Top 15 Places to Visit in Islamabad in 2024

Islamabad, Pakistan’s modern capital city, is a treasure trove of sights and experiences. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment, a dose of history, or a breath of fresh mountain air, Islamabad has something for everyone. This vibrant city seamlessly blends modern marvels with natural wonders, offering a unique perspective on Pakistani culture.

In this guide, we’ll explore the most beautiful Places to Visit in Islamabad, from iconic landmarks like the Faisal Mosque to hidden gems nestled in the Margalla Hills. We’ll explore historical sites that whisper tales of the past, cultural hubs bursting with local traditions, and serene parks perfect for a leisurely stroll. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the captivating charm of Islamabad!

List of 15 Best Places to Visit in Islamabad

Here is the list of Top 15 Places to Visit in Islamabad:

• Shah Faisal Mosque
• Saidpur Village
• Shah Allah Ditta Caves
• Pakistan Monument
• Lok Virsa Museum
• National Art Gallery
• Margalla Hills & Daman-e-Koh Park
• Rawal lake
• Bruti Waterfall
• Bahria Enclave Zoo
• Shakar Parian National Park
• Fatima Jinnah Park
• Hiking Track 5
• Japanese Children Park
• Art and Craft Village

1. Shah Faisal Mosque

If you’re looking for a lovely site to visit in Islamabad at night, this should be at the top of your list. Because it is so magnificent and stunning, anyone who observes it may fall in love with its beauty. The tented mosque is stretched over a surface area of 5000 square meters. Also, it is acknowledged as one of Islamabad’s most famous landmarks in trip photography.

It has four high spires on each corner, and it is so magnificent that you can see it glowing from any vantage point in the city. The Faisal Mosque can accommodate over a quarter-million worshippers.

The foundation of the Margalla Hills is home to this massive structure. It has carved mosaics of the finest marble and glass in particular triangle patterns. They are hanging from the prayer room’s tented roof which is globe-like. It can hold up to 10,000 people. A well-built primary lecture hall, a library with a large collection, and a cafe are also available.

2. Saidpur Village

Saidpur is a terrific destination to explore the true village life in this era of technology. If you’re looking for a break from the monotonous routine of your city’s glittering malls and crowded bazaars, this is the right place to go. This is one of Islamabad’s most picturesque locations. It is great for individuals who have never visited a village in their lives. You can also visit a Hindu temple and a Sikh Gurdwara while roaming around the square-roofed village in the heart of the Margalla hills.

You are free to stroll the appealing streets, meeting and running with soulful children, and watch inhabitants playing sitars. As you go around the hamlet, high-quality restaurants such as Des Pardes and Dera Pakhtoon will provide you with sizzling and delectable platters of Spicy Chicken Masala.

3. Shah Allah Ditta Caves

One of the best locations to see in Islamabad is the Allah Ditta Caves. It is a historical site in the Margalla foothills that people should not miss. The settlement near the caves is claimed to be 700 years old. It once served as a link between Kabul and Gandharan City. The caves are roughly about 2400 years old, according to experts. The caves are supposed to be Buddhist relics, Aurangzeb period relics, and Hindu period relics. 

This is one of the most beautiful places in Islamabad if you want to see the beautiful sunset. The caves are now transformed into a beautiful warm location. People can come to enjoy their time here. They can have pakoras and chai while listening to calming music.

Also read: Largest Caves In The United States

4. Pakistan Monument

Pakistan’s Monument is located in the Shakaparian forest. It is flanked by mountains that provide a panoramic view of the city. It is devoted to those who have put their futures on hold for the sake of our present. Pakistan’s monument represents the Pakistani people’s unity. It stands straight, like a closed petal flower, with its massive granite slabs pointing skyward. It’s as though players are hugging one other before a game. 

The 4 converging petals represent Pakistan’s four provinces. The short petals in between depict Pakistani territories such as Azad Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan. 

At night, it’s one of Islamabad’s most beautiful spots. It offers one of the best lightings, making it ideal for photography and videography. This is a must-see landmark for anybody visiting Islamabad.

5. Lok Virsa Museum

Another lovely display depicting Pakistan’s unique culture is the Lok Virsa museum. It means the place of people’s heritage. If you’re walking, the Pakistan monument is only five minutes away. It collaborates with UNESCO, and the museum credits its excellent care and well-preserved objects to gifts from the agency. 

Moving on, there are many antiques on display including pottery, art, religious figures, architectural treasures, and musical instruments at this museum. You can have a relaxing stroll through an outdoor garden that leads to nine galleries of Buddhist and Sufi shrines that transport you back in time.

Also read: Museums In The USA

6. National Art Gallery

Pakistan’s first national art gallery is located in Islamabad. The location of this gallery is a tiny hillock adjacent to the Majlis-e-Shoora (Pakistan’s Parliament) and the Aiwan-e-Sadr. It was first open to the public on August 26, 2007. Pakistan’s National Art Gallery is part of the Pakistan National Council of the Arts. It is a larger organization. The gallery has 14 galleries with adjacent display rooms, lecture halls, workshop and storage facilities, laboratories, and a library that covers an area of 1800 square yards.

The four-story gallery building features modern amenities such as a 400-seat auditorium, a theater, stage facilities, and an open-air theater. It is one of the top locations to visit in Islamabad. It is also one of Pakistan’s largest monuments, presenting tourists with a wealth of information.

7. Margalla Hills & Daman-e-Koh Park

The margalla range, with its mountainous forest-covered terrain reaching up to the Himalaya mountains, can be seen from Islamabad. The Margalla Hills contain trails where you can hike and see many magnificent natural wonders. The Rhesus macaque monkey, Asian Paradise flycatcher, and a rare exotic bird with a long light grayish tail are among the most exotic animals found there.

These hills are one of the other Beautiful places in Islamabad. They are so lush with nature that they provide a sense of calm amid a hectic day. Daman-e-Koh is a superb viewing point in the Margalla hills with a panoramic view of Islamabad and the unique Faisal mosque on the horizon. 

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the ideal location to go to in Islamabad. When the capital sparkles at night, it’s like an endless barrage of fireworks, so you’ll spend the majority of your day tracking through the steep forest.

You might also like: Highest Mountains in the USA

8. Rawal lake

The Korang River runs down from the Margalla mountains into Rawal Lake. It is a man-made reservoir in Islamabad’s Malpur village district. This location provides plain gardens with picnic areas under the shady sky. Also, a tranquil atmosphere in which you can spend time with friends and family.

Daily, paddle and motorboats are available at the lake. It provides a delightful pastime and a unique experience for many people. You can also pay a visit to the food corner, which offers a variety of delectable dishes at a reasonable price. Both Islamabad and Rawalpindi get their water from Rawal Lake. This site is one of Islamabad’s most appealing and intriguing locations.

9. Bruti Waterfall

The Bruti waterfalls and turquoise ponds lead up to the peak of the Margalla mountains, where the tallest of waterfalls can be found.

It is a spot with lush flora and pure blue water, you can sample a slice of paradise. You may be exhausted from your excursion, and there is no better spot to wash the exhaustion away than Bruti Waterfall. Simply soak your feet to feel instantly revitalized. 

The pond floor is painted white due to the lime and carbonate mix that comes down from the top. Youngsters adore this spot since there is plenty of room to swim and play. People are allowed to take a full bath in this beautiful waterfall.

10. Bahria Enclave Zoo

If you’d like to visit a zoo, Bahria Enclave Zoo is the place to go. The zoo’s facilities are of outstanding quality, and you can see how much the animals enjoy their leisurely existence. If you enjoy cats, this location is ideal because it shelters cats of various sizes. The white lion is a unique attraction, especially since it is a rare species. You can also meet deer, elephants, and other animals.

Also Read: Largest Zoos in the United States

11. Shakarparian National Park

The Shakarparian National Park lies near Islamabad’s Zero Point Interchange. It is a stunning and eye-catching location of the city. Also, it is a must-see. You can view the magnificent metropolis of Islamabad and Rawalpindi from this park. The park’s night views of the city are just breathtaking.

The park has two viewpoints, one on the east and the other on the west. The east viewpoint is one of the park’s oldest picnic spots. It has a magnificent fountain and a lot of greenery. It also features a modest pine tree garden, which is a unique feature of this park. It’s unquestionably a beautiful spot to spend an evening with friends and family.

12. Fatima Jinnah Park

If you’re searching for a place to soak in some breathtaking vistas, head to Fatima Jinnah Park. It also boasts a serene ambiance that will soothe your soul and mind. Fatima Jinnah, a sister of Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, was honored with a public park. There are numerous activities available that you can do at the park. You can do anything from going for a walk and breathing in the fresh air to flying a kite and playing tennis.

13. Hiking Track 5

Hiking Track 5 is popularly known as Dara Janglan. It is one of the most popular paths in Islamabad for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy environmental activities even while on holiday. Because it is easier and hence ideal for hikers of all ages, this hiking trail is more popular than the others. 

You will begin your hike at Margalla Road, and it will take you around two to three hours to complete the entire course, depending on your hiking speed. It is advisable, however, that you take a break now and then to marvel at the scenery.

14. Japanese Children Park

If your tykes are accompanying you to Islamabad, you should take them to the Japanese Children Park. This park was created with the intention of entertaining children, as the title suggests. Your children will enjoy themselves at the playgrounds with other children. There are also picnic sites and leisure places throughout the park where you can rest or eat while watching the kids play.

15. Art and Craft Village

The Art and Craft Village is open until late at night. It is an amazing spot to visit in Islamabad if you are a tourist who enjoys cultural artifacts and traditional art and crafts. Every form of traditional, cultural antique artifact about Pakistan that you won’t find in any marketplace or store will be found here. It covers facts about Pakistan’s culture, including our journey and the country’s fundamental roots. You can also purchase vintage models of cultural art crafts to use as decorative items in your home.

Following is an informative table minimizing the informative given above: 

Place	Address	Opening Hours	Price
Shah Faisal Mosque	Shah Faisal Ave, E-8, Islamabad	24 hours (daily)	Free
Saidpur Village	Saidpur Village Road, Islamabad	24 hours (daily)	Free
Shah Allah Ditta Caves	Shah Allah Dita, Islamabad	24 hours (daily)	Free
Pakistan Monument	Shakarparian Hills, Islamabad	Tue – Sun: 10am – 8pm (closed on Monday)	20 PKR
Lok Virsa Museum	Garden Ave & Shakarparian Road, Islamabad	Tue – Sun: 10am – 8pm (closed on Monday)	250 PKR
National Art Gallery	F-5/1 F-5, Islamabad	Sun – Thu: 9am – 5pm (closed on Fri – Sat)	1,000 PKR
Margalla Hills & Daman-e-Koh Park	Daman-e-Koh Road, E-7, Islamabad	7am – 10pm	–
Rawal Lake	Lake View Park, Islamabad	10am – 8pm (daily)	120 PKR
Bruti Waterfall	Islamabad	Fri – Wed: 6am – 6pm; Thu: 5am – 6pm	Free
Bahria Enclave Zoo	Bahria Enclave, Islamabad	8am – 7pm (daily)	100 PKR
Shakar Parian National Park	Islamabad Expressway, Islamabad	8am–7pm (daily)	Free
Fatima Jinnah Park	F-9, Islamabad	5am – 10pm (daily)	Free
Hiking Track 5	Trail 5, Islamabad	5am – 7pm (daily)	Free
Japanese Children Park	Saidpur, Islamabad	8am – 11pm (daily)	Free
Art and Craft Village	M3XM+PQR, Islamabad	Fri – Sun: 9am – 7pm	–

Conclusion

So, these were the top 12 Places to Visit in Islamabad. Your Islamabad adventure awaits! With its diverse offerings, this city promises an unforgettable experience. 

This is just a starting point for your exploration. Islamabad offers hidden alleys, bustling bazaars, and exciting day trips to nearby wonders. Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, Islamabad promises a journey filled with discovery and delight.

FAQs

What Is the Ideal Time to Travel to Islamabad?

Many tourists choose to visit Islamabad in the months of September and October, or March and April. It is the time when the temperature is cooler and it is more pleasant to be outside.

What is Islamabad Famous for?

Islamabad is stunning with both modern places and natural beauty. It’s famous for the Faisal Mosque, one of the world’s largest, and lush Margalla Hills National Park.

Where to Stay in Islamabad?

It’s an excellent idea to choose a hotel that’s close to the Blue Area. If you stay in the sectors G6-G8 or F6-F8, you’ll have to walk 20 to 30 minutes or take a taxi to get to the Blue Area’s main shopping complexes and eateries.

Which Is the Coldest Area in Pakistan?

Pakistan’s north and west get freezing winters. The coldest areas, like Gilgit Baltistan’s glaciers, average below -20°C in winter. K2 Peak’s wind chill has dipped to a bone-chilling -65°C.

Which City Is Very Hot in Pakistan?

Jacobabad, Pakistan is one of Earth’s hottest cities.  Brutally hot days can soar past 50°C, making life a challenge. Escaping the heat is a daily battle.