Why British Travellers Love Pakistan, and Why It Should Be Your Next Travel Destination Too
Pakistan is fast becoming a favorite among adventurous British travellers, and for good reason. From breathtaking landscapes to unmatched hospitality, it’s a country full of surprises. In this blog, we explore their journeys, share their unforgettable experiences, and show why as a foreigner, Pakistan might just be your next travel destination.
A Growing Destination for UK Tourists
According to Statista data from 2023, Pakistan welcomed over 6,000 tourists from the United Kingdom, making the UK the second-largest source of international visitors. In total, Pakistan received nearly one million international tourists in 2023, marking the highest number of foreign visitors in seven years.
This rising tourism trend suggests more people are discovering what Pakistan has to offer. The country’s appeal has been recognized internationally—featured on CNN, Forbes, and even named one of the “Best Holiday Destinations” by Condé Nast Traveler in 2019. The British Backpacker’s Society described Pakistan as “one of the friendliest countries on Earth, with mountain scenery that is beyond anyone’s wildest imagination.”
Beyond the Headlines: Safety and First Impressions
Many British tourists arrive with safety concerns, often shaped by media portrayals and well-meaning warnings from friends and family. One couple, Bob and Eve from Bevertravels, shared their initial nervousness: “The media tells you it’s unsafe; people in our country tell you it’s unsafe.” Yet their real experience was quite the opposite.
A striking first impression was the visible presence of security personnel at hotels, malls, and shops, something they found surprisingly reassuring. “They’re there to protect you and keep you safe,” they noted. Even walking through places like Lahore Center at night, they said, “We never felt any kind of immediate danger or threat.”
Another couple, Jack and Paige, echoed this sentiment. Paige remarked, “The fact that the media has made this a place where people are worried about traveling here—and you’ve seen just what it’s like on our first morning, it’s quite funny to me how it’s the complete opposite.
The Heart of Pakistan: Unmatched Hospitality
One of the most overwhelming aspects for British travelers is the extraordinary hospitality of Pakistanis. Bob and Eve described locals as “a different breed of hospitable,” calling them the “kindest people” they had met in two and a half years of global travel. Being surrounded by such kindness made them feel truly safe.
They recalled spontaneous moments like being invited to play cricket with local kids, despite a language barrier. “You don’t need to speak the same language,” they said, proving connection can transcend words. Bob was even invited, twice, to help cook local food, calling the experience “so much fun” and something he’d “never had in any other country.”
Generosity also stood out. Locals often refused payment, saying things like “You are my guest—I won’t take money from you.” Though initially a culture shock, it quickly became a symbol of sincere hospitality. Rhianne and Ben, from On Tour With Dridgers, recalled schoolchildren walking them to a shop where a man gifted them bottles of water, simply saying, “Welcome.” They called Pakistan a “really beautiful and underrated place.”
Unique Experiences and Unexpected Adventures
Travelling in Pakistan offers far more than typical tourist sites. Bob and Eve had one of their best days in Peshawar, a city the UK government advises against visiting due to its proximity to Afghanistan. Despite this, they felt safe, met “really interesting people,” and had a deeply positive experience. They were offered a police escort, though they felt it might limit genuine local interactions.
Their spontaneous visit to Lok Mela Festival in Islamabad was another highlight. Initially unsure what to expect, they described it as one of their “best and most fun days in Pakistan.” The festival celebrated the country’s rich cultural diversity, with food, dress, and customs from across its provinces. “We felt very welcomed as tourists,” they said.
Jack and Paige’s highlight was trying Nihari, a traditional slow-cooked beef stew, in Karachi. They found the city’s “best Nihari restaurant” and raved about the “delicious, spicy, and beautifully tender beef,” along with bottomless naan, peach juice, and a milk dessert. They were amazed to learn the beef is cooked for up to 40 hours.
Practicalities and Affordability
Traveling in Pakistan is remarkably affordable. Jack and Paige’s large breakfast of Nihari, water, and a drink cost just 680 rupees (about £2.30), which they called “absolutely unbelievable.” Juice and dessert added about £1.20 more.
Moreover, they recommended bringing Pakistani rupees or USD for exchange. Getting a local SIM card required visiting a franchise store with passports. And though navigating Karachi’s chaotic traffic was tough, they found it exciting, with tuk-tuks being both fun and practical.
The experiences of British travellers like Bob and Eve, Jack and Paige, and Rhianne and Ben paint a picture of a country that is incredibly welcoming, culturally vibrant, and full of unforgettable adventures. As Bob and Eve put it, what they found was “the real sort of Pakistan that we love.”
So, if you’re a foreign traveller seeking genuine hospitality, rich culture, and unique adventure, Pakistan is ready to surprise you!
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