At a Glance
Islamabad rises from a modernist master plan drafted in the 1960s, with wide avenues, generous parks, and zoning that separates government, diplomatic, commercial, and residential sectors. The city shares a metropolitan embrace with Rawalpindi while offering a calmer rhythm and cleaner air.
Institutions and Innovation
As Pakistan's policy nerve center, Islamabad houses the Parliament, Supreme Court, federal ministries, and embassies clustered around Constitution Avenue and the Diplomatic Enclave. A constellation of think tanks, incubators, and universities led by NUST, COMSATS, and Quaid-i-Azam University drives debate on technology, governance, and climate resilience.
- Islamabad's tech ecosystem leverages dense broadband connectivity and co-working spaces in F-6 through F-11 sectors.
- The city hosts global conferences at the Pak-China Friendship Centre and Jinnah Convention Centre.
- Islamabad International Airport links directly to major Middle Eastern and European destinations.
Outdoors and Leisure
The Margalla Hills National Park begins where the city grid ends, offering trails like Daman-e-Koh and Trail 5 for sunrise hikes. Lok Virsa Museum and Saidpur Village bring Pakistani folklore to life, while the Faisal Mosque's modernist architecture anchors the skyline. Cafés in Kohsar Market and the Lake View Park promenade round out evenings.
Plan Your Stay
Islamabad is most pleasant from October to April. Ride-sharing apps and a growing metrobus network make it easy to move between sectors, though booking security clearances ahead of official meetings remains essential.
Visual Glimpses
Trace Islamabad's civic avenues, foothill trails, and lakeside sunsets.
