Things To Do
in Islāmābād
I'm sorry, but there seems to be a mistake in your question. Islāmābād is the capital city of Pakistan, not India. Islāmābād is known for its modern architecture, wide avenues, and green spaces. The city serves as the political and administrative center of Pakistan, hosting government buildings, foreign embassies, and international organizations. Islāmābād offers a blend of traditional Pakistani culture and contemporary urban living.
Overall, it is a vibrant and diverse city with a unique charm.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in Pakistan. Enjoy the stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
Afterward, head to Daman-e-Koh for panoramic views of the city. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle.
End your day at Lake View Park, enjoying the sunset by the lake. The atmosphere is perfect for relaxation and some light snacks.
Visit Margalla Hills National Park for a refreshing hike among nature. The early hours are best for spotting wildlife and enjoying cooler temperatures.
After your hike, relax at Shakarparian Park, which offers beautiful gardens and picnic areas. It's a great place to unwind with a book or a refreshing drink.
Conclude your day with a stroll around Pakistan Monument and Museum, learning about the country's history. The monument is beautifully illuminated at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Islamabad is known for its clean and green environment.
- It has well-planned infrastructure and wide road networks.
- The city is home to several parks and recreational areas, ideal for outdoor activities.
- As the capital city, it hosts various government institutions and embassies, providing a vibrant socio-political atmosphere.
- Islamabad has a relatively higher standard of living compared to other cities in Pakistan.
- Islamabad can be expensive in terms of housing and living costs.
- The city has limited entertainment options compared to larger cities like Karachi or Lahore.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Job opportunities may be fewer, especially in non-governmental sectors.
- The weather can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters.
Best Activities in Islāmābād
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and enjoy stunning views of Islāmābād from the Margalla Hills National Park.
Visit the iconic Faisal Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, and admire its architectural beauty and serene surroundings.
Rent a boat and spend a relaxing time on the scenic Rawal Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the Margalla Hills.
Tours
Uncover the best of Islāmābād with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Islāmābād
Visit one of these nice places.
Located in the Margalla Hills, Daman-e-Koh offers a panoramic view of Islāmābād and is a popular spot for photography.
One of the largest mosques in the world, the Faisal Mosque provides a beautiful backdrop for photographs, especially during sunset.
The Pakistan Monument offers stunning views of the city and is a great location for capturing the skyline of Islāmābād.
Food in Islāmābād
Islāmābād Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food consisting of hollow puri filled with a spicy and tangy mixture of tamarind water, chili, chaat masala, potato, onion, and chickpeas.
Must-Try!
A fragrant rice dish prepared with basmati rice, meat (chicken, goat, beef, or fish), and a blend of exotic spices.
A classic Punjabi dish featuring spicy chickpeas (chole) paired with deep-fried bread (bhature).
Samosas topped with spicy chickpeas, tangy chutneys, yogurt, and crunchy sev.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Islāmābād better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market famous for its street food stalls offering a variety of chaats, kebabs, and sweets.
This market is known for its street food vendors serving delicious gol gappe, chaat, and North Indian snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Islāmābād, India, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or in more conservative areas. Both men and women should ensure their clothing covers their shoulders, arms, and legs. Women are also advised to cover their heads with a scarf or shawl.
It is important to show respect for Islamic religious practices while in Islāmābād, India. This includes refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the month of Ramadan, and being mindful of prayer times, which may vary throughout the day.
Visitors should be aware of gender interactions in Islāmābād, India. It is respectful to avoid physical contact with someone of the opposite gender unless they initiate it, and to maintain a polite and reserved demeanor when interacting with individuals of the opposite gender in public settings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Islāmābād with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Islāmābād
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in India, including Islāmābād. In most cases, a service charge is included in the bill at restaurants and hotels. However, if you receive exceptional service, it is appropriate to leave a small tip as a token of appreciation.
In Islāmābād, India, cash is widely used for everyday transactions, although credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments. It's important to have cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops and local markets. Mobile payment options are also becoming increasingly popular in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Islāmābād.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Islāmābād due to pleasant weather and blooming flowers
Another great time to visit with mild temperatures and clear skies
Hot and humid weather, with occasional monsoon rains
Cool and dry, with occasional fog and smog
Islāmābād at Night
Hiking in Islāmābād
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular destination for hiking with multiple trails offering stunning views of the city and surrounding hills.
A scenic hiking area known for its natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna, located near the outskirts of Islamabad.
Although a bit farther, Nathiagali is renowned for its picturesque trails and is a favored spot for hikers seeking more of a challenge.
A public park with easy walking trails, perfect for family hikes and activities while enjoying panoramic views of Islamabad.
Famous for its rich biodiversity, offering hiking routes that encourage exploration of its lush landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Islāmābād through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Islāmābād by plane.
Located in Delhi, India, this is the primary airport serving the National Capital Region.
Located in Lahore, Pakistan, this airport serves as an international gateway for the Punjab region.
Located in Lucknow, India, this airport serves the capital city of Uttar Pradesh.
Located in Ahmedabad, India, this airport serves as a key point for international flights in western India.
Located in Amritsar, India, this airport serves the surrounding region and offers international flights.
Located in Hyderabad, India, this is one of the busiest airports in India with significant international traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Islāmābād, known for their rich culture and contributions to agriculture and trade.
An important ethnic group in the region, known for their distinct cultural practices and heritage.
Descendants of Muslim migrants from India who moved to Pakistan during and after Partition, contributing significantly to the urban economy.
A smaller demographic group in the area, known for their tribal structure and cultural traditions.
Another significant group with cultural influences from the Sindh region, known for their distinctive cuisine and traditions.
Includes smaller communities such as Christians, Kashmiris, and various tribal groups, each contributing to the diversity of the city.
The Soul of Islāmābād
Discover the essence of Islāmābād through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Islāmābād, cricket is played at various levels from street matches to professional leagues. The city has several cricket clubs and facilities.
Field hockey has a rich history in Pakistan and is still played extensively in Islāmābād. The city boasts several teams and participates in national competitions.
Football is gaining popularity among the youth in Islāmābād, with many clubs and local tournaments being organized, along with significant support for international matches.
An increasingly popular sport, badminton is played recreationally and competitively in Islāmābād, with various tournaments held throughout the year.
Table tennis is popular among students and in recreational centers, with clubs providing facilities for aspiring players.
Basketball has a growing following in Islāmābād, especially among schools and universities, with local leagues and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Islāmābād.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Islāmābād offer a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, often denoted on the menu. Additionally, many traditional Indian dishes are naturally vegetarian.
While bread and wheat-based products are prevalent in Indian cuisine, many restaurants in Islāmābād are aware of gluten-free requirements and can accommodate by offering rice-based dishes and gluten-free bread (roti).
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Islāmābād with these cultural adventures.