Things To Do
in Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi, commonly known as Pindi, is a bustling metropolitan city in the Punjab province of Pakistan, serving as a sister city to the nation's capital, Islamabad. It is rich in history and culture, with ancient markets like Raja Bazaar offering a vibrant array of goods, alongside well-preserved colonial-era architecture.
The city is also a major military headquarters and serves as a gateway to the northern regions, making it a strategic and vital part of the country's geography and economy.
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Kya haal hai?" - How are you?
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Maaf kijiye" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "Khuda hafiz" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Faizabad Interchange for a vibrant view of the city. Enjoy breakfast at a local café nearby.
Head to the bustling Raja Bazaar for shopping and local street food. Don't miss the chance to try some traditional snacks.
Visit the picturesque Liaquat Bagh for a relaxing evening stroll. Wind down with dinner at a popular restaurant in the area.
Begin at the historic Rawalpindi Railway Station, an architectural gem of the city. Capture some photos to cherish the moment.
Explore the Pakistan Army Museum to learn about the country's military history. The exhibits provide fascinating insights and stories.
Visit the nearby Gulzar-e-Quaid park to unwind after a day of exploration. Enjoy a serene environment with families enjoying their time.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Vibrant markets and local cuisine
- Close proximity to Islamabad, the capital city
- Strong sense of community and hospitality
- Access to beautiful natural surroundings and landscapes
- Traffic congestion and poor road conditions
- Challenges with infrastructure and public services
- Air pollution and environmental concerns
- Security issues in some areas
- Limited recreational and entertainment options compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Rawalpindi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful hiking trails and enjoy the scenic views of nature.
Engage in boating, picnicking, and birdwatching around the picturesque Rawal Lake.
Enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, and cycling in this expansive park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Rawalpindi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Rawalpindi
Visit one of these nice places.
Overlooks the city and provides a panoramic view of Rawalpindi and Islamabad
Offers stunning views of the Margalla Hills and the surrounding areas
Perfect for capturing the beauty of Rawalpindi and Islamabad with its lush greenery and spacious layout
Food in Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked stew of tender meat, simmered in a flavorful gravy with aromatic spices. You can savor this iconic dish at Sohail Nihari, Kashmir Road.
Must-Try!
A spicy patty made from minced meat and a harmonious combination of local herbs and spices. Chapli Kebabs at Quetta Chapli Kebab House are a must-try.
Deep-fried pastries filled with savory ingredients like spiced potatoes, peas, and minced meat. Head to Mehdi Fried Samosas for an authentic experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Rawalpindi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub of local eateries offering a diverse array of street food delights, from spicy chaats to sizzling kebabs.
A vibrant market known for its fresh produce, aromatic spices, and a wide variety of street food stalls offering everything from crispy pakoras to flavorful kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Rawalpindi, it is important to greet people with the traditional Islamic greeting 'As-salamu alaykum' which means 'peace be upon you'. It is also respectful to address people using their titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Mrs.' followed by their surname.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Rawalpindi. It is customary to stand up to greet and show respect to elders when they enter a room, and to defer to their opinions and decisions.
In Rawalpindi, the dress code is generally conservative, especially for women. It is respectful to dress modestly, avoiding clothing that is too revealing or flashy, and to cover arms and legs in public places.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Rawalpindi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Rawalpindi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Rawalpindi, Pakistan, especially in the service industry. It is customary to tip waitstaff at restaurants, hotel staff, and people providing various services such as taxi drivers, hairdressers, and baggage handlers. The typical tip is around 5-10% of the total bill or a rounded up amount as a gesture of appreciation for good service.
In Rawalpindi, Pakistan, cash is the primary mode of payment for most transactions. However, major credit and debit cards are also widely accepted in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and retail stores. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting local markets and smaller vendors as they may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Rawalpindi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Rawalpindi when the weather is pleasant and the city is in full bloom with flowers and greenery. The temperature is moderate, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Another great time to visit Rawalpindi is during autumn when the weather is mild and the landscape is adorned with the colors of fall. It's an excellent time for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Winter in Rawalpindi is chilly and can experience fog, but it's still a good time to visit for those who enjoy cooler temperatures and want to experience the city during the festive season. Warm clothing is a must, and indoor attractions like museums and historical sites are popular during this time.
Summer in Rawalpindi is hot and humid, with temperatures often soaring. It's the low tourist season due to the intense heat, but indoor activities and shopping in the local markets can still be enjoyable during this time.
Rawalpindi at Night
Hiking in Rawalpindi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in Islamabad, the Margalla Hills offer a variety of hiking trails with stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
A popular hiking spot that provides scenic views of the Islamabad skyline and is accessible via the Margalla Hills.
Located near Murree, this trail offers beautiful landscapes and a refreshing escape into nature.
A lesser-known hiking destination that offers a peaceful environment with lush greenery, making it ideal for nature lovers.
A local park in Rawalpindi with trails that are suitable for light hiking and walking, perfect for families and casual hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Rawalpindi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Rawalpindi by plane.
Located approximately 30 kilometers from Rawalpindi, it is the largest airport serving the region and provides international and domestic flights.
Located in Lahore, about 380 kilometers from Rawalpindi, this airport is one of the major international airports in Pakistan, serving flights to various global destinations.
Located in Peshawar, approximately 150 kilometers from Rawalpindi, this airport operates both domestic and international flights.
Situated around 500 kilometers from Rawalpindi, this airport serves domestic and a few international flights.
Located in Quetta, about 800 kilometers from Rawalpindi, it is one of the key airports in the region, handling both domestic and limited international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Rawalpindi, consisting of people who primarily speak Punjabi and have a significant cultural presence.
Descendants of people who migrated from India during the partition in 1947, primarily speaking Urdu and having a strong influence in urban areas.
A notable ethnic group in Rawalpindi, mainly of Pashto speakers, known for their distinct cultural traditions.
A smaller community in Rawalpindi, often involved in local commerce and trade.
An ethnic group that is less numerous in Rawalpindi, primarily coming from Balochistan, with unique cultural and linguistic characteristics.
Includes various smaller ethnicities and communities such as Kashmiris, Christians, and others, contributing to the city's diversity.
The Soul of Rawalpindi
Discover the essence of Rawalpindi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Rawalpindi, with a huge following and numerous local clubs and teams participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Football is gaining popularity among the youth in Rawalpindi, with many local tournaments and a growing interest in international football events.
Field hockey has a rich history in Pakistan and is played in Rawalpindi, with local teams competing at different levels.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Rawalpindi, enjoyed by many as a recreational activity and competitive sport.
Basketball is increasingly being played in schools and colleges, with several local courts available for players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rawalpindi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries and restaurants in Rawalpindi offer a range of vegetarian and vegan options, such as aromatic daal dishes, crispy pakoras, and flavorful vegetable curries.
While traditional dishes may contain wheat-based elements, several restaurants and cafes in Rawalpindi accommodate gluten-free dietary needs with rice-based dishes and gluten-free bread alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Rawalpindi with these cultural adventures.
