Cheap flights to Karachi, Pakistan

The heart of Pakistan lies on the Arabian Sea in the mega metropolis of Karachi, the country’s original capital and the de facto capital of Pakistani commerce and politics to this day. Pakistan’s evolution from fishing village to trading post to urban city center is evident throughout the city, where old colonial structures, dome-topped mosques and urban skyscrapers create a stunning skyline against the sandy beaches of the Arabian Sea. Today, Pakistan’s melting pot welcomes visitors to soak up the country’s history, immerse themselves in a microcosm of modern Pakistani culture and indulge in the perks of an increasingly international city.

The amount of attractions and neighborhoods that compete for a tourist’s attention is almost overwhelming. Beaches surround the city and offer opportunities for watersports like diving and fishing. Green spaces like Bagh Ibne Qasim park offer an idyllic retreat in the heart of this urban metropolis, while amusement parks, modern shopping malls and movie theaters keep everyone entertained in Karachi. Add to that a seemingly endless array of local and international restaurants, and one could easily fill a few days in Karachi with modern luxuries

Such an itinerary might not offer the best reflection of true Pakistan, though, and it’s worth seeking out that which shines light on Pakistan’s past and present. A host of colonial and Anglo-Indian architecture remains throughout Karachi, with must-see specimens including Empress Market, the Mohatta Palace Museum and Frere Hall. The National Museum of Pakistan offers insight into the country’s tumultuous history, while Wazir Mansion – the family home of the country’s founder – displays the clothing and possessions of Muhammid Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. Meanwhile, traditional bazaars live on in the shopping district of Saddar, where you can haggle for bargains on everything from clothing and jewelry to rugs and electronics.

How long is the flight to Karachi?

Flights to Karachi, Pakistan from the United States range from about 16.5h-40h. The length of your flight will depend on several factors, including your departure city, your airline, and the number and length of stopovers you make. Flights from the U.S. to Karachi travel eastbound, so if you’re departing from the west coast, you can expect your flight to be longer than those departing from the east coast. Sometime, but not always, a flight with more stopovers is cheaper, so budget may also play into your flight length.

Where can you get direct flights to Karachi from?

There are no direct flights to Karachi from any airport in the United States, unfortunately. You can try to reduce the length of your flight by booking with airlines that regularly fly into Karachi, such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines, all of which offer single-stop flights to Karachi from major U.S. airports. When you do experience stopovers en route to Karachi, you can expect these to occur in cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Doha.

How do you get from Karachi airport to the city centre?

When you fly to Karachi, you’ll land at Jinnah International Airport (KHI), about 13 miles northeast of Karachi city center. To reach downtown Karachi from the airport, you can opt to take a taxi, which will cost about $6-$8 and take only about 15 minutes to reach your downtown destination. Be sure to agree to a fare with the driver before embarking on your journey. Uber is also available in Karachi and will cost about half the price as a regular taxi. Another option is to take a bus from the airport to Karachi Urban Bus station, which will take about 45 minutes or so, as there are frequent stops along the way, though only cost about $1.

What are some things to do in Karachi?

Karachi is the most populated city in Pakistan and the capital city of its Sindh province. Thanks to its rich history and distinct culture, there is plenty to see and do in Karachi. Explore the exquisite Mohatta Palace, built by a Hindu prince in 1925, which today serves as a thoughtful art gallery and museum. Enjoy a tranquil afternoon at Turtle Beach, where, you guessed it, you can see beautiful sea turtles traveling to and from the sea to lay eggs. There’s a reason why Chaukhandi Tombs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its golden, intricately carved columns surround the ancient burial ground of a former tribe, believed to have been erected between the 15th and 18th centuries. Stroll through the madness that is Empress Market, where you can buy all manner of knickknacks for superb souvenirs, which is best experience in the morning hours before the afternoon rush.

Do I need a passport or visa to fly to Karachi?

United States citizens traveling to Karachi, Pakistan need both a valid passport and a visa before their arrival.

Best Time to Fly to Karachi

Karachi generally experiences little rainfall and mild temperatures, making it a comfortable destination for visitors to explore. The cooler months of November, December, January and February make for prime exploring time in Karachi, while high temperatures during the months of May through September are best avoided by tourists. Cheap flights to Karachi can be found outside of peak season, which runs from November through February.

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Getting around Karachi

City buses and minibuses offer transportation throughout Karachi, but the local public transportation system can be difficult to navigate for a visitor – especially if you aren’t planning on staying long in the city. Walking is also a less than desirable option, due to traffic, pollution and long distances between destinations. Many visitors find it best to travel by taxi when it comes to getting around Karachi. Hiring a private car with chauffeur is also a convenient option in Karachi, as are the numerous rickshaws thorough the city.

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