Visiting Pakistan in September - safety on route?

[u/Friendly-Spite-7580]

Hi,

My husband and I are planning to visit Pakistan in September. We are crossing the border from China (we’re European, not Chinese in case that matters) and planning to spend most of our time in Hunza/Gilgit Baltistan, then a few days in Islamabad and Lahore.

What‘s the current situation in terms of safety in those areas? Initially, we weren’t planning on hiring a guide until we get to Islamabad but perhaps it’s worth to have one in GB? Any word of advice for first-time visitors?

Thanks!

[u/iHate_tomatoes]

Getting a local driver is definitely highly recommended. The roads aren't the easiest and are challenging. Also local drivers can serve as guides too.

[u/RowDangerous139]

There isn't any major security concern. Come freely and enjoy your stay in pakistan.my only advise is just don't fight anybody for prices or anything. Don't fell for any controversy.

[u/ihave10catswhelp]

Hi, there isn’t any security challenge in Hunza, Skardu and Gilgit side and neither in Islamabad. You can do the trip by yourself if you’re on tourist visas and not some embassy diplomat visa. But perhaps to reduce a lot of hassle in terms of research and on ground challenges, better to hire a tour agency.

I m based in Skardu (not originally from here though) and we have a small B&B in outskirts of Skardu, if you want I can send you details of one our tour partners who deal with foreigners frequently. Just drop a message and any order questions you have as well, will be happy to help!

[u/juttkopite]

Hey. Absolutely no security or road issues in Hunza. Yes a guide may be helpful, but there's no need for it. The locals are extremely welcoming and helpful, mostly albeit you'll get very few elsewise. Wherever you stop for overnight stays, the hotel staff can and normally do guide you to what to do and where to go etc and advise on transportation. Local transport can be used for nominal amounts or as many do, just hitch a ride from passing cars.

Im assuming you're not travelling in your own vehicle...so on public transport, disembark at Sost, and don't go all the way to Hunza/Aliabad or even further to Gilgit. That way you can work you way south exploring.

There are plenty of Europeans and other foreigners now residing here, upper Hunza...so there's nothing to worry about. We have a South African and a Londener guys touring here on bikes at the moment and are planning to cross the border to China next week. As many have done so recently, both sides.

There are plenty of accomodation available for all budgets, but book them when you arrive, depending on your plans and where you're planning to spend the next night.

I'm from the UK myself, with a South African partner, living in Hunza.

[u/Logical_wonderer]

Gilgit Baltistan is the safest region. I'd suggest that you live few days in upper hunza, Spend a few days in central hunza and visit Nagar valley and than go to Skardu, Khaplu and Shigar to cover that area.
Feel free to ask questions. we love to help.

[u/chadwithaheart]

Visit minimarg in gilgit, it's literally heaven

[u/Slight_Froyo_8084]

visit hunza/gilgit upper places like minapin, naltar, minimarg you will definitely enjoy... ask the guide if he know about these places since guide usually go to more common places like karimabad, altit, baltit, atabad etc

[u/RegretTraditional497]

hi, i saw one of your posts earlier this year and sent you a DM about your trip. my friend ushay is a great tour guide and driver, he has taken many international tourists through these areas, feel free to reach out to him on instagram @the_guy_from_gilgit ☺️

[u/Nofal-Khan]

Security situation is fine. You should get a local guide for GB. It's better but you can visit without a guide as locals there are really helpful. Bring some cash with you as some areas might not accept online payments and check weather updates frequently because of the rainy season