Pakistan

Pakistanhttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistanPakistanhttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/travel-alertHow are coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions affecting travel to Pakistan? Read the latest travel warnings and alerts.2020-08-17T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/travel-alerthttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Coronavirus (COVID-19) travel restrictions in Pakistan – updated 17 August, 2020</h2> <p>All arrivals must <a href="http://covid.gov.pk/intl_travellers/guidelines_for_travellers">submit a health declaration form</a>, and will be subject to thermal screening. Anyone without COVID-19 symptoms will be given instructions to self-isolate for 14 days.</p> <p><a href="http://covid.gov.pk/intl_travellers/current_policies" target="_blank">Flights have resumed</a>, however there may be restrictions introduced with limited notice. Contact your airline for the latest information.</p> <p>Restrictions are in place to limit large gatherings, and face masks are mandatory in public.</p> <p><strong><a href="/help/insurance/recent-events/coronavirus-faqs" target="_blank" title="Coronavirus FAQs">Wondering how your travel insurance might be affected by the COVID-19 outbreak? Find answers to some of our common questions about COVID-19</a>.</strong></p> <h2>Previous trave alerts and warnings for Pakistan</h2> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Tensions with India – March 2019</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Tensions with India – March 2019</h2> <p><strong>UPDATE:<span> </span></strong><span>Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority partially opened their airspace on Thursday 28th February to allow some commercial flights to operate. News reports have indicated that Pakistan will re-open its airspace on Friday 1st March, however there may be a backlog with flights<span> </span></span><span>to/from Asia to Europe, US and Canada</span><span>. Check with your airline before departure.</span><br /><br />Due to increasing tensions with India, Pakistan has closed its airspace until further notice, which will disrupt many flights to and from <span>Asia to Europe, US and Canada</span>. The closure is in response to Pakistani military shooting down two Indian fighter jets. Pakistan and India have had a long held dispute over the region of Kashmir which has seen conflict and hundreds pf people lose their lives, with the most recent incident involving a suicide bomb on February 14th which killed 40 military personnel.<br /><br />Several air carriers such as Etihad, Emirates, Qatar Aiways, Gulf Air, Fly Dubai, Sri Lankan Airlines, Thai Airways and Air Canada had suspended flights to Pakistan and some Indian airports. <br /><br />Some airlines flying out of Asian cities to Europe have had to re-route for fueling requirements via Dubai or Mumbai or canceled services completely.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="AccordionSection nst-component nst-is-collapsed"><button class="AccordionSection-title nst-toggle">Terror attacks in Pakistan – July 2018</button> <div class="nst-content"> <div class="AccordionSection-inner"> <h2>Terror attacks in Pakistan – July 2018</h2> <p>Unfortunately, in July, there were numerous terror-related incidents across the country:</p> <p>July 25 - 22 killed and 28 injured in Quetta, Balochistan<br /><br />July 13 - more than 150 killed and over 120 injured in Mastung, Balochistan<br /><br />July 13 - Four killed and 32 injured in Bannu, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (KPK)<br /><br />July 10 - 14 killed and 65 injured in Yaka Tooy in Peshawar, KPK<br /><br />These occurred in regions which have been highlighted by several government travel advisories as "Do Not Travel" due to the high risk of insurgent violence and terror-related incidents.</p> <h3>Checkpoint Explosion near Lahore - March 2018</h3> <p>A police checkpoint on the outskirts of Lahore was targeted in an explosion which resulted in the deaths of seven people and 18 injured. The Pakistani Taliban group (Tehrik-e-Taliban) claimed responsibility for the incident.</p> <h3>Pakistan Taliban Attack in Nanga Parbat - June 2013</h3> <p>Gunmen killed 10 people, including nine foreigners, at a mountain climbing camp in Nanga Parbat, in northern Pakistan. </p> <p>After claiming responsibility for the attack, the Pakistani Taliban group (Tehrik-e-Taliban) declared it was in retaliation for the U.S. drone killing of their second-in-command. A spokesperson said the organization would continue to target foreigners.</p> <p>The victims were in the Gilgit-Baltistan region as part of a trekking group. The Himalaya region of Pakistan is popular with trekkers in June and July. The Pakistan military evacuated another 20 to 25 trekking groups from the area as a precaution.</p> </div> </div> </div>Getty Images/Raja Islam 1 Getty Images

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/following-local-laws-in-pakistanPakistan has serious laws regarding drug offences, blasphemy, unlawful assembly and homosexuality. This is what travelers need to know.2019-09-30T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/following-local-laws-in-pakistanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>In addition to government sanctioned laws, there is also Islamic law to consider in Pakistan. Pakistan is a Muslim country that experiences severe sectarian violence. Most of the laws reflect religion and the beliefs of the government, and the enforcement of these laws is strict.</p> <h2>Drug laws in Pakistan</h2> <p>Despite some wide spread drug use in various areas of Pakistan, the penalty for drug offences tends to be quite severe, and does include the death penalty. Even possessing small quantities of "soft" drugs for personal recreational purposes can result in long jail sentences, heavy fines, deportation or all of them at once.</p> <h2>Blasphemy laws</h2> <p>Pakistan also has the death penalty for serious crimes such as murder and rape, but it also includes blasphemy and unlawful assembly. So, if a member of the police or security services informs you that you are, or are about to commit blasphemy, take it very seriously as the sentences are serious.</p> <p>If you think some of these laws are onerous, be very careful about what you say in Pakistan as attempting to convert a Muslim or encouraging one to abandon religion altogether is illegal.</p> <h2>LGBTQ+ laws in Pakistan</h2> <p>Certain forms of sexual conduct are illegal under Pakistani law. Homosexuality and sodomy are both illegal, with penalties ranging up to life imprisonment. It is also illegal for unmarried heterosexual couples to live together, although the punishment is not as severe as those for homosexual activities.</p> <p>Be aware that LGBTQ+ community experiences discrimination, so for LGBTQ+ travelers in Pakistan it's best to keep your sexual orientation discreet to avoid any unwanted attention or harassment from locals.</p> <h2>What you can't bring into Pakistan</h2> <p>Importation of alcohol or pork related products is illegal in Pakistan. Punishment is serious, so don't even try to bring these products into the country.</p> <p>It is rare, but corporal punishment is sometimes enforced for Muslims who commit such crimes as robbery, public drunkenness, and general consumption of alcohol.</p> <h2>Other local customs to be aware of in Pakistan</h2> <p>There are certain things that aren't quite illegal, but should be avoided. Avoid taking photographs of airports, military and government buildings or installations – or anything that might be considered sensitive.</p> <p>Pakistan is a Muslim country, and visitors must be careful not to offend the strict Islamic codes of dress and behavior, this may cause unwanted attention from both the locals and the police. Try to wear long sleeved clothing at all times, and avoid public displays of affection.</p> <p>Sadly, women may be targets of harassment, and especially so if they are unaccompanied by a friend or a man.</p> <p>During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset is forbidden for Muslims, and while technically not illegal for non-Muslims, this is something that should be avoided in public just to stay on the safe side.</p>Getty Images/Bashir Osman's Photography 11034368090 Getty Images Shrine of saint Jhurial Shah and the mosque alongside

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/pakistan-trekking-and-natural-disastersPakistan is a stunning destination for keen trekkers. But beware of monsoon season and these other natural hazards in the mountain regions.2019-10-01T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/pakistan-trekking-and-natural-disastershttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>If you're looking for incredible treks that are truly off the beaten path, Pakistan is a mountainous paradise with four peaks higher than 8,000m – including K2, the world's second highest mountain, after <a href="/stories/discovery/fourteen-days-trekking-to-everest-base-camp" target="_blank" title="Life on the trail to Everest Base Camp">Everest</a>.</p> <p>Trekking and Mountain climbing in the Gilgit-Baltistan Area, in Northern Pakistan, is quite popular among mountaineers. Climbers and trekkers from all over the world come to visit this area, which has the highest concentration of the highest peaks anywhere in the world. </p> <h2>Register your visit</h2> <p>All foreign nationals are required to register when visiting this area, and you can usually arrange this through your travel agent. If you want to travel to any areas above 19,000ft (6,000m), you will also need a permit from the Pakistan Ministry Of Tourism. Make sure you have registered for everything well in advance of your intended travel, as the process can take as long as two months and you're probably best off organizing it via one of the many tour companies based in Pakistan. <a href="/travel-insurance/activities/hiking-travel-insurance" target="_blank" title="What's covered">Remember that some travel insurance polices can be affected without possession of the proper permits</a>, but also be sure to check the limits of cover for the heights you are trekking to.</p> <p>Be sure to use a reputable guide company with good reference when trekking in the Gilgit-Baltistan area, for starters, hiking to high altitudes and indeed climbing high mountains can be inherently dangerous, plus adding the <a href="/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/crime-in-pakistan-bolt-down-everything-you-can" target="_blank" title="Crime in Pakistan">risk of kidnap or banditry</a> to the experience is really unnecessary.</p> <p>There have been outbreaks of sectarian violence in the area, and you should be aware that this is a real risk. Stay up to date with local news and media in the lead up to your trip, and if things get dangerous or out of hand, you might want to consider altering your plans.</p> <h2>Natural disasters in Pakistan</h2> <p>During monsoon season, which falls between July and September, Pakistan is prone to extreme flooding and landslides, which have displaced millions of people in the past. When large scale flooding occurs, <a href="/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/health-in-pakistan" target="_blank" title="How to Stay Healthy in Pakistan">fresh drinking water and food can become quite scarce</a>, and the risk of insect and water borne diseases jumps dramatically and continues for sometime after the floodwaters have subsided.</p> <p>In late July 2010, heavy flooding affected a large area in Pakistan, with the Khyper-Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Sindh areas being affected the worst. More than 1,450 people were killed, and millions were displaced.</p> <h2>Earthquakes in Pakistan</h2> <p>Pakistan does reside within an active seismic zone and earthquakes do occur. On the 18th of January 2011 a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck the southwest of Pakistan, official reports said that there was only limited damage with no deaths, but that cannot be guaranteed for any future earthquakes.</p> <p>In September 2019 at least 19 people were killed and 300 injured after a shallow 5.2 magnitude earthquake struck northeastern Pakistan near the city of Mirpur. In 2015 a 7.5 magnitude quake rocked Pakistan and Afghanistan, killing almost 400 people. <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/how-to-survive-an-earthquake-travel-safety-tips" target="_blank" title="How to stay safe during an earthquake">Find out how to stay safe if an earthquake does strike with these tips</a>.</p> <p>Mountainous regions are prone to minor earth tremors as well, and are subject to landslides and avalanches as well as flooding.</p> <p>Coastal areas are also at risk of being exposed to cyclones, although this is not as prevalent a danger as that presented from flooding.</p>Getty Images/Tahreer Photography 11094575336 Getty Images Group of trekkers crossing a glacier at the bottom of K2 mountain, Pakistan

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/health-in-pakistanTraveling to Pakistan comes with the risk of insect-borne illnesses, and traveling with anti-diarrhea medication is a must. This is what you need to know.2019-10-31T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/health-in-pakistanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<h2>Drinking water in Pakistan</h2> <p>When it rains heavily in Pakistan, it floods. The southwest monsoon season runs from June to September, and the retreating monsoon season runs from October to November.</p> <p>Huge floods in 2010 led to outbreaks of many forms of water-borne diseases, and diarrhea and related issues became widespread.</p> <p>Outbreaks of diarrheal diseases came from the districts of Balochistan – Charsadda, Mardan, Nowshera District and Naseerabad. However, you should observe the general rules for water quality in all areas of Pakistan.</p> <p>Be careful of water that has not been boiled or purified, and never drink straight from a tap.</p> <p>Diarrhea is the leading cause of death for infants and children in Pakistan, and <a href="https://www.hindawi.com/journals/bmri/2017/7908183/" target="_blank" title="Drinking water quality in Pakistan">one in five citizens suffer from illness caused by polluted water</a>. It should be taken seriously if you do begin to feel ill, so treat it early to avoid it getting any worse. </p> <h2>Malaria in Pakistan</h2> <p>Pakistan has a fairly high incident of malaria, excepting for those areas above 6,500ft (2,000m) above sea level. Coastal and low lying areas have a higher incident of malaria, and any areas affected by flooding where there are large bodies of still water are considered risky.</p> <p>Strong strains of malaria that are resistant to chloroquine and sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine exist in Pakistan, and these strains are harder to treat.</p> <p>The added danger is that Pakistan has few high quality hospitals outside of the major cities, so treatment in rural areas may be problematic.</p> <h2>Insect-borne diseases</h2> <p>Pakistan does have a general problem with insect borne diseases, and in addition to malaria, dengue fever, Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever and Japanese encephalitis, are found, with outbreaks occurring periodically.</p> <p>These diseases are all nasty, debilitating and generally unpleasant – so do everything you can to avoid catching them.</p> <p>Dengue fever is a huge concern because there is still no vaccination available or specific treatment for dengue fever. Consult your doctor before you leave about which vaccinations you need, or which booster shots you are due to have.</p> <p>Strict preventative measures against insect-borne diseases should be taken – the method of defence is not getting bitten in the first place. If your accommodation is not insect proof (with flyscreens), use an insect repellent at all times and wear long-sleeved loose fitting clothing.</p> <h2>Why you should avoid henna tattoos in Pakistan</h2> <p>As well as avoiding dodgy street food vendors, travelers should avoid getting temporary henna tattoos, as they more often than not contain a dye which can cause serious skin reactions.</p> <h2>Poor food hygiene</h2> <p>Restaurant hygiene in Pakistan is not great, and unlike many other countries, judging by price won't work.</p> <p>Elsewhere around the world, typically the more expensive the restaurant the safer the food is going to be – but this is not the case in Pakistan.</p> <p>If a restaurant is expensive and either empty or not that busy, there's a high chance the food has been sitting around for days breeding bacteria.</p> <p>Carefully choose a place to eat where turnover is fast. A high turnover of food means it's fresh and hot, not lukewarm and festering with bacteria.</p> <p>If you have a sensitive stomach or you're generally prone to traveler's diahrrea and you do encounter intestinal problems, ask the chemists for "Medicine Stop Motion", they will know exactly what you're after.</p> <p>Better still, take anti-diarrhea medication with you from home so you know what's in the tablets.</p>Getty Images/ SM Rafiq Photography 1172510710 Getty Images Two male vendors selling the fresh vegetable at Lea Market, Karachi

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/getting-around-in-pakistanGetting around in Pakistan is problematic. It's advised travelers do not use public transport of any form, and taxis in particular should be ruled out completely. 2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/getting-around-in-pakistanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Getting around in Pakistan is problematic. It's advised travelers do not use public transport of any form, and taxis in particular should be ruled out completely.</p> <p>Not only is public transport fairly notorious for crimes against foreign travelers, they are also seriously at risk of terrorist and militant attack. The important word here is risk. When traveling in Pakistan, you have to be aware of the very serious threat to your safety, but many travelers have reported having a safe and incredible time in Pakistan. So, who's right and who's exaggerating?</p> <h2>Is it safe to travel by train in Pakistan?</h2> <p>Trains are considered more unsafe than bus travel (which is also not completely safe). Militants have planted bombs on various rail networks, and derailments and attempted derailments have occurred multiple times in Pakistan. Trains are not considered safe for any reason here, and the danger is enhanced on longer journeys.</p> <h2>Don't travel at night</h2> <p>Do not travel between urban areas outside of daylight hours. It is as simple as that. Night time travel presents an almost certain risk of carjacking, militant attack, or road accident due to the high levels of violent activity and poor road conditions respectively.</p> <h2>Bus travel</h2> <p>Buses are overcrowded and poorly maintained. Bus travel around cities is not safe for women who are traveling alone, and not really safe for men, either. If you must travel by bus, at all costs avoid carrying bags with you to avoid pickpocketing.</p> <p>There are a number of long-distance bus companies in Pakistan, but travelers should do their research carefully online before booking. One reliable bus travel company for distances between cities is <a href="https://www.daewoo.com.pk/" target="_blank" title="Daewoo">Daewoo Pakistan Express</a>. They have reclining seats. But, traveling on Pakistan's roads is the real danger.</p> <h2>Safety when driving during the day</h2> <p>When driving during daylight hours, lock all doors and keep windows wound all the way up. Car jackings and other crimes such as kidnapping have occured within daylight hours in urban areas, and there is a risk of being dragged from your car if you leave either the door unlocked, or the windows wound down. So, be safe and keep your windows rolled up.</p> <p>Don't buy anything from street vendors or acknowledge beggars while traveling by car.</p> <p>A safer option to get around is Uber – you can track your journey, you can see ratings for Uber drivers, and if you keep an eye on the map you can ask if you think they are taking you the wrong way. Don't sit in the front – sit in the back seat. </p> <p>There is a safe method for women to get around in Karachi: <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2017/03/pink-taxi-women-service-launched-karachi-170322044852165.html" target="_blank" title="Al Jazeera">a women's only Pink Taxi service</a>. Unfortunately it's not available elsewhere, but super easy to spot the pink from the yellow and black taxis found elsewhere.</p> <h2>Is it safe to fly around Pakistan?</h2> <p>Air travel is somewhat safer, although on the 28th of July 2010, an Airblue flight carrying 152 passengers and crew crashed close to Daman e Koh in the Magara Hills with no survivors. You will also need one of the following forms of photo ID for domestic flights, national Identity card (computerised), passport, driving licence, photo credit card, or school ID card (for children under the age of 18). This must be an original document not a copy and obviously, must have the same name as is present on your ticket.</p>Getty Images/Bashir Osman's Photography 1824581344 Getty Images Traffic flowing on M. A. Jinnah Rod in the old city locality of Jama Cloth Market

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/crime-in-pakistan-bolt-down-everything-you-canPetty crime is common in Pakistan. These are the types of things you need to be aware of to stay safe and out of trouble while traveling here.2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/crime-in-pakistan-bolt-down-everything-you-canhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>In the past five years (2014–2019) <a href="https://www.dawn.com/news/1508132" target="_blank" title="Pakistan news">tourism has increased more than 300%</a>. Pakistan is a huge country that spans 340,508mi² (881,913 km²). From soaring peaks like K2 to the beaches in Karachi, there are so many different landscapes to explore, things to see and places to go. So, to say crime is high in Pakistan isn't giving enough detail. <a href="https://againstthecompass.com/en/is-pakistan-safe/" target="_blank" title="Against The Compass">It really depends on where you are</a>.</p> <h2>Crime in Pakistan</h2> <p>Serious violent crime does happen in Pakistan, including armed robbery, robbery, carjacking, kidnappings, home invasion and murder.</p> <p>But, these crimes are common in major urban areas. Wherever you go in Pakistan, it's important to keep a low profile, not be flashy with cash or valuables, and always be aware of your surroundings – walk with confidence, have a plan to know where you are going, and consider traveling on a group tour if you don't think you're ready for this extreme destination.</p> <h2>Petty crime in Pakistan</h2> <p>Petty street crime is also rife, and travelers are advised to be aware that the risk is high and to take whatever personal security measures are possible.</p> <p>Be extremely careful with high value, easily portable items such as passports, bankcards, bags, jewelry, laptops, mobile phones, iPads and anything else you can think of.</p> <p>There is a large black market for all of these items, and especially for passports whether forged or stolen. So, if you walk around with these items on show, you should expect someone is watching you closely. Never let your belongings out of sight here – let alone anywhere else in the world.</p> <p>Credit card fraud is very common, so if the unfortunate event occurs and you do lose your credit card, cancel it immediately.</p> <h2>Is crime a real risk for travelers?</h2> <p>Foreign travelers have been targeted for their perceived wealth. For this reason, from the moment you arrive at the airport you should put your caution pants on. If possible you should try to arrange for your accommodation staff to pick you up from the airport, or organise a transfer for you – this will help you avoid traveling via public transport, <a href="/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/getting-around-in-pakistan" target="_blank" title="Getting Around Safely">which is an unsafe method of transport</a>.</p> <p>Scammers do operate at the airports, as this is where first-time visitors are most vulnerable and willing to trust "helpful" locals (who are indeed not helpful at all).</p> <p>Communal and ethnic violence is a real and present risk in many districts in Karachi, so be aware of the cultural conflicts, and <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/safety-advice-civil-unrest" target="_blank" title="Civil unrest">if a crowd or protest gathers, leave immediately</a>.</p> <h2>Theft and kidnapping in Interior Sind</h2> <p>The risk of banditry and kidnapping in the Interior Sind is higher than the rest of Pakistan, where it's already fairly high to begin with. All be essential travel is advised against north of the Nawabshah, and there have also been reports of increased general criminal activity in the Hyderabad region. <a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/asia/pakistan" target="_blank" title="SmartTraveller">The Australian Government advise the risk of kidnapping is very high in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa</a>, and if you are traveling to Chritral district or Gilgit Baltistan (for K2 base camp or mountain treks), travel by commercial aircraft and not by road.</p> <p>For the latest information and travel advice, check with your local government travel advisory. Many travel advisories suggest reconsidering your need to travel to Pakistan, which is an indication the security situation isn't great.</p> <h3>Have you traveled to Pakistan? Share your experience below!</h3>Getty Images/Bashir Osman's Photography 1656411120 Getty Images Zaibunnissa Street in Saddar area of Karachi

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/terrorism-in-pakistan-its-very-very-realTerrorism and outright sectarian violence is a very real and present threat in Pakistan, and the threat of terrorism should be considered very high. 2019-12-01T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/terrorism-in-pakistan-its-very-very-realhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Areas visited by travelers are frequently targeted, and the truth is that pretty much everywhere is a target. In Pakistan, terrorism can strike just about anywhere.</p> <p>If you are traveling to Pakistan, the best thing you can do is stay up to date with news and social media – always be aware of what is happening around the country, and be prepared to leave or ditch your plans if any violence or terrorist events occur.</p> <h2>History of terrorist attacks</h2> <p>Between 2009–2011, hundreds of people have died in terrorist attacks. Suicide bomb attacks, car bomb attacks, open attacks with automatic weapons and rocket launchers are currently occurring in Pakistan, with several incidents occurring in May 2011.</p> <p>Particular targets for terrorism are (but are in no way limited to) any area travelers are known to visit, including places of employment, resorts, business interests, embassies and consulates and UN facilities as well as open air markets and religious institutions.</p> <p>Hotels in general remain high risk terrorist targets – the Marriot Hotel was bombed in September 2008 resulting in hundreds injured and more than fifty people killed. In June 2009, the Pearl Continental hotel in Peshawar was also bombed, killing at least 11 people and injuring at least 46 others. Hotels, especially Western style hotels, should be considered an active target for terrorism.</p> <h2>What are the biggest terrorism targets?</h2> <p>Shia, Ahmadi, and Sufi institutions and organised events should be considered active terrorist targets, as several have been targeted resulting in hundreds of deaths. Shia processions in Lahore have been attacked multiple times in recent years, with 11 people being killed and another 50 injured in Janurary 2011. Shrines and Mosques are not safe either, with a Sufi shrine in Karachi suffering an attack in October 2010 killing eight people and injuring 50. In July of 2010, a suicide bombing at a Sufi place of worship in Lahore killed at least 40 people with more than 170 people injured, and in May of 2010, attacked on Ahmadi places of worship in Lahore left nearly a hundred people killed and more than a hundred injured.</p> <p>Pakistani government institutions are regular and ongoing targets of attack, with open assaults occurring in May 2011 on Naval and Air Force bases. There have been several suicide bombings, car bombings, bombings and open attacks on Pakistani government, military and police institutions over the last few years, and any and all government buildings should be considered at high risk of terrorist attack.</p> <h2>What travelers need to know</h2> <p>Foreigners in Pakistan are targeted for terrorist attacks, as well as kidnapping for ransom or political persuasion. The general level of terrorism in Pakistan is so high, that attacks on western interests do not stand out above and beyond attacks on native Pakistani interests and people. However, that does not mean that the threat and risk of terrorism in Pakistan is low for travelers.</p> <p>Pakistan <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_Terrorism_Index" target="_blank" title="Wikipedia">is one of the top five countries with the highest risk of terrorism</a>, it's up there with Iraq, Afghanistan, Nigeria and Syria. Anything and everything is a target, however, open-air markets, western interests, Pakistani government interests, and Sufi, Shia, and Ahmadi religious gatherings remain highest on the list.</p> <p>Consider very carefully your reasons for visiting Pakistan and whether or not it is necessary for you to go. Currently, it is not a question of if a terrorist incident will occur within any given month, but when, how many, and how severe.</p>Getty Images/fahadee.com 11080263334 Getty Images Sunset behind the Mosque Minar and the flying birds in Karachi

https://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/areas-to-avoid-in-pakistanThe terrorism threat in Pakistan has been greatly reduced in recent years – most regions are now safe to visit, but a few are still best avoided. Nomad Will explains the current security situation in one of his favorite countries.2021-05-14T10:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/travel-safety/southern-asia/pakistan/areas-to-avoid-in-pakistanhttps://www.worldnomads.com<p>Pakistan has had a tumultuous past. Taliban activity peaked between the late 2000s to early 2010s and for many years, the country as a whole was seriously unsafe to visit. But thanks to the hard work and vigilance of the country’s intelligence agency and military, Pakistan has largely turned its situation around and most areas are now safe for travelers to visit.</p> <p class="p2">This is a country with so much to offer: welcoming people, fascinating culture, ancient history, and some of the most stunning and unspoiled mountains in the world, Pakistan is one of the last true adventure travel frontiers and every year more foreigners go <a href="https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/pakistan-travel-ultimate-backpacker-guide/">backpacking here.</a> While most Western nations still advise against travel to all or parts of the country, Pakistan’s tourism industry is growing steadily as it rebuilds its once-thriving adventure travel scene. Always check with your government's travel advisory body to stay up to date with changes that could affect your travel insurance cover.</p> <ul> <li><a href="#terrorism">The current terrorism situation in Pakistan</a></li> <li><a href="#places">Places in Pakistan travelers should avoid</a></li> <li><a href="#events">Types of events to avoid in Pakistan</a></li> <li><a href="#transport">Public transport in Pakistan</a></li> <li><a href="#women">Safety concerns for women</a></li> </ul> <h2 id="terrorism">The current terrorism situation in Pakistan</h2> <p class="p4">After years of instability and occasional acts of sectarian violence, Pakistan’s security is now solid, and the majority of the country has been safe for visitors for several years. Aside from a few areas, listed below, traveling in Pakistan is no more dangerous than traveling in neighboring India, and for women, Pakistan is actually safer than India.</p> <p class="p2">What’s more, the parts of the country that attract the most travelers – such as Lahore, Islamabad, Karachi, Gilgit-Baltistan, Swat Valley, and Kalash – are all now very peaceful places to visit.</p> <p class="p2">But even though the majority of the country is safe, there are still some events and locations that are best avoided. It’s pretty easy to avoid these places, though, as they are difficult or impossible for foreigners to reach without an NOC (Non-Objection Certificate), a permission form which is more often than not challenging to obtain from the police.</p> <p class="p2">Adding to the safety situation is this: any time the government feels even slightly uneasy about a foreigner being in a specific location, they’ll assign a police escort. Not exactly ideal for adventurous independent backpackers, but certainly another layer of protection, nonetheless.</p> <h2 id="places">Places in Pakistan travelers should avoid</h2> <p><b>Former FATA Region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province (KPK)</b></p> <p class="p1">Prior to 2018, an area existed in Pakistan known as the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) that included several tribal agencies and six frontier regions.</p> <p class="p2">Out of these, North and South Waziristan have been and still are particularly prone to <a href="/travel-safety/worldwide/what-to-do-in-a-terror-attack">terrorist activities and attacks</a> due to their proximity to and relationship with Afghanistan.</p> <p class="p2">All of the former FATA region is now officially a part of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, yet tourists would never accidentally end up there due to numerous police checkpoints on the way in.</p> <p class="p4"><b>Torkham Border</b><br /><b></b></p> <p class="p1">Pakistan and Afghanistan share a border at Torkham, and it is officially open for immigration.</p> <p class="p2">Numerous travelers with valid Afghan visas have crossed over from Pakistan in recent years without incident, but the Afghanistan side of the border is highly unstable and sees frequent bombings and other attacks.</p> <p class="p2">If traveling to Afghanistan from Pakistan, I highly advise you travel by air, as Torkham is not a casual border crossing like Wagah over in Punjab.</p> <p class="p2"><b>Kohistan</b></p> <p class="p1">Kohistan is a district of KPK that runs roughly from Dasu to Chilas along the famous (and rightly so) Karakoram Highway. At present, the region is relatively safe, but this is a very conservative part of Pakistan and in the recent past there have been terrorist attacks and extremist sectarian violence.</p> <p class="p2">Like most other “unsafe” places in Pakistan, you will not be allowed to spend any time freely traveling here as a tourist. It is, however, highly likely you will pass through this part of Pakistan on your way up to Gilgit Baltistan. There are many police checkpoints where passport copies are taken, and in the unlikely event you find yourself stuck there overnight, security will be provided free of cost.</p> <p class="p2"><b>Azad Kashmir LOC</b></p> <p class="p1">India and Pakistan have a difficult relationship, and nowhere is it more evident than Azad Kashmir. While the province itself is generally safe from terrorism and foreign tourists can now visit the cities of Muzaffarabad and Mirpur, towns and villages near the LOC (line of control) see occasional crossfire, attacks, and killings.</p> <p class="p2">There’s really no need to worry about this, though – various checkpoints ensure that travelers don’t get anywhere near this turbulent border.</p> <p class="p2"><b>Balochistan</b></p> <p class="p1">Pakistan’s largest and least-visited province is virtually off-limits for foreigners, due to various threats from Balochi separatist groups and the fact that the Pakistani government is not keen for foreigners to witness the questionable tactics involved with squashing these groups.</p> <p class="p2">Public buses, luxury hotels such as the Serena, and local bazaars have all been the target of recent attacks in Balochistan. The city of Quetta, in particular, is quite unstable, and you will not be able to spend any time here alone. If you are crossing into Pakistan via the Taftan Border with Iran, you will have a full security team with you 24/7 all the way until Karachi.</p> <p class="p2">The regions of Balochistan along the Makran Coastal Highway, including Pakistan’s magnificent Hingol National Park, are relatively safe to visit and are becoming more and more popular with domestic travelers. But as a foreigner, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to make it here without local connections and/or a NOC. This is, however, likely to change in the next couple of years.</p> <p class="p2"><b>Places in KPK that are safe for travelers</b></p> <p class="p1">Western governments often specifically mention KPK in their travel advisories, declaring the entire province to be seriously dangerous. But the reality is, the few places that travelers <i>can </i>and <i>do</i> visit are now safe from terrorism.</p> <p class="p2">Peshawar, Mingora, Swat Valley (yes, Swat Valley was very dangerous 12 years ago, but today it’s at total peace) Chitral, the Kalash Valleys and Upper Chitral are all stable and often included in foreign visitors’ itineraries. As of 2019, foreigners have also been able to move about these specific locales without escorts.</p> <h2 id="events">Types of events to avoid in Pakistan</h2> <p class="p1">As with any country, it’s best to avoid political rallies or protests. Political violence does happen occasionally, but this is absolutely not targeted at tourists/foreigners.</p> <p class="p2">Madrassas (Islamic schools) have also been the target of terrorist attacks. It’s very unlikely that you’d be visiting one, so they’re easy to avoid.</p> <p class="p2">Minority religious events like Sufi festivals and Shia processions have also been the target of terrorist attacks in years past, such as the bombing of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar Shrine in Sindh Province in 2017.</p> <p class="p2">If you do plan to attend a gathering like this, it’s best to go along with a local friend. Even so, tourists have visited such places (including Lal Shahbaz Qalandar) without issue in recent years.</p> <h2 id="transport">Public transport in Pakistan</h2> <p class="p1">Public transport is the best way to travel in Pakistan if you don’t fancy learning how to ride a motorbike, and it’s safe for travelers these days.</p> <p class="p2">Public transport often comes in the form of shared local jeeps or cars, which actually tend to be the most low-profile modes of travel. Additionally, NATCO is a government-run bus/van service that operates in and to Gilgit-Baltistan.</p> <p class="p2">Pakistan also has two “expensive” private bus options for longer routes: Daewoo and Faisal Movers. Both are professionally operated, have reclining seats, and often have a security guard on board.</p> <p class="p2"><span class="s2"><a href="https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/hitchhiking-101-backpackers-tips/">Hitchhiking</a></span> is another common way of getting around in Pakistan, and if you have experience doing it, go ahead. General safety isn’t as guaranteed as the bus/jeep/car options, but from a terrorism perspective, there is very little risk.</p> <h2 id="women">Safety concerns for women</h2> <p class="p1">There are no specific safety concerns women should have about terrorism in Pakistan. Nevertheless, if you plan to venture off the beaten track areas or manage to obtain a NOC to a restricted area, wearing local dress and covering your hair is always a smart move.</p> <p class="p2">Women should also refrain from giving their phone number out to men they do not know, as harassment via text is a significantly more legitimate concern than terrorist violence. Do your research before you come to Pakistan and read this guide on what you need to know as a <a href="https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/female-travel-in-pakistan-guide/"><span class="s2">female traveler in Pakistan</span></a><span class="s3">.</span></p>Getty Images/Shehzaad Maroof 1593703807 Getty Images Hunza, Pakistan