Given that Pakistan was named one of the top tourist destinations, Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is the preferred travel destination for both domestic and international tourists. The city, which is in the north of the nation, is a great place to begin any trip that aims to visit the regions farther north, like Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir, or even a little south, towards Murree Hills. Because of this, you should be aware of exactly where to go, what to see, and what to do when you get to Islamabad if you're thinking about visiting any time soon. We have compiled a list of some of the best sights in Islamabad that visitors shouldn't miss.
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PAKISTAN MONUMENT
On the western edge of the Shakarparian Hills is a national monument called the Pakistan Monument. The monument represents the unity of the people with four granite flower petals rising from the ground and converging together to reflect the four provinces (Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa) standing in unity. Construction on the monument started in 2004 and was finished in 2007. The tiny regions of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas) are represented by three smaller petals nestled inside the bigger ones. The monument is situated at a height that provides a picturesque view of Islamabad and is supported by a marble base. The monument is situated adjacent to a wax museum that displays artefacts from the 1940 events that sparked the Pakistan Movement.
LOK VIRSA MUSEUM
Lok Virsa Museum, which was constructed in 1974, are just a short distance from the Pakistan Monument. It's one of the biggest museums in Pakistan, featuring multiple exhibition spaces and an outdoor museum showcasing Pakistani culture. The phrase "Museum of People's Heritage" actually means "Museum of People's Heritage," and the museum certainly lives up to the moniker by showcasing Pakistani history throughout its halls. Within the grounds are also a research centre and a library.
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SHAH FAISAL MOSQUE
The largest mosque in Pakistan is called Shah Faisal Mosque, after the Saudi King Faisal, who provided financial assistance for the building of the mosque. Between the end of the 1980s and the beginning of the 1990s, it was also the biggest mosque in the world. This mosque is genuinely unique in that it does not have the typical domed structure found in mosques across the globe. Built-in 1986 by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, the mosque has four spires that rise sharply from each corner, giving it the appearance of a tent erected in a desert. The mosque has a capacity for roughly 10,000 worshippers in the primary prayer hall, which can accommodate close to 70,000 worshippers. F7 Markaz is only a short drive away from this well-known monument.
SAIDPUR VILLAGE
Nestled at the base of the mountains encircling the capital, the revitalised town of Saidpur offers a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Going to this area of Islamabad is similar to travelling back in time, as you can still experience the way of life in a traditional village despite the modern day. Even while modern life has crept into these communities, it has done so in a way that makes all the contemporary restaurants mix in with the historic surroundings. Although the town has been around for more than 500 years, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) refurbished it in 2006.
MARGALLA HILLS
It should go without saying that you should definitely spend some time exploring the mountains if you live close by. For visitors to Islamabad and for those wishing to get a close-up look at the wildness, the sentiment is the same. The hills are dotted with designated hiking trails, which nature lovers frequently hike at their own pace. Because many species make the hills home, the hills are also excellent for bird watching. Reaching the summit of Margalla Hills provides breathtaking vistas of Islamabad and is a unique experience.
DAMAN-E-KOH
Daman-e-Koh, which translates as "foothills," is a viewing point atop Margalla Hills from which you can enjoy an amazing aerial view of the entire city spread out in front of you, even though many people could argue they are the same. This location also offers views of the stunning Faisal Mosque. You can drive up here or choose to see the point while hiking via the Margalla Hills.
RAWAL LAKE
Rawal Lake is created when streams that come down from the Margalla Hills gather in a reservoir. Here, you can rent motorboats or paddle boats for an exciting afternoon of fun. When you are thinking about things to do in Islamabad, you might also think about having a picnic at Lake View Park. The best views of the breathtaking scenery are, however, to be had when visiting the lake at sunset.
