Orientation briefing in Pakistan

The Indus Valley civilization, one of the oldest in the world and dating back at least 5,000 years, spread over much of modern-day Pakistan. During the second millennium B.C., remnants of this culture fused with the migrating Indo-Aryan peoples. The area underwent successive invasions in subsequent centuries from the Persians, Greeks, Scythians, Arabs (who brought Islam), Afghans, and Turks. The Mughal Empire flourished in the 16th and 17th centuries; the British came to dominate the region in the 18th century. The partition in 1947 of British India into the Muslim state of Pakistan (with West and East sections) and largely Hindu India created lasting tension between the two countries. They have fought two wars and a limited conflict -- in 1947-48, 1965, and 1999 respectively -- over the Kashmir territory, a dispute that continues to this day. A third war in 1971 -- in which India assisted an indigenous movement reacting to Bengali marginalization in Pakistani politics -- resulted in East Pakistan becoming the separate nation of Bangladesh.

In response to Indian nuclear weapons testing, Pakistan conducted its own tests in 1998. Pakistan has been engaged in a decades-long armed conflict with militant groups, including the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and other militant networks that target government institutions and civilians.

Political rallies, protests and demonstrations may take place across the country and can start with little warning. Most are peaceful, but they can turn violent quickly and lead to clashes with law enforcement. Individuals near protest activity may face increased scrutiny by security forces. During elections, terrorists have targeted security forces, political events, rallies, government buildings and polling stations.

You should:

• avoid all political demonstrations, be mindful of large crowds of people and public events 
• be mindful of days of political or social significance
• be prepared to change your plans as necessary 
• keep track of the local news 

During times of protest or civil unrest, mobile data coverage and internet connectivity may be cut without warning. Additionally, major road networks in and around cities may be shut or blocked. Have alternative travel options such as different routes for any journeys you plan.

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO).

Areas where FCDO advises against travel

Pakistan-Afghanistan border

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10 miles of the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

FCDO advises against all travel to these areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province: 

• Bajaur 
• Bannu 
• Buner 
• Chārsadda
• Dera Ismail Khan 
• Hangu
• Karak
• Khyber 
• Kohat 
• Kurram 
• Lakki Marwat 
• Upper Dir 
• Lower Dir 
• Mohmand 
• Orakzai 
• Peshawar, including the city of Peshawar 
• Swat 
• Tank 
• North Waziristan
• Upper South Waziristan 
• Lower South Waziristan  
• the Karakoram Highway between Mansehra and Chilas via Battagram, Besham City, Dasu and Sazin up to the junction with the N15  
• the N45 Highway, from the north of the Mardan ring road, to the edge of Chitral City, including Kalash valley

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to these areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province:

• Malakand
• Mardan
• Nowshera
• Shangla
• Swabi

Balochistan Province

FCDO advises against all travel to Balochistan Province.

Pakistan-India Border Area

FCDO advises against all but essential travel within 5 miles of the international border between Pakistan and India. Exceptions are the Grand Trunk highway via the Wagah border (the crossing point is currently closed, however visitors can still access and attend the daily Wagah border ceremony) and the Kartarpur Corridor for Sikh pilgrims visiting Gurdwara Darbar Sahib (currently closed for crossings).

Pakistan-administered Kashmir 

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10 miles of the Line of Control.

Sindh Province  

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to all areas of Sindh Province north of and including the city of Nawabshah.

Punjab Province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Dera Ghazi Khan.

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel to these regions.

Emergency measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Emergency measures and Governor’s Rule were introduced in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on 11 October. There were reports of road closures, possible disruption to public transport, increased security presence, and disruption to internet services in parts of the province.

If you’re in or travelling to Khyber Paktunkhwa:

• stay away from protests, political gatherings and large crowds
• follow local news and the advice of local authorities
• check your route before you travel
• be prepared to change your travel plans at short notice

Demonstrations in Pakistan-administered Kashmir

There are currently demonstrations in areas of Pakistan-administered Kashmir known locally as “Azad Jammu and Kashmir”.

Local authorities have advised visitors to avoid travel to the area, while visitors already there have been encouraged to leave to avoid potential disruption.

Demonstrations in the area have led to: 

• road closures and severe travel disruption 
• suspension of mobile and internet services 
• clashes between protestors and security forces, with reports of injuries and loss of life

Regional tensions

The context in the Middle East remains deeply unpredictable and the risk of sudden escalation is high. Since conflict began in early 2026, Iran has stated its intention to target locations associated with the US and Israel, including, but not limited to, organisations, businesses, facilities, and institutions. There have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran and others across the region against civilian and US military infrastructure. 

British nationals in, or planning to travel through, the Middle East should be prepared for possible flight cancellations, airspace closures, and travel disruptions. You should:

Global supply routes could affect Pakistan’s fuel availability and pricing. This may lead to transport disruption and delays, in some areas.

There is an ongoing risk of terrorism.

You should continue to:

• be careful around protests, demonstrations, rallies, security checkpoints, tourist sites, and religious gatherings and sites, particularly in urban areas across Pakistan

• follow the advice of local authorities and plan ahead to allow extra time for travel and keep up to date with local and international media

• monitor local and international media for the latest information

• be prepared to take shelter, stay indoors, or move to a safe building immediately if the local authorities instruct you to do so

• sign up to FCDO Travel Advice email alerts

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad
• read the FCDO’s advice on if you’re affected by a crisis abroad

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency. 

Support during a crisis

If a severe crisis develops in Pakistan, the situation can change quickly including your ability to travel. Regional tensions during May 2025 resulted in sustained airspace closures which caused airlines to suspend flights, domestic travel was also restricted. Practical support from the British government, including face-to-face consular support or evacuation, may be severely limited in a crisis. Read our general guidance on consular support in a crisis.

Be prepared to re-arrange your own departure from Pakistan at short notice. If it is not safe or possible to leave, you should:

• stay indoors whenever possible, and have a stock of essential supplies such as food, drinking water and medicine
• obey any local restrictions such as curfews
• monitor the media for developments that would allow you to leave safely
• subscribe to our Travel Advice
• follow the British High Commission social media accounts for the latest information

About FCDO travel advice

FCDO provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

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You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.  

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Pakistan

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Pakistan.

There is a high threat of terrorism and sectarian violence throughout Pakistan.

Read our advice on regional risks in Pakistan for information about areas where we advise against travel.

Terrorist groups operating in Pakistan include: 

• Tehreek-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) 
• Tehreek-e Jihad Pakistan (TJP)  
• Balochistan separatists 
• Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISKP)  
• al-Qa’ida 

Terrorist groups mainly target Government of Pakistan security forces. Areas of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including Peshawar, and Quetta suffer regular terrorist attacks. Attacks have also taken place in Karachi, Islamabad, Lahore and other major cities. A number of attacks have also taken place against Chinese nationals; some attacks have also targeted individuals of East Asian appearance more generally.

While terrorist attacks are mainly directed against the Pakistani state, attacks could be indiscriminate and occur without warning, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• Pakistani government buildings and infrastructure
• security, judicial and police force locations
• places of worship, including churches and religious sites
• hotels, restaurants and shopping areas
• schools and educational institutions
• popular tourist sites or hiking trails

Be cautious about attending any public event, including:

• processions, protests, demonstrations and rallies
• religious gatherings
• sports and live music events

Public transport and transport hubs, including airports, are at risk of attack. Avoid using the railway network due to the risk of terrorist attacks.

Take particular care during periods of national, social or religious significance, including the month of Ramadan, and during election periods. When travelling, always:

• keep a low profile
• minimise your exposure to areas and events that pose a higher risk
• vary your routes and timings if you make regular journeys
• limit movements on Friday afternoons
• be prepared to change your plans as necessary

Examples of recent attacks include:

• on 6 February 2026, a suicide bombing at the Imam Bargah Mosque in Islamabad killed at least 36 people and injured more than 150; Da’esh (IS) claimed responsibility for the attack
• in January 2026, coordinated attacks by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) across multiple towns in Balochistan resulted in the deaths of at least 31 civilians and 17 security personnel. Militants targeted government buildings, security installations, and public areas
• on 11 November 2025, a suicide bombing outside Islamabad’s district courts complex killed 12 people and injured more than two dozen
• in March 2025, the Jaffar Express passenger train travelling from Quetta to Peshawar, with at least 380 passengers on board, was hijacked by the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), resulting in 64 deaths
• in October 2024, a suicide attack near Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport killed 4 individuals - including two Chinese nationals and two Pakistani civilians
• public service and health officials have been attacked while working on health programmes

Terrorist kidnap 

There is a threat of kidnap throughout Pakistan, particularly within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces. Terrorist groups are unlikely to prioritise the kidnap of westerners in Pakistan. Any kidnap of a foreign national by terrorist groups in Pakistan would likely be opportunistic.

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release.  

The long-standing policy of the British government policy is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal.

Political situation

Political rallies, protests and demonstrations may take place across the country and can start with little warning. Most are peaceful, but they can turn violent quickly and lead to clashes with law enforcement. Individuals near protest activity may face increased scrutiny by security forces. During elections, terrorists have targeted security forces, political events, rallies, government buildings and polling stations.

You should:

• avoid all political demonstrations, be mindful of large crowds of people and public events 
• be mindful of days of political or social significance
• be prepared to change your plans as necessary 
• keep track of the local news 

During times of protest or civil unrest, mobile data coverage and internet connectivity may be cut without warning. Additionally, major road networks in and around cities may be shut or blocked. Have alternative travel options such as different routes for any journeys you plan.

Crime 

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Street crime is a risk, particularly in crowded areas. Take sensible measures to guard your possessions and reduce your personal risk. Be cautious when moving around urban areas at night, especially when on foot.

There is an active black market in forged and stolen passports. Credit card fraud is common. Beware of scams.

Criminal kidnap

British nationals of Pakistani origin have been targeted by criminals, including kidnappers, as they are often perceived as being wealthier than locals.

Laws and cultural differences  

Pakistan is a Muslim country. Respect the local traditions, customs and laws. Make sure your actions do not cause offence. 

Standards of public behaviour differ between the UK and Pakistan. Behaviour that might be acceptable in the UK can cause offence in Pakistan. Being considerate of others is important in Pakistani culture. Loud or rowdy behaviour in public is likely to attract a negative response.

Personal ID 

Always carry photo ID.  You may be asked to show it and you might be detained until you can show a valid ID.

Ramadan  

Ramadan, also called Ramazan in Pakistan, is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to start around mid-February and finish around mid-March. During this time, do not: 

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your car  
• play loud music or dance  
• swear in public  

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.  

You should also:  

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants  
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screens  
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time  
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness  
• be aware that driving may be unpredictable, particularly when people are trying to get home at dusk  
• be patient and show tolerance 

Dress code

Pakistan is an Islamic country. Dress modestly, men and women should cover their shoulders and legs in public. Women should cover their heads when entering mosques and holy places, and in rural areas. 

Blasphemy 

Insulting or showing disrespect or contempt of religion, religious beliefs or anything considered holy (blasphemy) is illegal. Blasphemy has a broad definition in Pakistani law. It includes public and private comments in any form, including on social media.

There are significant criminal penalties, including the death penalty. Those accused of blasphemy are at significant risk of violence from the public. Both Muslims and religious minorities have been victims of blasphemy accusations and violence, including killings.  

Be sensitive to religious beliefs and behave appropriately.  

Death penalty 

The death penalty can be issued for individuals convicted for crimes including, but not limited to, blasphemy, murder and rape.

Alcohol laws and bans 

Drinking alcohol is illegal for Muslims. Non-Muslims are allowed to drink in Pakistan, but you must get a licence from the authorities. It is also illegal for non-Muslims to supply alcohol to Muslims. Public drinking and drunkenness are illegal and can lead to detention. 

Illegal drugs and penalties

You can get a prison sentence for possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs. British nationals have been arrested on drug trafficking charges and have been detained for long periods while their case is in the Pakistan legal system.

Taking photos in secure areas

Do not take photos at military establishments, airports or any infrastructure (including bridges and dams) or from aircraft. British nationals have been arrested on suspicion of ‘spying’. Check with officials if you’re not sure whether you can take a photo. 

You should not take photos of people without seeking prior permission.

Property disputes

Disputes over property ownership are common in Pakistan and have been known to become violent. British nationals have been victims of property scams such as:

• selling the same property to multiple buyers
• using forged ownership documents or fake land records
• illegal occupation of land or property (‘qabza’), particularly where owners live overseas
• selling plots in unapproved or fraudulent housing schemes
• impersonating the rightful owner to sell or transfer property
• using a Power of Attorney to take control of someone else’s property without their consent
• relatives selling inherited or jointly owned property without consent
• misuse of rental income or unauthorised management of property
• disputes arising from informal or verbal family agreements

The British High Commission cannot get involved in property disputes. Consular staff are not legally trained and cannot provide legal advice or intervene in private legal matters.

If you are involved in a property dispute, you should seek independent legal advice from an English-speaking lawyer in Pakistan.

If your case relates to property in Punjab, you may contact the Overseas Pakistani Cell at the Lahore High Court which deals with legal cases involving Pakistani nationals living overseas.

If you are concerned for your safety, you should contact the police. The British Government cannot provide private security. If you do wish to have private security, you should consider arranging this for yourself through a private security company.

LGBT+ travellers 

Same-sex sexual activity between men is illegal. There are occasional arrests, and there are negative attitudes to same-sex relationships throughout Pakistan which can sometimes result in violence. See more details from the Human Dignity Trust about the current application of the law.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Relationships 

It is illegal for unmarried couples to live together in Pakistan. The law regarding unmarried people sharing a hotel room does not generally apply to visiting foreign nationals, particularly in popular tourist areas. 

Transport risks  

Planning secure travel around Pakistan

You must obtain advance permission from local or federal authorities to travel in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Balochistan and several districts in Azad Kashmir. There are several prohibited areas across the country, particularly the areas around military installations, nuclear plants, naval and aerial basis. Officials could stop you and ask you to turn back.

When travelling in Pakistan be aware of the risks, including carjacking. You or your travel agency should contact the local authorities of your destination in advance to check the local security situation. In areas of higher risk, local authorities sometimes arrange police escorts for your own protection. They will also tell you if you need a No Objection Certificate from the Pakistani Ministry of Interior.

Take safety precautions, keep a low profile and choose your accommodation carefully.

Road travel 

If you are planning to drive in Pakistan, see information on driving abroad.

You’ll need to have both the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) and your UK driving licence with you in the car. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel. If you don’t have the correct documents to drive, you could be detained and a police report could be registered in your name.

Road conditions

Outside of the major motorways, the quality of roads is variable. Road conditions can be poor. Local driving standards are erratic, especially at night. Take care on long road journeys and when travelling cross-country. 

The north of Pakistan is mountainous. Many roads, including the N15 highway between Chilas and Babusar in Gilgit Baltistan, are inaccessible at some times of the year due to extreme weather conditions. Many roads in these remote areas are of very poor quality with uneven surfaces. Landslides frequently block or destroy roads. Use experienced local drivers when travelling these routes and only in clear weather conditions.

Public transport

Due to the level of crime, avoid using public transport, including the Metro Bus between Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Taxis 

Avoid using street taxis, e-taxis. or online apps for taxi services. Only use taxis from reputable, licensed companies where you call for a taxi and the operator contacts a taxi driver. 

Air travel 

Airports can be crowded at times and your baggage may need to go through screening equipment and checks. When travelling through an airport, allow enough time to complete check-in and security procedures.

Flights to and from the mountainous areas in the north of Pakistan are frequently delayed or cancelled due to extreme weather. Ensure you have alternative routes planned in case of cancellations.

Rail travel 

Avoid using the railway network due to the risk of terrorist attacks and derailments. 

Sea travel 

The threat from piracy within Pakistan’s territorial waters is low. There is a significant threat of piracy in the Gulf of Aden and other parts of the Indian Ocean. Mariners should follow shipping industry guidelines on precautions to take.

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

Monitor local and international weather updates from the Pakistan Meteorological Department and see weather advisories from the National Disaster Management Authority.

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Landslides 

Check local forecasts from the Pakistan Meteorological Department and be aware of the risk of landslides and road blockages, particularly in hilly and mountainous regions. Take extreme care crossing swollen rivers. 

Monsoons and flooding  

Pakistan can experience flooding and landslides during monsoon season which is usually from late June to early October. The flooding can affect all provinces in Pakistan. Roads and bridges have been damaged or destroyed, affecting travel in many parts of the country. More information is available from the National Disaster Management Authority.

Earthquakes 

Earth tremors are common. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has advice on what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

This section has safety advice for regions of Pakistan. It only covers regions where The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

FCDO advises against all travel to these districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province:

• Bajaur
• Bannu
• Buner
• Chārsadda
• Dera Ismail Khan
• Hangu
• Karak
• Khyber
• Kohat
• Kurram
• Lakki Marwat
• Upper Dir
• Lower Dir
• Mohmand
• Orakzai
• Peshawar, including the city of Peshawar
• Swat
• Tank
• North Waziristan
• Upper South Waziristan
• Lower South Waziristan

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to these areas in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province:

• Malakand
• Mardan
• Nowshera
• Shangla
• Swabi

FCDO advises against travel to much of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. There is frequent militant violence in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas. Local authorities may impose curfews at short notice and there is frequent military activity. Cross-border attacks may occur in the surrounding areas south and west of Chitral.

N45 Highway between Mardan and Chitral

FCDO advises against all travel on the N45 Highway, from the north of the Mardan ring road, to the edge of the city of Chitral because of high crime and terrorism incidents.

Balochistan Province

FCDO advises against all travel to Balochistan Province.

The situation at the Pakistan-Iran border can be unpredictable. In January 2024 both Iran and Pakistan conducted missile and drone strikes targeting militant groups on either side of their border.

There is a high risk from kidnapping and militant activity in much of Balochistan.

Pakistan-administered Kashmir

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

FCDO advises against all travel to within 10 miles of the India-Pakistan border area within Pakistan-administered Kashmir, known as the Line of Control.

Although there is a ceasefire in place, there are still significant tensions between India and Pakistan. There is a risk of small arms fire and occasional mortar fire.

Make sure you have the necessary permissions to travel. Check the latest requirements before you travel as they can change.

Sindh Province

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to all areas of Sindh Province north of and including the city of Nawabshah.

There are high levels of lawlessness in the north of Sindh Province. There is a very high risk of crime and kidnapping. Criminal gangs and bandits with access to heavy weaponry are active in the area. In 2022, a large criminal gang attacked police in Ghotki, northern Sindh, killing several officers and taking other officers hostage.

Gilgit-Baltistan region

Gilgit‑Baltistan Assembly elections are scheduled for 7 June 2026. Political activity around election periods in Pakistan can lead to disruption, heightened security presence, and restrictions on movement. Roads, including major routes, may be blocked or closed without warning, and travel times may be significantly longer than usual. Monitor local media for updates and continue to follow FCDO travel advice.

Flight schedules to Gilgit and Skardu Airports in the north of Pakistan may be unreliable and may change at short notice. Check with your airline or travel agent.

Road routes are also likely to be restricted by seasonal weather, with the Babusar Pass liable to close due to snowfall.

The terrain in Gilgit-Baltistan is mountainous, with remote and isolated locations that are difficult to police. You are strongly advised to get local security advice and make appropriate personal security arrangements before you visit.

All foreign nationals must register with the local authorities when visiting Gilgit-Baltistan. You might need a permit for mountaineering or trekking, particularly for mountains over 6,000 metres. The permission process can take up to 2 months and is best organised through a travel company. The validity of your travel insurance policy may be affected if you do not have the correct permits.

Use reputable trekking agencies, stay on established routes, and always walk in groups. Do not trek alone. If you’re travelling near the border with China read the information on ‘Border areas’ on this page.

Karakoram Highway (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan)

The Karakoram Highway runs from Hasan Abdal in north Punjab towards Gilgit and the Chinese border. FCDO advises against all travel on the Highway between Mansehra and Chilas via Battagram, Besham City, Dasu and Sazin up to the junction with the N15.

Avoid travelling on the Highway at night, as the road can be narrow with steep drops. All sections of the Highway north of Battagram up to the Chinese border have experienced landslides.

Islamabad

Police and security agencies have a significant presence in Islamabad. Exercise caution in the outlying districts, such as I-8, I-9, I-10, and I-11 and areas further west, where security forces have led operations against suspected criminals and terrorists.

Avoid all protests. Crowded areas such as the Red Mosque (Lal Masjid), Aabpara Market in G-6, and the Islamabad Press Club have been a focal point for protests.

Karachi

Levels of violence can vary but there has been a recent increase in armed robbery. The safety of daily activity can be unpredictable. Criminal and political violence is common, including armed carjacking, robbery, kidnap and murder. Strikes called by religious and political parties can cause significant disruption and sometimes lead to violent civil unrest. Smaller-scale labour strikes are also common and cause regular disruptions locally.

There is a risk of violence in parts of the city which include government offices. Major hotels and the financial district are generally seen as more stable, though there remains a risk of violence, particularly after Friday prayers. See the Terrorism section for more information on terror threats.

You should:

• plan any travel in the city carefully
• take advice from hosts or trusted contacts, follow instructions from law enforcement officers and be prepared to cancel or cut back your plans
• be especially vigilant in Lyari, Malir, Quaidabad, Orangi Town, Baldia Town, New Karachi Town, Surjani Town and Gulistan-e-Jouhar – they have a greater risk of violence based on past activity

Lahore

Lahore is the capital of Punjab and attracts large numbers of tourists and business travellers. While the city has a widespread police presence, there have been recent terrorist attacks. These have targeted public places and government or security forces. Avoid religious events or gatherings, public events and large crowds of people.

Punjab

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to Dera Ghazi Khan.

If you travel to southern Punjab take advice about the local security situation in advance. There is a high level of crime and public order incidents.

Border areas

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against all but essential travel to within:

5 miles of the border with India, with the exception of official land crossings (see ‘Crossing land borders’ section)

Except for official border crossing points, foreign nationals are not allowed to travel within certain distances of Pakistan’s international borders. This includes travel to within:

• 10 miles of the Line of Control
• 10 miles of the border with China, with the exception of official land crossings (see ‘Crossing land borders’ section)
• 10 miles of the border with Afghanistan

If you travel to these areas you may face risks of kidnapping, high levels of militancy and other crime.

The situation for border crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan may change rapidly due to the security situation in Afghanistan. See Afghanistan travel advice.

Before you travel check that: 

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need 
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation 

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number 

Dial 1122 and ask for an ambulance. 

Response time varies, particularly between urban and rural areas. In remote or mountainous regions it could take over an hour due to poor road access and limited ambulance availability.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment. 

Vaccine recommendations and health risks 

At least 8 weeks before your trip: 

• check the latest vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Pakistan guide 
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page 

Polio vaccination programme 

Pakistan is rolling out a widespread polio vaccination programme in an effort to eradicate polio. You should provide proof of polio vaccination if asked by a vaccination team. Any exemption due to a medical condition needs to be supported by a medical certificate issued by recognised health authority.

Altitude sickness 

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Pakistan, including Gilgit-Baltistan. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Bottled water 

Take care when buying bottled water and follow advice on TravelHealthPro.

Air Pollution 

Air pollution is a health hazard in Pakistan, especially during the winter months from October to February. Punjab is one of the worst affected regions, particularly Lahore.

Read about the risks of poor outdoor air quality on TravelHealthPro.

Medication 

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries. 

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro. 

There are often shortages of medicine in Pakistan. Some imported goods, including medical supplies, may also be restricted. Make sure to plan for this and keep a good supply of any medicine and medical supplies you need.  
 
If you run out of medicine, get advice from a local pharmacy. Some pharmacies, particularly in cities and hospitals, are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
 
If your usual medicine is not available or you need a prescription:  

• visit a local doctor
• speak to your UK doctor for advice on alternative medicines that may be available

Healthcare in Pakistan 

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Pakistan where some staff will speak English. 

The standard of local medical facilities is lower than in the UK, especially in remote areas. Private medical care is expensive but available in all major cities. Specialised treatment for psychiatric illnesses may not be available outside major cities.  

Travel and mental health 

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.