Hold on to your passports and grab a map, because we’re about to take a touristy ride through the countries near Pakistan! From the snowy mountain ranges of Afghanistan to the bustling streets of India, this region is packed with fascinating cultures, stunning landscapes, and more delicious food than you can shake a naan at.
As we know, four countries border Pakistan. Starting clockwise, Pakistan borders China in the northeast, India in the east and southeast (formerly known as British India out of which Pakistan was formed), Iran to the west, and Afghanistan to the northwest and north. It is surrounded by the Arabian Sea in the south. However, Pakistan also shares the Indian subcontinent territory with countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, Srilanka, and Bhutan, as well as Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and so on in South Asia.
Note: We will not include India, Iran, and Afghanistan in this list due to various travel restrictions in place because of Pakistan’s ongoing conflicts and diplomatic tensions with these countries.
But back to our journey. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, there’s something for everyone in South Asia and the other countries near Pakistan. So buckle up, grab your passport, and let’s go explore!
Travel To These Countries Near Pakistan
#1 China
The diplomatic relationship between Pakistan and China (چین) is often described as being ‘all-weather friends.’ Traveling from Pakistan to China is a thrilling adventure, but requires a bit of planning and preparation. Pakistani citizens need to obtain a visa to enter China by applying at the Chinese embassy or consulate in Pakistan. The visa process can take a few weeks, so it’s best to plan ahead.
Flights are available from major Pakistani cities like Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi to major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. The average ticket price for a round-trip flight can range from PKR 50,000 to PKR 80,000, depending on the airline and season. Another option is to take a road journey via the Khunjerab Pass, which is the highest paved international border crossing in the world. This option is more time-consuming and requires a bit of planning, but offers stunning views of the Himalayan Mountains. Protip: The Pakistan border with China is closed on the weekend, so plan your trip accordingly.
There are plenty of sightseeing options to explore, from the Great Wall of China to the Terracotta Warriors, the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Yangtze River, and the modern skyline of Shanghai.
#2 Tajikistan
Traveling from Pakistan to Tajikistan (تاجکستان) can be a unique and adventurous experience for those looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the countries in Central Asia. You can apply for a tourist visa through the Tajikistan embassy or an e-visa online.
Flights are available from Islamabad to Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan. The average ticket price for a round-trip flight can range from PKR 70,000 to PKR 120,000, depending on the airline and season. For budget options, there are also several bus services available that connect Pakistan to Tajikistan through the Khunjerab Pass. However, this option requires multiple visas, including a Chinese visa and a Tajik visa.
Tajikistan has a lot of natural beauty to explore – from the towering Pamir Mountains to the beautiful Iskanderkul Lake. Tajikistan is also world-famous for its cultural heritage sites and warm hospitality. The ancient city of Khujand is a must-see.
#3 Uzbekistan
Traveling from Pakistan to Uzbekistan (ازبیکستان) is a relatively easy process, with several travel options available. Pakistani citizens can get their tourist visas from the Uzbek embassy or apply for an e-visa online. The most common way to travel from Pakistan to Uzbekistan is by air, with flights available from major Pakistan cities like Islamabad to Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan.
The average ticket price for a round-trip flight can range from PKR 50,000 to PKR 80,000. Not only that, several bus services connect Pakistan to Uzbekistan through the Torkham border. The ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva in Uzbekistan are famous for their Islamic architecture and history, which interests many Pakistani travelers.
#4 UAE (United Arab Emirates)
Pakistani nationals ought to enter the UAE (متحدہ عرب امارات) with a proper tourist visa, which can be obtained through the embassy or by applying for an e-visa online. Several airlines offer flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The average ticket price for a round-trip flight can range from PKR 30,000 to PKR 70,000. You can also opt for one-stop flights with a layover in a nearby country like Oman or Qatar.
UAE, particularly Dubai, offers plenty of sightseeing options to explore, including the iconic Burj Khalifa, the luxurious shopping malls, and the beautiful beaches. The UAE is also famous for its desert safari tours, amusement parks, and cultural heritage sites – a country with a unique blend of modernity and tradition.
#5 Bahrain
Bahrain (بحرین) can be a fantastic experience for those interested in exploring the history, culture, and beautiful landscapes of the Gulf region. As a Pakistani citizen, one would be required to apply for a tourist visa to Bahrain through the embassy or apply for an e-visa online.
The average ticket price for a round-trip flight can range from PKR 30,000 to PKR 60,000, depending on the airline and season. You can also opt for connecting flights with layovers in cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Bahrain is a country located in West Asia with plenty of sightseeing options to explore. You can visit the Bahrain Fort, the Al-Fateh Mosque, and the Tree of Life.
#6 Turkey
Pakistani nationals need a tourist visa to enter Turkey (ترکی). One can apply at the Turkish embassy or consulate in Pakistan. You can book a round trip to major Turkish cities such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Antalya on an average ticket price of PKR 70,000 to PKR 100,000. Many airlines offer one-stop flights to Turkey with a layover in a nearby country like Qatar or Dubai.
The beautiful country of Turkey is bejeweled with the ancient ruins of Ephesus, the stunning beaches of Antalya, and the bustling streets of Istanbul. Turkey is a land world-famous for its delicious cuisine, bazaars, and historical landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
#7 Sri Lanka
Pakistanis can apply for an e-visa online or obtain a visa on arrival at the Sri Lankan airport. You can book a round trip for PKR 50,000 to PKR 80,000 on average to and from Colombo. Several airlines offer one-stop flights to Sri Lanka (سری لنکا) with a layover in a nearby country like Qatar or Dubai.
There are plenty of places to visit in Sri Lanka, including the stunning beaches of Mirissa and Unawatuna, the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, and the wildlife reserves of Yala National Park. Sri Lanka is also a country most famous for its delicious cuisine, tea plantations, and cultural festivals.
#8 Maldives
Traveling from Pakistan to the Maldives (مالدیپ) can be a memorable experience for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the islands. Pakistani citizens do not require a visa to enter the Maldives for a stay of up to 30 days.
Several airlines operate from Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi to Malé, the capital of the Maldives. The average ticket price for a round-trip flight can range from PKR 50,000 to PKR 80,000, depending on the airline and season. You can also opt for one-stop flights to the Maldives with a layover in a nearby country like Sri Lanka or Dubai.
Maldives is a heaven for marine lovers with its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and marine life. It also offers luxurious resorts, water sports, and underwater activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
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