skyline and bay at night in karachi pakistan

Holidays to Pakistan

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Passionate about Pakistan 

Pakistan holidays transport you to a nation of towering monuments, fascinating Mughal heritage sites and spectacular natural wonders.

Don’t miss the magnificent 16th-century Lahore Fort, the extraordinary crescent architecture of the Pakistan Monument and the ancient Mohatta Palace Museum.

Prepare to be dazzled by the elaborate structures and cultural treasures on show, spanning centuries of history. Be sure to take the time to sample the country’s tasty chai and curries too. 

Head to serene Changa Manga Forest Park near Lahore, try spotting wild boar and monkeys among the sweeping beauty of the Margalla Hills by Islamabad, or relax with a camel ride on the sands in coastal Karachi.

You'll discover a world of adventure when you book your Etihad holiday to Pakistan.

pakistan monument in islamabad at night

Things to do in Pakistan

Pakistan is home to a world of adventure and discovery for travellers, with incredible architecture and a fascinating past.

front view of mughal emperor fort in pakistan

Explore Pakistan’s historic forts

Pakistan holiday packages give you the chance to visit some of the most incredible castles in all of Asia.

Lahore Fort is perhaps Pakistan’s most recognisable building. A place where royalty once rode through the entrance on elephants, it is now a museum showcasing oil paintings, manuscripts and weaponry.

Within the fort, you’ll find the Sheesh Mahal, or ‘Palace of Mirrors’. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is nothing short of dazzling, as thousands of small mirrors make up its walls and ceiling.

South of Islamabad, the heritage site of Rohtas Fort also dates back to the 16th century and is famous for its twelve stone gates. 

Where to stay in Pakistan

Soak up city sights in Lahore

If you’re looking for a real taste of Pakistani culture, head to Lahore.

There’s a host of great attractions to see, including sculptures, paintings and artefacts at the Lahore Museum, gigantic mosques and historic baths in the Walled City, and the sky-piercing 200-foot Minar-e-Pakistan monument – compared by many to the Eiffel Tower.

Get a taste of the real Pakistan at the bustling Anarkali Bazaar and Liberty Market. Try your hand at haggling to get the best bargains.

skyline of lahore in pakistan
view of the margalla hills in islamabad pakistan

Head for the hills in Islamabad 

With the Himalayas on your doorstep, it’s the perfect opportunity to go for a hike into the hills.

Base yourself in Islamabad if you’re considering activity holidays in Pakistan – it’s easy to access the Margalla Hills National Park from here.

There are a variety of day walks to get you started and as wilderness experiences go, it offers some of Pakistan’s most beautiful animals and plant life.

Keep an eye out for wild deer, red foxes and porcupines on your travels. 

Thrills by the coast in Karachi

Offering sun, sand, and a host of entertaining attractions, Karachi is an ideal venue for Pakistan family holidays.

There are five waterparks to explore, with giant slides, thrilling rides and plenty of fun-filled activities to put a smile on kids’ faces.

For more family fun, head to Sindbad’s Wonderland. This popular indoor amusement park features a host of rides, games and attractions to guarantee hours of excitement.

karachi marina pictured in the evening
tuk tuk in motion as a form of transportation in pakistan

All you need to know about Pakistan

Currency

The local currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani rupee (PKR). ATMs are available in major cities, and many businesses prefer to accept payment in cash rather than by card. 

Languages spoken

The official languages of Pakistan are Urdu and English. There are however many other languages spoken in Pakistan, including Pashto, Sindhi and Punjabi.

Public holidays

National holidays in Pakistan include Pakistan Day (23 March), Labour Day (1 May) and the extended festivals of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. 

Cultural considerations 

It's a good idea to check local laws and customs before you travel. When visiting mosques and other religious sites, remember to dress modestly and act respectfully. 

More about Pakistan

Local cuisine

Pakistani cuisine is bursting with spices, herbs and often heat. Many dishes have found their way across the world, such as samosas (triangular shaped meat and vegetable snacks), and biryani (a spiced rice and meat dish).

One of the best places to sample authentic flavours on your Pakistan holiday is in Lahore. The street food on offer here is extensive and eclectic. Make sure you try the delicious Sarson Ka Saag for an authentic taste of Pakistani vegetables, flavoured with mustard and spices.

For a more refined dining experience head to the much-loved Monal Lahore. Overlooking the city from ten storeys high, this buffet of Pakistani dishes is a great way to try brunch, high tea or dinner, and enjoy stunning views at the same time. 

local pakistan cuisine curry and rice
traditional chai cafe in pakistan

Heritage and culture

Pakistan’s cultural heritage stems from a melting pot of sources.

You’ll truly feel as if you’ve travelled back in time when you visit historic sites, including Mughal palaces, Islamic tombs and British colonial buildings such as the famous Frere Hall in Karachi.

The beauty of Pakistan can also be found in modern architecture, drawing inspiration from Arabic, Bedouin and Asian traditions, as well as other international styles.

Over a dozen distinct ethnic groups live in Pakistan, each with their own language, customs and practices. Despite this diversity, Pakistanis share a collective love of music and dance, along with the nation’s favourite drink – chai. 

Religion

Pakistan is home to beautiful mosques and religious buildings.

The Faisal Mosque, Grand Jamia Mosque and Masjid e Tooba are all wonders of design, with minarets and domes adorning places of worship that can host thousands of people.

Islamic religious festivals are widely observed and celebrated in Pakistan.

During Ramadan there is no eating and drinking in public from sunrise to sunset. When darkness falls, local markets and cafes often spring to life, and people gather for social meals.

Eid al-Fitr is a time for gatherings, gifts and sharing sweets, when it’s traditional for people to buy new clothes and jewellery for the festivities.

Many shops and restaurants stay open late, so if you’re on holiday in Pakistan at this time, it’s a wonderful time to join in with the celebrations.

orange skies and shah faisal mosque in pakistan
view of countryside aroura islamabad at sunset

Why we love Pakistan

“Pakistan has so many beautiful places to explore, from the Margalla Hills to the Shalamar Gardens. Its palaces and monuments are impressive and intricate. The food is wonderful too – try a traditional biryani for a taste sensation.” 

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