Rawal Lake
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Lake
Location
Islamabad, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
2 to 4 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Accessible
Description
Rawal Lake is a man-made water reservoir in Islamabad, Pakistan. It was built in 1962 on the Korang River. The lake provides drinking water to the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. It is a popular place for locals and visitors to relax and enjoy nature. The area around the lake has parks and places for outdoor fun.
What To Do
- Go boating on the lake.
- Walk along the paved pathways in Lake View Park.
- Have a picnic with family or friends at the designated spots.
- Visit the bird aviary at Lake View Park.
- Enjoy swings and rides at the amusement area in Lake View Park.
- Fish from the lake (a fishing permit is required).
- Watch the sunset over the water from the viewing points.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Hand-made items like pottery or small decorations from nearby F-6 Markaz or Jinnah Super Market. Get Directions
- Traditional Clothes: Shalwar Kameez or embroidered jackets from shops in Aabpara Market. Get Directions
- Pakistani Sweets: Fresh barfi or gulab jamun from a sweet shop in Jinnah Super Market. Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Almonds, walnuts, and cashews from local vendors at Aabpara Market. Get Directions
- Small Souvenirs: Keychains, fridge magnets, or small decorative items from shops around Lake View Park or F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Keep the lake area and parks clean by using dustbins for all trash.
- Follow local rules and show respect for public spaces and other visitors.
- Photography is generally allowed for personal use. If you wish to photograph people up close, please ask for their permission first.
- It is advisable to dress modestly out of respect for local customs, especially outside of Lake View Park.
Health & Safety
- Stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months. Carry water with you.
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around the park and lake pathways for a long time.
- If you go boating, make sure to wear a life jacket if one is provided.
- Supervise children closely, especially when they are near the water.
- Watch out for uneven paths or steps in certain areas of the park.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March-May): The weather is mild and pleasant. Flowers bloom around the lake, making it a good time for outdoor activities and walks.
Summer: (June-August): This season is hot, especially in July. It is less ideal for daytime visits, but evenings can be cooler and okay for a short trip.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy (July-September): Rains help to cool the weather. The lake water levels rise. It can be humid during this period.
Autumn: (October-November): The weather is cool and dry with clear skies. This is a very good time to visit for any outdoor activity.
Winter: (December-February): It gets cold, especially in January. Clear and sunny days can be nice for a visit, but dress warmly.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 35-40 km from Rawal Lake and takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour by car.
- By Road: Rawal Lake is easily reached by car from all parts of Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Main roads lead directly to the lake area and Lake View Park.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. It is about 10-12 km from Rawal Lake and takes about 25-30 minutes by car.
- By Public Transport: Local taxis and ride-hailing services like Careem, Indrive, and Uber are commonly available. You can also use local buses or vans to reach the nearest main road, then take a rickshaw or taxi to the lake.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Wild Rice Restaurant, Islamabad Serena Hotel: Serves Asian cuisine. Location: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Sector G-5, Islamabad. Contact: +92 51 111 133 133. Get Directions
- Street 1 Cafe: Popular for casual dining and coffee. Location: Street 1, F-6/3, Islamabad. Contact: +92 51 8444440. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Islamabad Serena Hotel: A luxury hotel close to the lake. Location: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Sector G-5, Islamabad. Contact: +92 51 111 133 133. Website: serenahotels.com. Get Directions
- Ramada by Wyndham Islamabad: A comfortable hotel near Rawal Lake. Location: Club Rd, near Rawal Lake, Islamabad. Contact: +92 51 111 222 666. Website: wyndhamhotels.com. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Shifa International Hospital: Phone: +92 51 8464646. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Official local emergency number for Pakistan)
- Police Station:
- Secretariat Police Station: Phone: +92 51 9205561. Get Directions