Flag of Pakistan

Pakistan

Watchlist / CautionStrict visa regime194th of 194 · Tier 3 Trade Partner · trade rank 115

Geopolitically Strained Trade Relationship

20/ 100 BFI
Band cut
0
Countries in band
7

The seven measures behind Pakistan's 20

Each is scored 0–100, where higher is always better. Open a row to read the analysis behind its number.

The seven measures behind Pakistan’s score, each out of 100.
MeasureScore
10
55
38
5
0
25
15

Bonus considerations — useful, but they do not affect the score

These two are worked out for every country as context for a trip. They are not part of the 20 above, and nothing here can move it in either direction.

Affordabilitynot counted10

Higher means cheaper for an Indian traveller.

Vegetarian-friendlinessnot counted90

Higher means easier to eat vegetarian.

Why Pakistan?

The standing assessment behind the public sentiment reading of 5, rewritten at each refresh.

India-Pakistan relations, as reflected in recent news and public discourse from the last 30 days, exhibit an openly hostile and severely tense sentiment, marking a significant deterioration from the previously fragile state. The diplomatic and official rhetoric from Pakistan is deeply adversarial. Pakistan continues to relentlessly internationalize the Kashmir issue, with its embassy observing 'Kashmir Day' and reaffirming support for a solution under UNSC resolutions. Pakistan's Foreign Office explicitly rejected India's comments on internal developments in 'Azad Jammu and Kashmir' (AJK) as interference in its internal affairs, while reaffirming its stance on self-determination for Jammu and Kashmir. Critically, Pakistan's Defence Minister publicly labeled India as an 'enduring adversary' and accused both India and Israel of a long-standing military partnership against Pakistan. On the Indus Waters Treaty, Pakistan continues to perceive India's abeyance of the treaty as 'illegal' and a potential 'act of war,' issuing warnings against 'weaponising water.' There has been no indication of Pakistan acknowledging any issue as 'India's internal matter' in a manner that would benefit India; instead, it has accused India of interference.

Reasons to visit

Pakistan, often overlooked by many travelers, holds immense potential as an intrepid destination, particularly for those with an appreciation for breathtaking natural beauty, ancient history, and unparalleled hospitality. While travel for Indian tourists has unique geopolitical considerations, for those able to navigate them, Pakistan offers a truly enriching experience. Based on general observations, the country boasts a Very High Friendliness Index, with locals renowned for their warmth and generosity towards visitors, eager to share their culture and traditions. The Safety Score in key tourist regions has seen significant improvements, making popular destinations increasingly accessible and secure for exploration, though vigilance, as with any travel, is advised. Its Low Popularity Score among global tourists (and particularly for Indian tourists due to historical context) positions Pakistan as an extraordinary off-the-beaten-path gem. This means fewer crowds and a more authentic, immersive journey into a land of dramatic mountain ranges, lush valleys, vibrant historical cities, and ancient civilizations, all waiting to be discovered.

Where Indian travellers go

  1. 1Lahore
  2. 2Hunza Valley (Gilgit-Baltistan)
  3. 3Islamabad

Worth knowing

  • Pakistan is home to K2, the world's second-highest mountain, and three other peaks over 8,000 meters, making it a paradise for mountaineers and trekkers.
  • The country boasts ancient sites of the Indus Valley Civilization, including Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa, which are among the world's earliest major urban settlements.
  • The Karakoram Highway, often called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World', connects Pakistan and China, running through some of the most rugged and spectacular terrain on Earth.

In the record

Band
Watchlist / Caution
Trade rank
115
Trade volume
$0.4B
Share of India’s trade
0.03%
GDP
$407.3B