If you’re visiting Pakistan, there are plenty of things to do in Islamabad. The city is the capital of Pakistan and the ninth-largest city in the country. The Islamabad-Rawalpindi metropolitan area is the country’s third-largest, with a population of 4.1 million.
You can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Islamabad, where you can find all kinds of different cuisines. Once you’ve enjoyed all these activities, you can head to the nearby cities, which include Lahore, Peshawar, and Rawalpindi. Here are a few places to visit and things to do in Islamabad that will make your stay more enjoyable:
Visiting the Pakistan Monument
The unique flower-shaped monument in Islamabad is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It features an auditorium and wax museum to highlight Pakistan’s rich national heritage. A visit to the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad will leave you inspired and filled with new ideas. Listed as one of the world’s most beautiful monuments, it celebrates the national heritage of Pakistan. There are several reasons to visit this monument.
The monument is surrounded by lush green gardens and has become a popular photo spot. While visiting the monument, don’t miss the Museum at the monument. The museum, also known as the Islamabad Monument museum, features historical pictures and paintings that depict the country’s past. You can also take part in an art competition to learn more about the history of Pakistan, the country’s culture, and the Pakistan Movement.
The monument is a symbol of unity among the Pakistani people. It is made of granite and is composed of seven petals. Four large petals depict the provinces and cultures of the country, while the three smaller petals highlight the ethnic minorities of Pakistan. Inside, you can admire the murals that depict various landmarks of the country. You can also view the famous songs and poems by popular poets, including Allama Iqbal.
When you visit the Pakistan Monument in Islamabad, don’t forget to check out the Audio Visual Center and the Reference Library. They have archives of historic speeches and national records. You can also take a tour of the Panorama Hall. The Panorama Hall can hold up to sixty-two people. You’ll be surrounded by the monument’s architectural wonders.
Visiting the Faisal Mosque
The Faisal Mosque in Islamabad is the country’s most famous Mosque, with a large ablution area and a separate prayer hall for women. In addition to the Mosque, this complex contains a museum, lecture hall, library, and café. Located on the grounds of the Mosque is the Quaid-e-Azam Auditorium. In addition to the Mosque, there is a museum dedicated to the country’s late leader, Zia-ul-Haq.
This massive Mosque has an architectural style similar to that of the Mosques in Saudi Arabia. The Mosque contains four 88-meter-tall minarets and is the tallest Mosque in South Asia. Because of the Mosque’s large size, many people have mistaken it for a missile launcher, despite the Mosque being built so close to the city boundary walls. Although there is no ejection seat inside the mosque, visitors will be able to get a good view of the city from within the mosque’s walls. It is located at the foothills of the Margalla Hills and has a transportation system that is designed for accessibility and convenience.
This Mosque covers 130 thousand square feet of space, including the prayer hall and the Mosque’s ablution area. It was designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dakolay, who incorporated elements from the Bedouin tent to create a unique design. The Mosque was inaugurated by the late King Khalid in 1976, shortly after the assassination of Saudi King Abdul Aziz.
Visiting the Rama Mandir
A visit to Pakistan is not complete without visiting the Rama Temple in Islamabad. This Hindu temple is dedicated to the Hindu God Rama. Hindus believe that Rama spent 14 years living in Saidpur village during his exile. The temple dates back to the 16th century. During my visit, I was especially impressed with the intricate carvings on the walls of the temple. The architecture of this mosque and the surrounding area are also impressive.
The Rama Mandir was originally constructed by Raj Singh in 1580 AD and was once the center of Hindu and Sikh religious gatherings. However, after Pakistan’s independence, the temple was closed for Hindu religious practices. Today, Hindus are not allowed to pray or perform any religious rituals in the temple. The temple is located in Saidpur village in Islamabad.
While construction of the Rama Mandir has halted, the construction of the shrine has not. Due to massive public disapproval and political pressure against the Hindu community, the government has stopped any construction work on the temple. As a result, the Rama Mandir in Islamabad has become nothing more than a tourist destination. Despite being a sacred place for Hindus, it is not open to public worship.
Visiting the Gurdwara Singh Sabah
There are a variety of things to do at Gurdwara Singh Sahabah in Islamabad. Visitors should wash their hands, remove their shoes, and cover their heads with a scarf before entering. There is no photography inside the gurdwara, so visitors should avoid taking photos there. There are also strict rules about smoking and alcohol, so visitors should avoid bringing their cigarettes inside the Gurdwara. If you are in doubt about what to do, you can always ask the coordinator for help. Those interested in serving langar should follow the guidelines and instructions provided by the coordinator.
While visiting Gurdwara, it is recommended to wear loose-fitting clothes that cover most of the legs. Tight pants and low-hanging trousers are not suitable for entering the Gurdwara. Before you visit the Gurdwara, try out your clothes on a carpet at home. Visitors should also take off their shoes before entering the Darbar Sahib, as they are not allowed to wear them inside.
Sikhs have roots in Pakistan and the country’s capital is a prominent center for the religion. Sikhism is the oldest religion in the world, and Islamabad is home to some of its most sacred sites. Visit the Gurdwara in Islamabad, Pakistan to honor Guru Nanak Dev and other Sikh holy men. This place is a popular pilgrimage destination for Sikhs, and the presence of a Gurudwara here is a powerful symbol of unity.
Visiting the Centaurus Mall
The Centaurus Mall is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the capital of Pakistan. It has everything you’ll need in one location, from a five-star hotel to a fun city for kids. It’s the ultimate modern lifestyle icon in Islamabad. Guests can spend the entire day in the mall exploring all the amenities available. While shopping, you can enjoy a movie or a fun-filled outing.
The Centaurus Mall in Islamabad features a five-star hotel with 350 luxurious suites. Each room is well-appointed and features excellent lighting controls and high-spec glazing. The hotel is located in a prime location with easy access to key Islamabad destinations. It is an ideal location for both corporate and residential guests alike.
With the introduction of an entrance fee of Rs. 100, the Centaurus Mall in Islamabad has created a stir on social media. Some Islamabad residents have taken exception to this new entry fee, while others have expressed satisfaction with the change. While some residents believe that the move is beneficial to the city, others maintain that it will only create a class distinction in the shopping experience. This is an unfortunate development for a city like Islamabad that desperately needs a mall.
Visiting the Daman-E-Koh Viewpoint
The Daman-E-Koh Viewpoint, located in the Margalla Hills, is a popular tourist destination. The view is spectacular and includes Islamabad, Rawal Lake, and Faisal Mosque. The hilltop is equipped with telescopes for visitors to view the city from a unique perspective. The southern location is dotted with small cafes and tuck shops, and visitors can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Islamabad.
The views from the Daman-E-Koh Viewport are unparalleled, and the panoramic cityscape of Islamabad and the Salt Range in the south is a stunning sight to behold. The viewpoint is well-connected to Islamabad by public transport, with regular intercity buses and a Suzuki making the trip to the hill easily and quickly. There is a steep trail that leads to the viewpoint behind the Marghzar Zoo.
This hilltop garden is home to several restaurants and food stalls, offering delicious deli and international dishes. This place is best visited in the evening when the views are particularly stunning. Daman-E-Koh is a perfect romantic destination and makes a great day trip from the city. If you are looking for a peaceful atmosphere and a stunning view of Islamabad, this is the perfect destination!
Visiting the Kohsar Market
One of the oldest markets in the country is Kohsar Market in Islamabad, Pakistan. It is a must-visit when in the city. Popular among the wealthy, it offers better services and cuisine than other major markets in the city. Lined-up restaurants and canopies give this market a festive look. The location is ideal, as it is situated near the red zone of the capital. If you are looking for some great bargains, you should visit this place!
It is located in posh Kohsar Market in Islamabad. It features some of the best cafes in the city and most of them stay open until midnight. The atmosphere is also good and is conducive to socializing. Moreover, most cafes here have large parking lots and are open until late at night. You can grab a bite from any of these places and enjoy a good meal.
The Prime Minister of Pakistan, Imran Khan, has spoken about the market’s popularity. Despite its openness, it is a gathering place for the rich and famous. Many people in the government, and the media frequent the market, making it even more desirable for tourists. The prime minister also shared his thoughts on the Kohsar market in Islamabad.
Visiting the Umbrella Falls
You can see the Umbrella Waterfall in Islamabad, Pakistan, just 4 kilometers from Sajikot Waterfall. The road that leads to the waterfall is paved and turns to the left, directing you to the Umbrella Falls. There are parking lots and shops along the way, so you can enjoy your visit while watching the falls. A delicious Asian meal is available at the café if you get hungry during your trip.
If you’re looking for a great hike, try the Makhnial Ridge Trail. This second hillside trail is part of the 44-km long ridge from Shah Allah Ditta to Murree. It takes about four hours to hike from Makhnial to Tilhar, a distance of about 18 km. The shortest trek, from Masta to Gokina, is about 2 hours long.
The Noori Waterfall, or "Norri de Tahand", is another popular destination in Islamabad. It’s surrounded by green mountains and is 30 meters high. The waterfall’s beautiful color is enhanced during summer. It’s not too far from the Umbrella Waterfall, but you will have to hike for around 40 minutes to reach it.
If you love to watch waterfalls, you’ll find that Pakistan has many natural attractions. The country is blessed with countless waterfalls, including the Umbrella Falls in Islamabad. Waterfalls in Pakistan are perfect for hiking or relaxing during summer or winter. There’s also plenty of snow in the mountains, so make sure you pack your winter gear! This waterfall in Islamabad is a must-see for all nature lovers.
Visiting the Sajjikot Falls
You can take a trip to the stunning Sajjikot Falls in Islamabad, Pakistan, from the capital city itself. Located at the center of the Havelian region, the waterfall is accessible from Islamabad or the neighboring towns of Nathia Gali and Abbottabad. At an elevation of 200 feet, the waterfall is a breathtaking sight. To access the waterfall, take a road that leads to Nathia Gali.
There are several hiking trails from the parking area to the waterfall. One of the best trails is the one that takes you up the mountain to the base of the waterfall. The hike up the mountain takes about 30 to 40 minutes, and the return trip takes about an hour and a half. Be sure to watch out for sharp bends, as this route can be dangerous. You can also cook up food at the Sajjikot Falls but keep your food and your surroundings clean. Avoid littering and lighting fires in the jungle.
The waterfall is located 150 kilometers from Islamabad and takes about 3 hours to reach. If you are traveling from Lahore, it will take you 6 hours to reach the waterfall, so plan accordingly. From the airport, take the Islamabad-Peshawar motorway, and exit at Shah Maqsood Interchange. From there, drive southwards through Havelian, and you will find yourself at Sajjikot Falls.
The road to the waterfall is relatively easy to get to. From Islamabad, take a road trip northward. The trip will take 0 Days, 3 Hours, and 49 Minutes to reach the waterfall. It’s possible to cover the trip overnight or in one day. You can also take breaks in between to make your journey more pleasant. If you have a car, be sure to take along the necessary fuel, as it will increase the fuel consumption due to distance.
