If you are looking for an exciting adventure, then backpacking Pakistan is a must. Backpacking to Pakistan provides a raw and rewarding experience to all intrepid travelers. With its breathtaking landscapes, warm welcome, and routes still feeling untouched by tourism, it offers an unforgettable and authentic experience. This guide provides the best backpacking routes in Pakistan for those who are looking to explore snow-capped peaks or ancient cities.
Why choose Pakistan as your next backpacking destination?
Pakistan offers backpacking unlike any other country in the World. Traveling through Pakistan is a journey of discovery. You will encounter cultures, languages and spiritual traditions from around the world. Pakistan travel offers an uncommon sense of discovery.
Key Highlights
- The Himalayas, Hindu Kush, Karakoram and the Himalayas all meet here.
- Globally unmatched hospitality guests are considered blessings.
- Budget-friendly travel, accommodation, and food are all cheap in comparison to other parts of Asia.
- Raw Adventure, From hiking glaciers to taking remote jeep tours, backpacking Pakistan offers adrenaline-filled adventure.
Backpacking Pakistan Route (1-4 Weeks).
If you only have a few days or even a couple of weeks to travel, this is how you should plan your Pakistan backpacking experience:
Week 1: Cultural Beginnings in the Heart of Punjab
Lahore (3 Days).
- Explore Badshahi Mosque Wazir Khan Mosque and Lahore Fort
- Gawalmandi Food Street and Gawalmandi Street offer delicious street food
- Enjoy the Wagah Border Ceremony in all its electric glory
- The old city is full of markets, art streets and galleries.
Islamabad & Rawalpindi (2 Days)
- Visit Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, and Saidpur Village
- Hike Margalla Hills (Trail 3 and Trail 5)
- Raja Bazaar, Rawalpindi is a great place to experience authentic backpacker culture
Travel Tip: To get around on a budget, use Careem or the InDrive app.
Week 2: Mountains and Meadows in Gilgit-Baltistan
Fairy Meadows (2 Day)
- Trek to Nanga Parbat base camp
- Camp under the stars at one of Earth’s most spectacular alpine places
- Be prepared to experience rustic conditions.
Minapin & Rakaposhi Base Camp (2 Days)
- A quieter alternative to Fairy Meadows
- The best glacier views in the world and peaceful hospitality
Karimabad, Hunza (3 Days)
- Visit Baltit Forts and Altit Forts
- Eagles Nest Glacier and Hopper Glacier day hike
- Take in views of Ultar, Rakaposhi and the apricot tree while sipping on apricot-flavored juice
Week 3: Off the Grid Explorations in Swat, Chitral and Kalash
Peshawar (1-2 Days)
- Discover Qissa Khwani Bazar and Sethi House
- Experience the best kahwa and karahi
- Visit Mahabat Khan Mosque
Swat Valley (2 Days).
- The “Switzerland of Pakistan“
- Malam Jabba is a great place to hike and explore the Desan Meadows
- Explore the Pashtun culture at Mingora, Kalam
Kalash Valleys (2 Days).
- Visit the Kalasha tribe at Rumbur or Bumburet
- Explore pagan festivals, winemaking and colorful traditions
- Enjoy a cultural experience far from the modern chaos
Bonus side trips: If you’re venturing deeper into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), don’t miss lesser-known gems like Kumrat Valley, Ushairi Dara, and Toormang Valley. These pristine, forested regions offer untouched beauty, glacial rivers, and some of the best off-grid trekking experiences in Pakistan perfect for nature-loving backpackers craving solitude.
Week 4: Roof of the World, Deeper Gilgit Baltistan
Passu & Gojal (2 Days)
- Cross the famous Hussaini Suspension Bridge
- Gulmit or Ghulkin is a great place to trek and see the Passu Cones.
- Rent bikes and hitchhike the Khunjerab Pass, which is the world’s highest border.
Skardu & Beyond (2-3 Days)
- Visit Satpara Lake Shigar Fort and the Sarfaranga Desert
- Enjoy a day trip to Khaplu Valley and Hushe Valley
- Optional trek to Deosai National Park. (Best in July/August).
Transport Options in Pakistan for Backpackers
The adventure of backpacking Pakistan is a great way to experience the country. Although infrastructure is improving, Pakistan’s transport system is a mix between modern and traditional. This means that you may find yourself on colorful buses one day and in a rickety Jeep the next. Understanding your options will help plan and budget more efficiently.
Buses and minibuses
Intercity travel is based on public buses. Daewoo Movers, Skyways, and Faisal Movers are some of the companies that link major cities, such as Lahore Islamabad Peshawar. NATCO and Masherbrum Tours provide reliable services for longer mountain routes.
- Cost: $5-15 per route
- Book online or at terminals early, especially on holidays.
Shared vans and Jeeps
In rural areas, such as Skardu, Fairy Meadows and Kalash Valleys – shared Suzuki vans and jeeps have become the norm. They don’t leave the station until all passengers are in. The ride is bumpy, but it’s authentic. Just hold on and enjoy the view.
- Cost: $1-10 depending upon distance and terrain
- Backpacks Pakistan travelers often love the camaraderie and spontaneous chai breaks with locals
Domestic Flights
Flights between Islamabad/Skardu and Gilgit/Skardu are a great way to save time. Pakistan International Airlines, or PIA, flies into these mountainous airports with small aircraft. However, weather delays can be common.
- Cost: $30-100, depending on booking season and time
- For better visibility, and to reduce cancellations, try flying in the early morning.
Ride-Hailing apps and Rickshaws
In cities, rickshaws offer the most convenient and affordable way to move around. If you’re not using an app, always haggle the price. Careem and InDrive are great alternatives to Uber in large cities such as Lahore.
- Cost: $0.50 – $5 per ride
- Avoid rush hours, unless honking and traffic jams are your thing
Travel Tips for Pakistan Backpacking
- Backpacks Pakistan travelers should go light but prepare for diverse weather.
- Local SIMs, such as Jazz (for GB), or SCOM are necessary.
- Respect cultural customs. Women, in particular, should wear modest clothing.
- Carry cash, as ATMs are not reliable in the north.
- In Balochistan and other areas, foreigners will need a NOC (No Objection Certificate).
Top Budget Tips
- Enjoy roadside dhabas for meals between $1 and $3
- If possible, share transport costs with others or take public transport.
- Couchsurfing and homestays
- Buses like NATCO and Faisal Movers are good for long distances.
Must-Pack Items for Backpacks Pakistan Travelers
- Travel adapter with power bank
- Warm layers + waterproof jacket
- First-aid kit with water purification tablets
- Strong hiking boots
- Offline maps: Maps.me, organic paper maps
Conclusion
Backpacking Pakistan offers the perfect combination of cultural diversity, rugged exploration and heart-warming hospitality. Not for the fainthearted, but incredibly rewarding. You can camp at 4,000 meters, or drink chai while shopping in a bustling market. This land is sure to challenge, charm and change you. At Tourista Guru, we don’t just guide your journey, we inspire your next great adventure.
The backpacking route in Pakistan is the best way to create unforgettable memories.
FAQs
1. Is Pakistan safe to backpack in?
Yes, in particular, the northern regions of Hunza and Swat. Be cautious in tribal or border zones, and follow local advice.
2. When’s the best season to travel to Pakistan?
In the north, you can enjoy perfect weather during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). Avoid July heat and winter snow on the mountains.
3. Do I need to get a Visa?
Yes, you may apply for an electronic visa to Pakistan online. Processing time is 3-7 days.
4. Can I travel solo in Pakistan?
Absolutely. Women and solo travelers alike have had positive experiences. It’s not always easy but it’s very rewarding.
5. Are Backpacks Pakistan friendly to rural areas.
Yes, the locals are curious. Expect to be invited for meals, chai, and sometimes to stay overnight especially if you’re respectful and open-minded.
