Car-owning tourists in Pakistan may drive themselves as they tour the country. However, international tourists may be surprised to learn that car rental is uncommon. Because of chaotic driving conditions and affordability of private drivers, many foreign tourists prefer this option. Tourists may travel by taxi, although they should arrange a price with the driver beforehand. Inexpensive buses, though often overcrowded, are commonly used and for longer distances, Pakistan maintains extensive rail lines; schedules and bookings are available through Pakistan Railways.
Western hotel chains like the Holiday Inn and Sheraton operate in major cities of Pakistan, although tourists should remember such hotels have been terrorist targets, such as the Marriott bombing in Islamabad in 2008. The PTDC, run by Pakistan's ministry of tourism, provides affordable accommodation, with motels in Chitral, Hunza, Lahore, Naran and Skardu, among others. International tourists may find PTDC amenities basic, but any lack of comfort is offset by the motels' stunning locations.
A popular historical site is the Marakan coastline, which Alexander the Great passed by in 325 BC. Near Islamabad is the archeological treasure and World Heritage Site in Taxila. This area, once a Buddhist center, is known for its ancient Gandhara sculptures. The Karakoram Highway, starting near Islamabad and ending across the northern border with China, is the world's highest motorway, reaching more than 14,000 feet altitude. Following the original Silk Road, the breathtakingly scenic KKH passes through Gilgit, the Hunza Valley and ends near Kashgar in China. Another must-see is the pageantry and fascinating display put on by Indian and Pakistani military officers, who cajole and mock one another during the daily sunset border-closing ceremony in Wagah.
Adventure tourism is plentiful in Pakistan. The country is home to the Hindu Kush, Karakoram and Himalaya mountain ranges, so trekking, climbing, mountaineering and jeep safari tours abound. The PTDC organizes adventure tours in the mountains of the north and in the Thar and Cholistan deserts to the south. Through its adventure club, the PTDC organizes special events such as the Pakistan rock-climbing competition and national ski championship.
Lovers of wool carpets and silk embroidery must not miss Pakistan's markets, such as the Jinnah and Super markets in Islamabad, Empress in Karachi and Anarkali bazaar in Lahore. International tourists will marvel at the inexpensive cashmere sweaters and pashminas, priced considerably less than in Western department stores. Custom-fitted shoes and clothing, including men's business suits, can be made in just a few days. In the south, brassware, gold and other jewelry are good buys.
Before and while touring in Pakistan, keep abreast of all travel advisories. International tourists should register with their countries' embassies soon after arriving in Pakistan. Although many women in major cities do not wear head coverings in public, international women should carry scarves for this purpose, particularly if they're traveling into rural areas, and refrain from wearing revealing clothing.
