City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:39pm

Islamabad is the capital city of Pakistan and the ninth largest city in the country. The population of the city has grown from 100,000 in 1951 to 1.15 million as of 2011. The greater Islamabad-Rawalpindi Metro Area is the third largest conurbation in Pakistan with a population of over 4.5 million inhabitants. Since its foundation, Islamabad has attracted people from all over Pakistan, making it one of the most cosmopolitan and urbanized cities of Pakistan. As the capital, Islamabad is the seat of the Government of Pakistan; the Presidential Palace (Aiwan-e-Sadr) is also located here. Islamabad is also home to the Pakistan Monument, which is one of the two national monuments of Pakistan.
Islamabad is a modern city located in the Potohar Plateau in the northeastern part of the country. The region has historically been a part of the crossroads of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with the Margalla Pass acting as the gateway between the two regions. The city was built during the 1960s to replace Karachi as Pakistan’s capital. Islamabad is a well-organised international city divided into several different sectors and zones. It is regarded as the most developed city in Pakistan and is ranked as a Gamma- world city. The city is home to the Faisal Mosque, the largest mosque in South Asia and the fourth largest mosque in the world.
Islamabad has the highest literacy rate in Pakistan. There are 16 recognised universities in Islamabad, including some of the top-ranked universities in Pakistan: Quaid-i-Azam University, Pakistan Institute of Engineering & Applied Sciences, and National University of Sciences and Technology, Allama Iqbal Open University in Islamabad is one of the world’s largest universities by enrollment. Islamabad has the lowest infant mortality rate in the country at 38 deaths per thousand as compared to the national average of 78 deaths per thousand. The Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences hospital in Islamabad is one of the largest hospitals in Pakistan.

Islamabad features an atypical version of a humid subtropical climate, with warm and dry springs, hot and humid summers accompanied by amonsoon season, and brief but cool winters. Islamabad’s micro-climate is regulated by three artificial reservoirs; Rawal, Simli, and Khanpur Dam. Khanpur Dam is located on the Haro River near the town of Khanpur, about 40 kilometres (25 mi) from Islamabad. Simli Dam is located 30 kilometres (19 mi) north of Islamabad. 220 acres (89 ha) of the city consists of Margalla Hills National Park. Loi Bher Forest is situated along the Islamabad Highway, covering an area of 1,087 acres (440 ha). The hottest months extend from May to July, where average highs routinely exceed 38 °C](Celsius - Wikipedia)(100.4 °F](Fahrenheit - Wikipedia)). The monsoon season lasts from July through September, with heavy rainfalls and evening thunderstorms frequently flooding the area. Highest monthly rainfall of 743.3 millimetres (29.26 in) was recorded during July 1995. Winters occur from December to February, with temperatures variable by location, generally with dense fog in the mornings and sunny afternoons. In the city, temperatures stay mild, with sparse snowfall over the highest elevations points on nearby hill stations, notably Murree and Nathia Gali. The weather ranges from 13 °C (55 °F) in January to 38 °C (100 °F) in June. The highest temperature recorded was 46.6 °C (115.9 °F) on 23 June 2005 while the lowest temperature was −6 °C(21.2 °F) on 17 January 1967. The city has recorded snowfall. On 23 July 2001, Islamabad received a record breaking 620 millimetres (24 in) of rainfall in just 10 hours. It was the heaviest rainfall in Islamabad in the past 100 years and the highest rainfall in 24 hours as well.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:46pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

A relatively quiet city, Islamabad consists of mainly Federal Government offices, Parliment House, the official residences of the President and Prime Minister along with the Diplomatic Enclave, an area next to the Parliament House dedicated to foreign embassies and missions appointed in Pakistan; and covers an area of 1,165.5 km² (450 mi²) of which 906 km² (349.8 mi²) is Islamabad proper. Located within the Islamabad Capital Territory, the population of the city has grown from 100,000 in 1951 to 1.15 million as of 2011.
Although the majority of the population in Islamabad traditionally have been employees of the Federal Government, the wealth of the Musharraf years fuelled a boom in Islamabad and it is becoming an important financial and business city. In the last decade there have been vast changes in the city’s traditional reputation. From it being a typical 9 to 5 city, Islamabad has become more lively with many new restaurants and hotels springing up to service this new wealth. A lot of international food chains have opened, and generally a great improvement in nightlife with increasing shopping areas opening till late. However during winter season streets are considerably quiet after dark.
Even now, Islamabad remains a city where people come from all over the country to enjoy its peaceful, noise-free atmosphere with a lot of greenery and nice surrounding scenery. It also serves as a base camp for people from the south and coastal areas like Karachi visiting valleys like Swat and Kaghanand northern areas like Gilgit, Hunza, Skardu & Chitral located in the Himalayas mountains.
You’ll soon notice that Islamabad is laid out on a grid system - with E7, F6, F7, G6, G7 being the oldest sectors, F8, F10, F11, G10, G11, I8 being where the ‘new money’ has been invested. E8, E9 are occupied by military housing complexes and are effectively out-of-bounds, G7, G8 and G9 are the heart of the city where many locals go for good bargain shopping, i.e. Karachi Company and Weekly Bazaars, and tasting the local cuisines, i.e. melody food park. The H and I sectors are a hotchpotch of mixed use residential, academic and industrial areas. E11, E12 and even now D12 are under construction, there is even a G13 being built up. F6 and F7 are where most of the action happens, but the numbers of embassies and powerful Pakistani’s dwelling in these areas mean a lot of security, concrete barriers and boomgates that happily are largely absent elsewhere. However in choosing your guesthouse F6 & F7 may be your best bet.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:47pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

**GETTING THERE:

**By plane

Rawalpindi Airport (IATA: ISB) situated in the middle of Rawalpindi receives flights from a variety of international destinations, including in Europe via Turkish Airlines (London, Manchester, Birmingham, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris, Istanbul), the middle east Dubai (via Emirates, Pakistan International Airlines PIA [2]](http://www.piac.aero/)),Shaheen Air [3]](http://www.shaheenair.com/)), Sharjah (AirBlue [4]](http://www.airblue.com/)), Muscat, Doha, and Baghdad (Iraqi Airways)) and other Asian cities such as Urumqi (China Southern Airlines) and Bangkok (Thai Airways). Worth noting that other international destinations are served direct from Karachi and Lahore, including the only link to central Asia (Uzbekistan Airways fly from Lahore to Tashkent). A taxi from the airport to Islamabad is around Rs400 (in a yellow non a/c cab). You can easily walk out of the airport and hail a taxi to get a cheaper price.The white Toyota Corolla aircon radio cabs will set you back Rs800/

Islamabad airport can get busy and groan under the weight of departing passengers, meaning giving yourself 2 hours prior to departure is a good idea. As with most places in Pakistan queuing is a optional concept and hence checking-in can involve getting those elbows out and pushing to the front.
By bus

Niazi Express, Skyways and Daewoo Sammi [5]](http://www.sammi.com.pk/) (+92 51 111 007 008) are some of the nicer long-haul operators. Skyways offer some direct services to/from Islamabad and Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi. Daewoo has its own terminal on the road from Islamabad just outside Rawalpindi. The majority of buses arrive and depart from Rawalpindi, a few kilometers and a 45 minute taxi ride from Islamabad. It’s best to book Daewoo by phone in advance if possible. At the moment they serve Karachi, Peshawar, Lahore, Murree, Sialkot, Abottabad, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad and Multan.

By trainSince First Class travel with Pakistan Railway is good, it’s worth knowing that Rawalpindi, the neighbouring city, has railway connections with various major cities including Karachi, Lahore & Peshawar.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:48pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

**GETTING AROUND:

Taxis** in Islamabad are abundant, popular and generally safe. Cost is around Rs70 - Rs100 per sector traveled, depending on your bargaining skills.

Prices will be higher at night, especially departing from places like Jinnah Super (F-7). It is always advisable to agree the fare before traveling.

Car Hire is also a good way of getting around. Although road signs and directions are only available on main roads, the city's grid and numbering system make it relatively easy to find your way around. There are various car hire companies in Blue Area F-6 and also in G-8 Markaz where cars can be hired with drivers. Most major hotels have their own car hire services and are relatively cheap. A tip to the driver at the end of the booking period is appreciated but not mandatory.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:49pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

Museums & Art Galleries

Lok Virsa Museum[6]](http://www.lokvirsa.org.pk/contact.php), Shakarparian Park (next to H7 & G8) US$5 for foreigners. Recently renovated, a delight. Definitely worth a visit. Islamabad’s premier museum featuring more than 25 large galleries in four blocks linked through passages depicting cultural linkages with Iran, Central Asia and China. There are large halls dedicated to architecture, musical heritage, textiles, romances, Sufi shrines and several other cultural themes. It has a large collection of embroidered costumes, jewellery, woodwork, metalwork, block printing, ivory and bone work on display. The Heritage Reference Library of Museum has a great collection of data on art, music, history and crafts of all regions of Pakistan. Books on culture, heritage, audio and video cassettes of folk and classical vocal and instrumental music are sold at the Lok Virsa’s Sales Centre. Lok Virsa celebrates the national events in a befitting manner with musical concerts, exhibitions and public film shows on cultural heritage.
Golra Pakistan Railways Heritage Museum, Golra Sharif train station (west of F11 - (look on google maps)), 051 4316954. 8AM-4PM. A little known gem - worth seeking out for a trip back in time to the glory days of the North West Railway - the station house has been renovated and houses a small museum, and several old locomotives and rolling stock are there to be explored. Makes a nice cycle-ride from Islamabad. Rs 5. edit
Pakistan Museum of Natural history [7]](http://www.pmnh.gov.pk/) this is more a place for school trips than a tourist destination - however an impressive blue whale skeleton has recently been constructed outside
National Art Gallery (F5/1) Opened in 2007, the gallery is a modern, light filled, air conditioned edifice that would not be out of place in many european cities. A diverting collection of almost 450 art pieces, purchased or gifted by the artists for National Art Gallery. Covers a surprising diversity of contemporary and classical paintings, sculpture and other installations. The Gallery is also home to an indoor and outdoor theatre (word-of-mouth and local press for schedules). Open 7 days a week - from 11AM-1PM (free) and 2PM-7PM (Rs. 500) - hence it is empty in the afternoons and you may find yourself trailed by gallery staff turning the lights on and off for you! Located in F5/1, on the corner of Jinnah & Constitution avenues, opposite the Parliament building. [8]](http://www.pnca.org.pk/NAG.html)
Private art galleries are at the centre of Islamabad’s art scene, with new exhibitions opening almost weekly. The three main gallaries are:
Rohtas Gallery House 57-B, Street 26, F6/2, 051 2271390 [9]](http://www.rohtasgallery.com/), Nomad Gallery House 22, Justice Abdul Rashid Avenue, F6/1, 051 2273725[10]](http://www.nomadartgallery.net/), and Kuch Khaas House 1, Street 2, F-6/3, 051-8357483, [11]](http://www.kuchkhaas.org/). There is also the Jhoraka Art Gallery House # 8, Street 28 F8/1 [12]](http://jharokaartgallery.com/).

Parks, viewpoints and green spaces

Daman-e-Koh, a lookout point in the hills above E-6 with great views of the city on a clear day/night. Its beauty is enhanced by the greenery and flowers at different sites. High quality restaurants, good food, live music, hiking trails and lush green hillsides make it a favorite place for local and foreign tourist alike.
Shakarparian a beautiful wild and hilly area for a nice evening walk in a green natural atmosphere. Is located south of G6 and G7.
Japanese Park, is a children’s park located near Islamabad Zoo. It is popular among children, families and to those visiting Islamabad from other cities due to its park facilities and children swing facilities.
Rawal Lake has recently been upgraded by the Capital Development Authority. On the north side is Lake View Park (access from the road to Murree) - a beautifully laid out park with gardens, picnic spots, and secluded paths and views over the lake. Is now home to an aviary, go-kart track and climbing wall. The terraced garden and the lake are used for fishing and boating. On the south side of the lake is another small park with a nice lookout, Red Onion restaurant and old Hindu temple. The highest point in the garden offers a panoramic view of Islamabad. Boating, sailing, water skating and diving facilities are organized by private clubs. To the west of the lake is the Islamabad Club, which offers different sporting facilities.
Fatima Jinnah Park; also known as the F-9 park is considered one of the largest in South East Asia. F9 park is ideal for jogging around, and also has a cricket ground and some tennis court (minus nets). The park also has a large children’s playground, some interesting sculptures, and an indoor facility with a nice bowling alley.
Pir Sohawa. An overlook of Islamabad located in the Margalla Hills above the city. There are now two eateries at Pir Sohawa and both worth visiting. A walk up from Trail 3, from F-6/3 will get you to the hill top in around 2 hours with the perfect appetite, but you can reach Pir Sohawa by road in around 35-40 minutes.
Rose & Jasmine Garden is located near Islamabad sports complex & Jinnah Stadium. South of Shahrah-e-Kashmir road and east of Islamabad Highway. Not too far from Rawal Lake.
Margalla Hills. Take a nice nature walk in the hills surrounding Islamabad.

Mosques, shrines & monuments

Faisal Masjid, Islamabad’s most recognizable landmark, a very large mosque gifted by King Faisal of Saudi Arabia. Beautiful in the day or night, definitely worth the short taxi ride. Dress and act respectfully, this is much more a place of serious worship than a tourist site. Is open to non-Muslims outside of prayer times, but is sometimes shut altogether.
National Monument near Shakarparian, represents Pakistan’s four provinces and three territories. From air the monument looks like a star (center) and a crescent moon (formed by walls forming the petals), these represent the star and crescent on Pakistan’s flag. Also a small museum and a nice view of the city.
Imam Bari Shrine Historical shrine of a Sufi saint located in the valley of NurPur Shahan near G5.
Golra Sharif Shrine of Pir Mehr Ali Shah(RA), a Sufi Saint located in a village of Golra (Islamic religious site).

Other

Islamabad Zoo is located at the foot of Daman-e-Koh view point. It has more than 300 animals including 200 birds of different kinds, and tigers, lions and other animals.
Blue Area, is Islamabad’s financial center and is the main arterial road which leads up to the main government buildings at the Constitution Avenue.
Saidpur Village used to be a sleepy little village lying in the foothills of the Margallas with a mystic past and breathtaking natural beauty. It has now been remodeled. The village now become popular with the citizens of Islamabad who want an occasional break from the frenzy of urban life. Surrounded with lush, tranquil wilderness, the centuries old village is furnished with rustic fittings and offers amenities like a wide range of local food outlets and restaurants. Exhibitions are held regularly to show case the traditional arts, crafts and the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan.
Attend open-air theater or just sit by the Lotus lake and relax. Check to see if there are is anything happening. The schedules are entirely calendar and weather dependent.
Chattar bagh is a small park in the hills, around 25 minutes away from Islamabad. A water park with a few amusement rides, but will not offer much excitement for those who have seen other amusement parks or water parks.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:50pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

Cycling – Cycling is fast becoming a popular activity and also a mode of transport because of the suitable weather, scenic beauty and peace of Islamabad. As active in more than 300 cities around the world, the group called Critical Mass is also present in Islamabad. The group sets out at a set location and time (co-ordinated through its facebook page [13]](https://www.facebook.com/groups/130450477380/?fref=ts)), to pedal through set routes around and inside the city every sunday. Critical Mass Islamabad’s mega event’s attendance reaches 60 plus cyclists. The rides attract cyclists from all ages and both genders. New and second hand bikes can both be easily purchased for a wide range from Rs 4,000 to Rs 30,000 from Islamabad and Rawalpindi as well. If you’re in the mood for some adventurous cycling down on one of Islamabad’s beautiful scenic bike trails, get your bike ready. Alternatively you can hire decent quality bikes for adventures from K2Riders - based in F8/2 [14]](http://www.k2riders.com/)

Go karting - F1 Traxx- Lake View Park (Rawal Lake) [15]](http://f1traxx.com/) - there is another track in Bahria Town, Rawalpindi
Shooting - Islamabad Gun Club [16]](http://www.thegunclubisb.com/)
Golf at the Islamabad Golf Club (next to the [www.islamabadclub.org Islamabad Club]. Two other golf courses are available in Rawalpindi
Fishing – Rawal lake
Climbing - there is a climbing wall in Rawal Lake’s Lake View Park
Para Gliding – at Margalla Hills. The Pakistan Adventure Foundation is the place to call, reservations are recommended.
Rowing at the Islamabad Rowing Club, next to Lake View Park

Night Life – it exists, but it’s not easy to find. Try befriending some hip locals, and see if you can tag along. There are no regularly open ‘night clubs’ in the city - however periodic special events are organised in various venues about once every two months - spread by word-of-mouth and increasing via Facebook. Less excitingly some of the embassy clubs in the diplomatic enclave have ‘dance parties’ and the like but these tend to be exclusively expatriate and rather low brow. See Jenny’s List for details.

Potohari - Art & Craft Village (Starting soon), Shakarparian - Near Rose and Jasmine Garden (Just across the Kashmir Highway on 7th Avenue).11AM to 7PM. A craft bazaar with a food court serving 5 regional cuisines plus 3 Chai Khanas serving assorted teas and snacks. Built by the local Capital Development Authority but conceptualised and supervised by the Indus Heritage Trust. edit
Asia Study Group, Above Dunkin Donuts, Blue Area, 051 2875891, [17]](http://www.asianstudygroup.org/). Tu-Su 3-6PM. Running for nearly 40 years the ASG organises various events, including seminars, hikes, weekend trips and the like - principally for expats but also Pakistani’s. Rs. 2,000 annual membership.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:51pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

The Margalla Hills are effectively foothills of the Himalayas – and are very easily accessible from Islamabad. However these are quite big, steep hills, and shouldn’t be underestimated – if you are planning on a walk up to the top of the first ridge (ie where the Monal restaurant is) then sturdy footwear, a large water bottle, and a change of t-shirt are necessary (good chance you’ll be drenched in sweat by the time you get to the top). Between March and November it is best to start walking in the early morning (before 7.30AM, or 6.30AM in the height of summer) as it is uncomfortably hot during the day.
There are many trails to choose from, some of which have been numbered by the city planners. The more popular walks are Trail 3, Trail 5 and the Zoo Trail. Google Earth gives a good way to orientate yourself before you set out.
Trail 1 – also known at the E7 or Faisal Mosque trail. Little used, in part because it is so difficult to find the trailhead. Head to the carpark to the rear of the Faisal Mosque, and look for a gate with a Margalla Tree Planting Project sign next to it. Head through the gate, take the first right, then right again (at a grey metal box with a hole in the top) through a small clearing, and turn left at the end. Walk north toward a large concrete water storage tank, and walk to the right of this on to a well defined path (GPS coordinates 33.734112° , 73.038421°) from here it should be plain sailing. Trail 1 winds its way up to the ridge, where you can turn right and reach the Pir Sohawa road, near the turn-off for Talhaar. Takes about 2 hours to get to the top. From Pir Sohawa road its a 20 minute walk to the Monal restaurant, and you can catch a taxi back in to town, or head down Trail 3 or the Saidpur village trail.
Trail 2 / Zoo trail – Trail 2 begins a little way up Pir Sohawa (just past the Jungle Shack drinks bar – GPS 33.7346° , 73.0545°) or you can start from the right of the entrance of the Islamabad Zoo. This is a good choice if you are looking for a 1-2 hour walk – the trail leads up to the Daman-e Koh viewpoint – if you want to continue walking a trail up to Cactus Ridge leads from next to the Police checkpoint near the entrance to Daman-e Koh. From Cactus Ridge you get a good view of where AirBlue flight 202 crashed.
Trail 3 - begins from Margalla Road, F-6/3 (the junction between Margalla Road & Ataturk Avenue). It is a little steep and strenuous in the first leg, which goes up to the Viewpoint and is about a 30 - 50 min. trek. After the Viewpoint you can continue on for another easy-going 45 - 60 mins and reach the Pir Sohawa, where you can choose from 3 restaurants for food, The Monal, Treehouse and Capital View Restaurant. This is the most popular walk, hence litter levels are high.
Trail 4 – this is a link trail between Trails 3 and 5
Trail 5 also begins from Margalla Road in F-5 (about 500m down from Trail 3 - opposite Judge's Enclave) and is initially an easier trail to climb. Trail 5 connects with Trail 3 (via Trail 4) and meets beyond Trail 3's viewpoint. If you continue on Trail 5 you eventually meet the Pir Sohawa road (33.7675°, 73.0771°) although it is possible to get lost on Trail 5 and veer too far east, ending up on the top part of Trail 6. Either way you'll eventually hit the Pir Sohawa road so it's difficult to get truly lost. From the top of Trail 5 it is 1.5km to the top of Trail 3 – hence you can do a loop, taking 3 – 4 hours.
Trail 6 is in the valley to the east of Trail 5. Start from the Trail 5 carpark, walk parallel to the blocked off dual carriageway heading east and then head north when you see the mouth of the valley. Walk past a small cluster of houses and then you'll come across a sealed single track road, follow this for a short while and you'll end up on the path, and follow this up the valley, ascending to the left side. You'll eventually end up on the Pir Sohawa road. From here you can head west to the top of Trail 5. The Trail is without signposts or markers, is little used but very scenic.
Saidpur trail - follow the river through the village (including ducking though some back alleys) and you'll emerge in a valley and a trail that leads up to the Monal restaurant - and hence you can easily do a loop coming down Trail 3. Saidpur trail isn't much used so it largely free of litter.
Bari Imam trail – for the more adventurous this is a good hike. Drive to Nurpur Shahan (east of the government complexs beyond the end of Margalla Road) – head to a road junction at 33.7457°, 73.1050° and turn left, until you reach a turnoff for a small guesthouse at the start of the trail (33.7569°, 73.1135°). The walk starts with steps leading up to the Bari Imam cave, then you can continue up the steep hill behind, then traverse round to the Pir Sohawa road, where there are a few cafes and a hotel (33.7843° , 73.1107° – it is about 5km from here to the Top of Trail 3 if you follow the road). You can return down the valley back to your starting point. Beware however that you pass into Khyber Paktunkwa on the walk and you may have to charm yourself pass some policemen.
Both Trail 3 & Trail 5 have large maps and guidance boards placed at the entrance.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:54pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

Islamabad is divided into sectors, each sector having its own central shopping area (or markaz) where all local amenities are located. Some of the more popular markazes are the F6 Markaz (aka Supermarket) F7 Markaz (aka Jinnah Market), G6 Markaz (aka Melody Park), G9 Markaz (aka Karachi Company) and so on. There isn’t much going on in the markets of F8, G7 an G8 that would interest the tourist. Each markaz has its own peculiarities and each one is worth visiting individually. However most things are catered for in each markaz i.e. clothing, shoes, fast food etc. There’s always a real buzz in the evenings when all the shoppers come out, particularly in the run up to Eid.

7th Avenue, located at Jinnah Super Market (F7 Markaz), has large selection of western food products.
Best Price, located at Super Market (F6 Markaz), also sells western food products and is of the better value ‘western’ style supermarkets.

Metro, [18]](http://www.metro.pk/) located way out in I11 is a huge Walmart type store selling groceries and household goods. Prices are good but not the cheapest in Islamabad - but if you are looking for a western style shopping trolley experience this is your best bet.

Handicrafts, The Capital Development Authority, has recently established a handicrafts village near super market, where small stalls with handicrafts from around the country are available. You should be able to walk from there to Mahraja (next to united Bakery) and find plenty of other stores much larger and with a much better collection of handicrafts and traditional items. This is a MUST visit for all first time visitors and a useful stop for quick gift items for people back home. A good present for the ladies is Pashmina shawls or wraps, which can cost anywhere between $15 to as much as $700. Remember to bargain, you will be charged Gora price.
Art See above. Some of the places to visit are, Khaas, The National Art Gallery and Nomad Art Gallery.
Music Peak Shop 4, Amant Plaza, Main Double Road, F10 markaz. Small modern music shop, with guitars and other instruments.
Haroons, the perfect place to shop for gifts and women accessories. Is in Super Market.
Saeed Book Bank is the largest bookstore in the city, located in the F-7 Markaz. A wide variety, from old books of local interest (“The Story of the Malakand Field Force” by Churchill, for instance) to modern best-sellers. Plenty about geopolitics and war in Pakistan and Afghanistan as well.
Furniture: There a are a number of places selling antique or new furniture made from antique wood pieces, such as Wood Heritage, Pak Turk, and another small but packed one in E-7.

*Centaurus mega mall:everything in one package from multiplex to food court. Mall is 5-floors. First two floors are open, however remaining floors will open April 1st, 2013.

World trade centre:Abig shopping centre with many handicraft stores build by WTO. It is under construction expect completion end of 2014.

Mall9 is at G-9 Markez and is now open.

AL Taqwa mall:Good shopping mall with food court and playland.
DHA Gold crest.

*AL Safa gold mall.

7th Avenue, located at Jinnah Super Market (F7 Markaz), has large selection of western food products.
Best Price, located at Super Market (F6 Markaz), also sells western food products and is of the better value ‘western’ style supermarkets.
Metro, [18] located way out in I11 is a huge Walmart type store selling groceries and household goods. Prices are good but not the cheapest in Islamabad - but if you are looking for a western style shopping trolley experience this is your best bet.
Handicrafts, The Capital Development Authority, has recently established a handicrafts village near super market, where small stalls with handicrafts from around the country are available. You should be able to walk from there to Mahraja (next to united Bakery) and find plenty of other stores much larger and with a much better collection of handicrafts and traditional items. This is a MUST visit for all first time visitors and a useful stop for quick gift items for people back home. A good present for the ladies is Pashmina shawls or wraps, which can cost anywhere between $15 to as much as $700. Remember to bargain, you will be charged Gora price.
Art See above. Some of the places to visit are, Khaas, The National Art Gallery and Nomad Art Gallery.
Music Peak Shop 4, Amant Plaza, Main Double Road, F10 markaz. Small modern music shop, with guitars and other instruments.
Haroons, the perfect place to shop for gifts and women accessories. Is in Super Market.
Saeed Book Bank is the largest bookstore in the city, located in the F-7 Markaz. A wide variety, from old books of local interest (“The Story of the Malakand Field Force” by Churchill, for instance) to modern best-sellers. Plenty about geopolitics and war in Pakistan and Afghanistan as well.
Furniture: There a are a number of places selling antique or new furniture made from antique wood pieces, such as Wood Heritage, Pak Turk, and another small but packed one in E-7.

Centaurus mega mall:everything in one package from multiplex to food court. Mall is 5-floors. First two floors are open, however remaining floors will open April 1st, 2013.
World trade centre:Abig shopping centre with many handicraft stores build by WTO. It is under construction expect completion end of 2014.
Mall9 is at G-9 Markez and is now open.
AL Taqwa mall:Good shopping mall with food court and playland.
DHA Gold crest.
*AL Safa gold mall.
Information by SARMAD Iqbal.’
Foreign Currency Exchange is easily available from F-6 Blue Area where there are 100’s of money changers in privately owned shops. It is advised to check the rate with a few of them before going ahead with it.

Foreign Currency Exchange is easily available from F-6 Blue Area where there are 100’s of money changers in privately owned shops. It is advised to check the rate with a few of them before going ahead with it.

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 4:55pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

Islamabad is well situated for day trips and weekend trips to nearby cities and attractions.
Day trips

Rawalpindi
Taxila, an ancient Buddhist and Hindu site with strong Greek influence from Alexander the Great’s time. Worth a visit and a picnic. Should you be interested further in the subject, guided tours can be arranged for sites around the museum.
Murree & the Galis, One hour scenic journey through beautiful mountains to the hill resort of Murree which is a nice place to visit especially during the summer. A small place has a weather entirely different to that of Islamabad and much similar to most cities of Northern Europe. However the town is suffering under the sheer number of visitors and the small number of colonial buildings have been swamped by a plethora of cheap hotels - and consequently many visitors feel the town does not live up to its guidebook hype. Chairlifts of Murree and Patriata, Kashmir point are attractions for tourists. A two kilometer “Mall” is the center of gravity of Murree where all the shops and hotels are located. If you want to escape the crowds head further north towards Nathia Gali where there are several small towns with easy access to the mountains. If driving to Murree be aware that the roads are very winding and busy - and not fun to drive in the dark. Driving through Murree is also not much fun.
Simly Dam It is situated at a distance of about 30 km east of Islamabad (look for the route on Google maps). A very picturesque lake spread over an area of 28,750 acres. There is not much there, some walking trails to the side of the lake (not possible to do a full circuit) and there is a guesthouse / lodge / cafe place on the dam itself. This isn’t a place many Islamabad dwellers visit, and can be eerily quiet - best not to visit alone.
Rawat Fort and the Mankiala Stupa to the south of Rawalpindi can fill an afternoon
Khan Pur Lake a 1 hour drive north-west of the city. [59]](http://www.tdcp.gop.pk/tdcp/Destinations/Lakes/KhanpurLakeDam/tabid/479/Default.aspx)
Kallar Kahar lake is 2 hours down the motorway - can go boating on the lake and visit some pleasant nearby shrines.
Ketas Temples and the Khewra Salt mines makes for a pleasant day trip - the Salt Mines are good to visit in the summer as a place to escape the punishing heat of the salt range. The road between Ketas and Khewra is also spectacular.
Malot temple in the Salt Range makes for an off-the-beaten-track destination about a 2 hour drive from Islamabad down the motorway. Coordinates are 32.684537° N 72.799391° E. You need to drive through the Lafarge cement factory to get there - the vista is as spectacular as the temple - and a nice spot for a picnic.
Chiniot is an oft overlooked gem located just off the motorway near Faisalabad (about a 3 hour drive). Interesting old town and a centre for wooden furniture manufacture (hence a great place to go if you are furnishing a house). The Umar Hayat Palace is quite amazing also.
Rohtas Fort 2 hour drive south of Islamabad off the GT road - enormous old fort that makes for a great day trip from Islamabad. Leave the old water well until last.
Peshawar can be visited in a long day trip - about 2.5 hours on the motorway - visit the museum, have lunch, then go for a guided wander around the old town before heading back to Islamabad. May not be safe for Westerners.

Weekend trips

Lahore makes a great weekend destination - although you’ll need more than 2 days to see everything. Gets very hot in the summer however so this makes a good winter weekend break.
Combine a trip to Chiniot and Faisalabad spending a day in each. Staying in Kallar Kahar (a lake halfway to Chiniot) on the Friday night is also a possibility.
Perhaps a bit ambitious for a weekend but you can visit India through the Wagah border. Usually, visiting Delhi should take you half a day by car, however you will need a visa. On the way, it is advisable to see the Golden Temple in Amritsar, and many other inspiring sights.
Trips to the northern mountains are possible if flying - PIA flies to Chitral, Gilgit and Skardu - flights can be unreliable with cancellations for poor weather / not enough passengers common. This makes a weekend trip a bit of a gamble in case your flight is cancelled and you get stuck up north. Also in a weekend there isn’t enough time to get in much walking. An alternative is to drive to the Kaghan Valley] which is a 6 hour drive from Islamabad and can be done in a weekend (eg leaving Friday lunchtime and overnighting in Abbottabad) - but better to plan 3 or more nights if you can. Beware of landslides however if it has been raining - these can easily get you stranded for a week or more - best to save Kaghan for the dry season.
Bishkek via Kyrgyzstan Air. Was on Friday nights around 7PM for around 340 USD one way, but this was before the Kyrg revolution. The travel agent in Islamabad, as of October 2009, is GSA Vital World Travel 9251 2274648-9 or 03125128227. [email protected]. He accepts credit cards and is off Kulsum Plaza, Blue Area, Islamabad (flight no longer running as of 2011)
Angoori
Rawalakot

devilish_angel · June 3, 2013, 5:36pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

my city

ninja_hattori · June 3, 2013, 5:41pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

fir dubai

khattichic · June 3, 2013, 5:48pm

Give us an insiders view of Islamabad! What do you love the most about Isloo? Dislikes?

devilish_angel · June 3, 2013, 6:08pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

I am just living here but I belong to isb

yes I will write some details after my dinner

devilish_angel · June 3, 2013, 6:42pm

Re: City Of The Month: Islamabad!!

khatti you have almost mentioned everything, I love isb becausei was born there I spent my whole life there. it was famous tht ppl of isb sleeps at 9 there is no night life and it is less lively comparative to other cities. I remember 10 pm used to be consider uff baut late ho gai. it was actually pin drop silence at 10 pm.

isb n pindi are twin cities since isb is more famous being capital tu whether you are living in pindi or isb you say belong to isb like I say :D, its an army hub , major community belongs to armed forces.

one of favi restaurant is texas steak house, if you go there n don’t eat it, your trip is wasted ,apart from this Jahangir Balti and Barbeque ,
papasallis, namakmandi, nandos, one potato two potato ,1969,BBQ tonight,kabul restaurant,. munches and refreshment center are famous for their snacks (roll prathas, gol gappay)

shopping places sadar, china market (famous for clothing, decoration items), super, Jinnah super are famous. recently two new outlets opened melange and latelier almost all the famous brands are availbale there.

recently a new cinema opened cinepax which is upto international standard.