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Kotli Travel Checklist

Kotli Travel Checklist

Kotli Azad Kashmir, Pakistan Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A chronological timeline helps manage your preparations effectively.

Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to make sure it's a smooth preparation phase for your trip.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended return date. Renew if necessary.

Visa Application

Begin researching Pakistan's visa requirements and apply for your E-Visa through Visapakistan.gov.pk. The process could require weeks.

International Flights

Secure your international flights to Islamabad International Airport (ISB).

2

Month Before

Accommodation & Transport

Reserve accommodation in Kotli and plan internal transport from Islamabad to Kotli (private car or bus/van).

Health & Insurance

Consult your doctor for vaccinations. Obtain comprehensive travel insurance (e.g., World Nomads).

Digital Prep

Get offline maps and translation apps. Start learning basic Urdu phrases.

3

Week Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, booking a hotel, and pre-booked tours or transfers.

Packing & Documents

Pack climate-appropriate clothing. Assemble a First-aid kit and create digital/physical copies of all documents.

Financial Alerts

Inform your bank of travel plans. Arrange currency exchange for initial expenses.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items well in advance for a stress-free trip.

Reservations

  • International flights to Islamabad International Airport (ISB).
  • Pakistan Visa approval.
  • Accommodation in Kotli and any other planned overnight stops.
  • Private car hire for getting from Islamabad to Kotli (if desired).

Pre-Trip Research

Informed travelers have better experiences.

Information

  • Current security situation: Check government travel advisories.
  • Area etiquette: Familiarize yourself with cultural norms.
  • Basic Urdu phrases: Learning a few phrases greatly enhances your experience.
  • Potential health risks and precautions: Review vaccinations and prevention strategies.

Home Preparation

Ensure peace of mind while you are away.

Contacts & Itinerary

  • Inform family/friends of your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contact information.
  • Leave copies of important documents with a trusted person.
  • List your your travel coverage information.

Home Security

  • Secure all doors and windows.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Use timers for lights.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.

Financial & Utilities

  • Pay any upcoming bills or arrange for automatic payments.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Turn off main water supply if out of town for an extended period.
  • Ensure heating/cooling is set appropriately.

Important Visa Reminder

The Pakistan E-Visa application process can take several weeks. Start early to avoid any last-minute delays.

Arrival Checklist

The first steps upon arrival for a smooth settlement.

Immediate Actions

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Complete procedures at Islamabad International Airport (ISB). Have your passport and e-visa printout ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked baggage.

  • 3
    Currency & SIM:

    Exchange currency or use an ATM for cash. Purchase a local SIM card with data at the airport.

Settling In

  • Transport to Kotli:

    Proceed with your pre-arranged private car or public transport to Kotli and your accommodation.

  • Neighborhood Orientation:

    Take a walk around your immediate neighborhood to locate nearby shops, food places, and ATMs.

  • Local Advice:

    Ask hotel staff or trusted locals for advice on local transport, dining, and safety.

Initial Purchases & Registration

Local Currency

Ensure you have sufficient Pakistani Rupees for immediate needs.

This includes transport, bottled water, and snacks.

Hydration

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival.

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.

Local Registration

Inquire with your accommodation or driver about registration.

Register with local police/tourism office upon arrival in AJK/Kotli if required for foreigners.

Pre-booked Transport

Utilize your pre-booked private car, a licensed airport taxi, or public transport options as planned for your journey from ISB to Kotli.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure for a stress-free end to your trip.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs from local markets in Kotli.
  • Check your luggage weight limits with your airline.
  • For larger purchases, look into shipping options from major cities like Islamabad.
  • Local postal services might be slower or less reliable for international shipments.

Return Trip Logistics

  • Allow ample time for your journey from Kotli back to Islamabad International Airport (4-6 hours minimum).
  • Factor in potential delays due to traffic, road conditions, or security checks.
  • Arrive at Islamabad International Airport at least 3 hours before your international flight departure time.
  • Pakistan does not typically offer VAT refunds for tourists on purchases.

Financial Wrap-Up

Handle remaining finances before you depart.

Currency Management

  • Check remaining local currency.Pakistani Rupees (PKR)
  • Spend remaining cash on small purchases.Bazaars, street food
  • Consider exchanging leftover currency.Major urban areas or airport
  • Keep some small denominations for airport expenses.Tips, last-minute snacks

Final Document Checks

  • Confirm your return flight details and check-in online if possible.
  • Ensure all your travel documents (passport, boarding pass, visa) are in order.
  • Remove local SIM card and consider purchasing an international roaming package if needed for continuing your journey.
  • Do a final sweep of your accommodation for forgotten items.

Long Journey Advisory

The road journey from Kotli to Islamabad Airport can be lengthy and subject to delays.

Plan to depart Kotli with significant buffer time to comfortably reach your international flight.