Islāmābād Capital Territory

Asia

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Pakistan

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Islamabad Capital Territory

Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is a relatively quiet city centered around the Federal Government. While Pakistan isn't a major international tourist hub, Islamabad is a popular destination for locals, offering plenty of attractions and activities for everyone. A visit to Islamabad isn't complete without seeing at least one of its beautiful mosques. The Shah Faisal Mosque, one of the largest in the world, stands out with its breathtaking location against the backdrop of the Margalla Hills. Other significant shrines, like Golra Sharif and Bari Imam, are situated just outside the city and are worth exploring. For those interested in local culture and history, Islamabad has several museums to visit, including the Pakistan Museum of Natural History, Lok Virsa Museum, and the National Art Gallery. The Potohari Art and Craft Village is also a must-see. The city boasts many parks and green spaces perfect for a relaxing day out. The Rose and Jasmine Garden and Rawal Lake are ideal for picnics, while Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa offer spectacular views. Families with children will find the Japanese Park near Islamabad Zoo a great place to spend some quality time.

Travel Tips for Islamabad Capital Territory

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Islāmābād Capital Territory

A guide to Islāmābād Capital Territory's local transportation

Taksi

Car Rental

Metro Bus

Taxis in Islamabad are plentiful, popular, and generally safe. Fares typically range from Rs 50-60 per sector, though this can vary based on your negotiation skills. Rates are usually higher at night, especially from busy areas like Jinnah Super (F-7). It’s a good idea to agree on the fare before starting your trip.

Practical Tips for Islāmābād Capital Territory

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How to get to Islamabad?

To get to Islamabad, the most convenient option is to fly into Islamabad International Airport (ISB). The airport is well-connected to various international destinations, including major cities like Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Beijing, Birmingham, Copenhagen, Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Jeddah, London, Manchester, Milan, New York, Paris, Riyadh, and Toronto, among others. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), the national carrier, operates many of these routes, alongside other international airlines that serve primarily neighboring countries. For those traveling within Pakistan, PIA also offers domestic flights to several cities, such as Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, Peshawar, Multan, Skardu, and Gilgit. Once you arrive at the airport, you can easily reach the city center by taxi or airport shuttle services, which take around 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.

What is food to eat in Islamabad?

At first, visitors might not expect much from Islamabad’s food scene, but there's actually a lot to discover. The city has plenty of dhabbas (small eateries) where you can enjoy traditional dishes. Many of the best restaurants are tucked away from the main F6 and F7 markets. While most spots don’t serve alcohol, some allow you to bring your own, so it's a good idea to call ahead and ask.

Can we drink alcohol in Islamabad?

Drinking alcohol in public is technically prohibited, but many upscale hotels have their own bars, and some larger embassies might let you in if you know someone. The sports bar in the basement of the Marriott is one of the more popular spots for a drink. That said, most Pakistanis find it highly disrespectful to drink or show alcohol in public, so it's best to be discreet.

How do people dress in Islamabad?

Kurta shalwar, Kurtis paired with jeans or pants, long shirts with jeans, and similar outfits are the most common clothing choices for women in both urban and rural areas. Women also often wear dupattas or shawls for additional coverage. These modest outfits are easily available at local shops and brands.

How about the climate and weather in Islamabad?

Islamabad experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by dry winters and extremely hot summers. The hottest month is June, with temperatures ranging from 74°F (23°C) to 110°F (43°C). July follows as the wettest month, bringing monsoon rains and frequent thunderstorms, which can sometimes lead to flooding and disrupt travel around the city. December and January are the coldest months, with temperatures dropping to between 36°F (2°C) and 67°F (19°C).