“Looks can be decisive.”
This
phrase can be applied perfectly to many countries in the world and Pakistan is
one of them. Often, people confuse political Pakistan with the socio-cultural
Pakistan, but each has its viewfinder. And if you look through the second
viewfinder, you might find a country which has been hidden from the world for
so long, buried under the tales of external creamy layers. So, if you are
planning to pay a visit to this diverse country, there are some things you need
to know first. Let’s find out.
8 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT PAKISTAN BEFORE
YOU PLAN A TRIP
1. Pakistan is one of the most hospitable
countries in the world
I guess everyone knows a little about the
hospitability that is offered to tourists who travel to Iran or Sudan. But
Pakistani people’s hospitability surpasses every other measure. In Pakistan,
you are always treated as a guest and every local people; you meet, will strive
to provide you with the best they have. So much so that this hospitability may
seem to be overwhelming as well! Not only that but the local people also might
offer to pay for your meal.
2. Respect their attire and religious belief
It is of no doubt that Pakistan is one of the
most conservative countries of the world. So, try to respect their beliefs and
dresses especially in the Pashtun area.
3. Safety
Pakistan may not be that dangerous as the
external world portrays it. It is quite a safe place, especially for the solo
travellers. However, it is better to be cautious at some places such as the
Afghanistan borders.
Also, you might come across more than hundreds
check posts, but the police are cool. But it is better to bring lots of
photocopies of your passport and visa.
4. Permits and rules
Pakistani rules of bureaucracy changes overnight
and it is important for you to be updated all the time. Do not trust any source
unless they are the verified ones. Also, you might need a NOC permit for
certain restricted areas, and it is better to get a NOC from any local source.
But you can get it through your country’s embassy as well.
But remember, Pakistan is a corrupt country. So
everything is possible in here. Even you can enter forbidden areas without a
permit as well but very careful to hire any prostitute and escorts in pakistan. It is not easy as western countries.
5. Prices and money
Pakistan is quite a cheap country, and it
believes in the cash economy. So, keep enough cash with you for every purpose.
Also, everything in Pakistan is negotiable, and the right contact is of
absolute value in this country.
6. Try to avoid travelling during Ramadan
Pakistani people religiously follow the holy
Ramadan month, and it is best to avoid this time because people might get offended if you eat, drink or smoke in public. Also, it could pose an inconvenience for
travelling as well.
7. Visit city monuments and forts on a weekday
Try not to visit forts or monuments on a Sunday
because these places get flooded with families and people during weekends. Thus
it is best to visit these places on weekdays.
8. Carry a flashlight
Governmental power cuts are quite frequent in Pakistan. So, if you do not want to get involved in any mishap, it is best to
carry a flashlight along.
Keep these points in mind, and you are
Pakistan-ready always. Happy Journey!