Introduction
Hello!
I'm so excited to have you joining us for this incredible journey! Our upcoming trip promises to be an unforgettable adventure, filled with breath-taking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the chance to meet like-minded travellers who share your passion for exploration.
This Pre-Departure Pack has been put together to provide you with all the essential information you'll need to prepare for the trip and make the most of your time with us. Inside, you'll find details about the itinerary, packing tips, local customs, and practical advice like visa guidance and travel safety.
Please take the time to read through everything carefully, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions. This trip is all about having a stress-free and exciting experience, and I'm here to ensure everything goes smoothly.
Thank you for choosing to join us - I can't wait to meet you and start this amazing adventure together!
See you soon!
Tia
Flights
The trip will start and end in Islamabad, so the best airport to fly in and out of is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). If you choose to fly in and out of a different airport (such as Saikot or Lahore), you will need to get yourself to and from Islamabad for the start and end of the trip.
Please arrive by 12:00 (Midday) at the latest on the first day of the trip, but the day before would be recommended in case of any flight delays. Arriving later than this can be accommodated for, but the arrival experience may not be as smooth as activities start in the afternoon. Arriving later may also cause issues should your flight be delayed, as we will be departing from Islamabad early in the morning on the following day.
Travel Insurance
For this trip, it is essential to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings. Since we will be hiking extensively, make sure your policy specifically includes hiking and trekking activities up to 4000 meters in altitude. Double-check the coverage details to ensure you're fully protected for the activities and locations on this adventure. If you're unsure about which policy to choose, feel free to reach out for recommendations.
It's also good to ensure that your insurance covers you for ‘missed departure’. On occasion, roads in Pakistan can become closed at short notice due to a variety of reasons, and in the unlikely event that you miss your flight due to this, you want to make sure you're covered.
Visa Process
Check Visa Eligibility
Verify whether your nationality is eligible for an e-Visa or requires an embassy/consulate visa. Most nationalities can apply for an e-Visa via the official portal.
Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents (requirements may vary by nationality):
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages)
- A recent passport-style photo (digital format for e-Visa applications)
- Flight itinerary
Apply Online (e-Visa)
For e-Visa applications:
- Visit the official Pakistan e-Visa portal.
- Create an account and fill out the application form for the 'Pak Visa'.
Application Information
- Main Category - Visa Prior To Arrival
- Visa Category - Visa Prior To Arrival
- Visa Sub-category - Tourist
- Application Type - Entry
- Visa Type - Multiple Entry
- Allowed Visa Duration - 3 Month(s)
- Country - Your home (passport) country
- Mission - Select a city near to where you live
Stay Details
- Type of Stay - hotel
- Check-in date - The day you arrive into Islamabad
- Check-out date - Day 2 of the trip
- Address - We will confirm these details with you directly.
- Upload the required documents. If asked for an invitation letter, let us know.
- Submit the application (no fee for most nationalities).
Wait for Approval
E-Visa processing times typically range from 1-7 working days. Once approved, print your visa.
Embassy/Consulate Visa (if applicable)
If not eligible for e-Visa, visit your nearest Pakistan embassy/consulate to apply.
Good to Know
Dress Code
Cultural Respect: Pakistan is a modest country, and it's important to dress respectfully, especially in public places.
For Women: Cover knees and elbows when in public. Looser fitting clothing is also recommended. Also carry a scarf to cover hair when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
For Men: Cover knees and shoulders when in public.
When Hiking: Things are less strict when hiking in the north, both men and women can wear shorts if preferred. We can advise day to day as to what is best in this regard.
Currency and Payments
Local Currency: The currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR).
Cash vs. Cards: Cash is widely used, especially in rural areas. ATMs are available in cities, but it's good to have some cash on hand for souvenirs or extra food and drink. Credit/debit cards may not be accepted everywhere.
How Much Cash To Bring: Accommodation, food, activities listed in the itinerary and transportation are already included in the trip, so any cash you bring will only be needed for souvenirs, extra snacks and drinks, and tips (at your discretion).
Language
The official languages are Urdu and English. Almost everyone in Pakistan understands at least basic English. However, learning a few basic Urdu phrases (like Shukriya for "thank you") can be a nice gesture!
Food and Water
Local Cuisine: Get ready to enjoy delicious Pakistani food! Some dishes can be spicy, so let us know if you prefer milder flavours. We will ensure there is a variety of food which caters to everyone's preferences and needs. Please ensure you've let us know of any dietary preferences or allergies ahead of the trip.
Water: Always drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues. You should also use bottled water when brushing your teeth, and be cautious of getting water in your mouth when showering. We will ensure you have enough water each day.
Photography Etiquette
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially women. Avoid taking photos in restricted areas, such as military zones or sensitive sites.
It is very common for people in Pakistan to ask for photos with western tourists, however people are very polite and it is ok to say no if you do not want your photo taken.
Connectivity
SIM cards are widely available and affordable. Popular providers include Jazz, Telenor, and Zong. You can purchase an eSIM ahead of arrival if preferred; although more expensive than buying in person, it can be more convenient. We recommend 'Nomad eSIM', and you can use this referral code for a discount - TIACSQGKNW.
Phone signal in rural areas can be poor, especially when driving between towns/cities, and when hiking. We will be equipped with emergency satellite communication devices should anything happen.
Wi‑Fi is available in most hotels, but again can be poor when in rural areas.
Cultural Customs
Tipping: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. There isn't much of a tipping culture in Pakistan, so it is in no way expected, and there is no recommended amount.
Toilets: Squat toilets are very common in Pakistan, especially when using public/restaurant toilets. Most hotels will have western toilets, but we can't guarantee that this will be the case for every room. Not all toilets will have toilet paper, as bidets are the most common option. We recommend carrying some toilet paper if you prefer.
Packing List
We will be experiencing a big variety of weather during the trip — ensure you have clothing to cover you for 30°C+ days in Islamabad (where clothing will need to be more conservative), hiking in temperatures varying from 10–30°C, and nights in the mountains where temperatures can drop to 5°C.
Clothing
- Warm layers (fleece or insulated jacket for cooler evenings)
- Waterproof jacket
- Lightweight, breathable tops
- Comfortable hiking trousers or leggings
- Hiking shorts
- Hiking boots / trail runners (ensure they are broken in)
- Casual shoes or sandals
- Lightweight scarf/shawl for women
- Gloves and a beanie (for higher altitudes or cold mornings)
- Hat or cap (for sun protection)
- Sleepwear
- Comfortable clothing for downtime
Equipment
- Daypack (20–30 litres, with padded straps and hip support)
- Bag for all of your other items (will remain in hotels or on the bus). A rucksack would be preferred over a suitcase so that everything packs into the bus easily.
- Water bottles or bladder (at least 2L capacity)
- Hiking poles, optional (FYI: Hiking poles are not allowed in hand luggage when flying, but can be checked)
- Headtorch (shouldn't be needed, but always good to have just in case. Phone torch would likely be sufficient)
- Travel towel (for nights we are camping. Hotels will all have towels)
- Sunglasses
- Toilet paper / wipes (not all toilets will have toilet paper; we will have some in the bus, but it's not a bad idea to bring some to keep to hand)
Electronics
- Mobile phone and charger
- Travel adapter (Plug type C is the most common, as you'd find in most of Europe)
- Portable charger
- Headphones, optional (as we have 2 long bus rides)
Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Printed visa
- Printed travel insurance details
Medication + First Aid
All mentioned medication is just a recommendation. Consult a doctor if you are unsure if you can take any medication mentioned. We will be unable to give you medication, so any medication you need once you're in Pakistan will have to be purchased yourself from a pharmacy.
- Paracetamol / Ibuprofen, or any other pain relief
- Loperamide (commonly referred to by the brand name 'Imodium' — essential for potential upset stomachs)
- Any prescriptions you may need (you may not be able to get the same medication in Pakistan)
- Motion sickness medication (if you're susceptible; the roads can be quite windy and bumpy)
- Altitude sickness medication (if you have experienced issues in the past or if your doctor recommends)
- Blister plasters
- Plasters
- Antiseptic wipes
Ahead of Arrival
Ensure you have filled out the final details form. This is mandatory, and without this you won't be able to join the trip. Please note that this is different to the form you filled out with your personal details a little while ago. This form is for your flight details, proof of visa and insurance, etc.
Arrival
We will arrange an airport transfer for you once we have your flight details in the final details form.
If you are arriving any earlier than the trip start date, you can either arrange your own accommodation, or we can help you with this. You will have the option to stay at the same hotel we will stay in on the first night of the trip if you'd prefer.
If you are staying an extra night before the trip in different accommodation, your airport transfer is still included; however you will need to organise your own transport to the hotel we are meeting at on the first day of the trip. Indriver and Careem are the main taxi apps and are very similar to Uber, so this should be easy to organise, and of course we can assist if you need anything.
During the Trip
Each evening, we'll let you know what we'll be up to the following day, including activities, what to pack, wake up times, etc.
Departure
We will arrange an airport transfer for your outbound flight.
If you are staying in Pakistan any longer after the trip ends, please let us know. Similarly to arrival, you can either arrange your own accommodation, or we can help you with this. You will have the option to stay at the same hotel we will stay in on the last night of the trip if you'd prefer.