Pakistan is 5 hours ahead of GMT. 97% of the population is muslim, the balance are either Hindu or Christian.
The national language is Urdu but English is spoken and understood by most young people as it is taught in schools across the country.A few othe languages spoken in Pakistan include Punjabi, Gujrati, Sindhi, Pashtu, Balochi and Patwari.
Electricity is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two- or three-pin plugs are in use. 7 Way sockets are being fitted to accommodate all types of plugs. Power cuts are common. Gas is supplied in cylinders available locally.
International Direct Dialing is available. The outgoing international code: 00. Country code: 92.
The main cell phone network providers include mobilinkgsm.com, Pak Telecom, Ufone, Instaphone on 900 & 1800 GSM, don't forget you will need a 220\240v charger and make sure your hand set is unlocked.
The Main ISPs include Pakistan Online (website : www.pol.com.pk), and Pak Net (website : www.paknet.com.pk). Internet cafes in main streets in most towns
Postal Service
Airmail takes four to five days to reach Western Europe. There are post office facilities in all major towns and cities. All letters should be registered or insured.
Press
English press enjoys a great deal of influence in business circles. Dailies include Dawn, The Star, The Frontier Post, The Leader, The Business Recorder, The Pakistan Observer, The Pakistan Times, The Nation, The News, The Muslim, and The Financial Post. Internet website www.todaysnewsflash.com includes UK & USA national & International headlines and sports news by the Reuters News Agency.
Radio
You can receive the BBC World Service and Voice of America . The most up-to-date frequencies can be found online as they do change from time to time.
Accommodation
Modern well-equipped hotels, motels and B&B's can be found in all major towns and cities. Cottages, Dak bungalows and rest houses in all principal hill stations and health resorts. Government room tax of up to 17.5 per cent is added to the cost of accommodation. You are advised to book well in advance and confirm your reservations.
Currency
Pakistani Rupee = 100 paisa. in denominations of PRs1000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Check the exchange rate here.
Credit & debit cards
MasterCard and Visa are also good, but Diners Club and other cards have more limited use. American Express is a widely accepted card. Find an ATM here.
Banking hours
Monday to Saturday 0900-1330, Fri 0900-1230. |
