Where to Stay in Pakistan
A regional guide to accommodation across the country
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Regions of Pakistan
Each region offers a distinct character and accommodation scene. Find the one that matches your travel plans.
Pakistan's purpose-built capital offers the country's most developed accommodation infrastructure with numerous international chains, diplomatic-standard hotels, and modern business properties. The twin cities provide reliable, comfortable options with excellent facilities, though prices are among the highest in Pakistan. This region serves as the primary gateway for northern mountain expeditions.
Lahore, Multan, and surrounding historic cities offer Pakistan's finest heritage accommodation, including restored havelis, colonial-era hotels, and properties within walled old cities. This region combines cultural immersion with diverse options from backpacker hostels to palatial heritage hotels. The accommodation scene reflects Punjab's rich Mughal and Sikh history.
Pakistan's premier mountain tourism region features rapidly developing accommodation from basic village guesthouses to boutique mountain lodges with spectacular views. Properties range from simple family-run guesthouses offering authentic hospitality to eco-conscious lodges catering to international trekkers. Advance booking is essential during peak season as options remain limited compared to demand.
The scenic valleys of Swat, Chitral, Kaghan, and Naran offer a mix of government rest houses, local hotels, and growing boutique properties. This region has seen significant tourism development with improving standards, though accommodation remains simpler than major cities. The area serves adventure seekers and domestic tourists seeking mountain retreats.
Pakistan's largest city and economic hub offers the country's most diverse accommodation, from international luxury chains along the coastline to budget hotels in central districts. Karachi provides business-standard facilities, while interior Sindh cities like Hyderabad and Thatta offer more limited, locally-run options. The region serves as the main entry point for southern Pakistan exploration.
Pakistan's largest but least developed province for tourism offers limited accommodation concentrated in Quetta and Gwadar. Options are primarily functional hotels catering to business travelers and government officials, with few tourist-oriented properties. Travelers should have realistic expectations about facilities and book verified accommodations in advance due to security considerations.
This scenic region offers growing accommodation options in Muzaffarabad and popular hill stations like Neelum Valley. Properties range from government-run TDCP hotels to private guesthouses and resorts, with standards improving as domestic tourism increases. The region attracts visitors seeking cooler climates and natural beauty, particularly during summer months.
This region encompassing Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan, and the Cholistan Desert offers unique desert accommodation experiences alongside heritage properties in princely cities. Options include desert camps, restored forts, and city hotels, though tourist infrastructure remains developing. The area appeals to those seeking off-the-beaten-path cultural experiences.
Pakistan's emerging coastal tourism region features basic accommodation in Gwadar and limited options along the dramatic Makran coastline. Infrastructure is developing rapidly with Gwadar's port expansion, but current options remain simple. This area suits adventurous travelers willing to accept basic facilities in exchange for pristine beaches and unique landscapes.
This region surrounding Islamabad includes historical sites like Taxila and salt range destinations. Accommodation is limited to basic hotels in towns like Jhelum and Chakwal, plus some tourist rest houses near archaeological sites. The area serves primarily as day-trip territory from Islamabad or overnight stops for overland travelers.
Accommodation Landscape
What to expect from accommodation options across Pakistan
International chains including Marriott, Serena Hotels, Pearl Continental (PC), and Avari operate in major cities, offering reliable standards and familiar amenities. Serena Hotels, while international, has particularly strong presence with properties designed to reflect local architecture and culture. Local chains like PC Hotels and Hospitality Inn provide mid-range to upscale options across provincial capitals. Most international chains concentrate in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore, with limited presence elsewhere.
Locally-run hotels and guesthouses form the backbone of Pakistan's accommodation, particularly outside major cities. These range from simple family guesthouses in northern areas offering authentic hospitality and home-cooked meals, to city hotels providing functional rooms at competitive prices. Many are unlisted on international booking platforms, requiring direct contact or local assistance. Quality varies significantly, but hosts typically demonstrate exceptional warmth and helpfulness. In mountain regions, community-based tourism initiatives have created networks of homestays offering cultural immersion.
Pakistan offers several distinctive accommodation types: traditional havelis (restored courtyard mansions) in Lahore and Multan provide heritage experiences with intricate woodwork and period furnishings; PTDC (Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation) motels and rest houses at scenic locations offer government-run lodging, though requiring advance booking; mountain guesthouses in Gilgit-Baltistan feature traditional architecture with modern amenities; desert camps in Cholistan and Thar provide glamping experiences; colonial-era dak bungalows (rest houses) still operate in some areas; and serais (traditional caravanserais) have been converted to guesthouses along historic routes.
Booking Tips for Pakistan
Country-specific advice for finding the best accommodation
Accommodation in Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza, Swat, and other mountain regions fills up months ahead during peak season (May-September). Popular guesthouses and lodges have limited rooms, and last-minute travelers often struggle to find quality options. Book at least 2-3 months ahead for summer travel, and confirm reservations directly as some properties don't reliably update online availability.
Check current travel advisories and verify accommodation locations, particularly in Balochistan and border regions. Consult your embassy or reliable local contacts about specific areas. In cities, choose accommodations in established neighborhoods, and in remote areas, select properties recommended by recent travelers or reputable tour operators.
Many excellent guesthouses and heritage properties in Pakistan aren't listed on international booking platforms or maintain limited online presence. WhatsApp and direct phone contact often yield better rates and service. Local tourism boards and travel forums can provide current recommendations. For government rest houses and PTDC properties, booking through official channels is necessary.
Some areas, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan and near borders, require special permits that accommodations may help arrange. Inform properties in advance if you're visiting restricted zones. Government rest houses in certain regions only accept bookings from those with official business or special permissions. Always carry identification and permit copies as hotels must register foreign guests.
Many mountain accommodations close entirely from November to March due to weather and road closures. Coastal properties may reduce services during extreme summer heat. Always confirm operational status before booking off-season travel, as online listings may not reflect seasonal closures. Some heritage properties in cities close for renovations during low season.
While major hotels accept international credit cards, many guesthouses and smaller properties operate cash-only, preferring Pakistani Rupees. ATM availability is limited in remote areas, so carry sufficient cash. Some properties accept bank transfers or mobile payment apps like EasyPaisa. Confirm payment methods when booking, especially for mountain regions where card facilities are rare.
When to Book
Timing matters for both price and availability across Pakistan
For northern mountain areas (May-September), book 2-3 months in advance as quality accommodations are limited and demand is high. During Eid holidays (dates vary), book any accommodation nationwide at least 1-2 months ahead as domestic tourism surges and prices increase significantly. Heritage properties in Lahore during cultural festivals also require advance booking.
March-April and October-November see moderate demand in most regions. Booking 2-4 weeks ahead provides good selection and rates, particularly in cities. Northern areas become accessible in late March/April with fewer crowds, while October offers post-monsoon clarity. This period offers the best balance of availability and value.
Winter months (December-February) for northern regions see closures, but cities offer excellent availability and rates. Summer (June-August) in southern cities like Karachi sees reduced demand and lower prices. Last-minute bookings are generally possible, though options in small towns remain limited. Verify operational status as some properties close or reduce services.
Book 4-6 weeks ahead for city hotels during normal periods, 2-3 months for mountain areas during peak season, and always book well before Eid holidays regardless of destination. For government rest houses and PTDC properties, book as early as possible as they have limited rooms and bureaucratic booking processes. Heritage properties and popular guesthouses benefit from early booking year-round.
Good to Know
Local customs and practical information for Pakistan