Best Pakistani Places for a Family Trip: A Complete Travel Guide for Memorable Vacations
Pakistan is a country full of wonders—majestic mountains, bustling cities, historic forts, peaceful valleys, and sandy beaches. It’s a land where culture, hospitality, and natural beauty come together, making it a wonderful destination for families who want to travel, bond, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking for adventure in the mountains, relaxation in scenic valleys, or cultural exploration in historic cities, Pakistan has something for every family.
In this friendly guide, we’ll take you through some of the best Pakistani places for a family trip, covering famous destinations, hidden gems, travel tips, and the type of activities families can enjoy together. So, get ready to pack your bags and let’s explore Pakistan through a traveler’s eyes!
1. Murree – The Queen of Hills
Murree has always been one of the most loved destinations for family trips in Pakistan. Just a short drive from Islamabad, Murree offers fresh mountain air, tall pine trees, and cozy hotels. Families often choose Murree because it’s easily accessible and full of activities for both kids and adults.
Why Families Love Murree
- Mall Road: Families love strolling along Mall Road, shopping for traditional shawls, wooden crafts, and enjoying hot corn or pakoras in the chilly weather.
- Patriata (New Murree): Take a chairlift and cable car ride to Patriata, where kids can enjoy the thrill of gliding over hills.
- Ayubia National Park: Known for its famous pipeline track, Ayubia is perfect for a light family hike surrounded by natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer (May–August): Pleasant escape from the heat.
- Winter (December–February): Snow lovers can enjoy a white wonderland.
2. Hunza Valley – Paradise on Earth
If there’s one place in Pakistan that looks like it belongs in a fairy tale, it’s Hunza Valley. Nestled in Gilgit-Baltistan, Hunza is surrounded by towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient forts.
Family Highlights
- Karimabad: The heart of Hunza, where families can explore Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, both rich with history.
- Attabad Lake: A stunning turquoise-blue lake where families can take boat rides. Kids especially enjoy feeding fish and wearing life jackets while riding.
- Eagle’s Nest Viewpoint: Offers one of the best sunset views in Pakistan. Perfect for a family evening picnic.
- Hopper Glacier: An adventurous yet safe spot to introduce children to glaciers.
Why Hunza is Family-Friendly
Hunza is peaceful, safe, and the locals are known for their warmth. Plus, the valley has some of the best hotels and guesthouses with family-friendly facilities.
3. Skardu – Land of Majestic Lakes
Skardu is a dream destination for families who love nature and adventure. With its breathtaking landscapes, lakes, and cultural heritage, Skardu is an unforgettable trip for any family.
Must-Visit Spots in Skardu
- Shangrila Lake (Lower Kachura): Known as “Heaven on Earth,” this lake has a beautiful resort where families can stay and enjoy the scenery.
- Upper Kachura Lake: A quieter lake where families can enjoy fishing, boating, or simply walking around.
- Sheosar Lake: Located in Deosai National Park, surrounded by flowers and wildlife—perfect for nature-loving families.
- Shigar Fort: A beautiful fort-turned-hotel that offers families a chance to stay in a piece of history.
Activities for Families
- Jeep rides to Deosai Plains (known as the “Land of Giants”).
- Exploring cold deserts where children love running around the sand dunes.
4. Swat Valley – The Switzerland of the East
Swat Valley is another gem for family vacations, offering lush green meadows, rivers, and waterfalls. Once known as the “Switzerland of the East,” Swat is a peaceful valley filled with family-friendly activities.
Family-Friendly Attractions
- Malam Jabba: Famous for skiing in winter and chairlift rides in summer. Kids especially enjoy sliding in the snow.
- Mingora and Saidu Sharif: Bustling towns where families can shop and taste delicious local food.
- Kalam Valley: A serene spot surrounded by forests and rivers—ideal for picnics.
- Mahodand Lake: Families can go boating or horseback riding near this magical alpine lake.
5. Fairy Meadows – A Magical Family Adventure
For adventurous families, Fairy Meadows near Nanga Parbat is like stepping into a dreamland. It’s a grassy plateau with jaw-dropping views of the world’s 9th highest mountain.
Why Visit with Family
- Safe camping areas with local guesthouses available.
- Bonfire nights under starry skies.
- Easy treks suitable for older kids and teenagers.
Fairy Meadows is more suited for families with slightly older children, as the jeep track and trek can be a bit challenging for toddlers.
6. Lahore – The City of Gardens and History
If your family prefers culture, food, and history, Lahore is the perfect destination. Known as the heart of Pakistan, Lahore offers a mix of Mughal architecture, vibrant bazaars, and the best food you can find.
Top Family Spots in Lahore
- Lahore Fort & Shalimar Gardens: Kids can explore history while parents admire Mughal architecture.
- Badshahi Mosque: One of the world’s largest mosques, perfect for family visits.
- Lahore Zoo and Safari Park: A treat for children.
- Food Street at Fort Road: Families can enjoy traditional Lahori food with a view of the lit-up Badshahi Mosque.
- Shahi Qila & Minar-e-Pakistan: Great for family photos and history lessons.
7. Karachi – The City by the Sea
Karachi is a bustling metropolis, but it also has some wonderful family-friendly attractions. From beaches to amusement parks, there’s plenty to keep kids entertained.
Family Attractions in Karachi
- Clifton & Hawksbay Beach: Families can enjoy camel rides, horse rides, and beachside picnics.
- Pakistan Maritime Museum: An educational trip where kids can see real submarines and ships.
- Safari Park & Karachi Zoo: Fun spots for younger children.
- Port Grand: A modern family entertainment spot with food, rides, and sea views.
8. Islamabad – The Modern Capital
Islamabad is not only Pakistan’s capital but also one of its most beautiful cities. With its clean environment, greenery, and nearby attractions, Islamabad is a family-friendly hub.
Family Favorites
- Daman-e-Koh & Pir Sohawa: Hilltop views of Islamabad. Families can enjoy tea or dinner while watching the sunset.
- Faisal Mosque: A must-visit landmark.
- Lok Virsa Museum: Fun and educational for children, showcasing Pakistani culture.
- Rawal Lake: A relaxing picnic spot with boating activities.
9. Naran & Kaghan Valley – A Family’s Dreamland
Naran and Kaghan valleys are some of the most visited destinations in Pakistan for family vacations. With rivers, lakes, and mountains, these valleys are a complete package.
Family Highlights
- Lake Saif-ul-Malook: A fairy-tale lake where families can enjoy boating and horse riding.
- Lulusar Lake: Another scenic stop on the way to Babusar Top.
- Babusar Top: High mountain pass with breathtaking views.
- Shogran & Siri Paye Meadows: Perfect for light family hikes and picnics.
10. Gwadar & Kund Malir – A Different Side of Pakistan
For families who want to explore something different, Pakistan’s coastal belt is a great choice. Gwadar and Kund Malir Beach (Makran Coastal Highway) are stunning, peaceful, and less crowded.
Why Families Love It
- Sandy beaches perfect for kids to play.
- Sunset and sunrise views like no other.
- Road trips on the coastal highway are a family adventure themselves.
Tips for Planning a Family Trip in Pakistan
- Plan According to Season: Northern areas are best in summer, while cities like Karachi and Lahore can be explored year-round.
- Book in Advance: Popular spots like Murree and Hunza get fully booked during peak seasons.
- Pack Smart: If traveling with kids, always keep snacks, medicines, and warm clothes handy.
- Stay Safe: Always choose family-friendly hotels and avoid unnecessary night travel in remote areas.
- Engage Kids: Let children take photos, keep travel journals, or play travel games to keep them excited.
Final Thoughts
Traveling in Pakistan as a family is more than just sightseeing—it’s about connecting with nature, experiencing culture, and creating memories together. From the snowy mountains of Hunza to the historic streets of Lahore, from the beaches of Karachi to the valleys of Swat, every corner of Pakistan offers something unique.
So, if you’re planning your next family holiday, look no further than Pakistan. It’s a country that promises not just breathtaking views but also heartfelt hospitality and unforgettable adventures.
FAQs: Best Pakistani Places for a Family Trip
1. Which are the best places in Pakistan for a family trip?
Pakistan has many family-friendly destinations. Some of the most popular are Murree, Hunza Valley, Skardu, Swat, Naran-Kaghan, Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and Gwadar. These places offer a mix of natural beauty, history, adventure, and fun activities suitable for all ages.
2. What is the most family-friendly place in Pakistan?
If you’re traveling with kids, Murree is the most family-friendly due to its easy access, plenty of hotels, and safe environment. However, for an adventurous yet safe trip, Hunza Valley is also an excellent choice because of its peaceful atmosphere and welcoming locals.
3. Is it safe to travel with children to northern areas like Hunza and Skardu?
Yes, Hunza and Skardu are considered safe for families, including children. The locals are very hospitable, and tourism is well-supported. However, you should plan carefully, avoid traveling late at night on mountainous roads, and keep warm clothing and medicines for kids.
4. What is the best time to travel to northern areas with family?
- Summer (May–August): Best for families who want pleasant weather and greenery.
- Autumn (September–October): Beautiful golden scenery, fewer crowds, and moderate weather.
- Winter (December–February): Great for snow lovers, but some areas may not be accessible.
5. Which city is best for a cultural family trip in Pakistan?
Lahore is the best for cultural and historical family trips. Families can visit Lahore Fort, Badshahi Mosque, Shalimar Gardens, Lahore Museum, and enjoy delicious food at Food Street near Fort Road.
6. Are there any beaches in Pakistan for family trips?
Yes! Pakistan has beautiful beaches. Families often enjoy Clifton Beach (Karachi), Hawksbay, Kund Malir Beach (Makran Coastal Highway), and Gwadar beaches. These spots are great for picnics, camel rides, and enjoying the sea breeze.
7. What activities can children enjoy in northern areas?
Children can enjoy:
- Boating at Attabad Lake, Saif-ul-Malook, and Mahodand Lake.
- Chairlifts and Cable Cars at Patriata (New Murree) and Malam Jabba.
- Horse riding and fishing in valleys like Swat and Naran.
- Bonfire nights and stargazing in Fairy Meadows or Hunza.
8. How should families prepare for a trip to Pakistan’s northern areas?
- Pack warm clothes, even in summer, as nights get cold.
- Keep snacks and medicines for kids.
- Carry cash, as ATMs are not always available in remote areas.
- Book hotels in advance during peak tourist seasons.
9. Can elderly people enjoy family trips in northern areas?
Yes, but it’s better to choose places with easy road access like Hunza, Murree, and Naran. Places like Fairy Meadows involve trekking and may be difficult for elderly travelers.
10. Which place is better for a short family trip: Murree or Naran?
- Murree is better for short trips because it’s just a few hours’ drive from Islamabad.
- Naran is more scenic but requires more travel time (6–7 hours from Islamabad). Families with small kids usually prefer Murree for shorter trips.
11. What are some hidden gems in Pakistan for families?
Apart from the famous spots, families can also explore:
- Shogran & Siri Paye Meadows (Kaghan Valley)
- Ratti Gali Lake (Azad Kashmir)
- Gorakh Hill Station (Sindh)
- Khunjerab Pass (Gilgit-Baltistan) – Pakistan-China border with stunning views.
12. Is Pakistan affordable for family trips?
Yes! Compared to many international destinations, Pakistan is very affordable. Transportation, hotels, and food are budget-friendly, and families can enjoy a full trip without spending too much.
