Introduction – Why We Chose Pakistan for Our Family Trip
Hello! I’m Katrina, a UK resident and a passionate traveler. My family and I have always loved exploring new cultures, traditions, and cuisines. In 2024, we decided to visit Pakistan — a country famous for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, warm hospitality, and rich traditions.
From the snow-capped peaks of the north to the bustling bazaars of Lahore and Karachi, Pakistan promised a unique experience. We were excited to explore cities, villages, mountains, and historical landmarks.
But while Pakistan gave us unforgettable moments, it also brought some serious challenges during our trip. In this blog, I’ll share our full journey — the good, the bad, and the lessons learned — so other travelers can prepare better.
Planning the Trip – Hopes and Preparations
When we started planning, our aim was to cover:
- Islamabad (the capital city)
- Lahore (the cultural heart)
- Northern areas (Hunza, Skardu, Fairy Meadows)
- Karachi (the coastal and business hub)
We booked flights from London Heathrow to Islamabad and made arrangements for hotels, transportation, and local guides. We even read multiple Pakistan travel safety tips online.
However, no amount of planning fully prepared us for what was to come.
First Impressions – Arrival in Islamabad
Our arrival in Islamabad International Airport was smooth. The airport looked modern, clean, and well-organized. Immigration took some time, but the officers were polite.
The weather was warm, the roads were wide, and the city seemed calm compared to other capitals I had visited.
We explored:
- Faisal Mosque – The largest mosque in Pakistan, incredibly beautiful.
- Pakistan Monument – A stunning architectural landmark.
- Daman-e-Koh Viewpoint – Overlooking the city with Margalla Hills in the background.
At this stage, everything felt perfect… but the first challenge soon appeared.
Problem 1 – Transportation Difficulties
In Islamabad, we quickly realized that public transport is limited for tourists. Unlike London, where you can hop on the Tube or buses easily, Pakistan relies heavily on private cars or ride-hailing apps.
We booked rides through Careem (the local Uber), but:
- Sometimes drivers refused to come to our location.
- Language barriers made communication difficult.
- Some rides were overpriced for foreigners.
It became clear that without a private driver, moving around with family was stressful.
Lahore – Culture, Food, and Heat
From Islamabad, we took a train to Lahore. The train was comfortable in business class, but the journey was longer than expected due to delays.
In Lahore, we were enchanted by:
- Badshahi Mosque – Majestic Mughal architecture.
- Lahore Fort – A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Food Street – Incredible flavors of kebabs, biryanis, and desserts.
But Lahore also introduced us to two major problems.
Problem 2 – Extreme Heat and Load Shedding
We visited in June, and temperatures reached 45°C (113°F). This was unbearable for my children and elderly parents.
To make matters worse, load shedding (electricity outages) happened several times a day. Without air conditioning, our hotel rooms turned into ovens. We had to rely on battery fans and cold showers.
Problem 3 – Hygiene and Water Safety
We were warned not to drink tap water, so we bought bottled water everywhere.
Unfortunately, one evening we had dinner at a local restaurant where the ice in our drinks was likely made from tap water. Within 24 hours, three family members — including me — got severe food poisoning.
We had to visit a local clinic, which was clean but lacked certain medical facilities we were used to in the UK.
The Northern Areas – Paradise with Hidden Struggles
Next, we headed to Hunza Valley and Skardu in Gilgit-Baltistan. This was the most beautiful part of our journey:
- Snow-covered peaks
- Crystal-clear rivers
- Friendly locals
- Organic apricots, cherries, and fresh bread
But paradise came with challenges.
Problem 4 – Road Conditions and Long Travel Times
Reaching Hunza required hours of driving on narrow mountain roads with no protective barriers.
Landslides were common, and we were stuck for three hours at one point. With kids in the car, this became exhausting.
Problem 5 – Limited Medical Facilities
In remote areas, hospitals were basic. When my younger son caught a fever, we had to rely on a small health unit with limited medicine. This was stressful and made us realize the importance of carrying a personal medical kit.
Karachi – The Coastal Chaos
Our last stop was Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city.
We enjoyed:
- Clifton Beach
- Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum
- Vibrant markets
However, traffic in Karachi was the worst I’ve ever seen. Cars, buses, motorcycles, and rickshaws all fought for space. Crossing the road was terrifying.
Problem 6 – Safety Concerns
While most people we met were warm and welcoming, some locals advised us not to wear jewelry and to avoid going out after dark. Petty theft was a concern, especially in crowded markets.
The Positives – What We Loved About Pakistan
Despite these challenges, we found many reasons to love Pakistan:
- Warm hospitality – strangers often offered tea or directions.
- Rich history and architecture.
- Delicious food (when safe).
- Stunning landscapes in the north.
Lessons Learned – Tips for Future Travelers
If you’re planning to travel to Pakistan with your family, here’s my advice:
- Avoid peak summer – Visit in spring or autumn for comfortable weather.
- Hire a private driver – Saves stress in transportation.
- Always carry bottled water – And avoid ice in drinks.
- Bring a medical kit – Especially for remote areas.
- Plan for power outages – Keep power banks and battery fans.
- Dress modestly – Out of respect for local culture.
- Stay aware – Keep valuables safe and avoid risky areas.
Final Thoughts – Would I Visit Again?
Pakistan is a country of contrasts — breathtakingly beautiful yet challenging for foreign tourists.
Our family trip was filled with cultural discoveries, incredible sights, and warm encounters. But it also tested our patience with heat, infrastructure issues, and health scares.
Would I go again? Yes, but with better planning and during cooler months.
For adventurous travelers, Pakistan offers rewards that outweigh the risks — as long as you are prepared.
