Islamabad - World Second Most Beautiful Capital

Saba Ghani

2 years of guide experience in Pakistan.

Islamabad is the most well-planned city in Pakistan as it contributes its services as the capital of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The tenth-largest city in Pakistan with a population of about 2 million. Islamabad was built in the 1960s under the direction of President Ayub Khan to replace Karachi as the capital of Pakistan. The city master plan divides the city into eight districts, including administrative, diplomatic, residential, educational, industrial, commercial, rural, and green areas. It ranks as the second most beautiful capital in the world, after London and Berlin.

Most beautiful places to visit in Islamabad

The city has many attractions for tourists, which may include many parks, forests, many monuments, and historical places. This list includes some of the most visited places in the city:

Faisal Mosque

Shah Faisal Mosque is one of the largest mosques in Pakistan and the third-largest in the world after Mecca Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, with a capacity of 3 worshippers in different halls and venues. The mosque is named after Saudi Arabia's King Shah Faisal bin Abdulaziz, who contributed the lion's share in its construction. Built using Turkish building techniques, the structure features four towering minarets next to a tent-shaped Bedouin hall far from the typical dome. It is located on the slopes of the Margalla Hills with the best views. Faisal Mosque is a famous sight for tourists to visit and learn about the other side of Pakistan.

Pakistan Monument

The Pakistan Memorial Museum on Shakarparian Hill in Islamabad provides insight into the country's history as well as an understanding of the Pakistani movement. The museum commemorates those who sacrificed their lives to establish an independent homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent. The floral design of the memorial is for this glittering country. Each petal tells the story of Pakistan, providing information about Pakistan's culture, heritage, and history in a different way. However, the monument symbolizes national unity.

Rawal Lake & Lake View Park

Located on the hillsides of Bani Gala and Margalla, Rawal Lake is an artificial reservoir that meets the water needs of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The 8.8-square-meter lake is surrounded by a variety of flowering trees, dotted with gardens, picnic spots, and secluded paths. Terraced gardens and lakes are used for picnics, fishing, and boating. However, the highest point of the park offers panoramic views of the lake.

In addition to Lake View Park, it enhances the excitement for the visitors. The park was built under the efforts of Kamran Lashari, head of the Capital Development Authority (CDA). Located on the shores of Lake Rawal, the park is a leisure place of international standard. Well-organized gardens with all the basics which may include walking paths, beautiful gardens with many different flowers, play areas with gaming/racing arcade, horse riding, fishing, boating, rock climbing, Formula 1 racing, and more. The garden also features a multi-cuisine restaurant serving grilled specialties. Visitors can also enjoy live music and singing there. No trip to Islamabad is complete without a visit to the lake and park.

Lok Virsa Museum

Lok Virsa is Pakistan's best cultural and heritage museum located on Shakarparian hill. An extensive display of embroidered costumes, jewelry, woodwork, metalwork, prints, ivory, bone work, as well as frescoes, mirrors, marble inlays, and other techniques; tile, mosaic, and stucco decorations are also on display. Formerly known as the Folk Art Museum, the museum was established in 1982, was renovated over time, and was renamed the National Museum of Ethnology of Pakistan in 2004 to the Lok Virsa Heritage Museum. Persistence is to create a connection between ancestral culture and young people, to educate and form a treasure trove for the next generation. Indeed, a great way to promote culture to foreigners and locals.

Islamabad Zoo

Managed by CDA, Islamabad Zoo was built in 1978 on approximately 82 acres. Originally, it was a sanctuary for leopards, sika deer, and later Indian deer, which emerged in 2008. As well as the zoo is a recreation area and wildlife sanctuary. There are also a wide variety of aphids, mammals, and reptiles. Best way to visit with family and kids, kids love the different birds and animals free tours.

Pir Sohawa

Pir Sohawa is a tourist growth area on the top of Margalla Hill, known to be part of Islamabad, but geographically it is located in the Haripur district. Located at 4,000 feet above sea level, it is known for its panoramic views and is best for family gatherings and picnics. Moreover, the famous Monal restaurant (which is currently banned) is gaining popularity for its delicious food and panoramic views. When exploring the capital, the best place to visit in Islamabad. The fragrance and cool breeze will make you fall in love with the city all over again.

Damn e Koh

As the names of Damn and Kooh suggest, there is an unobstructed view of Islamabad in the middle of the Margalla Hills. Due to its climate, it is one of the most visited places throughout the year, as it is located at an altitude of 2,400 feet above sea level. Cool breezes and panoramic views of the city can keep you covered for a while. This is the halfway point to visit Pir Sohawa. There's a large car park with binoculars for the keen observer, and a restaurant to make it even more special. It is one of the nice picnic spots in Islamabad.

Margalla Hills

Margalla Hills is a ridge in the Himalayas covering 12,605 hectares. The highest peak is Tilla Charouni. The hills provide the perfect gateway to the city without ever leaving it. Above all, the quiet environment is full of adventure and excitement. Great for urban hikers and trekkers. The hike can be steep and dry, with many wild snakes present. The climate there is pleasant because it snows heavily in winter. The private club also offers paragliders with competent staff. Rock climbing is also a popular activity for tourists. In addition, there is a wide variety of flora and fauna available to discoverers. Margalla Hills also includes the small Margalla National Park.

Shakarparian

A historic place with lush green gardens, Shakarparian is another picnic spot in the capital Islamabad. It is located near Zero Point, near the Star and Crescent Monument at the beginning of Shakarparian. The historical significance of this place is the parade ground where the Pakistan Day parade was held on March 23. Moreover, the place has stunning views of the Twin Cities, shares its side with a rose and jasmine garden, a large group of trees that maintain a pleasant environment, a clean picnic spot, and also offers a playground for children.

Taxila Museum

One of the oldest museums in Pakistan is the Taxila Museum, located in the Taxila district, which houses an important archaeological site. Focusing primarily on the art form of Gandhara, the museum was opened to the public in 1924 by Sir Habibulla. The museum consists of 4,000 exhibits including stone, plaster, clay, silver, gold, iron, and semi-precious stones. The exhibition mainly includes objects from 600 BC-500AD. There are also various stupas there, most of which were discovered during the archaeological work in Taxila. Indeed, the most promising way to connect with your roots.

You can check out our "Tour to Islamabad" tour that includes these amazing places.

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Islamabad - World Second Most Beautiful Capital