Bari Imam
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Shrine & Mazar
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Bari Imam is a famous Sufi shrine in Islamabad. It honors Saint Syed Shah Abdul Latif Kazmi, who was also known as Bari Imam. He lived in the 17th century and helped spread Islam in the local area. The shrine is a popular place for prayers and visits by many people from all over. It is located in Nurpur Shahan, a village near the Margalla Hills.
What To Do
- Offer prayers and recite Fatiha.
- Spend time in quiet reflection and meditation.
- Observe the architecture of the shrine building.
- Learn about the history of Bari Imam and his teachings.
- Participate in the annual Urs festival if you visit during that specific time.
What To Buy
- Religious Books: Find books on Sufism and Islamic teachings at local shops near the shrine or in nearby Aabpara Market. Get Directions
- Prayer Beads (Tasbeeh): Buy prayer beads made from various materials at stalls around the shrine or in F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
- Local Crafts: Look for small, handmade items and souvenirs from street vendors near the shrine.
- Traditional Sweets: Purchase local sweets like 'Petha' or 'Halwa' from shops in nearby markets like F-7 Markaz. Get Directions
- Incense and Attar: Buy incense sticks and traditional non-alcoholic perfumes (attar) often sold by vendors around religious sites.
Policies & Info
- Visitors should dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially women.
- Remove your shoes before entering the main prayer hall of the shrine.
- Maintain silence and show respect, especially during prayer times.
- Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful and avoid disturbing others.
Health & Safety
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
- Be aware of your personal belongings in crowded areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you might need to walk around.
- If visiting during monsoon, be careful of slippery surfaces.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March to May) The weather is mild and very pleasant. It is a good time to visit as it's not too hot or too cold.
Summer: (June to August) It gets very hot, with high temperatures. It is best to visit early morning or late evening to avoid the strong sun.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July to September) This season brings rainfall and humidity. Visits can be refreshing after the rain, but carry an umbrella.
Autumn: (September to November) The weather starts to cool down and becomes very comfortable. This is a great time for a visit.
Winter: (December to February) It is cold and crisp, especially in the mornings and evenings. Wear warm clothes for your visit.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 30-40 kilometers from the shrine, taking roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour by car.
- By Road: Bari Imam Shrine is easily reachable by road from all parts of Islamabad. Key roads like Kashmir Highway and Murree Road connect to the area.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. It is about 15-20 kilometers from the shrine, taking around 30-45 minutes by car.
- By Public Transport: You can use local taxis, ride-sharing apps like Careem or Uber, or local buses that run routes towards Nurpur Shahan from various points in Islamabad.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- The Monal Restaurant: Pir Sohawa Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2898044. Get Directions
- Savour Foods: Blue Area, Jinnah Avenue, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2873132. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Islamabad: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 111 133 133. Website: serenahotels.com. Get Directions
- Ramada by Wyndham Islamabad: Club Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 111 222 666. Website: wyndhamhotels.com. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), G-8/3, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9260501. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122 - nationwide emergency service)
- Police Station: Margalla Police Station, F-7 Markaz, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9205559. Get Directions
