🐾 Traveling to Pakistan with Pets
Pet-Friendly Pakistan
Pakistan offers a welcoming environment for pets, particularly in urban areas and northern regions. Dogs are common companions in the mountains, and many hotels and outdoor spaces accommodate well-behaved animals, though cultural sensitivities should be respected, making it a unique destination for pet owners.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
Dogs, cats, and other pets require an import permit from Pakistan's Department of Animal Quarantine, issued at least 30 days before arrival.
Include microchip identification, rabies vaccination, and a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before entry and remain valid.
Proof of vaccination is required; boosters may be needed if the pet is under 12 weeks old.
Microchip Requirements
All pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Ensure the chip number matches all documents; scanners are available at entry points.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from rabies-free countries may have simplified entry; others require a 30-day quarantine upon arrival.
Check with the Pakistani embassy for country-specific rules and additional tests like antibody titers.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls may face restrictions in urban areas.
Always leash and muzzle if required; consult local authorities in cities like Lahore or Karachi.
Other Pets
Birds, rabbits, and exotic animals need special permits from the Ministry of Climate Change.
CITES documentation is required for endangered species; contact quarantine services for details.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Pakistan on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like walking areas.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Islamabad & Lahore): Urban hotels like Pearl Continental welcome pets for PKR 1,000-3,000/night, with nearby parks. Chains like Ramada are often accommodating.
- Mountain Lodges & Guesthouses (Gilgit-Baltistan): Northern lodges in Hunza and Skardu allow pets at no extra fee, with access to hiking trails. Ideal for adventure with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb listings in major cities frequently permit pets, offering space for animals to move freely.
- Farmstays & Eco-Lodges: Rural stays in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa welcome pets alongside local livestock. Great for families experiencing village life.
- Campsites & Glamping: Sites in northern areas like Fairy Meadows are pet-friendly, with open spaces and mountain views popular among pet owners.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Serena Hotels in Islamabad provide pet amenities including walking services and special diets.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Mountain Hiking Trails
Pakistan's northern mountains offer pet-friendly trails in Margalla Hills and Karakoram ranges.
Leash dogs near wildlife; check permits for national parks like Deosai.
Beaches & Rivers
Clifton Beach in Karachi has pet-friendly sections; northern rivers like Swat allow dog swimming.
Respect local rules; avoid crowded areas during festivals.
Cities & Parks
Islamabad's F-9 Park and Lahore's Bagh-e-Jinnah welcome leashed dogs; outdoor eateries often allow pets.
Karachi's Safari Park permits pets in outdoor areas.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Urban cafés in Lahore and Islamabad provide outdoor seating for pets with water bowls.
Many modern spots in malls welcome well-behaved animals; inquire before entering.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Lahore's Walled City and Islamabad's heritage sites allow leashed pets.
Avoid indoor historical sites; focus on open monuments and bazaars.
Jeep Safaris & Cable Cars
Northern jeep tours to Hunza allow pets; cable cars in Murree may require carriers for PKR 500-1,000.
Book ahead and confirm pet policies with operators.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Pakistan Railways): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs need tickets (PKR 200-500) and must be leashed. Allowed in general compartments.
- Buses & Rickshaws (Urban): Public buses in cities allow small pets free; larger ones PKR 100 with leash. Rickshaws are flexible for short trips.
- Taxis: Most accept pets with notice; Careem and Uber offer pet-friendly options in major cities.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with deposit (PKR 5,000-10,000); SUVs ideal for northern roads and larger pets.
- Flights to Pakistan: PIA and international carriers allow cabin pets under 8kg for PKR 5,000-10,000. Book early and review import rules. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: PIA, Emirates, and Qatar Airways accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for PKR 8,000-15,000. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Lahore (Pet Care Clinic) and Islamabad (Animal Medical Center) offer urgent care.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost PKR 1,000-3,000.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Chains like Pet Shop in Karachi stock food, meds, and accessories across cities.
Pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring prescriptions for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban salons in Islamabad offer grooming for PKR 1,500-4,000 per session.
Daycare available in major cities; hotels can recommend local options.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Lahore and Karachi provide sitting for PKR 2,000-5,000/day.
Hotels arrange trusted sitters; apps like local Facebook groups connect owners.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, parks, and protected areas. Northern trails allow off-leash if controlled away from livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Required for large dogs on public transport in urban areas; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry bags and use bins; fines up to PKR 5,000 for littering in parks.
- Beach & Water Rules: Designated pet areas at beaches; avoid during peak times and respect prayer areas.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating welcomes pets; keep quiet and away from food. Indoor entry rare due to cultural norms.
- National Parks: Leash required near wildlife; seasonal restrictions during migrations (March-May).
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Pakistan
Pakistan for Families
Pakistan's rich culture and diverse landscapes make it ideal for families, with historical sites, adventure parks, and welcoming hospitality. Safe urban areas, interactive museums, and mountain escapes engage kids while parents enjoy the warmth. Facilities include family rooms and child-friendly eateries.
Top Family Attractions
Pakistan Monument (Islamabad)
Iconic landmark with museum, gardens, and panoramic views for family photos.
Entry PKR 200-500; open daily with kid-friendly exhibits on history.
Lahore Zoo (Lahore)
Large zoo with lions, elephants, and aviaries in a historic setting.
Tickets PKR 100-300 adults, PKR 50 kids; full-day fun with picnic areas.
Lahore Fort (Lahore)
Mughal fortress with palaces, museums, and light shows kids adore.
Family tickets PKR 500-1,000; audio guides and open courtyards for exploration.
Karachi Zoo (Karachi)
Interactive zoo with marine exhibits and playgrounds.
Tickets PKR 100-200; suitable for rainy days with educational shows.
Shalimar Gardens (Lahore)
UNESCO gardens with fountains, pavilions, and storytelling sessions.
Entry PKR 200-400; perfect for picnics and cultural immersion.
Adventure Parks (Murree)
Hill station with chairlifts, horse rides, and cable cars for families.
Activities PKR 500-2,000; safe for kids 4+ with scenic views.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Pakistan on Viator. From historical walks to northern adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Islamabad & Lahore): Hotels like Serena offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for PKR 10,000-20,000/night. Includes cribs, kids' menus, and play areas.
- Mountain Resorts (Northern Areas): Family lodges in Swat with kids' activities and guided tours. Properties like PTDC Motel cater to families.
- Farm Holidays: Rural stays in Punjab with animal feeding and cultural shows for PKR 5,000-10,000/night including meals.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in Karachi with kitchens for family meals and space to relax.
- Budget Guesthouses: Affordable family rooms in Peshawar for PKR 3,000-6,000/night with basic amenities.
- Heritage Hotels: Stay in havelis like Sheesh Mahal for a cultural family experience with gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Islamabad with Kids
Monument visits, Lok Virsa Museum, Daman-e-Koh hilltop, and Lake View Park boating.
Picnics and funicular rides make the capital exciting for children.
Lahore with Kids
Fort explorations, food street tastings, Minar-e-Pakistan climbs, and Gulberg parks.
Cultural shows and kite festivals engage young visitors.
Northern Areas with Kids
Hunza Valley jeep rides, fairy meadows hikes, and Attabad Lake boating.
Easy trails and wildlife spotting for family adventures.
Karachi with Kids
Clifton Beach play, Karachi Zoo, and Port Grand amusement.
Marine exhibits and street food keep families entertained.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 5 free; 5-12 half-price with parents. Family seating on Pakistan Railways with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Family passes in Islamabad (PKR 500-1,000/day). Buses and metros are accessible in major cities.
- Car Rentals: Child seats PKR 500-1,000/day; mandatory for under 12. Minivans suit family travel.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas improving with ramps; parks and malls are accessible, but historic sites may have steps.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer child portions of biryani, kebabs for PKR 300-800. High chairs available in urban spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: BBQ places and food streets welcome families with play areas. Lahore's Anarkali Bazaar has variety.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Utility Stores stock baby food and diapers. Fresh fruits from bazaars for healthy meals.
- Snacks & Treats: Local sweets like jalebi and falooda delight kids between sightseeing.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: In malls, hotels, and major attractions with facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English-speaking staff in cities.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange for PKR 1,500-3,000/hour; local agencies available.
- Medical Care: Pediatric hospitals in all cities; emergency dial 15 for ambulance.
♿ Accessibility in Pakistan
Accessible Travel
Pakistan is improving accessibility in urban centers with ramps and adapted transport. Major attractions offer some facilities, and tourism initiatives support barrier-free travel; plan ahead for rural areas.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Pakistan Railways provides wheelchair spaces on select routes; assistance available at stations.
- City Transport: Buses in Lahore and Karachi have low-floor options; rickshaws adaptable for wheelchairs.
- Taxis: Accessible vehicles via apps; standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Islamabad and Lahore airports offer assistance, ramps, and priority services.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Pakistan Monument and Lahore Fort have ramps and elevators in main areas.
- Historic Sites: Walled City tours with accessible paths; some uneven terrain.
- Nature & Parks: Margalla Hills trails with viewpoints; urban parks fully accessible.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for adapted bathrooms and lifts.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
October-March for mild weather in plains and north; avoid summer heat (April-June) and monsoons (July-August).
Winter (Dec-Feb) ideal for mountains with snow activities.
Budget Tips
Family discounts at attractions; use public transport and street food to save.
Picnics and local markets keep costs low for groups.
Language
Urdu official; English common in cities and tourism. Basic Urdu phrases appreciated.
Families find locals helpful and patient with children.
Packing Essentials
Light layers for varied climates, modest clothing, and sun protection. Rain gear for monsoons.
Pet owners: familiar food, leash, waste bags, and vaccination papers.
Useful Apps
Google Maps, Careem for rides, and Pakistan Railways app for trains.
Local weather and translation apps essential.
Health & Safety
Pakistan safe for tourists; drink bottled water. Pharmacies offer advice.
Emergency: 15 for ambulance, 1122 police. Vaccinations recommended.