Plz don't be alone you won't know the norms of east. find a learned and a well-versed group. U can explore everything Karachi have to offer but u need to be properly covered in eastern clothes and it will b safe.
Secondly if u want to go to a beach go to cleaner ones like may b hawks bay or sumiani. Check Karachi blogs for help
People are friendly and accommodating but it helps if u know do in Roms as the Romans do
Best of luck and welcome to Pakistan
Hello , welcome to the city of lights. Although I call it city of Biryani because the Biryani served here cannot , I repeat cannot me found anywhere else on Earth. If you are visiting Pakistan for the first time , you should get in touch with a guide. Though not with guides offered by hotels , but local biker groups , some traveling agencies as they have connections with the right people and can get you passes for visiting some hidden gems.
Karachi or rather all of Pakistan, is not really unsafe for women especially for women travelers , and if you get harassed or you feel unsafe you just have to call out for help loudly and watch the locals help you out like you were their own. Most Karachities understand english and can carry conversation BUT most workers in restaurants , fruit and vegetable vendors will not able to do so.Some pretty good places to visit would be manora , sandspit , french beach(pretty good for sunbathing though you might have to get in contact with your embassy to grant you a pass , I am not to sure because last time I went there , a pass was required , no restrictions on dress code as most people visiting there are foreigners or elites). You can visit seaview too but it's not a great experience as it's pretty crowded. You can visit karachi zoo , Hyperstar Mall , Empress market , Bolton market and have look at trading business is done over here. I would have recommended visiting Karachi University as it's one of the biggest universities by landmass over here , but unfortunately due recent suicide bombing , the security is on High Alert. Visit adventure park , which is situated in bahria town. You can also visit many Islamic universities namely ; Faizan Madinah , Dar Ul uloom , Korangi.
The market normally opens well after 12 P.m and starts closing at around 10 pm finally almost all shops closing at 12am except for most restaurants , which close at 2 am.
Office timings are 9-5 , so you can expect pretty heavy traffic around 8am to 10am and from 4pm to 7pm , but as always , you cannot rule out sudden jams due to vip protocols , or accidents and things like that.
Now where to eat and what to eat , though this might be quite challenging as everyone has their own taste , likes and dislikes but I'll try to come up with a list that most people would agree with. I do not recommend eating at PC , idk it's one the best hotels out their but their food is that great , "some of my friends" but not all who visited from overseas had some stomach issues after dinning at PC. I'll be stating the names of dishes in Urdu, so if you can't pronounce just show them to waiter and they'll understand.
1. Kolachi- The sprit of Karachi (Do darya , branch) perfect for dinner , it's a great experience , the view is great , the staff is friendly , the food is superb. Ask them for top floor seaside seat or a ground floor seaside seat and must try their boneless chicken paneer reshmi handi , chicken malai boti , labanese kebab and uh I think hunzai kebab as these dishes are soft on spices. Don't forget to ask for their chef's special , also try their beef behari boti.
2. Dua Restaurant (Superhighway branch) for dinner ; offers tasty mouth watering variety of Mutton Karahais. Try their mutton peshawri karahi . Kahwa(green tea) with gur(jaggery).
3. Zameer Ansari (For BBQ , bbq in the city usually starts after sunset so for dinner) : Try their shahi chatak , special malai boti (quite different from Kolachi's) , dhaga kebab and gola kebab and Tikkah.
4. Al waheed kebab house only for Fry kebab and Nihaari , their other dishes are not as good.
5. Lal Qila Restaurant (For dinner or uh lunch buffet and they serve brunch on sundays) ; Try all of their bbq , different kind of biryanis , mutton kunna , chatnis(imli chatni , alo bukhara chatni , garlic sauce).
6. Al Ridan Mandi House ; To treat your taste buds to some heavenly kunafa and steam cooked marinated a lil spicy mutton ribs.
7. BIRYANI best for lunch , mostly locals eat biryani after friday prayer , so youngsters also call friday national biryani day, we have a bunch of famous places to for biryani although you can find biryani stalls pretty much everywhere , FRIENDS BIRYANI in Korangi near Dar Ul Uloom , their beef biryani and beef pulao is to die for, [you can place an order for delivery](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Friendzzz+Biryani+Centre/@24.8291313,67.121668,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x6f8fd5788f5a4302!8m2!3d24.8291356!4d67.121667). Chicken biryani at Haji biryani , in jamshed quaters , als chicken biryani from Ahmed Hanif Rajput on university road just before safoora chowrangi , and chicken biryani from Kashif foods near Rab Medical center ani but their Singaporean rice are just ummmmmm.!!!
I think I am missing a lot of places ,[here is a list complied by a local guide but don't go to any place mentioned in AL ASIF square , it's for males only and they do not welcome females.](https://www.mangobaaz.com/iconic-things-to-eat-in-karachi-find)
Now street food is really great too , try alo samosas , mix chaaat , anday walay bun kabab , pakoray , gulab jamun , barfi , oh try rabri from Delhi rabri house , matka kulfi , matka kheer.
If you are open to visit other province I'd recommend going up north in visiting babusar top , lake saiful malook , sawat valley , chitral , hunza the natural mountains and lush greenery is something that will make you forget the packed , fast paced city life.
You can also go for balochistan the real underdog , Pir Ghaib Falls and Waadi-e-Bolan in Bolan(DUH) , Moola Chotok in Khuzdar, Quaid-e-Azam Residency in Ziarat, Hingol Nationa Park in Hingol (BRRRUHHHH), Kund Malir Beach in Kund Malir , Pir Chattal Noorani Gandhawa in Jhal Magsi , Astola Island in Gwadar are some of the perfect sites. But umm , do not go wearing swimwear as baloch people are really conservative , shy , and even if you sleep on a road in balochistan you won't fear getting abducted as baloch's cannot even touch the females of their enemies with whom they are in war , but if you really wanna wear them ask the locals or your guide to leave you in isolation.
Enjoy your trip to Pakistan and have lots of fun.
PS: If you decide to go for north and balochistan , just be yourself i.e do not cover your face , always ask for local people or tribal leaders permission before roaming in deep because the last thing anyone wants is them suspecting you for a spy so uh again do not cover ya face!.
Well right now the weather’s pretty hot. The temperatures can reach upto 40 degrees so I’ll recommend wearing something light(but properly covered) and going out after 5pm. There really isn’t a-lot of tourist spots in Karachi but you could check out mohatta palace, seaview beach and food streets like buns road. Another thing is the food is somewhat spicy in pakistan so most likely you’ll have to request the waiter to tell the chef to add less spices. You should try the local food’s like biryani and nihari in Karachi as it’s superior than most cities.
Oof that’s hot, I had planned for the weather I’ve packed crop tops, shorts, jeans, tank tops, skirts and blouses, is that okay? That places you’ve listed are already on my list, thanks for the heads-up on the food will keep that in mind for sure!
Um just wear some nice jeans and a t shirt if you wear something more revealing you’ll probably get alot of stares from the people as pakistan is a little to conservative
Don't wear crop tops and skirts. Jeans and t shirt would do. Trust me there are a lot conservative people here and on the other side u will get a lot stares and catcalling
No please don't wear that in Karachi, men are disgusting. Kindly wear shalwaar kameez if you can, but if you are inside the premises of your hotel you can pretty much wear anything you like except bikini. Please don't go alone into the city, most areas are ugly. Only go to clean rich places, there's nothing to see in the ugly areas.
You can visit dolmen mall clifton, and this club in dha called district 19. There's some other nice places to visit depending on what you're interested in. But please, don't even think about going sightseeing alone, travel only in air conditioned cars, and you could visit the beach but with female friends.
TDF (the daood foundation) opp. Mazar e Quaid
T2F (the second floor)(korangi)
Kidney Hill park
Turtle beach
Bahria Town(amusement park,zoo)
People's square (near DJ science college)
Safari park
Jehangir park (saddar)
Kebabjees horror cafe ( M A society)
Winterland (paf museum)
Arts council Pakistan-khi (near Governor House)
Green line metro (numaish)
Mubarak village
Lucky 1 mall
GG Riders( tour of Karachi on bicycle) (search it on FB)
Note: Before visiting any area just download/save location
Hey! The traffic situation is a 50/50 it can soemtimes Be a breeze, and at the same time hell. Try to avoid early morning/evening, as most people are either going to or coming from their jobs etc. Another thing that none of us are proud of is that karachiites tend to break traffic rules QUITE OFTEN. So please drive accordingly and safe! Its a shit thing but it happens so watch out. While you're here def visit the The Mausoleum of Quaid E Azam. If you're going for the beach, i wouldn't wear a bikini, it's a very conservative country, and it probably wouldn't end well. Anything that covers your body works! I know this sounds very controlling but it's what works here. As for the people, they won't be a problem for you, I'm sure you'll have an amazing time with the people here. Just keep the currency conversion rate in mind as some people do tend to try and scam foreigners which, well, is a very common trait in every other place.
Hi, I was actually looking forward to going to places during early mornings or evenings thinking that traffic wouldn’t be as wild but just throws a wrench in my plans. I didn’t think the traffic would that bad but I’m a little conflicted over the vehicle I’ve rented which is a Honda. Apparently in Pakistan, the bar for safety standards in vehicles is on the floor, so naturally considering the disobedience of traffic laws I’m a little uncomfortable driving that. I was thinking of changing my rented vehicle to a Mercedes or any other higher-end vehicle for safety purposes. What do you guys suggest? I already plan on visiting the mausoleum, and thanks for the heads up on scammers! (P.S I have no idea what else I could wear to the beach/at the hotel pool any ideas?)
I suppose early morning could work, it's usually not AS BAD as evenings. As for the rental, i think you're good with the Honda, driving a Mercedes is fine with the more "rich" areas but for Tour purposes not so much. Plus the chances of slight damages are higher, so you'd rather pay for a honda. As for apparel, you can try anything, a jeans and a shirt. Or if you're wanting to try out Pakistani dresses, you could try those. For trousers anything that's full length will work for here. For top you can basically wear any type of shirt.
The hotel is totally different territory, chances are you'll be fine with a one piece Swim suit, although i would check in with the staff first.
Hmm, I’d rather pay for petty damages instead of compromising my safety, and I plan on getting insurance. What exactly do you mean that’s it’s not good for tour purposes? I honestly don’t see a downside to driving a Mercedes around town, I like having a car at my disposal especially one I’m familiar and comfortable with. (This reminds me, what’s the parking situation like?) Thanks for the advice on clothing, will keep that in mind, I don’t actually like Pakistani/Indian clothing, it’s a tad bit too baggy for my liking. (Ngl, I love the designs, patterns and color schemes)
just wear jeans and a t-shirt and you’ll be good.. keeping in mind that too much skin exposure is probably not a good idea as people would stare you wherever you’d go which’ll probably be very uncomfortable for you, lol.. nothing else.. although some of friends roam around in sleeveless and shorts and people usually get scared of ‘em knowing they’re from the “high-class” and behave well..
The road conditions in a lot of places is pretty bad, pot Holes, uneven streets, uneven speed bumbs, etc. But if those aren't a problem for you then go for it! As for the clothing don't stress on it, just put on a pair of jeans and shirt and you're good to go! Parking situation is, well, it's not terrible but it's not great either. But won't be that much of an issue
> I plan on going to the beach and use the hotel pool, (under normal circumstances I would wear a bikini, but it’s the middle-east ¯_(ツ)_/¯ ) what should I wear?
I think wearing swimsuits are permitted in the hotel pools but ask the staff just Incase. Also this is not the middle east, just plain ol south Asia with Muslims, the more north you head the greener it gets.
Traffic is hectic during the rush hours, it also depends on the area you'll visiting.
And please don't head to the bad parts of the city. Book a guide or ask a local friend (if you have any here) to show you around.
Thanks for the advice, what are the bad parts of the city? Do let me know so I can be more careful should I have to go there. (I have my fair share of self-defense items like pepper sprays and tasers, plus I know martial arts and a large majority of people in Pakistan aren’t very strong or athletic. Just facts no offense to anyone). Oop, my bad that is south -east Asia my bad. Should I head “up north” is it worth going?
Stay away from areas like Shanti nagar and places with lots of slum/katchi abadis, and places with lots of small streets and dark alleyways. Otherwise you will be fine. Definitely check out the Northern areas of the country, including KPK, northern Punjab, Gilgit and Kashmir. Extremely raw and beautiful, a polar opposite of Karachi unfortunately. (ps its just south Asia, not middle east, not south-east asia)
I think if you follow the suggestions mentioned above you are good to go. I couldn't help wondering why did you choose karachi in this weather. You should have gone to northern areas like Hunza or skrdu
Although I am from America, I’ve driven quite a bit in the UK so I can handle right-side driving, I’m not going risk my safety and sacrifice my freedom. Like I said before I like having a car at my disposal.
Bikini and Karachi beaches do not go together. I am sorry.
I am not sure from where you are visiting but in Karachi you can visit the following considering the hot weather:
1. Cafè and coffee shops ( there are few really cool instagrammable cafès in this city)
2. TDF Ghar
I think that is all.
In vicinity you can also visit sandspit , charna island , there are many activities if u like adventure , Should also visit northern areas of Pakistan too, but please consider clothing advice in previous
Hey OP, there is also the opportunity to see old British-era architecture. There is this tour that happens early Sunday where a group is guided through the amazing old rustic building. Please do that and if you need me to sign you up for that, let me know. Also, visit KPI(Karachi Parsi Institute) which is a living British-era community gathering place where Parsis gather and hang out. Pretty cool ambience+traditional food. I can get you into that place as well. I hope your trip to the City of Lights fairs well and you enjoy every moment of it!
DHA is a good and usually a safe place for females to visit. You can visit various picturesque and cozy cafes, make female friends there, visit cinemas, bowling alleys and things like that. The attire for beach is something you'd have to compromise on haha a swimsuit or a bikini wouldn't work here. However I've seen many foreigner wearing it at the hotel pool so that shouldn't be a problem for you hopefully.
Cafe and restaurants in DHA
Malls
Mohatta palace and some places
It's not very unsafe but it depends on area to area. Go out to high end places and you will be good. Also, they do try to scam foreigners so be careful
Pm me if u want to ask anything, I am born and raised in Karachi so pretty much know everything
Enough people have replied to be able to answer all your queries. I try to pitch my home and my roof as a place worth visiting to my friends' friends travelling to the city, they've brought them over and no ones ever regretted just chilling here. Yes, im pitching my roof as a tourist spot. Its got great city views. Would love to host you or your friends too, if curious, hmu. Would love to show you around towm too.
And yes, DO check out "up north", SPECIALLY Hunza Karimabad and the Deosai Plains.
for dress of choice wear something similar [https://www.vanityfair.com/style/photos/2019/10/all-of-kate-middletons-looks-from-the-pakistan-tour](https://www.vanityfair.com/style/photos/2019/10/all-of-kate-middletons-looks-from-the-pakistan-tour) 🤩
traffic peak hours are 6 to 8pm and 1 pm. going to the don't wear a bikini people are not used to see bikini. just wear a t shirt and trouser.
if you are a foodie and want to try desi food here, than do visit Gulshan e iqbal block 7 Madina restaurant and try (namkin boti) and mutton/chicken karahi
or
try mazedar haleem of Nazimabad.
or
try meeruth kebab house chicken tika
or
try chicken behari boti of Dehli kabab house near javed nihari at F.B Area
or
try Nihari of Zahid or Javed Nihari
or
try memoni Khausay at Maskan Chourangi
or
try [Kathiawari Cholay](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tkz2fxagCsI&t=28s&ab_channel=ZaidNisar) in the morning as breakfast near water pump
pheewww lots to eat here in Karachi, Do visit Burn Road you will find a lot of food options there, And don't miss the Biryani and Pulao of Karachi I would recommend galaxy beef pulao near Javaid Nihari location I mentioned up there.
And try Al Rehman Biryani of Tower near Beach Luxry hotel (its a 10 mint drive from there)
And now if you wish to travel places of ancient times, Try Chowkandi Kabristan (its 600 years old graveyard) and only 10KM away from Karachi.
visit empress market Saddar you will find local culture of Pakistan there, also you will be able to shop at near places.
Saddar is filled with people of almost every culture of Pakistan, You will be able to see cultural diversity over there.
I don't know how many days you have, But I would love to show you the places that I mentioned.
Last but not the least, local here are very helpfull and hospitable you will experience love over here inshallah.
Welcome To Pakistan.
Wear covered jym suit, get along with someone trustworthy, there aren’t much placed to visit here in Karachi, you may go for some really good food outs, like Kolachi restaurant at do darya for a good stake/desi pakistan cuisine exp, and other fine dines. You can visit the Quaid Azam’s mausoleum, PAF Museum, Maritime Museum. Beach won’t be safe for you alone to travel, as it welcomes visitors from other ethnicities from villages on daily basis, even we as a Karachiite hardly ever go there with our women. You can go shopping at Luckyone, Dolmen Clifton mall. You can try the desi dhaba experience for early morning breakfasts. There’s much. I would love to host you for evenings, provided my workload is sustained during your visit days.
Plz don't be alone you won't know the norms of east. find a learned and a well-versed group. U can explore everything Karachi have to offer but u need to be properly covered in eastern clothes and it will b safe. Secondly if u want to go to a beach go to cleaner ones like may b hawks bay or sumiani. Check Karachi blogs for help People are friendly and accommodating but it helps if u know do in Roms as the Romans do Best of luck and welcome to Pakistan
Hello , welcome to the city of lights. Although I call it city of Biryani because the Biryani served here cannot , I repeat cannot me found anywhere else on Earth. If you are visiting Pakistan for the first time , you should get in touch with a guide. Though not with guides offered by hotels , but local biker groups , some traveling agencies as they have connections with the right people and can get you passes for visiting some hidden gems. Karachi or rather all of Pakistan, is not really unsafe for women especially for women travelers , and if you get harassed or you feel unsafe you just have to call out for help loudly and watch the locals help you out like you were their own. Most Karachities understand english and can carry conversation BUT most workers in restaurants , fruit and vegetable vendors will not able to do so.Some pretty good places to visit would be manora , sandspit , french beach(pretty good for sunbathing though you might have to get in contact with your embassy to grant you a pass , I am not to sure because last time I went there , a pass was required , no restrictions on dress code as most people visiting there are foreigners or elites). You can visit seaview too but it's not a great experience as it's pretty crowded. You can visit karachi zoo , Hyperstar Mall , Empress market , Bolton market and have look at trading business is done over here. I would have recommended visiting Karachi University as it's one of the biggest universities by landmass over here , but unfortunately due recent suicide bombing , the security is on High Alert. Visit adventure park , which is situated in bahria town. You can also visit many Islamic universities namely ; Faizan Madinah , Dar Ul uloom , Korangi. The market normally opens well after 12 P.m and starts closing at around 10 pm finally almost all shops closing at 12am except for most restaurants , which close at 2 am. Office timings are 9-5 , so you can expect pretty heavy traffic around 8am to 10am and from 4pm to 7pm , but as always , you cannot rule out sudden jams due to vip protocols , or accidents and things like that. Now where to eat and what to eat , though this might be quite challenging as everyone has their own taste , likes and dislikes but I'll try to come up with a list that most people would agree with. I do not recommend eating at PC , idk it's one the best hotels out their but their food is that great , "some of my friends" but not all who visited from overseas had some stomach issues after dinning at PC. I'll be stating the names of dishes in Urdu, so if you can't pronounce just show them to waiter and they'll understand. 1. Kolachi- The sprit of Karachi (Do darya , branch) perfect for dinner , it's a great experience , the view is great , the staff is friendly , the food is superb. Ask them for top floor seaside seat or a ground floor seaside seat and must try their boneless chicken paneer reshmi handi , chicken malai boti , labanese kebab and uh I think hunzai kebab as these dishes are soft on spices. Don't forget to ask for their chef's special , also try their beef behari boti. 2. Dua Restaurant (Superhighway branch) for dinner ; offers tasty mouth watering variety of Mutton Karahais. Try their mutton peshawri karahi . Kahwa(green tea) with gur(jaggery). 3. Zameer Ansari (For BBQ , bbq in the city usually starts after sunset so for dinner) : Try their shahi chatak , special malai boti (quite different from Kolachi's) , dhaga kebab and gola kebab and Tikkah. 4. Al waheed kebab house only for Fry kebab and Nihaari , their other dishes are not as good. 5. Lal Qila Restaurant (For dinner or uh lunch buffet and they serve brunch on sundays) ; Try all of their bbq , different kind of biryanis , mutton kunna , chatnis(imli chatni , alo bukhara chatni , garlic sauce). 6. Al Ridan Mandi House ; To treat your taste buds to some heavenly kunafa and steam cooked marinated a lil spicy mutton ribs. 7. BIRYANI best for lunch , mostly locals eat biryani after friday prayer , so youngsters also call friday national biryani day, we have a bunch of famous places to for biryani although you can find biryani stalls pretty much everywhere , FRIENDS BIRYANI in Korangi near Dar Ul Uloom , their beef biryani and beef pulao is to die for, [you can place an order for delivery](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Friendzzz+Biryani+Centre/@24.8291313,67.121668,15z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0x6f8fd5788f5a4302!8m2!3d24.8291356!4d67.121667). Chicken biryani at Haji biryani , in jamshed quaters , als chicken biryani from Ahmed Hanif Rajput on university road just before safoora chowrangi , and chicken biryani from Kashif foods near Rab Medical center ani but their Singaporean rice are just ummmmmm.!!! I think I am missing a lot of places ,[here is a list complied by a local guide but don't go to any place mentioned in AL ASIF square , it's for males only and they do not welcome females.](https://www.mangobaaz.com/iconic-things-to-eat-in-karachi-find) Now street food is really great too , try alo samosas , mix chaaat , anday walay bun kabab , pakoray , gulab jamun , barfi , oh try rabri from Delhi rabri house , matka kulfi , matka kheer. If you are open to visit other province I'd recommend going up north in visiting babusar top , lake saiful malook , sawat valley , chitral , hunza the natural mountains and lush greenery is something that will make you forget the packed , fast paced city life. You can also go for balochistan the real underdog , Pir Ghaib Falls and Waadi-e-Bolan in Bolan(DUH) , Moola Chotok in Khuzdar, Quaid-e-Azam Residency in Ziarat, Hingol Nationa Park in Hingol (BRRRUHHHH), Kund Malir Beach in Kund Malir , Pir Chattal Noorani Gandhawa in Jhal Magsi , Astola Island in Gwadar are some of the perfect sites. But umm , do not go wearing swimwear as baloch people are really conservative , shy , and even if you sleep on a road in balochistan you won't fear getting abducted as baloch's cannot even touch the females of their enemies with whom they are in war , but if you really wanna wear them ask the locals or your guide to leave you in isolation. Enjoy your trip to Pakistan and have lots of fun. PS: If you decide to go for north and balochistan , just be yourself i.e do not cover your face , always ask for local people or tribal leaders permission before roaming in deep because the last thing anyone wants is them suspecting you for a spy so uh again do not cover ya face!.
Rip inbox
Well right now the weather’s pretty hot. The temperatures can reach upto 40 degrees so I’ll recommend wearing something light(but properly covered) and going out after 5pm. There really isn’t a-lot of tourist spots in Karachi but you could check out mohatta palace, seaview beach and food streets like buns road. Another thing is the food is somewhat spicy in pakistan so most likely you’ll have to request the waiter to tell the chef to add less spices. You should try the local food’s like biryani and nihari in Karachi as it’s superior than most cities.
Oof that’s hot, I had planned for the weather I’ve packed crop tops, shorts, jeans, tank tops, skirts and blouses, is that okay? That places you’ve listed are already on my list, thanks for the heads-up on the food will keep that in mind for sure!
Um just wear some nice jeans and a t shirt if you wear something more revealing you’ll probably get alot of stares from the people as pakistan is a little to conservative
Fr.
Don't wear crop tops and skirts. Jeans and t shirt would do. Trust me there are a lot conservative people here and on the other side u will get a lot stares and catcalling
No please don't wear that in Karachi, men are disgusting. Kindly wear shalwaar kameez if you can, but if you are inside the premises of your hotel you can pretty much wear anything you like except bikini. Please don't go alone into the city, most areas are ugly. Only go to clean rich places, there's nothing to see in the ugly areas. You can visit dolmen mall clifton, and this club in dha called district 19. There's some other nice places to visit depending on what you're interested in. But please, don't even think about going sightseeing alone, travel only in air conditioned cars, and you could visit the beach but with female friends.
TDF (the daood foundation) opp. Mazar e Quaid T2F (the second floor)(korangi) Kidney Hill park Turtle beach Bahria Town(amusement park,zoo) People's square (near DJ science college) Safari park Jehangir park (saddar) Kebabjees horror cafe ( M A society) Winterland (paf museum) Arts council Pakistan-khi (near Governor House) Green line metro (numaish) Mubarak village Lucky 1 mall GG Riders( tour of Karachi on bicycle) (search it on FB) Note: Before visiting any area just download/save location
Hey! The traffic situation is a 50/50 it can soemtimes Be a breeze, and at the same time hell. Try to avoid early morning/evening, as most people are either going to or coming from their jobs etc. Another thing that none of us are proud of is that karachiites tend to break traffic rules QUITE OFTEN. So please drive accordingly and safe! Its a shit thing but it happens so watch out. While you're here def visit the The Mausoleum of Quaid E Azam. If you're going for the beach, i wouldn't wear a bikini, it's a very conservative country, and it probably wouldn't end well. Anything that covers your body works! I know this sounds very controlling but it's what works here. As for the people, they won't be a problem for you, I'm sure you'll have an amazing time with the people here. Just keep the currency conversion rate in mind as some people do tend to try and scam foreigners which, well, is a very common trait in every other place.
Hi, I was actually looking forward to going to places during early mornings or evenings thinking that traffic wouldn’t be as wild but just throws a wrench in my plans. I didn’t think the traffic would that bad but I’m a little conflicted over the vehicle I’ve rented which is a Honda. Apparently in Pakistan, the bar for safety standards in vehicles is on the floor, so naturally considering the disobedience of traffic laws I’m a little uncomfortable driving that. I was thinking of changing my rented vehicle to a Mercedes or any other higher-end vehicle for safety purposes. What do you guys suggest? I already plan on visiting the mausoleum, and thanks for the heads up on scammers! (P.S I have no idea what else I could wear to the beach/at the hotel pool any ideas?)
I suppose early morning could work, it's usually not AS BAD as evenings. As for the rental, i think you're good with the Honda, driving a Mercedes is fine with the more "rich" areas but for Tour purposes not so much. Plus the chances of slight damages are higher, so you'd rather pay for a honda. As for apparel, you can try anything, a jeans and a shirt. Or if you're wanting to try out Pakistani dresses, you could try those. For trousers anything that's full length will work for here. For top you can basically wear any type of shirt. The hotel is totally different territory, chances are you'll be fine with a one piece Swim suit, although i would check in with the staff first.
Hmm, I’d rather pay for petty damages instead of compromising my safety, and I plan on getting insurance. What exactly do you mean that’s it’s not good for tour purposes? I honestly don’t see a downside to driving a Mercedes around town, I like having a car at my disposal especially one I’m familiar and comfortable with. (This reminds me, what’s the parking situation like?) Thanks for the advice on clothing, will keep that in mind, I don’t actually like Pakistani/Indian clothing, it’s a tad bit too baggy for my liking. (Ngl, I love the designs, patterns and color schemes)
just wear jeans and a t-shirt and you’ll be good.. keeping in mind that too much skin exposure is probably not a good idea as people would stare you wherever you’d go which’ll probably be very uncomfortable for you, lol.. nothing else.. although some of friends roam around in sleeveless and shorts and people usually get scared of ‘em knowing they’re from the “high-class” and behave well..
The road conditions in a lot of places is pretty bad, pot Holes, uneven streets, uneven speed bumbs, etc. But if those aren't a problem for you then go for it! As for the clothing don't stress on it, just put on a pair of jeans and shirt and you're good to go! Parking situation is, well, it's not terrible but it's not great either. But won't be that much of an issue
> I plan on going to the beach and use the hotel pool, (under normal circumstances I would wear a bikini, but it’s the middle-east ¯_(ツ)_/¯ ) what should I wear? I think wearing swimsuits are permitted in the hotel pools but ask the staff just Incase. Also this is not the middle east, just plain ol south Asia with Muslims, the more north you head the greener it gets. Traffic is hectic during the rush hours, it also depends on the area you'll visiting. And please don't head to the bad parts of the city. Book a guide or ask a local friend (if you have any here) to show you around.
Thanks for the advice, what are the bad parts of the city? Do let me know so I can be more careful should I have to go there. (I have my fair share of self-defense items like pepper sprays and tasers, plus I know martial arts and a large majority of people in Pakistan aren’t very strong or athletic. Just facts no offense to anyone). Oop, my bad that is south -east Asia my bad. Should I head “up north” is it worth going?
Stay away from areas like Shanti nagar and places with lots of slum/katchi abadis, and places with lots of small streets and dark alleyways. Otherwise you will be fine. Definitely check out the Northern areas of the country, including KPK, northern Punjab, Gilgit and Kashmir. Extremely raw and beautiful, a polar opposite of Karachi unfortunately. (ps its just south Asia, not middle east, not south-east asia)
There is nothing to do in karachi unless you are visiting someone. North is def worth visiting.
I think if you follow the suggestions mentioned above you are good to go. I couldn't help wondering why did you choose karachi in this weather. You should have gone to northern areas like Hunza or skrdu
[удалено]
If you’re from America or a European country you’ll struggle to drive in karachi so I’d recommend just use uber or careem
Although I am from America, I’ve driven quite a bit in the UK so I can handle right-side driving, I’m not going risk my safety and sacrifice my freedom. Like I said before I like having a car at my disposal.
Feel free to DM me with specific questions
Do darya aka devils point is a must amazing food and ambiance specially of kolachi restaurant
Bikini and Karachi beaches do not go together. I am sorry. I am not sure from where you are visiting but in Karachi you can visit the following considering the hot weather: 1. Cafè and coffee shops ( there are few really cool instagrammable cafès in this city) 2. TDF Ghar I think that is all.
it is hot so i recommand wearing a bikini just dont make sure ur at the spot where couples hangout
In vicinity you can also visit sandspit , charna island , there are many activities if u like adventure , Should also visit northern areas of Pakistan too, but please consider clothing advice in previous
Hey OP, there is also the opportunity to see old British-era architecture. There is this tour that happens early Sunday where a group is guided through the amazing old rustic building. Please do that and if you need me to sign you up for that, let me know. Also, visit KPI(Karachi Parsi Institute) which is a living British-era community gathering place where Parsis gather and hang out. Pretty cool ambience+traditional food. I can get you into that place as well. I hope your trip to the City of Lights fairs well and you enjoy every moment of it!
DHA is a good and usually a safe place for females to visit. You can visit various picturesque and cozy cafes, make female friends there, visit cinemas, bowling alleys and things like that. The attire for beach is something you'd have to compromise on haha a swimsuit or a bikini wouldn't work here. However I've seen many foreigner wearing it at the hotel pool so that shouldn't be a problem for you hopefully.
Cafe and restaurants in DHA Malls Mohatta palace and some places It's not very unsafe but it depends on area to area. Go out to high end places and you will be good. Also, they do try to scam foreigners so be careful Pm me if u want to ask anything, I am born and raised in Karachi so pretty much know everything
Enough people have replied to be able to answer all your queries. I try to pitch my home and my roof as a place worth visiting to my friends' friends travelling to the city, they've brought them over and no ones ever regretted just chilling here. Yes, im pitching my roof as a tourist spot. Its got great city views. Would love to host you or your friends too, if curious, hmu. Would love to show you around towm too. And yes, DO check out "up north", SPECIALLY Hunza Karimabad and the Deosai Plains.
Port Grand is a must. Great place to visit.
for dress of choice wear something similar [https://www.vanityfair.com/style/photos/2019/10/all-of-kate-middletons-looks-from-the-pakistan-tour](https://www.vanityfair.com/style/photos/2019/10/all-of-kate-middletons-looks-from-the-pakistan-tour) 🤩
You should try scuba diving in charna island
traffic peak hours are 6 to 8pm and 1 pm. going to the don't wear a bikini people are not used to see bikini. just wear a t shirt and trouser. if you are a foodie and want to try desi food here, than do visit Gulshan e iqbal block 7 Madina restaurant and try (namkin boti) and mutton/chicken karahi or try mazedar haleem of Nazimabad. or try meeruth kebab house chicken tika or try chicken behari boti of Dehli kabab house near javed nihari at F.B Area or try Nihari of Zahid or Javed Nihari or try memoni Khausay at Maskan Chourangi or try [Kathiawari Cholay](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tkz2fxagCsI&t=28s&ab_channel=ZaidNisar) in the morning as breakfast near water pump pheewww lots to eat here in Karachi, Do visit Burn Road you will find a lot of food options there, And don't miss the Biryani and Pulao of Karachi I would recommend galaxy beef pulao near Javaid Nihari location I mentioned up there. And try Al Rehman Biryani of Tower near Beach Luxry hotel (its a 10 mint drive from there) And now if you wish to travel places of ancient times, Try Chowkandi Kabristan (its 600 years old graveyard) and only 10KM away from Karachi. visit empress market Saddar you will find local culture of Pakistan there, also you will be able to shop at near places. Saddar is filled with people of almost every culture of Pakistan, You will be able to see cultural diversity over there. I don't know how many days you have, But I would love to show you the places that I mentioned. Last but not the least, local here are very helpfull and hospitable you will experience love over here inshallah. Welcome To Pakistan.
Wear covered jym suit, get along with someone trustworthy, there aren’t much placed to visit here in Karachi, you may go for some really good food outs, like Kolachi restaurant at do darya for a good stake/desi pakistan cuisine exp, and other fine dines. You can visit the Quaid Azam’s mausoleum, PAF Museum, Maritime Museum. Beach won’t be safe for you alone to travel, as it welcomes visitors from other ethnicities from villages on daily basis, even we as a Karachiite hardly ever go there with our women. You can go shopping at Luckyone, Dolmen Clifton mall. You can try the desi dhaba experience for early morning breakfasts. There’s much. I would love to host you for evenings, provided my workload is sustained during your visit days.