Things To Do
in Islamabad
The capital city of Pakistan, nestled against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills, offers a unique blend of modern urban planning, breathtaking natural landscapes, and rich cultural history. It's distinguished by its high standard of living, cleanliness, and well-organized sectors that contrast sharply with the traditional hustle and bustle found in many other South Asian cities.
As a hub of political activity, it houses many foreign embassies, and its landmarks include the striking Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in South Asia, and the Pakistan Monument, symbolizing national unity.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the Margalla Hills National Park, enjoying the beautiful scenery. Capture some early morning photos of the lush greenery and wildlife.
Have a picnic lunch at one of the designated areas in the park. Spend the afternoon visiting the nearby Lok Virsa Museum to learn about Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage.
Head to Faisal Mosque for a stunning view during sunset. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the mosque and capture the beautiful architecture.
Visit the Pakistan Monument and Museum to learn about the country's history and heritage. Explore the artistic displays and enjoy the surrounding gardens.
Head to the nearby Daman-e-Koh lookout point for a panoramic view of the city. Have lunch at a local restaurant with a view.
Explore the lively markets of Aabpara for some shopping. Sample local snacks and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings including the Margalla Hills and serene parks.
- Planned city with organized infrastructure and spacious roads.
- Cultural diversity and a mix of different communities.
- Home to several educational institutions and universities.
- Relatively high standard of living compared to other cities in Pakistan.
- Political and administrative center of Pakistan, hosting important government offices and embassies.
- Security concerns due to political instability and regional tensions.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors compared to larger cities like Karachi or Lahore.
- High living costs, especially in well-developed sectors.
- Traffic congestion can be an issue during peak hours.
- Public transportation system is not as developed or reliable as in other major cities.
- Hot summers and cold winters may not be suitable for everyone.
Best Activities in Islamabad
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy the scenic views and natural beauty while hiking the trails in Margalla Hills National Park.
A popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of Islamabad and surrounding areas, with walking trails and picnic spots.
Engage in boating, picnicking, and birdwatching at Rawal Lake, a serene escape from the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Islamabad with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Islamabad
Visit one of these nice places.
Daman-e-Koh offers panoramic views of Islamabad and the surrounding mountains. It is a popular spot for tourists and photographers.
The Pakistan Monument offers stunning views of the city and also serves as a prominent landmark. It is a great place for photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
The Margalla Hills provide numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views of Islamabad. It's a perfect location for nature and landscape photography.
Rawal Lake View Park offers scenic views of the Rawal Lake and the surrounding hills. It's a peaceful location for capturing natural beauty.
Food in Islamabad
Islamabad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish with tenderly cooked meat, flavored with aromatic spices. Must-try at Kabul Restaurant or Monal.
Must-Try!
Delicious, crisp pastries filled with spiced potatoes or minced meat. Try them at Savour Foods or Karachi Hot and Spicy Samosas.
Spiced patty made of minced meat, herbs, and spices, best enjoyed at Kabul Restaurant or Street vendors in F-6 Super Market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Islamabad better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant food street offering a variety of local dishes such as Seekh Kebabs, Gol Gappay, and traditional Pakistani sweets.
A bustling market known for its array of street food options including Bun Kebabs, Dahi Bhallay, and Chana Chaat.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to respect the traditional dress code by dressing modestly, particularly for women. Wearing conservative attire such as shalwar kameez for both men and women is a sign of respect for local customs.
Greetings are an important aspect of Pakistani culture. Using polite words and gestures, such as saying 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) and shaking hands respectfully, are considered respectful and courteous behavior.
When dining, it is polite to accept food and drink offerings with your right hand and to never refuse a meal when it is offered. Additionally, showing appreciation for the food and the host's hospitality is considered respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Islamabad with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Islamabad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Islamabad, Pakistan, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for services such as tour guides and drivers. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is common in restaurants, while rounding up the fare is typical for taxi drivers.
In Islamabad, Pakistan, cash is the most widely accepted form of payment, although major credit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's a good idea to carry cash in smaller denominations for convenience.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Islamabad.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The weather is mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and clear skies. It's a great time to explore the city and enjoy outdoor activities.
The temperatures are comfortable and the city is adorned with beautiful fall colors. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
The weather is chilly, with occasional rain and sometimes snowfall in the surrounding hills. It's a good time for experiencing the local culture and enjoying traditional winter festivities.
The weather is hot and humid, with occasional monsoon rains. It's a good time for indoor activities and visiting nearby cooler hill stations for a retreat from the heat.
Islamabad at Night
Hiking in Islamabad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination featuring various trails with stunning views overlooking Islamabad and the surrounding areas.
Located in the Galyat region, these peaks offer challenging hikes with breathtaking scenery and diverse wildlife.
A city park with gentle hiking trails that provide excellent views of the city and surrounding Margalla Hills.
A scenic location with a well-maintained trail that leads to viewpoints over Islamabad, popular for picnics and short hikes.
A serene hill station that offers several hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more strenuous treks in lush greenery and cooler temperatures.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Islamabad through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Islamabad by plane.
The main airport serving Islamabad and surrounding areas, providing domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 375 kilometers from Islamabad, this airport serves one of Pakistan's largest cities and offers numerous international flights.
Situated around 180 kilometers from Islamabad, this airport serves the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province with limited international flights.
Located about 1,400 kilometers south of Islamabad, this is the busiest airport in Pakistan, servicing a high volume of domestic and international traffic.
Approximately 400 kilometers from Islamabad, this airport serves the Multan region with domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Islamabad, comprising around 40% of the population.
A significant ethnic group, making up about 15-20% of the population.
Descendants of Urdu-speaking migrants who came to Pakistan during the partition, accounting for around 10-15%.
This group represents about 5-10%, primarily from Southern Punjab.
A smaller ethnic community in Islamabad, constituting about 5%.
Includes various other ethnic groups including Gilgiti, Hazara, and people from other regions, comprising the remaining population.
The Soul of Islamabad
Discover the essence of Islamabad through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Islamabad, with a strong following at both amateur and professional levels. Local cricket clubs and leagues are prevalent, and many national matches are held in the city.
Football enjoys a significant fan base in Islamabad, with various clubs and organizations promoting the sport. The Pakistan Premier League features teams from the capital, and many youth participate in local tournaments.
Field hockey has a rich history in Pakistan, and Islamabad is home to numerous hockey clubs and training centers. The sport is played at schools, colleges, and professional levels.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Islamabad, with many recreational clubs and competitions across different age groups. The sport is played both casually and competitively.
Tennis is gaining popularity in Islamabad, with several public and private courts available for play. There are local tournaments and a growing interest in the sport among the youth.
Athletics is a common sport practiced by many schools and universities in Islamabad. Track and field events are organized regularly, promoting fitness and competition among students.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity in Islamabad, with many public and private pools available. Competitions are held for both amateurs and professionals.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Islamabad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available, with many restaurants offering dishes like Daal Tarka, Aloo Palak, and Paneer curries.
While vegan options can be more limited, specific requests for dishes like Chana Masala or Baingan Bharta without dairy can usually be accommodated.
Rice-based dishes such as Biryani and local lentil soups like Daal Makhani are safe choices for those with gluten restrictions.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Islamabad with these cultural adventures.
