Navigating Pakistan by road, rail, and air

Pakistan is one of Asia’s most thrilling frontiers, but venturing out on your own can be challenging, especially for newcomers to the country.

Although the public transportation network is extensive, accessing reliable information can be tough due to limited online resources.

At first glance, planning a trip to Pakistan may seem daunting, but once you grasp the nuances of the local transport system, you’ll find it easy to explore even the most remote areas. Here’s everything you need to know for getting around upon arrival.

Use buses to travel between cities

Several bus operators offer affordable travel options between major cities. Companies like Daewoo Express and Faisal Movers are renowned for their reliable services, connecting various destinations across Pakistan with large, comfortable buses. In addition, numerous smaller companies provide bus and van services to lesser-known cities.

Major bus companies facilitate online bookings, allowing you to reserve tickets through their websites (or apps) three to four days before your travel date. To complete an online booking, you will need a Pakistani contact number and identity card; however, it may be easier to book through a travel agent or a local acquaintance. Alternatively, you can visit the bus terminal to purchase tickets directly from the bus company’s booking desk.

Premium air-conditioned buses are pricier than standard ones, but they ensure quicker journeys with fewer stops along the way. For example, a Daewoo Express intercity bus from Lahore to Rawalpindi (4½ hours) costs Rs 2470 for a standard air-conditioned bus and Rs 3170 for Gold Class. On the other hand, the 16-hour trip between Lahore and Karachi is priced at Rs 7300 for a luxury bus and Rs 8670 for a superior sleeper bus. Many bus operators also offer budget-friendly alternatives, including lower-class air-conditioned buses and economical, albeit crowded, non-air-conditioned options.

Inquire locally to learn which buses travel to your desired destinations, or visit the bus station to explore all available options. If you're familiar with the route, you can catch buses at roadside stops where they briefly halt to let passengers on or off, which might be the only option in smaller villages. Smaller buses and vans often operate at overcapacity, accommodating more passengers than allowed, and you may find yourself standing in the aisle.

Take a train ride to connect with the locals

The railway system in Pakistan dates back to the British colonial era, with the main line running from Peshawar to Karachi closely following the route taken by Alexander the Great during his invasion in 327 BCE. Unfortunately, due to a lack of maintenance and investment, many trains have fallen behind international standards, and derailments have happened in the past.

Nonetheless, train travel provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with local people and enjoy the region's diverse landscapes and cultures. It is also a budget-friendly option for journeys in the southern part of the country, such as trips from Islamabad/Rawalpindi or Lahore to Karachi.

You can purchase tickets online via the Pakistan Railway website if you have a local contact number and identity card. However, the online booking system is often unreliable, so it's advisable to buy tickets at the railway station a few days prior to your journey. Various train classes are available between major destinations in Pakistan, with the Green Line Express and Pak Business Express being top choices for travel between Lahore and Karachi.

You can book tickets for various travel classes in advance. The AC Standard Class (also referred to as AC Lower Class) offers a comfortable seat in an air-conditioned carriage. For those seeking more comfort, AC Business or AC Sleeper Class is a better choice. Almost all trains also provide Economy seats at budget-friendly prices, though this option can be crowded and uncomfortable due to open-plan carriages. If traveling in a group, booking an entire cabin (which accommodates up to 6 people) in AC class can enhance your privacy.

At train stations, you'll find food vendors boarding the trains to sell local delicacies, or you can take a quick walk along the platform when the train stops to explore more dining options. Just be careful not to take too long—trains typically stop for only a few minutes, and there's often a rush of passengers boarding or disembarking with their luggage.

Opt for flying to avoid lengthy overland travel

Air travel offers a quick alternative to lengthy and slow land journeys, such as from Islamabad or Lahore to Karachi, and is ideal for accessing Pakistan's mountainous regions. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national carrier, operates flights to various destinations across the country, including remote airstrips in Gilgit, Skardu, and Chitral.

In addition to the national airline, private carriers like Air Blue also serve select destinations, primarily operating from Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. Recently, several new airlines have emerged, such as Serene Air, Air Sial, and Fly Jinnah. You can book tickets through the airlines' official websites or via local travel agents.

It's advisable to book flights to mountainous areas several months in advance, as availability tends to dwindle during the busy tourist season from June to October, making last-minute reservations unwise. Domestic flights often experience delays, particularly during the foggy winter months in the plains. Moreover, flights to northern regions can face delays or cancellations during the monsoon season from July to September.

Buses and planes offer relatively straightforward access to the mountains

The Northern Area Transport Company (NATCO) is the primary bus service for journeys to Gilgit-Baltistan. However, some of their buses are older and not well-maintained, providing limited legroom for the lengthy, over 20-hour trips on rough roads.

NATCO buses leave Rawalpindi in the evening, traveling overnight to reach mountain destinations the next day. While ticket prices are reasonable, these buses can be crowded, and many play loud music during the ride. For a more comfortable experience, consider hiring a chartered vehicle with a driver.

Recently, Faisal Movers has begun servicing select routes in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Their buses are in better condition, offering a more pleasant travel experience. If you're heading to the Chitral region, the Hindukush Express is a reliable option.

If you're thinking about flying to the mountains, there are three main airports in the region: Gilgit, Skardu, and Chitral. Flights generally take around an hour, significantly shortening the travel time compared to road trips. However, keep in mind that these flights are operated by small ATR aircraft and can be frequently affected by weather conditions.

Skardu Airport has recently undergone upgrades, enabling it to accommodate larger Airbus aircraft. In 2023, it celebrated its first international flight from Dubai, establishing a more direct connection to the mountainous areas.

Opting for a rental car with a driver provides greater flexibility in your travels.

Renting a vehicle offers the most enjoyable way to explore Pakistan, granting you enhanced comfort and flexibility while saving precious time. You can find numerous agencies throughout the country that rent cars and 4WD vehicles, most of which include a driver, eliminating the need to navigate local driving laws or secure a valid driving license.

In Pakistan, traffic flows on the left side of the road, but driving can be daunting due to chaotic conditions and subpar road infrastructure. Having a skilled local driver who knows how to maneuver through the area is highly beneficial. Additionally, foreigners must show their passports and visas at police checkpoints, especially in mountainous regions and certain southern areas. It's wise to have printed copies of these documents handy to avoid any delays.

For those eager to discover the side valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, a 4WD vehicle is crucial for tackling the region's rugged, unpaved roads. The thrilling yet hazardous routes to Fairy Meadows, Shimshal, Chapursan, Shandur Pass, and Kalash are particularly noteworthy among the adventurous paths in Pakistan's mountains.

Be cautious that some high mountain passes may become inaccessible in winter due to heavy snowfall, so ensure you check the status of routes before planning your journey. The Karakoram Highway remains open year-round up to the Chinese border; however, the border crossing between Pakistan and China typically closes during winter, generally from November to March.

Renting motorcycles is a straightforward option, with various companies catering specifically to tourists, such as Karakoram Bikers, which focuses on the Karakoram region. Rental agencies often advise riders to possess an International Driving Permit in addition to their home driving license for geared motorcycles, though license checks are not common.

Navigating the roads of Pakistan can be quite challenging, making prior motorcycle riding experience crucial for such journeys. Always drive with caution and yield to larger vehicles. It's also vital to secure proper insurance when renting a motorcycle, as most travel insurance policies do not cover motorcycle use by default.

Exploring Pakistan’s road infrastructure

In the more developed areas of Pakistan, the road network is quite impressive. Paved roads link the major cities, and urban roads are generally well-maintained. Major urban centers like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad are connected by modern motorways that can feature up to six lanes.

This road system is currently being significantly improved through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) initiative, aimed at creating a direct link between Gwadar Port in Balochistan and Kashgar in China to facilitate the movement of goods to global markets.

The iconic Karakoram Highway (KKH) connecting Pakistan and China follows the route of the ancient Silk Road and is often referred to as the 8th wonder of the world due to its rugged terrain and stunning vistas.

Traveling along this renowned highway allows you to admire the stunning beauty of towering peaks like Nanga Parbat (8126m/21,660ft) and Rakaposhi (7788m/25,551ft), as you traverse three of the world’s highest mountain ranges: the Karakoram, the Himalayas, and the Hindukush.

Another iconic route in Pakistan is the Grand Trunk (GT) Road, an ancient trade pathway that starts in Kabul, Afghanistan, traverses large parts of Pakistan and India, and finally extends to Bangladesh. In Pakistan, the GT Road runs from the Khyber Pass in Peshawar to the Wahga border in Lahore.

The GT Road is bustling with activity, showcasing Pakistan’s uniquely decorated trucks and buses; driving along this historic path offers a blend of wonder and intrigue, as you encounter vibrantly adorned freight vehicles that reflect Pakistan's famous truck art. This journey also provides an opportunity to visit a range of magnificent historical sites dating back to the Mughal era.

Buses, taxis, and rickshaws facilitate easy transportation in urban areas

You can't rely solely on public transport to navigate every part of the cities; you'll need to combine different modes of transport. In cities like Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan, the government-operated Metro Bus services are a dependable choice. In Karachi, the buses on the Green Line and Orange Line of the city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system connect key destinations.

In addition to government-operated bus services, many smaller bus companies run within Pakistan’s cities. However, these vehicles often lack proper maintenance, and obtaining information about routes and schedules can be tricky; it’s best to ask locals for guidance.

Conventional taxis are readily available at stands in urban areas, but you’ll need to negotiate fares since most do not have meters. Alternatively, major cities offer popular ridesharing options like Careem, Uber (available in Lahore), and InDrive.

For a more adventurous ride, hop on one of Pakistan’s brightly decorated autorickshaws or Qingqis (motorcycle rickshaws). Like taxis, fare negotiation is required.

In Lahore, you can explore the city on a guided tour aboard a double-decker sightseeing bus. For a unique experience within the historic old city, consider riding the city’s colorful Rangeela rickshaws, which are adorned with vibrant truck art and follow fixed routes around the area, making them a favorite among tourists.

Traveling to restricted areas in Pakistan

Certain areas in Pakistan are off-limits to foreign travelers unless a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is secured—this process can be lengthy and complicated. Regions that are officially restricted include Azad Kashmir, Balochistan, and several border areas.

Travel advisories from foreign governments recommend exercising caution in specific parts of Pakistan and may even advise against travel in certain regions. Ignoring such advice could invalidate your travel insurance. It's crucial to research and plan your itinerary carefully, ensuring you have comprehensive insurance that covers all areas you intend to visit within Pakistan.

Navigating accessible travel in Pakistan

Pakistan's infrastructure primarily caters to those without mobility challenges, leaving little support for travelers with disabilities. There are no designated bike lanes, and pedestrian spaces often overlap with fast-moving traffic, creating substantial difficulties for those with mobility impairments. Moreover, few streets and buildings feature accessibility adaptations for wheelchairs and baby strollers, which limits inclusivity further.

There are limited travel agencies or transport services that specifically address the needs of individuals with disabilities. Traveling by bus or train can be particularly challenging due to the lack of wheelchair-friendly facilities. Renting a private vehicle with a driver is likely the most comfortable and flexible option for travel. For additional resources on accessible travel, check out Dinogo Planet’s Accessible Travel Resources.