FAQ
Q: Do international tourists need a visa for Pakistan, and can Travel Walji’s help?
A: Yes, nearly all international travelers require a visa to enter Pakistan. Pakistan operates a streamlined electronic visa system via the official portal. To apply for a standard tourist e-visa, you will need a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from a registered local tour operator. Once your tour is confirmed with Travel Walji’s, our team will provide you with the required official LOI and supporting tour itineraries to complete your online application smoothly
Important Update: Pakistan has transitioned fully back to its pre-travel online e-Visa system. Except for GCC national passport holders, international travelers from the US, UK, Canada, EU, Australia, and other regions must obtain their e-Visa online before departure, as standard visas on arrival are no longer active.
Q: Do I need special permits to travel to the Northern Areas or mountain treks?
A: While popular northern hubs like Hunza, Skardu, Gilgit, and Chitral do not require special permits for standard touring, certain restricted border areas or technical treks (such as the K2 Base Camp) require a government-issued permit or No Objection Certificate (NOC) When booking a trek or specialized expedition with Walji's, we handle all local clearances, trekking permits, and NOC paperwork on your behalf.
Q: Is traveling to Pakistan safe for international tourists?
A: Yes, Pakistan is a highly hospitable and safe destination for global travelers. The areas featured across our mainstream itineraries—such as the cultural hubs of Peshawar, Lahore, Islamabad and Karachi, as well as the scenic northern valleys of Gilgit-Baltistan and the rich archeological heritage of the Indus Valley—are secure and warmly accustomed to hosting foreign visitors. Traveling with an established agency like Walji’s means you have dedicated, vetted drivers, local bilingual guides, and 24/7 logistical support.
Q: Can I use foreign credit cards, or should I bring cash?
A: Pakistan runs predominantly on cash, especially once you leave major metropolitan areas. While major international hotels and upscale shops in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad accept international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard), international ATMs can be scarce or unreliable in the mountains. We strongly recommend bringing cash (US Dollars, Euros, or British Pounds). Your Walji’s guide will safely assist you in exchanging currency into Pakistani Rupees (PKR) at official exchange companies upon arrival.
Q: What is the expected dress code for international visitors?
A: Pakistan is a conservative country with deep-rooted traditions, and dressing modestly shows respect for local communities.
For both men and women: Loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees is highly recommended. Shorts are generally unacceptable in public urban spaces or religious sites, though fine during strenuous high-altitude trekking.
For women: Long tunics, loose shirts, and full-length trousers are best. (Buying a local Shalwar Kameez is highly recommended for ultimate comfort!). Always keep a lightweight scarf or shawl handy to cover your head when entering mosques, shrines, or traditional villages.
Q: Will I face a language barrier?
A: English is an official language of Pakistan and is taught in schools nationwide. You will find that most hospitality staff, airport personnel, shopkeepers in major markets, and younger urban residents speak conversational to fluent English. Additionally, your dedicated Walji's guide is fully fluent in English and will happily bridge any gaps with local dialects.
Q: What is the local policy regarding alcohol?
A: The import and public consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited by law in Pakistan. It is not sold in ordinary supermarkets or restaurants. However, certain 5-star international hotels in primary cities hold specific licenses to serve alcohol privately to non-Muslim foreign passport holders.
Q: What standards of accommodation and transport does Travel Walji's provide?
A: With our over 60 years of experience, we understand that global travelers expect a baseline of comfort and reliability. In major cities, we partner with top-tier 4-star and 5-star hotels. In more remote regions, we hand-pick the finest available heritage boutique properties, local luxury resorts, or upscale glamping locations. All ground transport is conducted in private, air-conditioned, rugged 4x4 vehicles or comfortable coaches, operated by drivers expertly trained in handling challenging mountain roads.