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    • Islamabad

    Islamabad travel guide

    View Pakistan travel guide

    Overview

    The capital of Pakistan, Islamabad is a relatively quiet city that mainly revolves around the Federal Government. While Pakistan as a whole is not a major international tourist destination, Islamabad is a popular local holiday spot with plenty of attractions and activities for everyone.

    No visit to Islamabad is complete without visiting at least one of its stunning mosques; the Shah Faisal Mosque is one of the largest in the world, and set against the stunning backdrop of the Margalla Hills. Other important shrines include the Golra Sharif and Bari Imam, both located just outside the city.

    Visitors wishing to know more about local culture and history can visit one of Islamabad's museums, such as the Pakistan Museum of Natural History, the Lok Virsa Museum, or the National Art Gallery. The Potohari Arts and Craft Village is also worth a visit.

    There are also many parks and lovely green spaces, perfect for relaxing on a nice day. The Rose and Jasmine Garden and Rawal Lake make great picnic spots, while Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa offer stunning views. Travellers with children will enjoy the facilities at the Japanese Park located near Islamabad Zoo.

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    Islamabad has a humid subtropical climate with dry winters and very hot summers. June is the hottest month, with temperatures ranging between 74°F (23°C) and 110°F (43°C). This is followed by the wettest month of July, when monsoon rains and thunderstorms are common; flooding is also possible during this time, which can hinder travel in the city. December and January can get quite cool, with temperatures ranging between 36°F (2°C) and 67°F (19°C). The best time to visit Islamabad is in February and March and October and November, when temperatures are cooler and the weather is more pleasant.

    Islamabad International Airport
    Location: The airport is situated 12 miles (20km) from Islamabad city centre.
    Time: Local time is GMT +5.
    Getting to the city: Taxis are the best way to get into town and are available at the airport 24 hours a day. Fares can be negotiated before you get in. There is a bus station nearby, but you will need a taxi to reach it from the airport.
    Car Rental: Car rental can be arranged at the airport. It is safest to hire a car with a driver.
    Airport Taxis: Taxis are available at the airport. If the taxi is not metered, be sure to agree on a fare before departing.
    Facilities: Facilities at the airport include duty-free shops, various lounges, snack bars and restaurants, prayer areas, banks, ATMs, currency exchange services, and smoking rooms.
    Parking Car parking is available at the airport, at PKR 90 per entry.
    Website: www.islamabadairport.com.pk

    Although fairly safe, travel around Islamabad should be carefully planned. Taxis are plentiful, and generally safe; they can usually be found outside the airport and near major hotels. They are not always metered so it's best to negotiate a fare before getting in the vehicle.

    Car hire is available from the airport and through most hotels. The safest option would be to arrange a vehicle with a driver. Security checkpoints are common, so travellers should ensure that they have all the relevant travel documents on hand at all times. Metro Bus is the most convenient and cheap way to get around. The buses have air conditioning and free wifi, and tickets are a flat rate of PKR 20 for all distances.

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    Companies flying to Islamabad

    British Airways

    Pakistan International Airlines

    Virgin Atlantic