Have you ever considered Pakistan as a travel destination?
If you have and wondered when the best time to go is and what there is to do then you have come to the right place.
Pakistan is a country that offers a lot for the intrepid traveller, an amazing destination with an incredible range of landscapes, from the stunning mountain ranges of the Himalayas and Karakoram in the north to beautiful green valleys and deserts in the south. If you love nature and adventure you’ll find that Pakistan has something for you.
It also has a deep cultural heritage with influences from a variety of civilizations, including the Indus Valley, Mughal and Persian, all of this can be seen in its art, architecture and in the warm hospitality of the local people who are known for being incredibly warm and welcoming.
And lets not forget the food, from the aromatic biryani to kebabs and curries, the food in Pakistan is amazing!
Pakistan is also home to several historical and archaeological sites, the Mohenjo-Daro, Taxila and the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore are just a few, explore these sites and journey through history. I could go on, there is so much more on offer, but let’s first look at when is the best time to go:
When is the best time to go to Pakistan?
Peak Season in Pakistan (April to October)
The peak season is generally from late spring to early autumn when the temperatures can get quite warm but it varies by region so let's break it down.
Northern Areas
In places like Gilgit-Baltistan and the Hunza Valley, the peak season falls between June and August. During this time, temperatures can range from 20°C (68°F) during the day to 10°C (50°F) at night, generally pleasant for outdoor activities and trekking.
Punjab and Sindh
In cities like Lahore and Karachi, the peak season is from April to September. Summers can be quite hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F) and sometimes even going above 40°C (104°F).
Balochistan
Quetta, in particular, has a peak season from late spring to early autumn with temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F), relatively mild compared to other parts of Balochistan.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
In cities like Peshawar, the peak season is from April to September. Summers here can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 30°C (86°F) to 40°C (104°F).
Things to do in Pakistan during the peak season
- The northern regions of Pakistan, Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have fantastic opportunities to go hiking and trekking during its peak season and you can explore the stunning landscapes of places like Hunza Valley, Fairy Meadows and Naran-Kaghan.
- Many cultural festivals take place during these months including Shandur Polo Festival and Kalash Spring Festival that provide a glimpse into Pakistan's rich cultural heritage.
- For the more experienced climber, Pakistan is famous for its challenging peaks, including K2, which is not only the second-highest mountain in the world but one of the most dangerous to climb, a dream destination for mountaineers during the peak season.
- Visit historical sites like Mohenjo-Daro, Taxila and the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore.
- Head to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, such as Margalla Hills National Park and Deosai National Park where you can see some amazing wildlife and birds.
Remember to check the specific dates and events happening during your visit, as Pakistan's cultural calendar is rich and diverse.
Low Season in Pakistan (May to September)
The low season typically spans from May to September. The weather during these months can be quite hot and humid in most parts of the country. Temperatures can get very high, especially in the cities like Lahore and Karachi, often reaching well above 30°C (86°F) and sometimes even above 40°C (104°F).
Northern regions
You can escape the heat of this time of year by visiting the northern regions of Pakistan in areas like Gilgit-Baltistan and the mountains, they are a lot more pleasant during this season as the temperatures stay relatively mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), so a great time to explore the the Himalayas and Karakoram ranges.
Eastern regions
The monsoon season also affects parts of Pakistan during these months, primarily in the eastern regions like Punjab and Sindh so you can expect heavy rains that can lead to flooding with high humidity if you choose to travel during this time.
So, if you do plan to visit Pakistan during the low season, it's probably better to go to the northern regions to escape the scorching heat, or be prepared for the warmth and potential rain in the rest of the country. It is however a time when there are fewer crowds so you may get better deals on accommodations and travel, but be aware of the weather conditions in the region you intend to go to.
Things to do in Pakistan during the low season
Pakistan during the low season still has plenty of fascinating experiences to enjoy. While Pakistan's peak tourist season is typically during the spring and early autumn, the low season, which includes the summer and winter months, has its own unique charm.
- Visiting Pakistan's cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad even during the low season is definitely worth it. Visit the historic sites, museums and bazaars and don't forget to try the street food!
- The northern regions of Pakistan are less crowded during the low season so you can explore the stunning landscapes of places like Hunza Valley, Skardu and Swat. The mountains look beautiful covered in snow during winter, visiting during this time can be a wonderful experience.
- Local cultural festivals or events that may be happening are worth checking out during your visit as these are great ways to become immersed in Pakistani traditions and connect with the locals.
- Trekking in Pakistan is incredible all year round and in the low season the trails will be less crowded.
- Visit historical sites like Mohenjo-Daro, Taxila, and Badshahi Mosque.
- Engage with the locals, fewer tourists mean more opportunities to engage and learn about their culture.
Remember to check the weather and local conditions before planning your trip, as the low season may have varying weather patterns in different parts of Pakistan.
Shoulder season in Pakistan (March to May and September to November)
Pakistan's shoulder season typically falls in the spring and autumn months.
Spring (March to May)
In spring, which is from March to May, the weather is nice with mild daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) in most parts of the country, a great time to explore the cultural and historical sites as well as to go trekking in the northern regions.
Autumn (September to November)
The autumn shoulder season in Pakistan occurs from September to November. Autumn has temperatures similar to spring, making it another ideal time to explore Pakistan, with daytime temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), Autumn has clear skies with cooler evenings, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
In both these shoulder seasons, the climate is generally dry so travelling in these periods means avoiding the extreme heat of summer and the cold of winter. It's a fantastic time to visit Pakistan.
Things to do in Pakistan during the shoulder season
- Hiking in the Himalayas. The shoulder season is a good time to go, the weather in the northern regions is a lot milder and in places like the Hunza Valley, Fairy Meadows or Swat Valley the landscapes are breathtaking plus there are fewer tourists.
- Visit the cultural hub of Lahore. You can explore the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort and wander round the vibrant streets of the Old City.
- If you prefer a peaceful getaway, head to Murree in the shoulder season. It's a lovely hill station, offering tranquility and stunning landscapes.
- Head to Karachi as Clifton Beach and French Beach are great spots to relax and get involved in water sports during the shoulder season.
- Explore the historical sites of Taxila, Mohenjo-Daro, and others during this season as the temperature makes it a lot more pleasant.
Remember, during the shoulder season it's important to check weather conditions and local guidelines as they can vary across different regions of Pakistan.
When is the best time to visit Southern Pakistan?
The best time to visit the southern part of Pakistan region is during the winter months, from November to February as the weather is a lot more pleasant with milder temperatures.
The summer months, from April to September, can be extremely hot and humid, not ideal for outdoor activities or for wandering around towns and cities so visiting during the winter season means you be able to appreciate the local culture, historical sites and natural beauty without the discomfort of extreme heat.
When is the best time to visit Lahore?
Lahore is known as the cultural capital of Pakistan and has varying seasons so the best time to visit will depend on what you want to do. If you prefer mild and more pleasant weather then consider going between November and February when the temperature is relatively cool.
On the other hand, if you want to experience the vibrant culture of Lahore then plan your trip during spring (March to April) when the city comes to life with the famous Lahore Festival. The weather during this time is usually comfortable.
Summers (May to September) in Lahore can be quite hot and humid, so it's best to avoid this period unless you're prepared for the heat. Overall, the best time to visit Lahore largely depends on your weather preferences and the kind of experience you're seeking.
Which month is very hot in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, the hottest months are usually May and June when the temperatures can soar, especially in the plains of Punjab and Sindh. Bear in mind that the northern regions, such as the mountainous areas like Gilgit-Baltistan, are much cooler during this time, if you want to escape the heat so if you are planning a visit, its probable best to go during the cooler months to be more comfortable.
When is the Monsoon Season in Pakistan?
The monsoon season in Pakistan typically occurs from July to September with increased rainfall in various parts of the country so some areas may become difficult to access due to flooding, others though will have beautiful and green landscapes so it's a season of contrasts and travellers should plan depending on their preferences for weather and experiences.
Conclusion
Pakistan is an amazing destination and whenever you visit there’ll be plenty to explore but for a more comfortable experience the best time to go is probably during the cooler winter months and the shoulder seasons unless you are travelling to the northern regions which are generally cooler all year round.