Is It Safe to Travel to Pakistan Now?
If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing snow-capped peaks, wandering through ancient forts, tasting spice-laced street food, or meeting some of the warmest people in Asia, chances are Pakistan has crossed your mind. But as thrilling as the idea sounds, one question lingers at the forefront for most international travelers: “Is it safe to travel to Pakistan now?”
This question has haunted travel forums, headlines, and embassy websites for years. It’s valid—given the turbulent past and periodic security advisories. Yet, as someone who’s explored Pakistan multiple times in the last decade—from bustling Lahore to the quiet serenity of Hunza—I can tell you the story on the ground is far more nuanced than any newspaper headline.
In this blog, we’ll break down the safety aspects of traveling to Pakistan in 2025—from the latest security updates, regions to avoid, female traveler perspectives, to the role of media and what actual tourists have to say.
Table of Contents
1. The Evolution of Safety in Pakistan: A Snapshot
Over the last decade, Pakistan has undergone significant transformations in infrastructure, governance, and security. The government has heavily invested in boosting tourism, with the creation of the Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) and the E-Visa System.
Key Improvements Since 2015:
Decline in major terrorist incidents, particularly in northern areas.
Military-backed operations such as Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad improved overall security.
Opening of borders and scenic destinations like Skardu Airport and Kartarpur Corridor.
International endorsements: British Backpacker Society ranked Pakistan as its #1 adventure travel destination.
2. What the Official Sources Say
Before we rely on anecdotes or opinions, it’s essential to consult what government and travel authorities say:
U.S. State Department:
Pakistan is under a Level 3 travel advisory (“Reconsider Travel”)—mainly due to terrorism and sectarian violence in certain areas. However, this advisory is region-specific and not a blanket warning for the whole country.
U.K. Foreign Office:
Recommends avoiding certain areas like Balochistan, parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the Line of Control near Kashmir. However, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, Lahore, and Karachi (with caution) are not restricted.
Pakistan Government:
Pakistan has issued no restrictions for tourists from most countries and has simplified visa processes for over 190 nationalities, encouraging tourism as a key economic pillar.
3. What Tourists Are Saying in 2025
Thousands of travelers have documented their experiences across YouTube, blogs, and Instagram in recent years.
Real Feedback from Travelers:
Eva Zu Beck (Polish Travel Vlogger): “I felt safer walking the streets of Lahore at night than in many Western cities.”
Backpackers like Drew Binsky: Highlight the unmatched hospitality, especially in Hunza and Skardu.
Female solo travelers report mixed experiences: While hospitality is incredible, conservative norms require modest dressing and sometimes, a male guide helps ease travel in rural areas.
4. Regional Safety Breakdown
| Region | Safety Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Islamabad | Very Safe | Capital city, well-patrolled and clean |
| Lahore | Safe | Popular among expats and heritage lovers |
| Hunza & Gilgit | Very Safe | Most tourist-friendly region |
| Skardu | Very Safe | Increasing tourist presence |
| Karachi | Caution | Use local contacts and stay in secure areas |
| Balochistan | Avoid | Political unrest and separatist movements |
| KPK (Certain Areas) | Caution/Avoid | Swat and Chitral are safer than other KPK regions |
5. Safety Tips for First-Time Travelers to Pakistan
Get a local SIM card: Jazz or Zong are reliable.
Dress modestly: Especially for women—long sleeves, loose pants, and scarves.
Stick to daylight travel: Avoid traveling between cities at night.
Use local tour operators: Especially in Gilgit-Baltistan or interior Sindh.
Register with your embassy: Just as a precaution.
Stay informed via Twitter/X: Follow local travel advisory accounts and news.
Avoid political gatherings or protests.
6. Is Pakistan Safe for Female Solo Travelers?
This is one of the most searched questions—and with good reason. Cultural expectations and gender roles in Pakistan are vastly different from the West.
Pros:
Many women report heartwarming hospitality from local families.
Areas like Hunza, Skardu, and Islamabad are the most welcoming.
Women’s-only transport options and hotels are increasingly available.
Cons:
Catcalling and stares can be an issue in urban areas like Karachi or Rawalpindi.
Solo travel in remote regions may require extra planning or a local male guide for ease.
Pro Tip: Connect with female travel groups like Pakistan Travel Diaries (Facebook) and Soul Sisters Pakistan before your trip.
7. Is It Safe to Travel to Pakistan with Children or Families?
Absolutely. In fact, Pakistani culture is highly family-oriented.
Hunza, Murree, and Fairy Meadows are great family destinations.
Local people often go out of their way to help families and children.
Food, water, and hygiene precautions are still a must for kids.
8. Flying Over or Through Pakistan: Is It Safe?
Many travelers ask, “Is it safe to fly over Pakistan?”
Yes. In fact, Pakistan is part of major air corridors connecting the Middle East to Asia.
All major airlines fly over or into Pakistan: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and even budget airlines.
Airspace is fully open as of 2025, unlike previous short-term restrictions.
Airports in Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi are modern and well-staffed.
9. What About Travel Insurance?
Strongly recommended. Choose a provider that includes:
Emergency evacuation
Political instability coverage
Health issues and hospital stays
Popular providers like World Nomads and SafetyWing now list Pakistan as an eligible destination.
10. The Role of Media vs. Reality
Many travelers notice a stark contrast between what they read in global media and what they experience on the ground.
Yes, Pakistan has had its share of violence, political upheaval, and unrest. But so have many countries that don’t carry the same stigma. Cities like Chicago, Paris, and Rio also rank higher in global crime indexes than most Pakistani cities.
Media Bias:
News often over-emphasizes incidents without regional context.
Many areas of Pakistan have been peaceful for over a decade.
Lack of nuanced reporting leads to generalized fear.
11. What You Gain by Visiting Pakistan
Untouched natural beauty: Think of Deosai, Fairy Meadows, and Shandur.
Cultural richness: Mughal architecture, Sufi shrines, Buddhist ruins.
World-class trekking: Concordia, Rakaposhi Base Camp, and Nanga Parbat.
Genuine hospitality: Often described as more heartwarming than in Southeast Asia or the Middle East.
So, Is It Safe to Travel to Pakistan Now?
The honest answer? Yes, if you do your homework.
Pakistan is not a war zone. It’s not a monolith of danger or terrorism. It’s a country of deep traditions, diverse people, and overwhelming hospitality—wrapped in stunning landscapes. Like any developing country, it demands a certain level of preparation and awareness. But it also offers rewards unlike anywhere else in the world.
The Takeaway
Traveling in Pakistan is both exciting and accessible because to its varied transportation system. Every type of traveler has an alternative, from the convenience of ride-hailing services to the affordability of buses and trains.
Metro busses, Careem, and Uber are the most convenient means of transportation for brief city excursions. Pakistan’s picturesque train routes and opulent bus services offer comfortable and reasonably priced long-distance travel. The quickest option to travel long distances is still by domestic flight, particularly when traveling to far-flung northern locations.
Are you prepared to travel to Pakistan? Plan your vacation now to take advantage of the amazing nation’s transportation infrastructure!
Explore carefully planned tours to see the best of this fascinating nation. Please get in touch if you would need more travel advice; we are happy to assist you in organizing your upcoming journey! Additionally, by completing this form, you can personalize your journey.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
1. Is Pakistan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan and Punjab. Use local contacts for support.
2. Can I get a visa easily?
Yes. Pakistan offers an online e-visa system for over 190 nationalities.
3. What are the safest cities in Pakistan?
Islamabad, Hunza, Skardu, and Lahore are considered the safest.
4. Is Pakistan safe for Americans or British tourists?
Yes, though caution is advised in politically sensitive areas.
5. Are women required to wear a hijab?
No, but dressing modestly is essential.
6. Is public transportation safe in Pakistan?
Generally safe, but private hire or local guides are more reliable.
7. Is English widely spoken?
Yes, especially in urban and tourist regions.
8. Are there hospitals in tourist areas?
Yes. Major cities and towns like Gilgit and Skardu have hospitals.
9. Can I use international debit/credit cards?
Yes, but carry cash for rural areas.
10. What about food and water safety?
Eat fresh, hot-cooked food. Use bottled water.
11. Should I avoid any regions completely?
Yes. Balochistan and areas near the Afghan border are best avoided unless on an official trip.
Daniel loves exploring off-the-beaten path destinations and making new friends. Writing blog posts since 2015, Daniel says it helps him to document his travels and cherish them. He loves the fact that what he writes might actually help someone have a better experience in Pakistan and Afghanistan. In his spare time, he loves listening to Tchaikovsky and spend time with his dog Coconut.
