Pakistan Is Surging The Tourism Industry With New Visa Free … | kbnmart

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Pakistan, an intriguing gem in Asia, remains a hidden treasure for many travelers, yet those who venture to its lands rave about its historical landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, delectable cuisine, and deeply intricate cultural tapestry. While visiting this country may present some hurdles, the journey is becoming increasingly accessible thanks to enhanced security measures and relaxed visa policies.

For those seeking the thrill of exploring one of Asia’s authentic frontiers, away from the typical tourist routes, here is your comprehensive guide on obtaining a visa for Pakistan

Tourism Surge :

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has identified Pakistan as the top-performing tourism destination in the initial three quarters of 2023. With a remarkable 115% surge in international visitor numbers compared to the previous year, Pakistan’s tourism sector contributed approximately $1.3 billion in foreign exchange revenue. This boost has brought the country’s tourism activity to 92% of its pre-pandemic levels.

GDP :

In economic terms, the worldwide per capita GDP in 2022 stood at about $12,647. In contrast, Pakistan recorded a per capita GDP of $1,589, contributing to a national GDP of $374.70 billion.

Top 3 Airports in Pakistan:

1. Karachi Jinnah International Airport: As Pakistan’s busiest airport for both international and domestic flights, Jinnah International Airport in Karachi saw over 7 million passengers in the fiscal year 2017-2018. Managed by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), it serves as a central hub for Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and other private carriers, boasting facilities for aircraft engineering and overhauls.
2. Islamabad International Airport: Serving the capital city Islamabad and nearby Rawalpindi, Islamabad International Airport, also known as Gandhara International Airport, is located 25 km southwest of Islamabad, connected via Srinagar Highway.
3. Lahore Allama Iqbal International Airport: Ranking as the third largest in Pakistan by traffic, this airport serves Lahore, Punjab’s capital, and is a key gateway for travelers from other regions of the province. Named after the esteemed philosopher Dr. Allama Iqbal, it features multiple terminals including the Hajj and cargo terminals.

Airlines Operating in Pakistan:

• Pakistan International Airlines: This government-owned flag carrier operates from Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport, with secondary hubs in Lahore and Islamabad, covering over 20 domestic and 27 international destinations.
• Airblue: Based in Islamabad, this private airline connects major domestic locations and extends its reach to Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
• Serene Air: Commencing operations in 2017, this private airline primarily serves domestic routes and expanded internationally with flights to the UAE in 2021.
• AirSial: Initiated by the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry, AirSial aims to enhance connectivity from Sialkot, a significant industrial hub, focusing on domestic and potential Middle Eastern routes.
• Fly Jinnah: A collaborative low-cost carrier by Pakistan’s Lakson Group and the UAE’s Air Arabia, Fly Jinnah serves domestic routes from its Karachi base.

Here are the 49 Countries that can travel visa-free to Pakistan

Diplomatic & Official Passport Holders

1. Argentina – Three Months
2. Azerbaijan – One Month
3. Bahrain – Three Months
4. Brunei Dar-us-Salam – One Month
5. Cyprus – Three Months
6. Germany – Three Months
7. Iran – Three Months
8. China (including Hong Kong) – *Three Months / One Month
9. Kazakhstan – Three Months
10. Lao PDR – Three Months
11. Malta – One Month
12. Mexico – Three Months
13. Norway – Three Months
14. Romania – **One Month
15. South Korea – Three Months
16. Sri Lanka – One Month
17. Russia – Three Months / Entire period of Assignment
18. Tunisia – One Month
19. Turkey – Three Months
20. Vietnam – Three Months

Diplomatic Passport Holders

1. Austria – One Month
2. Belgium – Three Months
3. Brazil – Three Months
4. Denmark – Three Months
5. Egypt – One Month
6. Finland – Three Months
7. Georgia – Three Months
8. Kyrgyz Republic – Two Months
9. Luxemburg – Three Months
10. Netherlands – Three Months
11. Philippines – Three Months
12. Poland – Three Months
13. Serbia – One Month
14. Slovakia Republic – One Month
15. Thailand – Three Months
16. Turkmenistan – One Month
17. Tajikistan – Three Months

Diplomatic & Service Official Passport Holders

1. Belarus – Three Months
2. Czech Republic – Three Months
3. Cuba – Three Months
4. Indonesia – One Month
5. Morocco – Three Months
6. Senegal – Three Months

Diplomatic Holders

1. Jordan – One Month
2. Malaysia – One Month

Diplomatic Special & Official Passport Holders

1. Kuwait – Three Months
2. Yemen – Three Months

All Nationals of the Country

1. Maldives – One Month
2. Nepal – One Month

Top five hotels

1. Pearl Continental Hotel Karachi: Nestled in Karachi’s vibrant heart, this hotel is a haven of sophistication with its stunning Arabian Sea views and commitment to excellent service and luxurious amenities.
2. Islamabad Serena Hotel: The Islamabad Serena stands out with its striking architecture and verdant gardens, offering a tranquil escape in the capital. It’s celebrated for its diverse dining options and rejuvenating spa facilities.
3. Avari Lahore Hotel: In Lahore’s heart, this hotel fuses traditional design with contemporary comforts, offering a plush stay complemented by outstanding dining experiences.
4. Marriott Karachi Hotel: Situated close to Karachi’s commercial hub, this hotel is tailored for business travelers, featuring extensive business facilities alongside superb dining and service.
5. Zaver Pearl-Continental Hotel Gwadar: Dramatically located on a rocky cliff in Gwadar, this hotel provides breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea, blending luxury with picturesque surroundings.

Neighboring Countries of Pakistan:

Pakistan is bordered by four countries: China, Afghanistan, India, and Iran. Additionally, it is almost connected to Tajikistan by the narrow Wakhan Corridor. Altogether, Pakistan’s land borders stretch approximately 7,307 kilometers (4,540.4 miles), not including its coastal boundaries.

Unknown Facts About Pakistan:

1. Pakistan is the proud home of K2, the world’s second-highest peak, standing at 8,611 meters (28,251 feet).
2. The Port of Gwadar in Pakistan is recognized as the world’s largest deep-sea port.
3. The Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan is the largest salt mine on the globe.
4. The ancient Indus Valley Civilization, one of the earliest and most influential, was centered in what is now Pakistan.

Top Tourist Destinations in Pakistan:

• Lahore: Known for its historical sites like the Lahore Fort and culinary delights in Food Street.
• Karimabad (Hunza Valley): Offers trekking to Rakaposhi and visits to ancient forts like Baltit.
• Islamabad and Rawalpindi: Features landmarks such as Faisal Mosque and shopping in traditional bazaars.
• Skardu: Known for adventure sports and visits to tranquil lakes like Shangrila.
• Multan: Famous for its Sufi spiritual sites and local crafts like Multani pottery.