Islamabad

Overview:

Islamabad is known for its high standards of living, snowcapped peak, mesmerizing greenery, and amiable waterfalls, making it one of the best spots in Pakistan to visit for tourists and even for local people as well who come from other cities to enjoy the pleasant climate and the lifestyle.

History of Islamabad:

Islamabad is located in the Pothar Plateau of the Punjab region, which is considered to be one of the earliest human settlement sites in Asia. Among those, many stones and ancient artifacts were found, which were then later on studied and found out to be more than 100,000 years old.  

Islamabad is the Capital city of Pakistan, with a population of 1,014,825 people in the town alone. Built-in 1960 to replace Karachi as the capital, it is hence also known amongst the people as the 'Planned city.'

Geography of Islamabad:

The capital of Pakistan, Islamabad, is located at the North West side of its sister city, Rawalpindi in the province of Punjab. The area of Islamabad consists of 906 sq. Feet including urban and rural areas.

Islamabad Climate:

The climate of Islamabad can be divided into two factors.  One is the winter season that lasts from October to march, with temperatures ranging from 22 degrees centigrade at the day to 3 or 4 degrees celsius at night. You can experience fast winds and rain.

Then comes the summer season that lasts from April to September. The ranges from 32 degrees to 24 degrees throughout the summers. Tough days are hot but nights are still pleasant as compared to the other cities in the region.

Islamabad’s season varies upon numerous factors such as wind distribution, monsoon, continental storm, etc. 

People of Islamabad:

The people of Islamabad are known to be quite helpful, supportive, and hospitable. From finding directions to the famous supermarkets, the people will give you the shortest way possible to reach your destination quickly without any hindrances what so ever.

Also, the people in Islamabad are mostly fond of speaking English rather than Urdu due to the foreigners staying and visiting Islamabad on a constant basis. However, many locals will also help you using their own local language.

Tourist Spots in Islamabad:

There are many tourist spots in Islamabad that people from all around the county and the world come to see. The incredible and mesmerizing places whether natural or man-made, leave you breathless including; 

Faisal Mosque: The Faisal mosque located near the Margla hills is just one of the few to name. This masjid features a stunning design and is a marvel of contemporary and Islamic architecture. Located on the foothills of Margalla Hills in Islamabad, the mosque's design is inspired by a Bedouin tent and also features eight sides of the concrete shell.

Margalla Hills National Park: The national park includes the areas of Margalla Hills (a part of Himalayan foothills and includes many valleys and sky-high mountains), Shakarparian Park, and Rawal Lake.

Rich in biodiversity, you can enjoy Sino-Himalayan fauna, barking deer, and the Leopard along with a large species of birds and plants. 

Parliament and President House: The parliament house and the president's house in Islamabad are also places of interest form many tourists along with Prime minister house and Supreme Court.

Damon-e-Koh: Talking about natural beauty, Damon-e-Koh in Islamabad is an incredible spot for tourists if they wish to enjoy the height as it is located in the lush green mountains. You can find many find cafes and restaurants there to enhance the fun experience. 

Pir Sohawa: If you are adventurous, then Pir Sohawa is the place for you. Located at an incredible height, more than Damon-e-Koh, the area is at the top of Margalla Hills that lets you touch the clouds. At 3000 plus ft. Elevation, Pir Sohawa is the city’s highest tourist spot.

Rawal Lake: It is an artificial reservoir that fulfills the water needs for the twin cities. The area is surrounded by flowering trees and laid out with gardens, secluded paths, and picnic spots. 

You can enjoy the panoramic view of the lake, Murree and Margalla hills, and the city from the highest point in the garden. Fishing, boating, sailing along with water skating and diving are the activities you can enjoy there and are provided by private clubs in the area.

Hotels in Islamabad:

There are many hotels in Islamabad that provide you a suitable resting spot according to your budget. Ranging from the best 5-star hotels like Serena, Marriot, and sunset resort to economical 3 or 2-star hotels, Islamabad gives you a wide variety of choices from which you can choose one according to your liking and what suits your pocket.

The rooms are well equipped with heaters because even during the summer seasons, temperatures in Islamabad can drop quite well, and that is why hot water is always available. Furthermore, the rooms are also equipped with Wifi and Televisions to facilitate your stay.

Restaurants in Islamabad:

The food and restaurants in Islamabad are a treat to have if you are new to the city. Even if you are a resident in the town, sometimes you want a taste of what this beautiful city has to offer to its people.

There are so many restaurants that provide you with classic tastes ranging from spicy tikka and kebab in F-7 Markaz to continental restaurants, including oriental such as Monal and cafes such as Gloria Jeans and second cup located at the most basic of locations. 

There are also tourist resorts that offer food according to what your taste buds need, such as Chinese or Thai, and much more.  

Healthcare in Islamabad:

Along with keeping its reputation excellent and high standard, the city of Islamabad takes no compromise when it comes to providing health facilities for their citizens. Both private and Government hospitals work tirelessly 24/7 to give you the medical aid that you need. 

Medical pharmacies such as Maroof international hospital and well known Shifa international Hospital are available at your service if you ever require medical attention. It is essential to keep a note of the numbers of these hospitals in case if you need any medical care at short notice.

Maroof International Hospital= (051) 111 644 911

Shifa International Hospital = (051) 846300 

Security in Islamabad: 

Islamabad, according to recent surveys, has been named the safest city in Pakistan to be in. The study states that even at 3 or 4 am in the morning, if you are on a long cruise or just visiting places, your chances of being robbed or mugged are close to impossible.

 Nevertheless, it is crucial to know the police station and security numbers just in case any unlikely scenario occurs. For that purpose, the Islamabad police is very cooperative and respectful as they take it as their duty to help and protect those in need.

Apart from the police, there is also the dolphin force, which is a group of elite trained officers who patrol around every block and neighborhood of the city. Here are the numbers that you should call immediately in case of any robbery you are a victim of.

Islamabad police number= (051) 9213066

Shopping in Islamabad:

When it comes to shopping, whether it's just a usual culture dress to a high standard of beauty from world-famous brands, Islamabad offers you all. If you are looking for well recognized and from branded stores, then you can find many high-quality items which are located in places such as Centaurs and galaxy Mall. 

There are also local bazaars in Islamabad where you can find cultural things such as dry fruits and designed bangles, sandals, hand-embroidered shawls, and Kurtas. You can get these for your loved ones.

Transport in Islamabad:

This city offers you safe, affordable, and friendly transportation. Taxis in yellow color offer you transport to almost anywhere, and the use of metro trains and buses are also available.

 Apart from these, private transportations are also available such as Uber, that are safe and offer online services to which you can share with your trusted people so they can track wherever you go.  Also, the website shows the name and number plate of the driver and the car they use. 

Big buses such as Daewoo and many other private bus transport are also available which provide domestic transportation as well.  

Important Phone Numbers: 

It is always crucial and important to keep your local Sim activated at all times, as it will be essential for you to stay connected. Some of the important phone numbers to know are:

SSP Operations Islamabad= (051) 9108321

SP City Office, Islamabad Police= (051) 9246699

Police Headquarters ICT Police Lines Islamabad= (051) 4440037

Conclusion:

Islamabad truly is one of the mesmerizing places to be. If you are planning to visit there, you can be sure of having moments that you will cherish for life. We hope this article helped plan your trip to Islamabad.