About Karachi
Karachi is the capital city of the Pakistani province of Sindh. It is the largest city in Pakistan and 11th largest in the world, with a population of over 20 million. Situated at the southern tip of the country along the Arabian Sea coast, Karachi formerly served as the federal capital from 1947 to 1959. It is a major metropolitan area and is considered the country's most cosmopolitan city, being among the most linguistically, ethnically, and religiously diverse areas, as well as one of its most progressive and socially liberal cities.
Where to stay in Karachi
Popular hotels in Karachi, out of 30 properties you can book.
Marriott Karachi
From $1,023 per night
Pearl Continental
From $264 per night
Ramada Plaza Karachi Airport Hotel
From $176 per night
Avari Towers
From $221 per night
Movenpick Hotel Karachi
From $219 per night
Ramada Karachi Creek
From $193 per night
Mehran Hotel
From $107 per night
Diplomat Inn Hotel
From $36 per night
Royal Inn Hotel
From $42 per night
Hotel Crown Inn
Beach Luxury Hotel
Hotel Al Harmain Tower
Best time to visit Karachi
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Karachi is December to February, when average daytime highs are around 78–82°F and rain falls on about 1 days a month.
Average daily low and high temperatures and days with at least 1 mm of rain, from recent weather records. Highlighted months are the most comfortable for sightseeing.
Karachi weather forecast
- Thu 22 Oct 98° 77° 0%
- Fri 23 Oct 94° 77° 0%
- Sat 24 Oct 97° 74° 0%
- Sun 25 Oct 96° 73° 0%
- Mon 26 Oct 96° 75° 0%
- Tue 27 Oct 96° 76° 0%
- Wed 28 Oct 98° 76° 0%
Know before you go
- Currency
- Pakistani rupee (PKR)1 US dollar ≈ ₨277
- Languages
- Urdu, English
- Calling code
- +92
- Driving
- On the left
- Time zone
- Asia/KarachiUTC+5
- Capital
- Islamabad
Getting to Karachi
These are the airports closest to central Karachi. Compare fares into each one, as a slightly longer transfer can sometimes mean a much cheaper flight.
- KHI Jinnah International Airport10 mi (16 km) from the city centre
Getting around Karachi
Once you get the hang of travelling in Karachi, it becomes a very entertaining experience. You meet new people and get to see unexpected things. It's not very hard to find a mode of transportation and if you know what you are doing, it is very easy to get around. Getting around Karachi is not difficult and transportation is not expensive as compared to other mega cities of the world and you only have to follow proper directions to save your valuable time and money.
By foot
Much of Karachi is quite pedestrian-hostile with rarely marked crosswalks in the city and road signs are not good either. But, if you really want to walk around, always ensure you walk on the footpath, or if one isn't available, as far to the side of the road as possible and on the right facing oncoming traffic.
By rickshaw
Rickshaws are a popular method of travelling in Karachi, they're cheap, flexible and are everywhere in the city at any time of day. If you need to travel shorter distances, go by rickshaw. They're small three-wheeled vehicle powered by a two-stroke or four-stroke engine, partially enclosed contraptions (no doors), run on CNG and can seat three people in the back. You can find them everywhere. Set prices beforehand since most are not equipped with meters and if you're over quoted, don't be afraid to walk away.
By bus
Karachi is dominated by jingle minibuses which move back and forth around Karachi and are extremely cheap but they’re a confusing bet for the visitors, with numbers, destinations and stops poorly marked, and buses are horribly crowded and noisy.
Karachi travel FAQ
When is the best time to visit Karachi?
Based on recent weather records, the most comfortable time to visit Karachi is December to February, when average daytime highs are around 78–82°F and rain falls on about 1 days a month.
What is the weather like in Karachi?
May is usually the warmest month in Karachi, with average highs of 94°F (34°C). January is the coolest, with average lows of 59°F (15°C). The wettest month is typically August, with about 137 mm of rain.
Which airport is closest to Karachi?
Jinnah International Airport (KHI) is the closest airport, about 10 miles (16 km) from the centre of Karachi.
What currency is used in Karachi?
Karachi uses the Pakistani rupee (PKR). At the latest exchange rate, 1 US dollar ≈ ₨277.
What time zone is Karachi in?
Karachi uses the Asia/Karachi time zone (currently UTC+5). Remember to check for daylight saving changes when planning connecting flights.
How do I get around Karachi?
Once you get the hang of travelling in Karachi, it becomes a very entertaining experience. You meet new people and get to see unexpected things. It's not very hard to find a mode of transportation and if you know what you are doing, it is very easy to get around.
Where should I stay in Karachi?
Popular areas for hotels in Karachi include Karachi. Well-reviewed options include Marriott Karachi and Pearl Continental.
How many hotels can I book in Karachi?
Destina Holidays currently lists 30 properties in and around Karachi, from budget stays to luxury hotels. Search your dates to see live prices and availability.
