Getting around Pakistan
The national carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), operates an extensive domestic network linking key cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Peshawar and Quetta. Private airlines, including Airblue, SereneAir and Fly Jinnah, also operate on many of these routes, offering competitive fares and generally good availability.
Flights are particularly valuable for reaching Pakistan's northern areas, with regular services from Islamabad to destinations such as Gilgit and Skardu. These routes provide spectacular views of the Karakoram range, but they are highly weather-dependent. Delays and cancellations are relatively common, especially during winter or periods of poor visibility, so travellers should allow flexibility in their itineraries.
Airports in major cities are modern and well equipped, while facilities in smaller or more remote locations are more basic. Security procedures are thorough, and passengers are advised to arrive well in advance of departure.
Pakistan has an extensive road network, ranging from modern motorways linking key urban centres to winding mountain roads in the north.
The motorway system connects cities such as Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad, with generally good road quality, clear signage, and service areas along the way. National highways and regional roads vary in condition but are widely used for both private and commercial travel.
In northern Pakistan, road travel becomes an experience in itself. The Karakoram Highway, which runs through Gilgit-Baltistan, is widely regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world, passing dramatic valleys, rivers, and some of the highest peaks on earth. Some sections of the highway include multiple security checkpoints, and foreign travellers are often required to travel with a police escort for certain stretches. Procedures can vary, but it is not uncommon for an officer to accompany vehicles between checkpoints. While this may slow journey times, it is a routine measure and generally well organised.
Road conditions in mountainous areas can be challenging, with narrow lanes, landslides, and weather-related disruptions possible, particularly during the monsoon season or in winter. Distances that appear short on a map can take significantly longer in practice.
The quality of roads in Pakistan varies significantly. The motorways and highways, such as the M2 (Lahore to Islamabad) and the Karakoram Highway, are generally well-maintained and provide smooth travel. In contrast, rural and mountainous roads can be narrow, uneven, and prone to landslides, particularly during the monsoon season. Travellers heading to remote areas should prepare for rough conditions and ensure their vehicle is suitable for such terrain.
International car hire brands such as Hertz and Avis operate alongside well-established local companies in all major cities. Most car rental services offer a range of vehicles, from budget options to SUVs suitable for mountainous terrain.
Most visitors opt to hire a private car with a driver, which offers greater comfort, flexibility, and ease of travel, particularly when navigating unfamiliar routes or more remote areas.
Taxis are available in Pakistan's major cities, though their availability and format vary by location. In some cities, traditional street taxis can be found, but these rarely operate on meters, so fares should be agreed in advance to avoid misunderstandings.
Ride-hailing services (such as Careem, InDrive, Yango) are widely used in urban areas including Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. These apps offer transparent pricing, route tracking, and a range of vehicle options, including cars, motorbikes and, in some cases, auto rickshaws.
Auto rickshaws are a common and inexpensive way to travel short distances in many cities, though fares are typically negotiated before the journey unless booked through an app.
Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the fare or leaving a small amount is appreciated.
Pakistan's scenic regions, such as Gilgit-Baltistan, the Hunza Valley, and the Karakoram Highway, offer stunning routes with breathtaking views. These areas attract touring cyclists from around the world, though the terrain can be demanding, with steep climbs and high altitudes.
However, urban cycling can be challenging due to heavy traffic, limited bike lanes, and unpredictable road conditions.
Long-distance buses operate extensively across Pakistan and are widely used by locals. A number of established companies, including Daewoo Express, Faisal Movers and Skyways, run services between major cities, offering air-conditioned coaches with reclining seats and more comfortable onboard facilities.
However, the overall standard of bus travel varies considerably. Alongside these higher-end operators, many services are more basic, with older vehicles and limited amenities. Travellers should not expect uniform standards across the network.
Road conditions and journey times can vary, and delays are not uncommon, particularly on longer routes. Advance booking is advisable for the more reputable operators, especially during peak travel periods.
Driving in Pakistan can be challenging, particularly for visitors unfamiliar with local conditions. While traffic laws are in place, adherence is inconsistent, and driving behaviour can be unpredictable, especially in busy urban areas.
Lane discipline is often loose, and a wide mix of vehicles share the same roads. Drivers frequently use horns and headlights to signal intentions, and right of way is not always clearly observed.
Speed limits are typically 120 km/h (75 mph) on motorways, 80–100 km/h (50–62 mph) on national highways, and around 50 km/h (30 mph) in urban areas, unless otherwise indicated. Speed limits on motorways are generally enforced, with police carrying out speed checks and issuing on-the-spot fines for violations.
Seat belts are required by law, and the use of mobile phones while driving is prohibited, although enforcement can vary.
Road conditions range from well-maintained motorways to uneven or poorly lit rural roads. Night driving outside major cities is not recommended due to limited lighting, unexpected hazards, and variable driving standards.
Most visitors choose to hire a car with a driver, which provides a safer and more practical way to navigate the country.
Pakistan does not have a comprehensive nationwide breakdown service comparable to organisations such as the AA or RAC. Assistance can therefore be less structured, particularly outside major cities and motorways.
On motorways, a limited breakdown and emergency response service is available, but coverage is not uniform across the wider road network.
For most visitors, travel is undertaken with a hired car and driver. In such cases, drivers are typically experienced in dealing with minor mechanical issues and can arrange assistance locally if required.
Travellers who choose to rent a car, particularly in larger cities, are advised to obtain emergency contact details from the rental company in advance, as they will usually be the primary point of assistance in the event of a breakdown.
Foreign drivers need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their valid home country driver's licence, vehicle registration papers, proof of insurance, and passport.
Urban travel in Pakistan's major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and Rawalpindi relies on a mix of public and private transport options. Mini-buses and shared vans, commonly known as wagons, are a popular and affordable mode of transportation in urban areas. However, they can be overcrowded and may not follow fixed schedules.
Auto-rickshaws and motorbike taxis are common for short-distance travel, offering quick and flexible options. For intercity commutes within metropolitan areas like Islamabad and Rawalpindi, the Metro Bus Service offers a dedicated and well-organised bus network. Karachi also relies heavily on buses and private vans, though the quality of services can vary widely.
Traditional taxis can be flagged down on the street or hired at taxi stands, but they rarely run on meters. Ride-hailing apps like Careem, InDrive and Yango are becoming very popular, especially among visitors.
Lahore is the only city with a metro train system, known as the Orange Line Metro Train. It is fully operational and provides a reliable and efficient way to navigate the city.
Pakistan Railways operates the domestic rail network, connecting major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad (via Rawalpindi), Peshawar, and Quetta, as well as smaller towns and rural areas. The backbone of the system is the Main Line 1 (ML-1), which runs north–south across the country. Services range from basic economy class to more comfortable air-conditioned coaches and sleeper cabins, catering to different budgets and preferences.
The Khyber Mail is one of Pakistan's most iconic train services, running between Karachi and Peshawar. Covering 1,732km (1,076 miles), it passes through key cities including Lahore and Rawalpindi. A range of seating options is available, including air-conditioned coaches and sleeper cabins, making it a popular choice for long-distance journeys.
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