Overview
Pakistan is one of the most popular destinations for UK travellers heading out to visit family, attend weddings or explore a country of extraordinary landscapes — from the Himalayan and Karakoram peaks in the north to the historic cities of Punjab and the coast at Karachi. With a large British–Pakistani community, demand is high year round, so comparing fares in one place is the smart way to secure the right flight home.
Best time to fly to Pakistan
The most comfortable months are generally October to March, when temperatures across the plains are pleasant. Summers can be extremely hot, while the northern valleys are at their best from late spring to early autumn. Fares rise sharply around the summer school holidays and the festive Eid periods, so travelling outside these peaks usually costs less. Check the price charts on this page for the cheapest dates.
Main gateway cities & airports
The main gateways are Islamabad (ISB), Lahore (LHE) and Karachi (KHI), with Sialkot (SKT), Multan (MUX), Peshawar (PEW) and Faisalabad (LYP) also serving travellers with family across the country.
Airlines and routes
Direct services have operated between the UK and Pakistan, while the majority of travellers connect through the Gulf. Qatar Airways (via Doha), Emirates (via Dubai), Etihad Airways (via Abu Dhabi), Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Saudia and Gulf Air all offer convenient one-stop routes to Pakistan's cities. A direct London–Islamabad flight takes around 7–8 hours; connecting journeys take longer depending on your layover.
Popular places to visit in Pakistan
- Lahore: the Badshahi Mosque, Lahore Fort and Walled City.
- Islamabad: the Faisal Mosque and green Margalla Hills.
- Hunza & Skardu: stunning Karakoram valleys and lakes.
- Karachi: a buzzing coastal metropolis on the Arabian Sea.
- Naran & Kaghan: alpine scenery and Saif-ul-Malook lake.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Pakistan
- Book well ahead for summer and Eid travel — these peaks fill quickly.
- Compare Gulf-hub carriers; a short connection can be noticeably cheaper.
- Consider flying into a nearby city (e.g. Sialkot or Lahore) if it suits your family.
- Be flexible with your dates — midweek departures are often cheaper.
Travel essentials
- Visa: most UK travellers need a visa; Pakistan operates an online e-visa system, and British nationals of Pakistani origin may hold a POC/NICOP allowing visa-free entry.
- Currency: the Pakistani rupee (PKR).
