Flights To Karachi Guide

Jinnah International Airport (KHI) is the primary airport that serves Karachi and offers excellent connectivity amongst major cities across nations globally, facilitating easy air travel. It mainly links passengers between international destinations, attracting many airlines operating diverse routes while ensuring convenience and traversability for travellers coming here often or even first-timers.

Direct flights from the UK to Karachi take about 7 to 8 hours and connecting flights take over 12 hours, including the layover periods. Moreover, the major airlines that facilitate this operation include PIA, British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Etihad Airways.

Along with finding the best flight options for you, Woking Travel also offers seamless transfer services from the airport to your accommodation. To book your transfer, please visit Transfer-Woking Travel.

For your destination, Woking Travel offers a selection of hotels that are tailored to fit various price ranges and preferences. Explore our range of hotels at Hotels or discover exciting holiday packages at Holidays. Here are our top choices for viable hotel options in Karachi, tending to all kinds of budgets and preferences:

1. The Pearl Continental: For those desiring an opulent experience, Karachi’s luxury hotels, like the Pearl Continental, offer the best in comfort and hospitality.
   
   
2. The Movenpick Hotel: The Movenpick Hotel is known for its exquisite services and lavish facilities. It offers a luxury experience.
   
   
3. Regent Plaza: Mid-range hotels like the Regent Plaza offer comfortable stays with convenient access to the city’s hotspots. 
   
   
4. Ramada Plaza: This mid-range place balances cost and luxury well, making it popular among travellers.
   
   
5. Hilton Karachi: A distinguished 5-star hotel providing deluxe accommodations, remarkable customer service, and contemporary comforts in a prime location.
   
   
6. Sapphire Plaza: A 4-star hotel famed for its cosy accommodation and standard amenities, considerable for all kinds of travellers.
   
   
7. Marriott Karachi: A renowned 5-star hotel that incorporates elegant suites, varied dining options, and impeccable service in its offerings.
   
   
8. The Palace Guest House: A 3-star hotel that facilitates guests with cosy and affordable lodgings with personalised service and a home-like ambience.
   
   
9. Karachi Marriott Hotel: Another 5-star option with opulent amenities, including a pool, a spa, and a varied range of dining options for a top-notch experience.
   
   
10. The City Inn Guest House: This budget-friendly guest house provides reasonably-priced accommodation and all standard amenities for a comfortable stay.

Here are the various modes of transportation available in Karachi:

• Ride-Sharing Services: Careem,In-drive, and Uber are prevalent choices for convenient and secure rides. 
• Taxis: Taxis have been operational in Karachi since the beginning and can be hailed on the street or booked using local taxi services. 
• Public Buses: Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) and some other private establishments operate a public network of buses that provide a cost-effective method to travel in Karachi.
• Rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a common and pocket-friendly mode of transport that can be opted for short distances.
• Local Trains: Karachi has a widespread railway network operated by Pakistan Railways, with some commuter trains that run on various routes in the city.
• Car Rentals: Car rental companies offer rental services for both short-term and long-term rental choices.
• Metro Bus: The Karachi Metro Bus Service runs along specific routes in the city and offers a more trustable method of public transit.
• Bicycles and Motorcycles: Bicycle rentals are not predominantly common due to rush hours but available in some regions of the city that are bike-friendly. 

To ensure you make the most of your visit, here’s a curated list of the top destinations in Karachi that should be noticed. These spots embody the city’s essence, each with a unique story.

1. Quaid-e-Azam’s Mausoleum: The Mausoleum dedicated to Pakistan’s founder, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, is an iconic symbol of the nation’s respect and gratitude toward its leader. The structure is a stunning display of modernist architecture and reflects Pakistanis’ aspirations.
   
   
2. Port Grand: A recent addition to Karachi’s cultural map, Port Grand is an entertainment and dining hub. It offers a blend of old and new, situated along the port where modern eateries coexist with refurbished cargo containers.
   
   
3. Karachi Zoo: Established in 1878, the Karachi Zoo is home to diverse flora and fauna. The walking paths take you past an incredible variety of animals, and the park is a favourite among families and school groups.
   
   
4. The Empress Market: One of the oldest markets in Karachi, the Empress Market is a testimony to the city’s history. Initially commissioned by the British, the market still stands, selling fresh produce, meats, spices, textiles, and many other goods.
   
   
5. Clifton Beach: Clifton Beach isn’t just a beautiful stretch of coastline—it’s a cultural symbol. Here, the restless city life meets the calm of the Arabian Sea. Take a camel ride, or savour local delights as the salty breeze weaves through your hair.
   
   
6. Chaukhandi Tombs: Situated on the outskirts of Karachi, the Chaukhandi Tombs showcase intricately carved sandstone graves, a brilliant example of Hindu-Islamic architecture. These tombs date back to the 15th and 18th centuries and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
   
   
7. Manora Island and Lighthouse: Catch a ferry to this island to escape the hustle of the city. The island’s tranquillity is maintained by its unspoiled beaches and the Manora Lighthouse, which provides stunning views of the city and the Arabian Sea.
   
   
8. National Museum of Pakistan: The museum houses a collection of artefacts dating back to ancient times, providing a peek into the country’s history and cultural heritage. The museum’s diverse exhibits include sculptures, manuscripts, and relics that have stood the test of time.
   
   
9. French Beach: As one of the few beaches not marred by commercialisation, French Beach lures those seeking a quiet spot by the sea. Its clear waters and golden sands make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
   
   
10. Empress Market: This bustling market has a colonial structure and is a treasure trove for bargain hunters. It is the go-to place for finding an assortment of items, including local foods, handwoven textiles, and traditional crafts.

Here are the top 10 restaurants in Karachi that serve exceptional food: 

1. Kolachi Restaurant: This is an exquisite sea-side restaurant that serves exceptional BBQ and seafood. 
   
   
2. Chef’s Table: Chef’s Table is an Asian fusion restaurant that offers a combination of the best Asian flavours with Desi take. 
   
   
3. Sakura: Sakura is a well known restaurant that serves impeccable Japanese cuisine including top-notch sushi and sashimi.
   
   
4. Marco Polo: This is an international Pakistani restaurant that serves a great variety of dishes from all over the world with a strong Pakistani influence. 
   
   
5. Xanders: A local favourite, Xanders is a well-regarded cafe that serves delicious pasta and scrumptious sandwiches in a trendy ambience.
   
   
6. Boat Basin: Boat Basin is a lively food street that offers visitors with a variety of different restaurants to choose from, all serving authentic Karachi dishes. 
   
   
7. Kababjees: Kababjees is the ideal restaurant for a great buffet experience, including grilled and traditional delicacies. 
   
   
8. The Deli: The Deli is a trendy restaurant that offers various gourmet sandwiches, salads, and hearty portions, ideal for sophisticated dining.
   
   
9. Bistro 88: This modern bistro incorporates an eclectic fare with a blend of international and local dishes, crafted with refined ingredients.
   
   
10. Tandoor Restaurant: An eatery that specialises in traditional tandoori specialties, Tandoor Restaurant offers flavourful Indian and Pakistani fare. 

Alongside the must-see spots, Karachi offers a range of activities characteristic of the city’s lifestyle. They provide unique insights and enjoyable experiences for travellers of all tastes and preferences.

1. Marvel at the Sunsets: Karachi gives birth to some of the most spectacular sunsets, especially at the Hawke’s Bay and Sandspit beaches. Witness the sky transform into a canvas of fiery reds and oranges—a sight that will remain etched in your memory.
   
   
2. A Day at Dreamworld Resort: A day of adventure and relaxation awaits at Dreamworld Resort, a sprawling entertainment complex. There’s something for everyone, from thrilling rides to a tranquil boating lake.
   
   
3. Stroll Along the Clifton Seafront: Clifton’s Seafront is a hub of activity, with people from all walks of life coming together to enjoy the sea breeze. It’s great for casual strolls, picnics, and impromptu meetups with friends.
   
   
4. Savour Street Food: Karachi’s street food scene is legendary, offering diverse culinary delights. From the spicy goodness of chaat to the sizzle of traditional kebabs, indulge in the city’s gastronomic wonders.
   
   
5. Experience Nightlife at Do Darya: Do Darya, a strip of upscale eateries by the sea, comes alive at night. A romantic dinner here, with the breeze for company and the waves as your soundtrack, is a quintessential Karachi experience.
   
   
6. Explore the City by Bicycle: Exploring the city by bicycle is an eco-friendly and refreshing option for the more adventurous. You can pedal your way through the historic streets and modern avenues, taking in the sights and sounds at your own pace.
   
   
7. Attend a Cultural Event: Karachi’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with numerous yearly events and festivals taking place. From music concerts to art exhibitions, immerse yourself in the city’s artistic spirit. Some such events include  Karachi Eat and Mashion Bazar, among others.
   
   
8. Visit Karachi’s Historic Temples: Karachi has beautiful historic temples, such as the Swaminarayan Temple and the Shri Panchmukhi Hanuman Mandir. These temples are places of worship and architectural marvels that attract visitors of all faiths.
   
   
9. Go Shopping at the Malls: For a more polished shopping experience, head to one of the city’s modern malls, such as Dolmen Mall or Lucky One Mall. Here, you can find many international brands and local designer boutiques.
   
   
10. Enjoy a Day at Eduljee Dinshaw Byramji Park: This picturesque park, also known as the Polo Ground, offers serene lakes, lush greenery, and ample space for relaxation. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely day out in the lap of nature.

Karachi has hot weather, with scorching summers and mild winters. Light and breathable clothing and sunscreen are a must, especially during summer. If you plan on visiting religious sites, pack modest clothing to cover your arms and legs. The best time to visit Karachi is between December and March, when the weather is milder. This period is perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. 

Here is a general overview of Karachi’s weather in different seasons:

• Winter (December to February): Weather conditions are generally mild and delightful with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). 
• Spring (March to May): Transitioning into hot and humid summer, degrees increase gradually, with highs varying from 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F).
• Summer (June to September): This season is very hot with increasing humidity levels, along with temperatures often surpassing 35°C (95°F) and sometimes hitting 40°C (104°F) or more. 
• Monsoon (July to September): Karachi receives scarce amounts of rainfall compared to other regions of Pakistan. 
• Autumn (October to November): The weather starts to cool down and becomes drier, with temperatures decreasing and varying from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). 
  
  

To view Karachi’s live weather updates, please visit Karachi Weather Details.

Pakistan and the UK have a time difference that can vary between 4 and 5 hours, with the exact difference depending on the changes made to British Summer Time. 

• GMT to PST: Karachi is 5 hours ahead of GMT.
• BST to PST: Karachi is 4 hours ahead of BST.

Currency:

• The Pakistani Rupee (PKR) is the currency used in Pakistan. It’s advisable to exchange your currency for Pakistani Rupees before travelling to Karachi. ATMs are also widely available in the city for cash withdrawals.
  
  

Language:

• Urdu is Pakistan’s official language. People of Karachi predominantly speak Urdu. However, English is widely understood and spoken by the literate community of the city.

Local Customs:

Karachi has a rich cultural heritage with specific customs and traditions like the rest of Pakistan. It’s a good idea to acquaint yourself with these nuances to ensure respectful interactions with the locals.

Laws:

It is essential to be aware of local laws for a respectful and enjoyable trip. Make sure to visit the official UK government website and refer to Pakistan’s travel advice for detailed and up-to-date information.

You can see more information on these sites;

• Pakistan international state government.
• Karachi travel advisory

Karachi may be a bustling mega-city, but its rich culture, history, and the warmth of its people make it an inviting destination. As you prepare for your trip, remember to embrace the diversity of experiences Karachi offers. From the vivid avenues of shopping to the tranquil whispers of its heritage sites, Karachi is a city that resonates with every traveller uniquely. So pack your bags and buckle up for a journey full of light, life, and many stories waiting to be discovered.

Book your flights to Karachi now and experience the city’s dynamic culture and beautiful sights with Woking Travel Centre!