Things To Do
in Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi, commonly known as Pindi, sits adjacent to the capital city of Islamabad along the Grand Trunk Road and the Islamabad Expressway. It is renowned for its bustling markets, military heritage, and generous hospitality, offering a different pace from nearby urban centers. The city blends colonial-era architecture with vibrant street life, where the aromas of kebabs mingle with the chatter of traders.
As a practical gateway to the northern hills, Rawalpindi provides easy access to hill stations like Murree and the Margalla foothills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the iconic Liaquat Bagh, a beautiful park that holds a significant place in Pakistan's history. Enjoy a leisurely walk while observing the locals engage in their morning exercises and social gatherings. Take a moment to appreciate the lush greenery and the historical monuments surrounding the park.
Head over to the bustling Saddar Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, and local delicacies. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local eatery, sampling mouthwatering dishes like biryani or karahi. After lunch, visit the nearby Rawalpindi Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
As the sun sets, stroll through the lively streets of Murree Road, where you can find street vendors selling snacks and local sweets. Consider dining at a local restaurant that offers authentic Pakistani cuisine, allowing you to indulge in flavors unique to the region. After dinner, enjoy a relaxing walk along the illuminated streets, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere of Rawalpindi at night.
Begin your morning with a visit to the Pakistan Army Museum, where you can explore a range of exhibits related to the military history of Pakistan. Spend time admiring the various displays, including military vehicles, weapons, and memorabilia from different eras. The museum provides a unique insight into the sacrifices made by the armed forces and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
After the museum, head to the nearby Ayub National Park for a peaceful afternoon surrounded by nature. Pack a picnic and enjoy your lunch in the park while observing the local flora and fauna. You can also take a leisurely stroll or rent a paddle boat on the lake for a fun and relaxing experience.
As the day winds down, make your way back to Rawalpindi and enjoy a cozy dinner at one of the city’s popular restaurants. Savor traditional dishes like nihari or seekh kebabs while soaking in the local ambiance. After dinner, explore the nearby bazaars for some evening shopping, where you can find artisanal goods and souvenirs.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🚌Local transit ticket (one-way) | $0.30-0.70 |
| 🛏Budget hotel (per night) | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Mid-range dinner for two | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant markets and generous hospitality
- Gateway to hill stations and Margalla Hills
- Very affordable street food and snacks
- Good base for day trips to Murree and Khanpur Dam
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Can be crowded and chaotic in markets
- Less English-speaking staff in some informal places
- Pollution and air quality can vary seasonally
- "السلام علیكم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شکریہ" - Thank you
- "یہ کتنے کا ہے؟" - How much is this?
- "مجھے مدد چاہیے" - I need help
- "کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟" - Do you speak English?
- "براہ راست مینو دکھائیں" - Show me the menu
Places to Visit in Rawalpindi
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful market lanes, textiles, and spices—great for street photography with early-morning light.
Colonial-era architecture and busy platforms offer dynamic travel shots.
Lakes, greenery, and family activity scenes with a city backdrop.
Rock formations and cave dwellings with a rustic, natural mood.
Historic houses, murals, and cafe culture near the Islamabad–Rawalpindi edge.
Food in Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fragrant layered rice with spiced meat or vegetables, a staple at many eateries.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meat stew served with naan or chapati, best enjoyed in the cooler hours.
Char-delivered minced meat skewers, juicy and flavorful, often served with naan.
A tangy chickpea street snack with potatoes, onions, chutneys, and sev.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Iconic market for street snacks, spices, and affordable eats in a maze-like setting.
Clusters of stalls offering samosas, pakoras, chaat, and kebabs along busy lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Assalamu alaikum' or 'Adaab' and a handshake is common among acquaintances. Use the right hand for giving and receiving.
Dress modestly in public spaces; avoid provocative attire, especially near religious sites.
Ask before photographing people; some private homes and shops decline; avoid intrusive or sensitive shots.
Safety
Tipping in Rawalpindi
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a 5-10% tip is common if service charge is not included. For informal stalls, rounding up is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted; many places now accept cards and mobile wallets, but small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days (often above 35°C/95°F); stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Humid with occasional showers; carry a light rain jacket and protect electronics in rain-prone periods.
Cool to cold (often 5–15°C/41–59°F); layer up for evenings and early mornings; fog can affect travel occasionally.
Mild temperatures with blooming trees; ideal for markets, outdoor walks, and hill trails.
Rawalpindi at Night
Hiking in Rawalpindi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible from Rawalpindi/Islamabad; a range of short to moderate hikes with viewpoints.
Popular for boating and short nature hikes within a short drive.
Classic mountain escape within a couple of hours for snow and scenic vistas.
Airports
How to reach Rawalpindi by plane.
Major international gateway about 20-35 km from central Rawalpindi; easy taxi or rideshare access to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group; Urdu is widely understood; strong cultural presence.
People from other parts of Pakistan living in the city; diverse backgrounds.
A mix of market life and residential areas; faith and family networks influence daily rhythms.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A central sport in daily life; local games and informal leagues are common in parks.
Popular recreational activity in schools and community grounds.
Traditionally strong, with local clubs and school teams.
Traditional contact sport enjoyed in some rural and urban areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rawalpindi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian using dal, sabzi, chana/chole, or paneer; request no beef stock or ghee and ask for vegetable curries when possible.