Things To Do
in Thal

Flatbread (rotis) with saag (leafy greens, often mustard or spinach-based) is a staple—found in village homes and roadside eateries.

Must-Try!

Slow-cooked lentils served with ghee and roti; widely available and a reliable vegetarian option at dhabas and homes.

Spiced mutton or goat curry cooked in a wok-style karahi or pot; often served for special meals and available in larger town restaurants or family feasts.

Traditional sweets made from sugar, milk solids and nuts — available in markets of nearby larger towns and during festivals.

Small markets in town centers selling fresh flatbread, pickles, fried snacks (samosas, pakoras), and sweet treats — ideal for casual tasting.

Ubiquitous street-side tea stalls where locals gather; try milky chai, fried fritters and light conversations with residents.

Greet with “Assalamu Alaikum” (peace be upon you). Use formal addresses for elders and show deference—removing shoes in mosques and some homes is expected.

Conservative clothing is the norm: long sleeves and covered legs for both men and women; women should carry a scarf to cover their head when entering religious places or conservative households.

Public interactions between unrelated men and women are more restrained than in Western contexts. Avoid prolonged physical contact with strangers and follow local cues.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially women and elders. Some rural communities may be sensitive to photography—respect refusals.

Tipping is modest: round up bills or leave 5–10% in restaurants where service is offered. For guides, drivers and porters, small cash tips (few hundred PKR) are appreciated. Tipping is informal—give what feels appropriate for the service.

Cash (Pakistani rupee, PKR) is primary in Thal; ATMs and card facilities are limited in rural areas. Carry sufficient cash for food, transport and purchases; larger towns have ATMs and banks. Mobile wallets and cards are more common in cities but may not be accepted in small villages.

Extremely hot (often 40–45°C or higher). Travel early in the morning and late afternoon, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous daytime activity, and seek shade. Monsoon influence is limited but occasional storms can bring brief relief.

Cooling temperatures make outdoor activities pleasant; days are comfortable and evenings start to feel crisp—good season for desert walks and photography.

Mild to cool days (10–20°C) and chilly nights (near or below 5°C in some years). Ideal for daytime exploring; bring a warm layer for evenings and early mornings.

One of the best times to visit—temperatures moderate and seasonal wildflowers/scrub growth may bring greenery to parts of the Thal after winter rains.

Majority of residents are Punjabi/Saraiki-speaking agricultural and pastoral communities who work irrigated fields where water is available and rear livestock elsewhere.

Groups who keep camels, goats and sheep and move seasonally through the desert for grazing—important cultural bearers of traditional knowledge.

Small-scale craftsmen, shopkeepers and traders who supply local markets with textiles, food and daily goods.

A predominantly Muslim population with local religious leaders and Sufi traditions influential in social life.

Vegetarian choices are plentiful: daal, vegetables and breads; always confirm ingredients because ghee or animal-based broths may be used. Stick to cooked foods and reputable dhabas for safety.

Vegan options exist but are more limited. Ask for food without ghee, butter, or yogurt; lentils, breads and some vegetable dishes can be made vegan on request.

Meat in Thal is halal by local custom; if you have specific religious dietary needs, communicate them clearly to hosts or restaurants.

In rural settings, prefer freshly cooked hot food, bottled water, and avoid raw salads unless you trust the source to reduce risk of upset stomachs.