Islamabad walking tour & city guide
A green capital beneath the Margalla Hills.
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Islamabad, Pakistan's capital, was built in the 1960s at the foot of the Margalla Hills. It is a clean, green and planned city, with wide avenues and parks.
Landmarks
The Faisal Mosque, shaped like a desert tent, is one of the largest mosques in the world. The Pakistan Monument, shaped like a blooming flower, honors the nation's provinces.
Hills
Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa offer views over the city from the Margalla Hills, with hiking trails. Saidpur village has restored old houses and restaurants.
A day in Islamabad
Start at the Faisal Mosque, a modern mosque shaped like a desert tent, set against the green Margalla Hills. Then visit the Pakistan Monument, shaped like a blooming flower, and the Lok Virsa heritage museum.
In the afternoon, drive up to Daman-e-Koh or Pir Sohawa for views over the city, or hike one of the Margalla Hills trails.
Good to know
Islamabad is a planned capital, built in the 1960s, and it is green, clean and calm. Rawalpindi, its old twin city, offers busy bazaars.
Islamabad is the starting point for trips north to Murree, the Swat Valley and the Karakoram Highway.
Top sights in Islamabad
- 1
Faisal Mosque
A tent-shaped modern mosque.
- 2
Pakistan Monument
A flower-shaped monument.
- 3
Daman-e-Koh
A viewpoint over the city.
- 4
Saidpur Village
A restored historic village.
- 5
Lok Virsa Museum
Folk heritage.
Food markets & where to eat in Islamabad
Jinnah Super Market
Restaurants and shops.
Monal area
Hilltop dining with views.
Melody Food Street
Local food stalls.
Food to try in Islamabad
Chapli kebab
A spiced, flat minced meat kebab.
Biryani
Spiced rice with meat.
Chai
Sweet milky tea.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Islamabad
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in IslamabadCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Islamabad.
- eSIM for PakistanStay online from the moment you land.
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