If you are planning a trip to Pakistan, you will almost certainly pass through Islamabad, especially if you are heading to the north. A city like Islamabad may not be as fascinating as the northern areas of Pakistan, but with my expert guide to Islamabad in hand, you will undoubtedly enjoy your time there, and you'll get to see a side of the country that you wouldn't experience if you just went to the mountains or touristy cities. Without further ado, here's a list of incredible things to do in Islamabad .
On the other hand, if you need a helping hand that helps you to arrange your trip at an economical price then FlyPakistan ( a Destination Management Company in Faislabad) is here to help you.
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Islamabad that you Must Visit
1- Faisal Mosque
One of the best places to visit in Islamabad. The Faisal Mosque is a national mosque of Pakistan. It is the world's sixth-biggest mosque and the largest in South Asia, and it is located in Pakistan's capital city of Islamabad, on the slopes of the Margalla Hills. The mosque has an eight-sided concrete shell with a modern design that is based on the shape of a traditional Bedouin tent. The mosque is a modern and significant piece of Islamic architecture in Pakistan, and it is a prominent tourist destination.
2- Lok Virsa
It's one of the most popular tourist Places in Islamabad. The historical museum Lok Virsa is located near Shakarparian Road. It's a tribute to Pakistan's live traditions and cultures. Lok Virsa has a vast collection of cultural items from several ethnic groups in Pakistan, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, textile work, and music.
There is also a resource library with a large collection of books about culture, folklore, customs, history, and ethnicities. However, woodwork, embroidered garments, ivory, jewelry, block printing, metalwork, and bone crafts are all on display at the museum on a regular basis. In 1974, the museum opened its doors for the public. It comprises multiple buildings as well as an outdoor museum.
3- Pakistan Monument
The Pakistan Monument is a national monument on the Shakarparian Hills' western side. With four granite flower petals emerging from the ground and converging to reflect the four provinces (Punjab, Sindh, Balochistan, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) standing in unity. The monument, construction starts in 2004 and was completed in 2007, symbolizes the people's oneness.
The smaller areas of Azad Kashmir, FATA, and Gilgit-Baltistan are represented by three tiny petals inside the bigger ones. The monument is built on a marble base and stands tall enough to provide a stunning view of Islamabad.
4- Margalla Hills And Daman-e-Koh Park
This is a popular tourist destination in Islamabad. Daman-e-Koh is a hilltop garden and viewing point, north of Islamabad and is located in the center of the Margalla Hills. However, Its name is a combination of two Persian words that mean "foothills" when put together. It's around 2400 feet above sea level and about 500 feet from Islamabad.
It is a famous tourist attraction for both locals and visitors to the city. Tourists passing through Daman-e-Koh on their route to the higher viewpoint Pir Sohawa, which is located at a height of around 3600 feet at the top of the Margalla Hills.
5- Shah Allah Ditta Caves
You must visit Shah Allah Ditta Caves if you have a knack for historical places. The caves are said to be 700 years old. But according to historians, it is estimated to be roughly 2400 years old. It’s a centuries-old town and union council in the Islamabad Capital Territory, situated in the foothills of the Margalla Hills.
Several cafés and eateries are located within the caves, where you may spend quality time with your family and friends. Currently, the caves have been transformed into a comfortable area where visitors may have tea and pakoras while listening to calming music.
6- Dine With A View At Monal Restaurant
A wonderful restaurant named Monal is located farther up the hill from the Daman-e-Koh viewpoint, where you may dine both local and western dishes while enjoying a beautiful viewpoint of Islamabad surrounded by the Margalla Hills.
Beef seekh, Chicken karahi, chicken makhani, and kebab masala are some of the other specialties on the menu. Try the chicken tikka burger and beef steak burger if you really want fast food. However, the meal is quite expensive and may not be the best, but the view of Islamabad from above at night is unbeatable.
7- Famous Centaurus Mall
One of my favorite and best places in Islamabad. Centaurus Mall is one of Pakistan's major malls and Islamabad's go-to medium to the high-end shopping destination. From local to international brands, from entertainment to food everything is available here.
It's the perfect setting for traditional Pakistani clothing to help you fit in without having to deal with overcharging and bargaining at local markets. There is also a huge food court in the mall where you can eat conveniently. Mastana is a restaurant where you can get affordable combo meals with some of your favorite Pakistani dishes.
8- Saidpur Village
I'm surprised that so many Islamabad tour guides miss this place. Regardless of how or when visiting this, a rural hideaway is one of the best things to do in Islamabad. Saidpur Villages is a 500-year-old village located just down the Margalla Hills and right next to the famous Faisal Mosque.
The community has seen the presence of several ethnic and religious groups during its long history, which is why there is a Sikh gurdwara and an old Hindu temple there. Take a walk around the countryside to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy lunch at Des Parde's restaurant. Believe me, if you want to relax mentally this is the lbest place to visit in Islamabad.
9- Sunday Bazar
This market, known as Sunday or Itwar Bazaar, is accessible on other days of the week too. Although the one in Sector G-11 is the most prominent, other bazaars can be found in various parts of Islamabad. These markets, which are frequently open on Tuesdays and Fridays, offer everything i.e. clothing, fresh food, tech items, and more.
As a foreign visitor who wants to visit Islamabad and its bazaars, you should be aware that bargaining is common in Pakistani street markets, and while some simple negotiating methods can help you get a decent price, it is recommended that you have a trusted local with you on your shopping trip.
10- Rawal Lake
Islamabad is a great place to go for outdoor activities. Visitors and tourists come here for sightseeing, hiking, bowling, etc. However, boating is one of the most popular and well-liked leisure activities in Islamabad. Go boating at Rawal Dam in Islamabad if you wish to enjoy serenity and nature at the same time.
Believe me, you will not be disappointed. Rawal Lake is a man-made reservoir that supplies water to the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. This lake is among the Margalla Hills, that’s why it gives a wild nature reflection to its visitors. On the other hand, sailing, water skating, and diving are also adventurous activities organized on Rawal Lake.
11- Where To Stay In Islamabad?
Islamabad is full of lodging options for both luxury vacationers and budget travelers. Although you can go into any guesthouse or hotel in Islamabad and find an empty room anywhere, not all lodgings are made equal. Even in the capital, it is common to find broken power outlets or dirty bathrooms.
That’s why I strongly recommend booking your lodging in advance and making a decision based on other travelers’ reviews and the mentioned facilities. However, if you want to book a hotel. FlyPkaistan helps you find the cheapest hotel in Islamabad with all the basic facilities, according to your needs, and budget close to the city’s main attractions.
Key Notes
So, these are some of the top places to view in Islamabad to visit on your next trip. For more posts on tourism, travel and cheap hotel keep following FlyPkaistan Blog, the best tourism blog in Pakistan. What is your favorite place in Islamabad? Message down below and let us know. We would love to hear from you.