Pakistan Overland: Travel and Safety Tips

As a land of extreme natural landscapes, unstable politics, and a variety of hospitable and not-so-hospitable tribes, it's important to know what you're getting into when you decide to plan an overland journey across Pakistan. The Islamic Republic is part of the popular Iran to India route, as well as India to China and Central Asia via the Karakoram Highway. Here's some important information to know before you set out on your trip.

Tourist Visas

Most travelers driving through Pakistan will need a valid tourist visa. Tourist visas are not granted on arrival and must be applied for in advance from a Pakistani Embassy or Consulate. Unfortunately, the visa (a maximum of three months, possibly less), starts from the day it is stamped in your passport. If you're planning to spend six months driving from Europe through Turkey and Iran, then you'll have to wait and get your Pakistani visa in Iran so you don't lose the time.

If you arrive in Pakistan and want to stay longer than three months, you can extend it for three additional months. See how to do that here: Renewal of Tourist Visas in Pakistan.

Iran to India Route

The majority of overlanders cross central Pakistan with the goal of getting to Iran or India. If you enter Pakistan from Iran, there's a hot, dusty, deserted stretch up until Quetta. Be sure to start early and bring plenty of water, and don't be surprised if you need to hire an armed police escort to accompany you. When you reach Quetta, you may be tempted to take the shorter route via Loralai on to Multan. Don't do it. Since the war in Aghanistan, the Taliban and Al-Qaeda have come back to Pakistan, and that is their neighborhood. There are numerous documented terrorist training camps along this road, and you don't want to serve as a target for a suicide bombing squad or end up getting an exclusive interview with senior Al-Qaeda members in a cave somewhere.

Instead, head south from Quetta towards Sukkur and then northeast to Multan. From Multan, head on to Lahore and be sure to spend a few days there. From Lahore's it's a short jaunt to the border. Again, you must have a visa to enter India.

India to China Route

If it's summer time, and the Khunjerab pass is open, you can travel from India to China via the Karakoram Highway. Cross over the Attari/Wagha border and enjoy some time in the former Mughal capital, Lahore. Then drive north towards the entrance of the Karakoram Highway. You can stop by Islamabad if you need a China visa, a dash of civilized driving or upscale restaurants. Travel up the KKH to Gilgit, be sure to spend some time in Hunza, and then cross into China at Khunjerab.

For tips on driving the Karakoram Highway, check this article out.

Driving across Pakistan is not a feat to be attempted by the faint of heart. Even Pakistanis who have made the trip do not recommend it. One man said, "If you love your life, do not drive from Lahore to Iran." Since the War in Afghanistan and the deteriorating security situation in Pakistan, the threat to foreigners and locals has become more serious. Consider traveling by public transport rather than your own vehicle if you want to be a bit less conspicuous. Warnings aside, Pakistan is an intriguing country where you'll meet some of the most hospitable people you'll ever come across in your travels.