Pak-China Friendship Centre
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Seasonal Festival
Location
Islamabad, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
2 to 4 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Accessible
Description
Pak-China Friendship Centre is a large cultural and exhibition venue in Islamabad. It was built to show the strong friendship between Pakistan and China. This centre is used for many big events like cultural shows, trade fairs, and national celebrations. It is located on Garden Avenue in the Shakarparian area, which makes it easy to reach for everyone. This place helps people from both countries share their traditions and ideas.
What To Do
- Attend different cultural shows and music concerts.
- Visit trade exhibitions and expos held here.
- See national day celebrations and special events.
- Walk around the centre grounds and open areas during events.
- Participate in community gatherings and festivals.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Look for handmade items like pottery, wood carvings, and traditional fabrics at stalls during events or in nearby markets like Get Directions .
- Traditional Clothing: Find kurtas, shawls, and embroidered clothes, often available at local markets like Get Directions .
- Pakistani Souvenirs: Buy small items that remind you of Pakistan, like keychains or small art pieces, from markets like F-7 Markaz.
- Dry Fruits: Purchase fresh and local dry fruits such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios from shops in Get Directions .
- Books and CDs: Sometimes available during specific cultural events, or check bookstores in F-6 Markaz (Super Market).
Policies & Info
- Please follow all rules set by event organizers during your visit.
- Keep the centre clean by using trash bins.
- Photography is usually allowed for personal use, but check for specific event rules.
- Dress respectfully, especially when attending cultural or national events.
Health & Safety
- Drink plenty of water, especially during hot weather.
- Keep your belongings safe and in sight.
- Always follow instructions from event staff and security.
- Be aware of your surroundings and move carefully in crowded areas.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March-April) The weather is mild and pleasant, making it great for outdoor events and exploring before or after indoor activities.
Summer: (May-July) It gets very hot. Most events happen indoors in air-conditioned halls. Stay hydrated if you are moving outside.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July-August) Expect heavy rains and humidity. Travel might be slower. Indoor events are still a good option.
Autumn: (September-November) The weather is cool and dry with clear skies. This is a very good time to visit for events, both indoors and outdoors.
Winter: (December-February) It can be cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. Indoor events are common, and some outdoor activities can be enjoyed with warm clothing.
How to Reach
- By Air: Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is the nearest active airport. It is about 35 km away, a 30 to 45-minute drive depending on traffic.
- By Road: The centre is on Garden Avenue, near Shakarparian Road. It is easily reachable by car from all parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi using the main road network.
- By Train: Rawalpindi Railway Station is the nearest active railway station. It is about 10-15 km away, a 20 to 30-minute drive to the centre.
- By Public Transport: You can use local ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber. Public buses and wagons also go towards Faizabad, from where you can take a taxi or rickshaw to the centre. The Metro Bus service also stops near Faizabad.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Tuscany Courtyard: F-6 Markaz, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 8445544. Get Directions
- Street 1 Cafe: F-6 Markaz, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2824317. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Islamabad Serena Hotel: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Sector G-5, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 111 133 133. Website: www.serenahotels.com. Get Directions
- Islamabad Marriott Hotel: Agha Khan Road, F-5/1, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2826121. Website: www.marriott.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 - Official emergency number for Pakistan)
- Police Station: Secretariat Police Station, Constitution Avenue, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9204001. Get Directions