Karachi Shopping

There are a great number of shopping places in Karachi, ranging from the traditional bazaar to the modern shopping malls. A first-time visitor should try and visit the bazaars, The bazaars usually consist of many small vendors selling a variety of products from accessories to clothes to food and drink. In addition, there are larger stores which are more specific in their products. Also one would find that the bazaars are a more culturally enriching experience, and everything's so cheap!

Buying Pakistani Currency
The Pakistani currency is the Pakistani Rupee. It is usually advised to get your foreign currency converted in local currency before you buy stuff (off course thats only applicable if you're planning to buy with cash not credit card). A number of licensed Currency Exchange Companies operate their offices located in various parts of the cities that can be used for the exchange. A passport might be required as an identification document but the requirement is often ignored. Some good repute currency exchange companies are Khanani & Kalia, and Galaxy International. Most large department stores and souvenir shops, as well as all upscale restaurants accept major credit cards. Some small shops may choose to pass on their 2-3% service free on to you should you choose to use a credit card, but this is negotiable so don't hesitate to haggle.

Some of the major shopping malls in Karachi are:

The Forum
Dolmen Mall,Tariq Road
Millemium Mall, in Gulshan-e-Iqbal
ARY Cash 'n' Carry (Superstores chain)
Park Towers, in Clifton
Dmart (Sea View)
Jumeirah Mall, Tariq Road
Makro Wholesale, in Saddar, Shahra-e-Faisal,
Naheed Super Market, near Tariq Road. (Superstores chain)

Some of the main bazaars in Karachi that deserve a visit:
Tariq Road Bazaar
Zamzama Boulevard (upscale designers and restaurants)
Gulf Area Market(many traditional vendors and more upscale boutiques and designer shoes)
Zainab Market (For branded clothing for half the real price!)
Hyderi Bazaar (North Nazimabad)

These are just a few to mention. On the whole, shopping in Karachi is an interesting, exhilarating (because of the low prices!) and often tiring experience.

Another thing you might be interested in doing is catching a movie at the Karachi Cineplex. There is also a Chinese restaurant adjacent to the cinema where you can try a Pakistani Chinese meal, or not too far is the seaview McDonalds. Also visit Area 51 Bowling alley & The Arena at Karsaz offering Ice Skating rink and much more.