Safe in Pakistan

Pakistan has faced challenges in the past, but recent improvements have helped restore its position as a destination for global tourism. It’s crucial to stay alert while traveling, especially with children. Keep an eye on local news and government travel advisories for any areas to avoid.

Traffic in major cities can be hectic, and certain regions, like parts of Karachi, may experience street crime, so it’s wise to exercise caution and remind children to keep their belongings hidden. Always check the latest government travel advisories (such as those from the UK’s Foreign & Commonwealth Office) to stay informed about any potential risks.