Things To Do
in Islamabad
Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is known for its high standard of living, safety, and abundant greenery. The city is characterized by modern architecture, beautiful parks, and a stunning backdrop of the Margalla Hills. As a planned city, it reflects a blend of contemporary urban design with traditional cultural influences.
Islamabad serves as the political and administrative center of Pakistan, attracting both domestic and international visitors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in Pakistan, known for its unique and modern design. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and capture some stunning photos.
Head to the Pakistan Monument, an iconic symbol representing the four provinces of the country. Afterward, explore the nearby Shakarparian Park for a leisurely stroll and panoramic views of the city.
Wrap up your day with dinner at Monal, a popular restaurant located in the Margalla Hills offering breathtaking views of the city at sunset.
Visit Lok Virsa Museum to learn about the diverse cultural heritage of Pakistan through its art and crafts. This engaging museum showcases various regional artworks.
Explore the Daman-e-Koh viewpoint for a stunning vista of Islamabad and the surrounding hills. Follow this with a visit to the nearby Rawal Lake, where you can enjoy some light snacks at the lakeside café.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Centaurus Mall for shopping and dining. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants inside the mall before heading back to your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $5-15 |
| 🏨Hotel (3-star) | $30-60 |
| 🚖Taxi Ride (5km) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛒Groceries (Weekly) | $15-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Stunning natural landscapes and parks
- Relatively safe and clean environment
- Limited nightlife options
- Language barrier for non-Urdu speakers
- Traffic congestion during peak hours
- "آپ کیسے ہیں؟" - How are you?
- "شکریہ" - Thank you
- "معاف کیجیے" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "کتنا ہے؟" - How much is this?
- "خدا حافظ" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Islamabad
Visit one of these nice places.
The mosque's unique architecture and scenic surroundings make it a prime spot for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
This viewpoint offers spectacular panoramic views of Islamabad, ideal for capturing the city skyline.
The monument's flower-like structure is an iconic representation of Pakistan, providing a great backdrop for photos.
Food in Islamabad
Islamabad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices, meat, and vegetables, often enjoyed during special occasions.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked meat stew typically enjoyed for breakfast, rich in flavors and served with naan.
A spicy meat dish cooked in a wok-like vessel, often garnished with green chilies and coriander.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling food street offering a variety of local street food options including kebabs, samosas, and chaat.
Known for its diverse food stalls, this market is a great place to sample authentic Pakistani snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect to elders, addressing them with proper titles and gestures.
Dress conservatively, especially in religious places, to show respect for local customs.
A common greeting is 'As-Salaam-Alaikum' (peace be upon you), often returned with 'Wa-Alaikum-Salaam'.
Safety
Tipping in Islamabad
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up the bill for taxis.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used in shops and restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring an ideal time to visit. Outdoor activities are enjoyable during this season.
Hot and dry weather prevails during the summer months, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C. Early morning or late evening activities are recommended.
Cooler temperatures and clear skies characterize autumn, making it one of the best seasons for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Cold weather with occasional rainfall. While temperatures can drop to near freezing, the city's parks look stunning with winter foliage.
Islamabad at Night
Hiking in Islamabad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that offers a moderately challenging hike with beautiful views of Islamabad and the surrounding hills.
This trail leads to a scenic viewpoint near Pir Sohawa, providing stunning vistas of the city and the lush landscape.
Airports
How to reach Islamabad by plane.
The main airport serving Islamabad, located about 30 km from the city center. It offers both domestic and international flights, with modern facilities and services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant demographic group in Islamabad, consisting of educated individuals working in government, private sectors, and NGOs.
Islamabad is home to several universities and educational institutions, attracting a large student population from various regions of Pakistan.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Pakistan, with many locals passionately following national and club teams. Matches are often held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, which is a few hours away from Islamabad.
Field hockey has a rich history in Pakistan, and the country has produced many world-class players. Local tournaments and school competitions are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Islamabad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the ingredients as some may contain meat stock.
All food in Islamabad is Halal, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.