The best tourist sites in Islamabad Travel Guide.

The capital of the Pakistani government is Islamabad which is known to have clean air, beautiful landscape, modern architecture and peaceful environment. As Islamabad is surrounded by Margalla Hills, it is a combination of natural beauty, cultural landmarks and modern attractions.

Islamabad is full of great places to visit, whether you are a nature-lover, a historical figure or an urbanist. This guide presents the best tourist sites that every tourist is supposed to visit.

Faisal Mosque

Faisal mosque is the most regarded landmark in Islamabad, which is one of the largest mosques in the world. Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay designed it and it was completed in 1986.

The mosque does not have a traditional shape of a dome, but rather a modern tent form with four high minarets. It is located in the foothills of Margalla Hills and thus the view is even more beautiful.

Visitors can:

Exploring the great hall of prayer.
Walk in the wide courtyard
Make huge photographs with Margalla hills in the background.

The serene atmosphere renders the mosque a visit in Islamabad.

Daman‑e‑Koh

The Daman-e-Koh is an availed opinion in Margalla Hills. Here the visitors get a panoramic view of Islamabad.

It is particularly beautiful on the evening when the lighting of the cities begins.

Things to do at Daman‑e‑Koh:

Savor the panoramic view of the city.
Take photographs
Relax at nearby cafés

Its location is an ideal destination, where one can sightsee or have a good time with family or friends.

Pakistan Monument

An important emblem of Pakistan is its Pakistan Monument. It is a symbol of the four provinces and three territories that are formed out of the blooming petal of the flowers.

It is located in Shakarparian Hills and gives exquisite views of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

There are also the Pakistan Monument Museum near by, which narrates the history and independence of Pakistan.

Lok Virsa Museum

Lok Virsa Museum, also known as the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage is a good place to appreciate the Pakistani culture.

The museum displays:

Conventional garments of various areas.
Musical instruments
Handicrafts and artworks
Exhibits of all provinces, cultural.

Pakistan is a country that has a rich culture and traditions, which the visitors can view in a single roof.

Rawal Lake

Rawal Lake is a man made lake which serves to provide Islamabad and Rawalpindi with water. It is also a good place of relaxation and activities.

Visitors can enjoy:

Boating and fishing
Picnics with family
Walking around the lake
Watching birds and nature

The nearby Lake View Park has playgrounds, food stands and gardens.

Margalla Hills National park.

Margalla Hills National Park, enclosing Islamabad, should not be left out of the nature lovers as it provides the perfect natural sight.

The park features:

Hiking trails
Wild animals, such as monkeys and birds.
Scenic viewpoints
Forests and mountainous landscapes.

Trails 3 and trail 5 are some of the most popular trails taking one to spectacular panoramas.

It is an ideal location where people can hike, take pictures and the mountain air.

Centaurus Mall

Centaurus Mall is one of the most renowned shopping centers in the city of Islamabad to have a modern shopping experience.

The mall offers:

International and local brands.
Restaurants and cafés
A cinema
Family entertainment premises.

It is an excellent shopping, recreational center and food establishment.

Shakarparian Park

The Shakarparian Park is also among the oldest in Islamabad. It is close to Pakistan Monument and has the stunning views of the city.

The park is known for its:

Green gardens
Walking tracks
Peaceful atmosphere

A large number of tourists come to have some rest and appreciate nature.

Saidpur Village

The village is called Saidpur Village and it is a historic village located at the foot of the Margalla Hills. It has been transformed into a recreational and tourist place.

Visitors can explore:

Traditional architecture
Small museums and art galleries.
Local food restaurants.

The village provides an insight into the traditional way of life and tradition of the region.

Pir Sohawa

Pir Sohawa is the scenic hilltop location on Margalla Hills over Islamabad. It is known to have cool climate and great urban landscape.

One of the key attractions is the Monal Restaurant where there is a good view of Islamabad and serves delicious food.

Tourists usually visit in the evening and take care of their meal during the sunset.

Best Time to Visit Islamabad

The best times to visit are:

March to May (Spring) beautiful weather and flowers in blossom.
September-November (Autumn)- cool with clear skies.

It is hot in summer and cool though comfortable in winter to do sightseeing.

Travel Tips for Islamabad

These are the tips that you should remember to make your trip enjoyable:

Wear walking and hiking shoes.
Take water when you travel to the outdoors.
Most of the points of interest such as Daman-e-Koh are best seen at night.
Adhere to local traditions at religious sites.
Explore local food joints to experience Pakistani food.

Final Thoughts

Islamabad is a well-planned city of Pakistan, which is the most beautiful. The city has unique travel experience with green hills, modern landmarks, cultural museums as well as serene parks.

Islamabad has a place to visit in every visitor, whether it is the iconic Faisal Mosque and the picturesque Margalla Hills or some cultural sites such as Lok Virsa Museum.

These are the best tourist sites in Islamabad to see, as they will be remembered forever and put more sense into the way you perceive the Pakistani capital city.