Broke Backpacking In Pakistan: The Ultimate Guide

A land of rugged beauty and resilient spirit, Pakistan is among the last true adventure frontiers of the world. For years, rumors of terrorism and turmoil have shrouded this incredible country, deterring even the most intrepid travelers from ever coming near. The truth is, Pakistan is a hidden gem waiting to be unearthed-and at a pretty reasonable price at that.
From the towering Karakoram mountains to the pulsating streets of Lahore, this is a country offering the intrepid and broke backpacker an unforgettable experience. For low prices starting at $10 to 20 per day, you will get a fascinating taste of ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality.
We are going to show you, in this ultimate guide, how does you can go broke backpacking across Pakistan, finds hidden treasures, makes unforgettable connections, and pushes the limits of adventure travel. So pack light, be flexible, and get ready to discover this country’s secrets-your wallet and sense of adventure will thank you.

How to get there:

Pakistan shares borders with four countries: India, China, Afghanistan, and Iran. While flying is an option, this is for the ones that like travelling by foot.

From India (via Wagah-Attari Border)

  1. Reach Amritsar, India, by train or bus.
  2. Take a taxi or autorickshaw to the Wagah-Attari border (approx. ₹200-300, $3-5 USD).
  3. Cross the border on foot (daily 8am-4pm).
  4. On the Pakistani side, take a taxi or bus to Lahore (approx. PKR 500-1,000, $3-6 USD).

From China (via Khunjerab Pass)

  1. Reach Kashgar, China, by bus or taxi.
  2. Take the daily bus from Kashgar to Sust, Pakistan (approx. CNY 100-200, $15-30 USD).
  3. Cross the Khunjerab Pass border.
  4. Continue to Hunza or Gilgit by taxi or bus (approx. PKR 1,500-3,000, $10-20 USD).

From Afghanistan (via Torkham Border)

  1. Reach Jalalabad, Afghanistan, by taxi or bus.
  2. Take a taxi to the Torkham border (approx. AFN 500-1,000, $7-15 USD).
  3. Cross the border on foot.
  4. On the Pakistani side, take a taxi or bus to Peshawar (approx. PKR 1,000-2,000, $6-12 USD).

From Iran (via Taftan Border)

  1. Reach Zahedan, Iran, by bus or taxi.
  2. Take the daily bus from Zahedan to Taftan, Pakistan (approx. IRR 50,000-100,000, $12-25 USD).
  3. Cross the Taftan border.
  4. Continue to Quetta by taxi or bus (approx. PKR 2,000-4,000, $12-25 USD).

When to go:

Spring (March-May)

  • Weather: Mild temperatures (15-25°C/59-77°F)
  • Pros:
  • Blooming flowers in Hunza and Naltar
  • Comfortable trekking conditions
  • Festivals like Nowruz and Eid-al-Fitr
  • Cons:
  • Some high-altitude trails still snow-covered
  • Peak tourist season, higher prices

Summer (June-August)

  • Weather: Hot temperatures (25-40°C/77-104°F)
  • Pros:
  • Access to high-altitude trekking trails
  • Summer festivals in Gilgit-Baltistan
  • Fruit harvest season
  • Cons:
  • Sweltering heat in plains
  • Increased risk of landslides and flash floods

Autumn (September-November)

  • Weather: Pleasant temperatures (10-20°C/50-68°F)
  • Pros:
  • Comfortable trekking conditions
  • Harvest festivals in rural areas
  • Fewer tourists, lower prices
  • Cons:
  • Some high-altitude trails closing due to snow

Winter (December-February)

  • Weather: Cold temperatures (-10-10°C/14-50°F)
  • Pros:
  • Skiing and snowboarding in Hunza and Naltar
  • Hot springs and cozy lodges
  • Fewer tourists, lowest prices
  • Cons:
  • Many high-altitude trails inaccessible
  • Harsh weather conditions

Regional Variations:

  • North (Hunza, Gilgit-Baltistan): Best in spring and autumn for trekking and scenic views.
  • South (Sindh, Punjab): Best in winter for cultural festivals and mild temperatures.
  • Mountains (Karakoram, Himalayas): Best in summer for high-altitude trekking.

Events and Festivals:

  • Nowruz (March): Persian New Year celebrations
  • Eid-al-Fitr (June): Islamic festival of breaking the fast
  • Shandur Polo Festival (July): Traditional polo tournament
  • Eid-al-Azha (September): Islamic festival of sacrifice

Best Itineraries:

3-Day Itinerary: Lahore Adventure

Day 1:

  • Arrive in Lahore, explore Wazir Khan Mosque and Lahore Fort
  • Visit Food Street for traditional cuisine
  • Explore Anarkali Bazaar for shopping

Day 2:

  • Visit Badshahi Mosque and Hazuri Bagh
  • Explore Lahore Museum
  • Walk along the Canal Road
  • Enjoy street food at Gulberg Main Boulevard

Day 3:

  • Visit Wagah Border for flag-lowering ceremony
  • Explore Jehangir’s Tomb and Kamran’s Baradari
  • Depart from Lahore

Additional activities:

  • Take a rickshaw tour of Lahore’s historic sites
  • Visit the Lahore Zoo

1-Week Itinerary: Punjab and Islamabad

Day 1-2: Lahore (above itinerary)

Day 3:

  • Travel to Islamabad
  • Visit Pakistan Monument and Quaid-e-Azam University
  • Explore F-9 Park and Lake View Park

Day 4:

  • Visit Taxila historical site
  • Explore the National Art Gallery

Day 5:

  • Travel to Murree Hills
  • Explore Murree’s markets and scenery

Day 6:

  • Visit Nathia Gali and Ayubia National Park
  • Enjoy trekking and hiking in the hills

Day 7:

  • Return to Islamabad for departure

Additional activities:

  • Take a guided hike in the Margalla Hills
  • Visit the Islamabad Museum

2-Week Itinerary: Northern Pakistan

Day 1-3: Islamabad and Murree (above itinerary)

Day 4:

  • Travel to Hunza Valley
  • Explore Karimabad and Eagle’s Nest

Day 5:

  • Visit Attabad Lake and Passu Glacier
  • Take a boat ride on Attabad Lake

Day 6:

  • Travel to Naltar Valley
  • Explore Naltar’s meadows and lakes

Day 7:

  • Visit the ancient rock carvings in Hunza
  • Enjoy local cuisine in Karimabad

Day 8:

  • Travel to Gilgit
  • Explore Gilgit’s markets and scenery

Day 9-14:

  • Continue exploring Hunza, Gilgit, and surrounding valleys
  • Visit Deosai National Park

Additional activities:

  • Take a guided trek to the base camp of Rakaposhi
  • Visit the ancient Altit and Baltit Forts

1-Month Itinerary: Pakistan Grand Tour

Week 1: Punjab and Islamabad (above itinerary)

Week 2: Northern Pakistan (above itinerary)

Week 3:

  • Travel to Skardu Valley
  • Explore Skardu’s forts and lakes
  • Visit Deosai National Park

Week 4:

  • Travel to Sindh province
  • Explore Mohenjo-Daro and Hyderabad
  • Visit Thar Desert

Transportation:

Pakistan’s public transportation system is extensive, affordable, and adventurous. From rickshaws to buses, and trains to planes, here’s a guide to help you navigate:

Types of Public Transportation:

  1. Rickshaws: Three-wheeled, fuel-efficient, and affordable (PKR 100-500, varies by city)
  2. Taxis: Available in major cities, negotiable fares
  3. Buses: Intercity and intracity, affordable (PKR 100-1,000)
  4. Coaches: Luxury buses for long-distance travel (PKR 1,000-5,000)
  5. Trains: Extensive network, affordable (PKR 500-5,000)
  6. Flights: Domestic airlines connect major cities
  7. Metro Bus: Efficient, affordable, and modern (PKR 20-40)
  8. Yellow Cabs: Radio taxis in major cities

Intercity Transportation:

  1. Daewoo Express: Luxury buses connecting major cities
  2. Niazi Express: Affordable buses with wide coverage
  3. Pakistan Railways: Trains connecting major cities
  4. Private Bus Services: Multiple operators, varying prices

Intracity Transportation:

  1. Metro Bus: Lahore, Islamabad, and Multan
  2. Local Buses: Affordable, extensive network
  3. Rickshaws: Ubiquitous, affordable
  4. Taxis: Available, negotiable fares

Air Travel:

  1. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA): National carrier
  2. Private Airlines: Airblue, Shaheen Air, and Serene Air

Useful Apps and Resources:

  1. Careem: Ride-hailing service
  2. Uber: Available in major cities
  3. Pakistan Railways: Online booking and schedules
  4. Daewoo Express: Online booking and schedules
  5. Google Maps: Navigation and directions

Top things to do:

Punjab Province

  1. Lahore:
  2. Visit Badshahi Mosque and Lahore Fort (free)
  3. Explore Wazir Khan Mosque and Anarkali Bazaar (free)
  4. Walk along the Canal Road (free)
  5. Visit Lahore Museum (PKR 500)
  6. Explore Jehangir’s Tomb and Kamran’s Baradari (PKR 500)
  7. Visit Wagah Border for flag-lowering ceremony (free)
  8. Islamabad:
  9. Visit Pakistan Monument and Quaid-e-Azam University (free)
  10. Explore F-9 Park and Lake View Park (free)
  11. Visit National Art Gallery (PKR 500)
  12. Take a hike in the Margalla Hills (free)
  13. Visit the Islamabad Museum (PKR 500)
  14. Multan:
  15. Visit Shah Rukn-e-Alam Tomb (PKR 500)
  16. Explore Multan Fort and Wazir Khan Mosque (PKR 500)
  17. Visit the Multan Museum (PKR 500)
  18. Explore the old city and bazars (free)
  19. Faisalabad:
  20. Visit the Faisalabad Clock Tower (free)
  21. Explore the Faisalabad Museum (PKR 500)
  22. Visit the Gatwala Park (free)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province

  1. Peshawar:
  2. Visit Bala Hissar Fort (PKR 500)
  3. Explore Old City and Chowk Yadgar (free)
  4. Visit Peshawar Museum (PKR 500)
  5. Explore the Peshawar University Campus (free)
  6. Visit the Khyber Super Market (free)
  7. Hunza Valley:
  8. Trek to Eagle’s Nest and Attabad Lake (free)
  9. Visit Altit and Baltit Forts (PKR 1,000)
  10. Explore Karimabad and Ganish villages (free)
  11. Visit the Hunza Museum (PKR 500)
  12. Take a boat ride on Attabad Lake (PKR 1,000)
  13. Naran and Kaghan:
  14. Trek to Lake Saif ul Malook (free)
  15. Visit Babusar Top and Lulusar Lake (free)
  16. Explore the Kaghan Valley (free)
  17. Visit the Naran Bazaar (free)
  18. Chitral:
  19. Visit the Chitral Fort (PKR 500)
  20. Explore the Chitral Bazaar (free)
  21. Visit the Shahi Masjid (PKR 500)

Gilgit-Baltistan Province

  1. Gilgit:
  2. Visit Gilgit Fort and Gilgit Market (free)
  3. Explore Kargah Buddha and Gilgit River (free)
  4. Visit the Gilgit Museum (PKR 500)
  5. Take a hike to the nearby villages (free)
  6. Skardu:
  7. Visit Skardu Fort and Kharpocho Fort (PKR 1,000)
  8. Trek to Deosai National Park (free)
  9. Explore Satpara Lake and Shangrila Resort (free)
  10. Visit the Skardu Bazaar (free)
  11. Naltar Valley:
  12. Trek to Naltar Meadows and Lakes (free)
  13. Visit Naltar Valley and Ski Resort (PKR 1,000)
  14. Explore the nearby villages (free)
  15. Shigar Valley:
  16. Visit the Shigar Fort (PKR 500)
  17. Explore the Shigar Valley (free)
  18. Visit the nearby villages (free)

Sindh Province

  1. Karachi:
  2. Visit Quaid-e-Azam Museum and Frere Hall (PKR 500)
  3. Explore Clifton Beach and Sea View (free)
  4. Visit Mohatta Palace (PKR 500)
  5. Explore the Karachi Bazaar (free)
  6. Visit the Karachi Museum (PKR 500)
  7. Hyderabad:
  8. Visit Pacco Qillo and Hyderabad Fort (PKR 500)
  9. Explore Sindh Museum and Rani Bagh (PKR 500)
  10. Visit the Hyderabad Bazaar (free)
  11. Explore the old city (free)
  12. Thar Desert:
  13. Take a camel safari (PKR 5,000-10,000)
  14. Explore the Thar Desert (free)
  15. Visit the nearby villages (free)
  16. Mohenjo-Daro:
  17. Visit the Mohenjo-Daro archaeological site (PKR 500)
  18. Explore the nearby museum (PKR 500)

Balochistan Province

Quetta:

  1. Visit Quetta Fort and Hanna Lake (PKR 500)
  2. Explore Quetta Bazaar and Urak Valley (free)
  3. Visit the Quetta Museum (PKR 500)
  4. Take a hike to the nearby Zarghoon Ghar mountain (free)
  5. Visit the Quaid-e-Azam Residency (PKR 500)
  6. Ziarat:
  7. Visit Quaid-e-Azam Residency and Ziarat Valley (PKR 500)
  8. Explore Ziarat National Park (PKR 1,000)
  9. Visit the Ziarat Bazaar (free)
  10. Take a hike to the nearby valleys (free)
  11. Gwadar:
  13. Visit the Gwadar Port and Gwadar Beach (free)
  14. Explore the Gwadar Bazaar (free)
  15. Visit the nearby Makran Coastal Highway (free)
  16. Take a boat ride to the nearby islands (PKR 1,000-2,000)
  17. Khuzdar:
  18. Visit the Khuzdar Fort (PKR 500)
  19. Explore the Khuzdar Bazaar (free)
  20. Visit the nearby Miri Fort (PKR 500)
  21. Take a hike to the nearby valleys (free)
  22. Sibi:
  23. Visit the Sibi Fort (PKR 500)
  24. Explore the Sibi Bazaar (free)
  25. Visit the nearby Bolan Pass (free)
  26. Take a hike to the nearby valleys (free)

Additional Spots:

  • Pir Ghaib Waterfall (PKR 500)
  • Moola Chotok (PKR 500)
  • Nani Mandir (PKR 500)
  • Jhalawan Valley (free)
  • Makran Coastal Highway (free)

Trekking Routes:

  • Quetta to Ziarat (2-3 days)
  • Ziarat to Gwadar (4-5 days)
  • Khuzdar to Sibi (2-3 days)

Food:

With its enriched culture and geographical variation, Pakistan is also a foodie’s paradise. The country’s cuisine is a unique amalgamation of South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Central Asian flavors, reflecting its strategic location at the crossroads of ancient trade routes. From spicy street food to elaborate restaurant meals, the Pakistani culinary scene reflects warm hospitality and simply a love for good food.
Tempting aromas of freshly baked naan invite you to have a slice or two, as you travel further inland. Naan is one of the staple breads in Pakistani cuisine and is usually served with different curries, kebabs, and stews. It is usually prepared in an oven known as a tandoor and has a distinctive smoky flavor. You’ll find naan vendors on nearly every street corner selling freshly baked breads for just a few rupees.
Various choices include rice as a staple food in Pakistani cuisine, such as biryani, pulao, and various types of kebabs. Pakistani biryani is renowned for the sumptuous aromatic combination of spices with basmati rice and marinated meat or vegetables. There are biryani shops in each city, each having their different recipes and style.
From crispy samosas to pakoras, delicious kebabs, and haleem, street food is an essential part of Pakistani cuisine. Samosas are amongst the favorite snacks of Pakistan. These are thin layers of crispy fried or baked pastry filled with spiced potatoes and peas. Pakoras are deep-fried vegetable or meat fritter although it is a delicacy for street food. Kebabs are meats marinated in spices and yogurt, iron-rodded, and then grilled over live coals. These dishes are common in Pakistani cuisine and are usually served with naan bread and chutney.
Pakistani cuisine combines Central Asian and South Asian flavors in the north. Apricot pies and jams are enjoyed in the Hunza Valley-its beauty renowned for and to be seen. The soil and climate of the valley are quite suited for apricots, cherries, and other fruits. You will see people selling fresh fruits, nuts, and dry fruits on the roadsides.
It is also host to a number of Pakistan’s most unusual and exotic ingredients, from its famous dried apricots to almonds and walnuts. Normally, it is used in traditional Pakistani cuisine in the form of kebabs and stews. You’ll also find the traditional Hunza dishes like thukpa, a hearty noodle soup made with vegetables and meat.
In the southern parts of Pakistan, especially in Sindh and Balochistan, Middle Eastern and Arabic cuisines are strong in influence. The biryani of the province of Sindh is famous, while that of Balochistan has its kebabs and roasted meats. In this coastal city of Karachi, there is a melange of various foods-one could find from the purely traditional Pakistani fare to Chinese, Italian, and Middle Eastern cuisine.
One could gauge the love of sweet dishes from the variety that starts right from simple to elaborate desserts. Gulab jamun constitutes one of them, a popular deep-fried dumpling soaking in rose syrup, loved equally by locals and foreigners. Another dessert is jalebi, which consists of crispy fried batter soaked in sugar syrup. Every city contains sweet shops that sell traditional Pakistani sweets such as barfi, halwa, and kulfi.
Kulfi is a traditional Pakistani ice cream made with milk, cream, and sugar that keeps one refreshing during the summer season. One finds at almost every street corner a kulfi vendor who sells unique flavors including cardamom, saffron, and pistachio.
Food is not only a source of sustenance in Pakistan; it is a sign of hospitality and love. Upon entering a Pakistani home, you will often be received with a warm smile and a delicious plate of food. Truly, it is the culinary scene of the country that epitomizes the warm and welcoming people of the country, and to discover its flavors is an unforgettable adventure.
Whether you eat street food or go to highly rated restaurants in Pakistan, the cuisine of this country will always leave you wanting more. From spicy curries to desserts with sweet tastes, Pakistani food is a reflection of the great cultural heritage and vast geography that this country boasts.
In Pakistan, there is a food trip where you realize just how much importance is attached to the food in Pakistani culture. Food plays an important role in social gatherings and celebrates, pulling people towards each other, building strong bonds. You get to taste the more conventional Pakistani foods during weddings, festivals, or even special occasions.
Similarly, food in Pakistan also manifests itself from its regional variety. Each province has a unique cuisine of its own that reflects history, culture, and geography. From the spicy curries of Sindh to the hearty stews of Balochistan, regional cuisines truly reflect the variety of Pakistan.

Culture:

It is a land of different cultures, traditions, and histories. With a rich cultural heritage spanning over a period of 5,000 years, Pakistan is an interesting country that has a peculiar blend of ancient and modern traditions. From the magnificent Indus Valley Civilization to the present day, the culture of Pakistan has been extensively influenced by Islamic, Persian, Arabic, Central Asian, and South Asian influences.
The strategic location at the crossroads of the ancient trade routes has turned the country into a crucible of cultures. The Silk Route of old, leading from China to the Mediterranean, crossed through Pakistan, carrying in its wake torrents of cultural exchange. From architecture, art, literature, music, and food items, the history of the region speaks explicitly.
The cultural identity of Pakistan is deeply interlinked with its Islamic heritage. It came into being in the year 1947 as a homeland for Muslims, and Islam itself is a determining factor in molding its values, traditions, and customs. A large number of Pakistanis are Sunni Muslims, while Shias form a minority. For the people of this land, therefore, Islamic traditions and practices form an essential part of their daily lives. A large number of Pakistanis observe five daily prayers, fast during Ramadan, and celebrate Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Azha with utmost zeal.
Yet, the culture of Pakistan is far from being homogenous, despite its Islamic heritage. In fact, it represents a multi-ethnic population with many ethnic groups, languages, and customs. Some of the bigger ethnic groups are Punjabis, Sindhis, Pashtuns, Baloch, and Kashmiris, each of them having their own unique cultural traditions. Urdu is the official language, but regional languages such as Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashto, and Balochi also abound.
Pakistani society is renowned for its very warm welcomes and hospitality. A guest is regarded as a gift from heaven; hence, hospitality holds a significant place in the Pakistani culture. Most of the time, guests are welcomed with traditional greetings like “Assalamu alaikum,” which means peace be upon you, and are offered refreshments such as tea or juice or traditional sweets.
Family ties are very strong in Pakistani culture; extended family features prominently in social life. There is great respect for elders, with high respect accorded to parents and grandparents. The traditional values of the family remain intact: for example, the practice of arranged marriages and the joint family system still exist.
Pakistani art and architecture reflect the rich cultural heritage of its land. The Indus Valley Civilization of yore left behind a legacy of sophisticated art and architecture evident from the ruins of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa. Islamic architecture, though similar but very different from other parts of the world including Persia and the Arabic world, is reflected in imposing mosques, forts, and palaces dotted across the country.
Music and dance both hold their pivotal place in Pakistani culture. The different traditional types of music include Qawwali, Ghazal, and Folk music. Legendary and well-known famous singers are Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Abida Parveen. Among the classical dances, Kathak and Bharatanatyam are the most popular ones.
The Pakistani cuisine is a mirror of its cultural diversity. Pakistani food is a unique blend of spices, herbs, and flavors as it has been influenced by Central Asia, the Middle East, and South Asia. Traditional dishes include biryani, kebabs, haleem, and nihari, with regional delicacies such as Sindhi biryani and Pashtun kebabs also widely known.
Festivals and celebrations are an integral part of the Pakistani culture. Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Azha are major festivals on the Islamic calendar, but traditional festivals such as Basant (kite-flying) and Baisakhi also occur. August 14th is a national holiday in celebration of Independence Day.
In a nutshell, Pakistani culture is one kaleidoscopic moment of traditions, customs, and history. With rich cultural heritage, diversified population, and hospitality in plenty, Pakistan is a country which offers its visitor unique experiences. From ancient architecture to modern-day celebrations, the culture of Pakistan reflects the resilience, adaptability, and warmth of its people.

Accommodations:

Traveling in Pakistan can be intimidating yet exhilarating for the truly broke backpacker. One of the most important ways to travel on a really tight budget is to find affordable accommodation options, and Pakistan’s hostel scene has a fascinating combination of adventure, cultural submersion, and complete unpredictability. If one would like to have probably the most authentic, crazy, and amazing experience, the best thing he could do is book in at the cheapest options.
A hostel in Pakistan is not only a place where one goes to lay their head; it’s a place of activities, social melting pots, and entrance doors to lifelong experiences. You will find yourself right in the middle of chaotic yet charming environments-ones that leave lifelong memories-if you choose cheaper options.
The first thing that will strike you about Pakistan’s budget hostels is the quirkiness. You could well end up in a dorm with locals, other travelers, and sometimes even a family or two. The communal atmosphere is infectious, and before you know it, you’re sharing stories, sharing meals, and learning all about Pakistani culture.
Forget fancy amenities and impeccable facilities; instead, be prepared for rustic charm, makeshift repairs, and the odd power cut. It’s precisely this rough-around-the-edges atmosphere that creates camaraderie among fellow travelers. Before you know it, you will be chatting with fellow backpackers about everything from notorious traffic in Pakistan to bargaining in local bazaars.
Getting connected with locals is one of the major plus points about budget hostels. Many of them either are owners or employees of hostels; they simply love spreading their knowledge, hospitality, and love for Pakistan. You get invited to family dinners, attend local weddings, or take part in some traditional ceremony.
These experiences are priceless and are often guided by the hostel staff themselves, who turn into surrogate families throughout the time of your stay. They take you to places that you otherwise would have no idea existed, recommend off-the-beaten-path destinations, and give truly invaluable tips on Pakistani culture.
Of course, with booking the cheapest options, there are risks involved: the odd scam, miscommunication, and dodgy living quarters. In general, though, hostel owners in Pakistan are warm, friendly, and really invested in offering you a very positive time.
To get the best feeling in your hostel in Pakistan, be ready for adjustment, flexibility, and an open heart. Do not be surprised if you get woken by the call to prayer, invited into a spontaneous dance party, or urged to share your travel stories with locals who are interested in them.
The hostel scene in Pakistan is for rugged souls desiring honesty, adventure, and bonding. It is upon embracing the unforeseeable and chaotic, anything-can-happen vibes of traveling on a tight budget that one gets to find a country raw and utterly captivating.
You will be thrown into the sights, the sounds, and smells of the great cities of Pakistan-from the aromatic spices wafting from the street food to brightly colored markets. You’ll witness the legendary hospitality firsthand: people inviting you to have tea with them, to share a meal, or even take you into their house.
By evening, you will be sitting in the common room of the hostel and sharing tales, playing a musical instrument, or just pressing the palms with other travelers. And most of these impromptu gatherings turn into impromptu jam sessions where the locals too join in to share their musical talents.
As you navigate through the hostel scene in Pakistan, you come across a varied cast of characters-each with his stories to narrate and reasons. You will find the seasoned backpacker with tales to tell of adventure and misadventure; the inquisitive local who would want to practice English and learn about foreign cultures; and the entrepreneurial hostel owner who has a passion for showcasing Pakistan’s hidden gems.
It’s not about the thread count, the Wi-Fi speed, or the hot showers; it’s about being enveloped in beauty, complexity, and warmth. Take a deep breath, book that super-cheap hostel, and get ready for the most unforgettable time on your backpacking adventure.
The state of hostels in Pakistan is representative of the country itself: chaotic, vibrant, pulsating with life. For if you embrace the uncertainty and adventure that comes with traveling on broke budgets, you will leave with a country that has changed you forever.

Nightlife:

Nightlife, per se, is not usually the first thing to come to one’s head when one thinks of Pakistan. But beyond its outward conservatism lies an astonishingly dynamic and eclectic nightlife. When the sun sets, most cities burst into frenzied activity, offering the perfect blend of cultural experiences with entertainment and socializing.
Evenings, especially in metropolises such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, resonate with the sounds of music, laughter, and raucous conversation. There is vitality in the streets as locals and travelers push their way to favorite haunts. From cozy cafes to rooftop bars, Pakistan’s after-sunset nightlife offers something for everyone.
Besides being an Islamic state, the city centers of Pakistan have developed to embrace modern times along with the concept of ‘night life’. Cities like Lahore single ones that boast so much about their respective cultural history now have a long list of things going on during the evenings; Food Street, for instance, is also famous for its conversion into a night market during the evening time, steeped in the smells of traditional food and resonating with sounds of live music.
The nightlife in Karachi is a city that never sleeps; most surely it is a heady potpourri of influences. From traditional Sufi ‘raat’ to contemporary rock concerts, the vibrant cultural life of this city is on view here. The port city wears a cosmopolitan look and feel, especially because people-watch and evidently chat with the locals.
The capital city of Islamabad, however, brings a soft and subtle nightlife. Diplomats and expatriates intermingle in high-class bars and restaurants, where live jazz and international cuisine star. The serene atmosphere of the city makes it an attractive spot to have more calm evenings.
Other than urban centers, the smaller towns and rural areas in Pakistan have their own beauty at night. The locals of Hunza Valley gather around a bonfire, sharing stories of lore and traditional songs with the star-studded night sky overhead. The unrehearsed gathering easily conveys the rich cultural heritage of this land and the warm hospitality of the people.
Not that everything in Pakistan’s nightlife is perfect, though. Strict laws and social norms provide that the establishment closes by midnight, women’s participation is minimal, and so on. Nevertheless, more and more entrepreneurs and artists push the boundaries, seeking to create places inclusive for socializing and creative self-expression.
As for travelers, nightlife in Pakistan is more about connecting with locals, sharing cultural diversity, and memories etched for life. The thought of night entertainment in this country will surely bemuse many-seated steaming teacups in some diminutive cafe or jiving in a crowded club.
But as night wears on, cities turn magical, full of sounds, smells, and colors speaking for the living culture. Nightlife may not be that famous for which tourists throng to Pakistan, but it is an excitingly unpredictable adventure because of the peculiar tint of traditional life mixed with modernity.
The night in Pakistan is not a time to sleep but an invitation to go out, connect, and feel the magic of this enchanting country. So, venture out into the evening and discover the hidden treasures of nightlife in Pakistan-you never know what unforgettable experiences await you.

Backpacking Pakistan costs:

Ultra-Budget Breakdown for Broke Backpacking in Pakistan (Daily Budget: $10-20)

Pakistan is an affordable destination for backpackers, and with some careful planning, you can explore this incredible country on a broke budget. Here’s a rough breakdown of daily expenses for a very, very cheap backpacking experience in Pakistan:

Daily Expenses:

  • Accommodation: PKR 500-1,000 (approx. USD 3-6) per night for a dorm or shared room in a budget hostel
  • Option: Stay in a local’s home or mosque for free (with permission)
  • Food: PKR 200-400 (approx. USD 1-2.40) per meal for street food or local eateries
  • Option: Eat at local markets or food stalls for PKR 100-200 (approx. USD 0.60-1.20) per meal
  • Transportation: PKR 50-200 (approx. USD 0.30-1.20) for local transport
  • Option: Walk or bike whenever possible
  • Attractions: PKR 100-300 (approx. USD 0.60-1.80) per person for entry fees to historical sites and museums
  • Option: Visit free or donation-based attractions
  • Miscellaneous: PKR 200-500 (approx. USD 1-3) for snacks, drinks, and incidentals

Total daily budget: PKR 1,050-2,400 (approx. USD 6.36-14.55)

Daily Budget Allocation:

  • Accommodation: 30-50% (PKR 315-1,200, approx. USD 1.90-7.20)
  • Food: 30-40% (PKR 400-800, approx. USD 2.40-4.80)
  • Transportation: 10-20% (PKR 100-400, approx. USD 0.60-2.40)
  • Attractions: 5-10% (PKR 50-200, approx. USD 0.30-1.20)
  • Miscellaneous: 5-10% (PKR 100-200, approx. USD 0.60-1.20)

Tips for Ultra-Budget Travel:

  • Stay in budget hostels or local’s homes
  • Eat street food or at local eateries
  • Use public transport or walk/bike whenever possible
  • Avoid expensive tourist areas and opt for local markets instead
  • Bargain and haggle for prices
  • Cook your own meals if possible
  • Use cash instead of credit cards to avoid fees

Conversion Rates:

  • 1 USD = approximately 165 PKR
  • 1 EUR = approximately 185 PKR
  • 1 GBP = approximately 210 PKR

Conclusion:

The resilience, the warmth, and the little beauty-all this is what reminded me as I looked back on my time in this country. With all its troubles, Pakistan is a country that still has much enchantment for a poor backpacker: an amenable climate, cultural adventure, and nature.
Budget traveling in Pakistan necessitates that travelers be open-minded, flexible, and adaptable. From chaotic cities to the most spectacular walks, every experience opens up the possibility of communication with the locals, learning about their culture, and, of course, making unforgettable memories.
This makes Pakistan a very good destination for a tight budget traveler: very affordable accommodation, available good food on the streets, and not too expensive transportation. It is, however, some of those intangible qualities – hospitable, resilient, communal – that really make it stand out.
It will be challenging and inspirational, leaving the broke backpacker changed forever. It is a country that would just refuse to be what one expects it to be, which at every turn pushes one to reassess their assumptions, embracing the unknown.
So, if you are all set to embark on an unforgettable adventure, it is time to head towards Pakistan. With its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, this great country will make your heart still ask for more.
As is said, in Pakistan, the journey is as important as the destination. Every moment, every encounter, and every experience is a privilege and time to behold the beauty, intricacy, and magic of this land of enchantment.
Travel light, travel slow, drink in the beauty of Pakistan. Your journey will be unforgettable, and your heart forever touched by the gentleness of reception and hospitality of this incredible nation.