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The Best Places to See in Islamabad for Tourists

October 17, 2023

The largest Ferris wheel in Pakistan will be approximately 180 feet tall. It will be placed in Lake View Park. The park’s phase-II work, which had been stopped for over a decade, has also been restarted.

Work on the country’s largest Ferris wheel and park extension is moving quickly, and it is projected to be completed and inaugurated by November 23, 2023.

As the capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad is the go-to tourist destination for both foreign as well as local travellers, particularly since the country was declared to be the top tourist destination for 2020. Located in the northern part of the country, the city is also an ideal starting point for any journey that is being planned to explore the areas further up north, such as Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir or even a little south towards Murree Hills.

As such, if you’re planning to visit Islamabad any time soon, you need to know just where to go, what to see, and what to do once you arrive. We’ve rounded up some of the top attractions in Islamabad that should not be missed by any tourist visiting the city.

Cultural and Historic Locations

Islamabad is a fairly new city in comparison to the ancient settlement of Lahore or another old fellow, Karachi. However, as it is the country’s capital, there are several cultural and historic places to visit in Islamabad, each with their own stories to tell:

Pakistan Monument

The Pakistan Monument is a national monument located on the western side of Shakarparian Hills. The monument, whose construction began in 2004 and was completed in 2007, symbolises the unity of the people with four granite flower petals rising from the ground and converging together to depict the four provinces (Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) standing in unity.

Three smaller petals inside the larger ones represent the smaller territories of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas). The monument stands atop a marble base and is at a height that gives you a scenic view of Islamabad. The monument is located close to another attraction, a wax museum, showcasing the events that ignited the Pakistan Movement in 1940.

Lok Virsa Museum

The Lok Virsa Museum, which was built in 1974, is close to the Pakistan Monument. It is one of Pakistan’s largest museums, with many exhibit halls and an outdoor museum displaying Pakistan’s legacy. The name literally translates to ‘Museum of People’s Heritage,’ and it certainly lives up to the term by documenting Pakistan’s history in its halls. Within the premises, there is also a library and a research center.

Shah Faisal Mosque

Named after the Saudi King Faisal who granted monetary aid for the completion of its construction, Shah Faisal Mosque is the largest mosque in Pakistan. It was also the largest mosque in the world between the late 1980s and the early 1990s. What’s truly unique about this mosque is the lack of a domed structure which is typical of mosques all over the world. Constructed in 1986 by a Turkish architect, Vedat Dalokay, the mosque looks like a tent pitched in a desert, with four spires towering up from each of its corners. The mosque can hold nearly 70,000 worshippers, with space to accommodate about 10,000 people in the central prayer hall. This prominent landmark is located just a short drive away from F7 Markaz, a popular commercial district.

Saidpur Village

Saidpur, a revitalized hamlet in the foothills of the Himalayas that surround the capital, offers a nice respite from modern life. Visiting this region of Islamabad is like going back in time, where you may experience life in an actual village even in the twenty-first century. While modern life has made its way into the communities here, it has been integrated in such a way that all of the modern eateries blend in with the historic surroundings. The village is about 500 years old, however it was rebuilt in 2006 by the CDA (Capital Development Authority).

Margalla Hills

It goes without saying that if you live near the mountains, you’ll want to spend some time exploring them. The feeling is same for visitors visiting Islamabad and those who want to observe the wilderness up close. Hiking trails are established across the hills, and hikers frequently backpack through them at their leisure. The hills are also perfect for bird watchers, as many species make the highlands home. Exploring Margalla Hills is a one-of-a-kind adventure that gives panoramic views of Islamabad once you reach the summit.

Daman-e-koh

While many might argue that they are the same, Daman-e-Koh, translated into ‘foothills’, is actually a viewing point on Margalla Hills, from where you can get a fabulous bird’s eye view of the entire city spread out in front of you. The beautiful Faisal Mosque is also visible from here. You can choose to visit the point while you hike through Margalla Hills or drive up here by road.

Rawal Lake

Streams flowing down from Margalla Hills collect at a reservoir which forms Rawal Lake. Paddle and motor boats are available here for a fun-filled afternoon. Having a picnic at Lake View Park is also an option when you are considering things to do in Islamabad. However, visiting the lake at sunset will give you the best views of the scenic beauty that awaits you.

Monal Restaurant

Monal restaurant, located a short trek up from Daman-e-Koh, is the best restaurant in Islamabad, giving not only delicious food but also amazing views of the city spread out in front of the hills. While the menu includes fast food, pizza, and pasta, as well as continental and oriental fare, Monal is best renowned for its Pakistani fare. Handi, Biryani, and a variety of BBQ meals are among their must-try menu items.

Jinnah Super Market

While Centaurus Mall is the best mall to visit in Islamabad during your visit, Jinnah Super Market in Sector F-7 Markaz is the best market for high-end brands. It has a unique circular shape with shops on both the inner and outer sides. If you want to avoid the malls, this is the place to go for shopping in Islamabad. It has everything from branded clothing to luxury restaurants and jewelry stores.

Sunday Bazaar

This market, known as Itwar Bazaar on Sundays, is also open on other days of the week. Although the one in Sector G-11 is the most popular, smaller bazaars may be found around Islamabad. These markets are frequently open on Tuesdays and Fridays, and they sell anything from fresh produce to clothing, tech gadgets, and other items. As a foreign tourist eager to explore Islamabad and its bazaars, you should be aware that haggling is a common practice in Pakistani street markets, and while some simple bargaining tips can help you secure a good deal, it is recommended that you accompany your shopping spree with a trustworthy local.

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