Tourist Attractions In Pakistan

The Bari Imam Shrine, located in Nurpur Shahan at the foothills of the Margalla Hills in Islamabad, is a revered 17th-century Sufi shrine dedicated to Shah Abdul Latif Kazmi, known as Bari Imam or Bari Sarkar. Built by Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and renovated multiple times, including recent expansions by the Government of Pakistan, the shrine is a major pilgrimage site for the Qadiriyya Sufi order, attracting millions of devotees annually. Known for its silver-mirrored interior, Mughal-inspired architecture, and spiritual ambiance, it offers peace, cultural heritage, and free langar food, making it a significant religious and tourist destination.

Bruti Waterfall, nestled in the Margalla Hills near the Bari Imam Shrine in Islamabad, is a captivating natural gem known for its series of cascading waterfalls and pristine freshwater ponds. Located 2-3 km from the shrine in Nurpur Shahan, it is accessible via a 15-45 minute hike from Loh-e-Dandi parking, offering scenic views and a refreshing escape from city life,. The waterfall, which peaks during the monsoon season, is tied to the spiritual Bari Imam Chilla Gah (Loh-e-Dandi), a site linked to Sufi saint Shah Abdul Latif Kazmi (1617-1705). Despite its beauty, littering and limited facilities have been noted, with efforts like the NTP cleanup in 2020 highlighting the need for responsible tourism. Ideal for hikers, swimmers, and nature lovers, Bruti offers a blend of adventure and tranquility.

Daman-e-Koh, meaning “foothills” in Persian (from “Daman” meaning skirt and “Koh” meaning hill), is a renowned hilltop viewpoint in the Margalla Hills National Park, north of Islamabad. Situated at 2,400 feet above sea level and 500 feet above the city, it was developed in the 1970s by the Capital Development Authority (CDA) as a recreational spot. Offering breathtaking panoramic views of Islamabad, including landmarks like Faisal Mosque and Rawal Lake, Daman-e-Koh is a favorite for tourists and locals seeking nature, serenity, and stunning cityscapes. Its lush greenery, wildlife, and accessible terraces make it ideal for picnics, photography, and relaxation.

Fatima Jinnah Park, commonly known as F-9 Park, is one of Pakistan’s largest public recreational parks, spanning 750 acres in the heart of Islamabad. Named after M?dar-e-Millat Fatima Jinnah, sister of Pakistan’s founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the park was designed by Michael Japero and inaugurated in 1992. It blends natural beauty with man-made attractions, offering lush greenery, jogging tracks, a Kids Play Area, and sports facilities. With stunning views of the Margalla Hills, it’s a serene escape for families, fitness enthusiasts, and tourists.

Golra Sharif Junction Railway Station, established in 1882 and upgraded to a junction in 1912, is a historic railway hub on Golra Road in Islamabad, lying on Pakistan Railways’ main line connecting Peshawar to Karachi. Built in Victorian-style yellow stone masonry at 1,994 feet above sea level, it served as a logistic artery during British Raj’s Afghan campaigns and remains a key trade route to Afghanistan via the Khyber Pass. The Pakistan Railways Heritage Museum, inaugurated in 2003 and renovated in 2018, houses relics from over 150 years of rail history, including steam locomotives, saloon cars, and artifacts like a 1965 war-captured token machine. Surrounded by 125-year-old banyan trees, the station and museum attract tourists, railway enthusiasts, and locals, especially during the annual Urs festival.

Golra Sharif Darbar, located in Sector E-11 of Islamabad at the foothills of the Margalla Hills, is a revered 20th-century Sufi shrine dedicated to Pir Meher Ali Shah, a prominent scholar and poet of the Chisti order. Established in the early 1900s, the shrine attracts thousands of devotees annually, especially during Urs celebrations, for spiritual guidance and blessings. Known for its white marble architecture and serene ambiance, Golra Sharif is a cultural and religious landmark, complemented by the nearby Golra Sharif Railway Museum, which showcases Pakistan’s railway heritage.

The Islamabad Museum, officially the National Museum of Pakistan, serves as the nucleus for a planned national museum in Islamabad, the capital city. Temporarily housed in the Sir Syed Memorial Building on Ataturk Avenue, it was established by the Department of Archaeology and Museums, National Heritage and Literary Division, Government of Pakistan, to preserve and showcase the country’s rich historical and cultural heritage,. While detailed information about current exhibits is scarce, the museum aims to display artifacts from Pakistan’s ancient civilizations, such as Gandhara and Indus Valley, alongside narratives of its modern history. Despite its modest setup, it offers an educational experience for history enthusiasts, students, and tourists, with plans for a larger permanent facility in the future.

Lake View Park, officially Rawal Lake View Park, is a scenic recreational area located along the banks of Rawal Lake in Islamabad. Developed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the park spans lush greenery and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills. Established to promote tourism and leisure, it features boating, bird-watching, picnicking, and family-friendly amusement facilities. With its serene ambiance and diverse activities, Lake View Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists seeking relaxation and outdoor fun near the capital city.

The Lok Virsa Museum, also known as the Pakistan National Museum of Ethnology or Heritage Museum, is a premier cultural institution in Islamabad’s Shakarparian Hills. Established in 1974 and managed by the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa), it became autonomous in 2002. Spanning 60,000 square feet, it is Pakistan’s largest museum, showcasing the country’s diverse heritage through artifacts, dioramas, and live performances. With exhibits on traditional crafts, music, and folklore from all provinces, the museum preserves Pakistan’s living traditions and offers an immersive experience for visitors, earning it the title “Museum for the people of Pakistan.”

Margalla Hills National Park, established in 1980, is a sprawling 17,386-hectare protected area in northern Islamabad, offering a blend of biodiversity, scenic beauty, and recreational opportunities. Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, the park features rugged hills, dense forests, and over 30 hiking trails, including popular routes to Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa. Home to diverse flora and fauna, including leopards, monkeys, and hundreds of bird species, it is a haven for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. With stunning views of Islamabad and eco-conscious initiatives, the park is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists.

The Pakistan Monument, located in the Shakarparian Hills of Islamabad, is a national symbol of unity, representing Pakistan’s provinces, territories, and cultural diversity. Designed by architect Arif Masoud and inaugurated in 2007, the monument features a petal-shaped structure resembling a blooming flower, complemented by intricate murals and a crescent-star platform. Adjacent to it, the Pakistan Monument Museum showcases the country’s history, independence movement, and cultural heritage through artifacts, exhibits, and multimedia displays. Set amidst lush gardens with panoramic views of Islamabad, it is a must-visit for tourists and history enthusiasts.

The Centaurus Mall, opened in 2013, is Islamabad’s premier shopping and entertainment destination, located on Jinnah Avenue in Sector F-8. Spanning 6.6 acres, this mixed-use complex, designed by British firm WS Atkins, features a four-story mall with over 250 shops, a five-screen cineplex, and Fun City for kids. Part of a larger development with three 22-floor towers (including residential apartments, offices, and a hotel under construction), it boasts modern architecture with a glass facade and skylights. Despite criticisms like entry fees for bachelors and occasional maintenance issues, the mall’s diverse brands, dining options, and family-friendly vibe make it a must-visit for locals and tourists.