Islamabad is a meticulously planned city in Pakistan. Surrounded by lush green hills on two sides, it is one of the most captivating cities in South Asia. With trees flanking the streets, adorning different sectors and zones, the city emerges as a blend of greenery, temperate weather, and calm.
Apart from that, the city is known for many of its wonderful tourist spots, some of which we have delved into below:
Faisal Mosque:
The Faisal Mosque is Pakistan’s biggest mosque, spanning a 5000m2 area and able to contain 250,000 worshippers. With its unique structure resembling a desert Bedouin’s tent, the mosque differs from other mosques that have a typical dome structure style.
Faisal Mosque is a symbol of Pakistan, let alone Islamabad, and is visible from almost every place in the city. Anyone visiting the place feels the unique warmth and freshness that reflects its aura.
Daman-e-Koh:
Daman-e-Koh is the highest tourist spot on one’s way to Pir Sohawa, a mid-point situated at a height of about 3600 feet on the Margalla Hills. About 2400 feet above sea level, it offers a scenic view of the entire Islamabad with Faisal Mosque on the horizon. Monkeys are seen during winters, while cheetahs descend from the high hills of Murree during the snowfall.
Lok Virsa Museum:
Located near Shakarparian Road, Lok Virsa Museum pays homage to the country’s culture and traditions. It wonderfully encapsulates the history of Mohenjo-Daro, the art and craft of folk culture, the era of Heer Raanjha, and the like.
The relics, in the form of statues, written content, pottery, cloth, and tools, are organised and displayed in a unique fashion that visitors can enjoy looking at or reading through.
Pakistan Monument:
A 5-minute drive away from the Lok Virsa Museum is the Pakistan Museum. It is depicted by four petals that signify the four provinces of the country, along with three smaller petals indicating the three territories – Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and the FATA. The museum lets you deeply delve into Pakistan’s history.
It will take you around 20 minutes to go through the entertaining and impressive elements of the museum, which you can proudly capture to cherish for later.
Saidpur Village:
Located on the foothills of the Margalla mountains, Saidpur is a must-visit in Islamabad. The village has lived through the Mughal era and carries the remnants of older civilisations. Its amazing aspect is its beautiful blend of traditional culture with modern lifestyle through the cafes and restaurants that are seamlessly incorporated into the village. The result a a nostalgic aura that exudes from the area and gives a thrilling experience.
Shah Allah Dita Caves:
For the adventurous who wish to explore further, Shah Allah Dita Caves are another treat. Being 2400 years old, these caves are the relics from the Buddhist, Aurangzeb, and the Hindu era.
The village nearby is known to be 700 years old, which was a connecting path between Kabul and Gandharan City. Currently, the caves have been transformed into a cosy spot for visitors, who come and relax, sip chai, munch on pakoras, and revel in soothing music.
Lake View Park:
This park is one of the most refreshing picnic destinations for families. Located between Rawal Lake and Murree Road, the park comprises a large recreational area for visitors, who tend to enjoy Rawal lake, among other spots. Popular places include motorsports ranch, boating arena, festival area, swings for kids, and many other activities.
Margalla Hills:
Margalla Hills are among the coveted destinations for hikers. Full of greenery – trees, rocks, and plants – these hills present an idyllic view to the tourists. Comprising eight hiking trails from different locations, they are also a natural habitat for various birds and animals. Among the eight trails, Trail 3 and 5 are among the most popular and oldest ones.
Giga Mall:
Giga Mall is an excellent pick for a shopping excursion. An exceptional merge of the most popular brands from across the country and beyond, it has uniquely transformed the shopping experience of millions. It is also a wonderful spot with eateries offering diverse, delectable cuisines.
Fatima Jinnah Park (F-9 Park):
Also known as Capital Park, F-9 Park is a public recreational park that spans the entire F-9 sector. With loads of green spaces, walking tracks, and family attractions, the park is a wonderful blend of many activities.
Centaurus Mall:
An iconic retail, dining, and entertainment spot, Centaurus Mall boosts over 250 national and international brands, ranging from exclusive wedding designer wears to renowned clothing and shoe outlets. Situated in the heart of Islamabad, it also features a luxury corporate hotel besides providing a diverse shopping experience.
Pakistan National Council of Arts (PNCA):
Located on a small hillock in front of the Majlis-e-Shoora and the Aiwan-e-Sadr, it is the first national art gallery of the country. It is a hub of art activities in Islamabad, hosting various cultutral shows and art performances. Its purpose is to make arts accessible to all, and promote artists and art nationwide and across the world. It has the following divisions: performing arts, national puppet theatre, children art workshop, and visual arts.
Rose and Jasmine Garden:
Hosting over 250 types of roses and dozen jasmine types, this is a public garden situated within Shakarparian’s recreational area. A pleasantly serene and calm place, it is a highly maintained tourist spot in the capital city.
Shakarparian Park:
It is a picturesque national park situated near the Zero Point Interchange. Built in the early 1960s, it has established itself as a sanctuary of tranquillity, offering delightful city views, including Margalla Hills and Rawal Lake. Shakarparian Park is a perfect destination to take in Islamabad’s beauty. It hosts the famous Pakistan Monument and Pakistan Museum, as well as jogging tracks, picnic points, and refreshments.
Rawal Lake:
Located in the heart of Islamabad, Rawal Lake is one of those beautiful lakes of Pakistan one must visit. It was made for the people of Islamabad and Rawalpindi to meet their water needs and takes water from Korang River along with a few streams from Margalla Hills.
It boasts Lake View Park, and includes refreshment stalls, a diverse range of activities such as paintball, go-kart, and bumper car, and a beautiful bird park. Surrounded by flowering trees and comprising vast gardens, secluded picnic spots and walking paths, it is an ideal spot for picnics, fishing, boating, and enjoying the picturesque views of the city: Views of Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Margalla Hills, and Murree Hills can be enjoyed from the highest point in the garden.
