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Karachi is Pakistan's largest city and commercial hub—expect a bustling, diverse metropolis with rich food, cultural sites, and busy traffic. Plan for heat, crowds, and variable infrastructure, and follow local customs and safety advice to enjoy the city.
Visa / entry requirements
- Many nationalities require a visa for Pakistan; check the official Pakistan e-Visa portal or your nearest Pakistani consulate. Electronic visas are available for tourism, business, and family visits.
- Passport should be valid at least 6 months from arrival.
- Keep a printed and digital copy of your passport, visa, and local contact information.
- You may be asked to register with local authorities in some cases—your hotel often handles this.
Best time to visit
- October to March: ideal—cooler temperatures (15–30°C / 59–86°F) and more comfortable for sightseeing.
- April to September: hot and humid; peak summer (May–July) can be extremely hot and dusty.
- Monsoon season (July–September) can bring heavy rains and localized flooding.
Safety tips
- Exercise usual urban caution: petty theft and pickpocketing can occur—watch belongings and avoid isolated areas after dark.
- Use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber operate in Karachi) rather than unmarked cabs.
- Stay informed about local political events; avoid protests and large gatherings.
- Keep emergency contacts handy: your embassy/consulate, hotel, local police (15/15 in many areas) and ambulance services.
- Drink bottled or boiled water; avoid ice from uncertain sources. Eat at well-reviewed places if you have a sensitive stomach.
Local customs and etiquette
- Pakistanis are generally conservative—dress modestly. For women: cover shoulders and avoid short skirts; carrying a light scarf is useful. Men should avoid shorts in many public areas.
- Greet with a handshake; same-sex handshakes are common. When meeting elders, a slight nod or placing right hand on chest is respectful.
- Public displays of affection are not appropriate.
- Ask before photographing people, especially women.
- Remove shoes when entering someone’s home and certain religious sites.
- Tipping: common in restaurants (10–15% if service not included), small tips for porters and drivers are appreciated.
Currency and money
- Local currency: Pakistani Rupee (PKR).
- Cash is widely used; carry small notes and change for rickshaws/markets.
- Credit cards are accepted at major hotels, restaurants, and malls; smaller shops and street vendors are cash-only.
- ATMs are available across the city—use machines at banks or hotel lobbies for safety. Notify your bank before travel to avoid card blocks.
Transportation and getting around
- Ride-hailing apps (Uber, Careem) are reliable and recommended for safety and fixed fares.
- Metered taxis exist but negotiate fare or insist on the meter.
- Rickshaws (auto-rickshaws) are cheap for short trips—agree price upfront or use apps that book rickshaws.
- Public buses and minibuses are crowded and can be confusing for first-time visitors.
- Driving yourself: traffic is congested and driving norms are different—avoid unless experienced.
- Allow extra travel time for peak hours and weekends.
Must-know tips and local insights
- Food: Karachi is a food lover’s city—try biryani, nihari, kebabs, seafood, street snacks (seek busy stalls for freshness).
- Markets: Empress Market, Zainab Market, and Saddar are vibrant for shopping—bargain politely.
- Attractions: Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum (Mazar-e-Quaid), Clifton Beach, Mohatta Palace, Pakistan Maritime Museum, Frere Hall.
- Accommodation: choose reputable hotels in Clifton, DHA, or Saddar for better security and amenities.
- Internet & SIM: Major providers (Jazz, Telenor, Zong) offer tourist SIMs—bring passport for registration.
- Health: carry basic meds, sun protection, and hand sanitizer. Consider travel insurance covering health and theft.
- Electricity: power outages (load shedding) can occur—many hotels have generators. Bring a portable charger/power bank.
- Cultural tip: accept hospitality—if invited to a local home, it’s customary to bring a small gift and remove shoes.
Quick checklist before you go
- e-Visa or visa stamped in passport, 6+ months validity
- Copies of passport, visa, and hotel contacts
- Local currency and a working international card
- SIM card or roaming plan, and ride-hailing apps installed
- Lightweight modest clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes
- Travel insurance and emergency contacts
Enjoy Karachi’s vibrant culture and cuisine while staying cautious and respectful of local norms.