Cheap flights to Pakistan

Pakistan is the unfortunate heir of misconception. Often in the news for war and violence, very few people know of Pakistan’s internal beauty, flanked by some of Asia’s most astonishing landscapes, and an unwavering generosity. Travelers booking flights to Pakistan are heading to a country rich in culture, history and hospitality.

With Hinduism and Buddhism firmly planted in Pakistan, the pleasures of Pakistan are evident and ancient. Immediately upon leaving the Pakistan flight, tourists come across Buddhist shrines, Hindu temples, Islamic palaces and Muslim mansions. While Pakistan is a hospitable destination, it’s wise for tourists to know the basic Pakistani laws. For example, dress codes are strictly enforced in the country. Long and loose clothing is common and any tourist visiting mosques or temples must be completely covered before entering.

While it’s possible to find cheap flights to Pakistan and plan budget-conscious tours though the country, tourists are advised to pay special attention to travel warnings. Pakistani people are involved in various political demonstrations currently sweeping through the Middle East. Recent violence in Karachi, Islamabad, and Peshawar has resulted in chaos, and travelers are advised to stay with group tours and not travel off by themselves.

Find cheap flights to Pakistan

How long is the flight to Pakistan?

Travel time to Pakistan from the United States averages more than 15 hours for most journeys, depending on the point of departure and landing. Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport is the largest and busiest, serving the most international carriers. However, as there are no airlines flying directly from the U.S. to Pakistan, most flights will be longer.

Which cities offer direct flights to Pakistan?

There are no options for direct flights to Pakistan from the U.S. Instead, travelers may opt for connecting flights on the airlines that do include Pakistan in their list of destination. These include Emirates, Etihad, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, Pakistan International Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and many others. The most flights will depart from New York, Chicago, Washington, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Seattle. Connecting flights will most usually depart from Dubai International Airport, Istanbul Airport, Beijing Capital International Airport, Doha International Airport, and Muscat International Airport.
There are also airports in Lahore and Islamabad, and they are a final destination for some international flights, which might also be connectors for Americans flying to Pakistan.

What is the best way to travel around Pakistan?

Pakistan’s infrastructure has improved greatly over the years, and today’s travelers will be able to more easily enjoy driving along the roadways or booking private or traditional domestic flights. Many also turn to the Pakistan Railway as it is comprehensive and consistent, even extending discounts to some tourists and students. There is a great deal of bus travel too, but it can be a time-consuming process and it is best to stick to local bus routes within cities rather than attempting lengthier journeys. Taxis are also an option with famous names like Uber already present in the country. Most will take travelers on a fixed rate, but negotiating the best pricing is a necessity. Bike sharing is also a growing industry and something to consider if you are among the more daring.

What are some things to do in Pakistan?

Pakistan is a beautiful country and home to some of the authentic wonders of the world. Karachi is a common destination for its amazing ruins and beaches, museums and historic sites. Because it is a waterfront city along the shores of the Arabian Sea, it is also home to some world class golfing, swimming, diving, and much more. Islamabad is also a popular destination for historic sites like the Shah Faisal mosque large enough to hold a crowd of more than 100k. However, for many, it is the natural locations like the HIngol National Park, the mountains of the Kashmir area (including K2), and the stunning desert region known as the Cold Desert of Skardu. The Khyber Pass is a must for anyone who is interested in this natural border wall between Afghanistan and Pakistan. Helicopter tours and sightseeing excursions are a great thing to do in Pakistan, and shopping in any markets can ensure great finds to bring home.

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

Visas are a requirement of almost anyone who visits the country, and it is far quicker to head to a local embassy to obtain one before traveling to the area. Online visas are an option for Americans, as well as residents of more than 170 other countries. There are also options for some to apply for a Visa on Arrival Under Tourist Category, but this should be requested around 72 hours before a trip.

Pakistan climate

Pakistan’s climate changes with its elevation. If you visit in the summer, you can enjoy pleasant weather in the mountains or bake at 100 degrees in the Indus Valley. Monsoons arrive in the south near the end of summer. The mountains become icy-cold and freezing in the winter, while the low-lying areas stay around 50 F.

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Best Time to Fly to Pakistan

If wind sailing and surfing are on your list of things to do, then book flights to Pakistan between May and October, when hot conditions make the Arabian Sea the perfect place to play.

Peak Season: If you plan to stay near Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab and the southern North-West Frontier Province book flights to Pakistan during the cooler months between November and February, because afterwards, the heat can be unbearable. If you have trekking in mind though, you’ll want to book your Pakistan flights between April and October, because although there could still be storms, this is when the mountains are at their best.

Off-peak Season: Less people book flights to Pakistan during Ramadan, because activity decreases, and open cafes and restaurants are difficult to find. Although it’s a less desirable time for most, it’s also a great time to save on cheap flights to Pakistan.

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Getting around Pakistan

Pakistan International Airlines provides extensive opportunities for domestic Pakistan flights, once you arrive. If you’re interested in seeing cities like Faisalabad, Karachi, Lahore, Multan, Peshawar, Quetta and Sukkur, board a domestic Pakistan flight and set off on an intra-continental tour.

The railway system is widespread and very affordable, and perfect for remote areas that are too far for taxis. Buses called Qing-Qi, yellow taxis, and motorcycle-auto rickshaws are also available options.

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Pakistan Travel Information

• Khunjerab Pass: The Khunjerab Pass is a quirky road that links China to Pakistan. It runs through vast stretches of land where Marco Polo sheep, Himalayan ibex, golden marmots, wolves, and snow leopards happen to roam. Pass old Chinese hostels built in the 1960’s, and a river where travelers stop to spend the night camping. As you wind through the valley stretch, the deep, crumbling rock walls may scare you, but you haven’t seen anything until you’ve reached the absolute pinnacle of confusion. Where Pakistan officially meets China, the traffic on the left side of the road switches to the right, creating nothing short of a lively memory of your Pakistan travel.

• Pakistan Museum of Natural History: Located on the National Park, The Pakistan Museum of Natural History shows Pakistan’s development over a number of centuries. Filled with wonderful depictions of wildlife and early humans, the museum is the quintessential place for those booking flights to Pakistan to learn about the country in its more primal stages. Admission is free, and it’s closed on Fridays, so plan your Pakistan travel accordingly.

• Islamabad Margala Hills: The Margala Hills surrounds Islamabad from two sides. Branching from the Himalayan mountains and encapsulating the historical city of Taxila, it connects to the Muree Hills, which further link to the Kashmir Mountains. For those booking flights to Pakistan for an outdoor respite, take advantage of the developed facilities that guide travelers through villages. Bus rides are available for those who want the views without enduring the physical labor.

• Takht-i-Bahi: For religious enthusiasts booking flights to Pakistan, seeing the Takht-i-Bahi should be a high priority. The ancient Buddhist monastic complex was built in the first century, and its impressive preservation and antiquity leads you straight to the nearby ruins of the Sahr I Bahlol. Set on a hill 500 feet high, it’s the perfect spot for meditation and contemplation during your travel to Pakistan.

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