Shah Allah Ditta Caves
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Cave
Location
Islamabad, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
1 to 2 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Shah Allah Ditta Caves are ancient caves located in the Shah Allah Ditta village, near the Margalla Hills in Islamabad. These caves have a long history, dating back over 2,400 years to the Buddhist period. Later, a Sufi saint named Shah Allah Ditta lived and taught at this place, giving the village its name. The site includes the caves, a small shrine, and a mosque, showing different layers of history and culture.
What To Do
- Explore the old caves and see the ancient rock carvings.
- Visit the Sufi shrine located close to the caves.
- Walk through Shah Allah Ditta village to see local life.
- See the old Banyan tree, which is many hundreds of years old.
- Take photos of the historical structures and the village surroundings.
- Enjoy a short walk in the nearby foothills of the Margalla Hills.
What To Buy
- Local Pottery: Buy from small shops in Golra Sharif Bazaar Get Directions
- Traditional Shawls: Find at Jinnah Super Market, F-7 Markaz Get Directions
- Handicraft Souvenirs: Available at Centaurus Mall's artisan shops Get Directions
- Spices and Local Foods: Visit Aabpara Market Get Directions
- Silver Jewelry: Look in F-10 Markaz shops Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Please respect the historical and religious importance of the site.
- Keep the area clean by not littering.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting the Sufi shrine area.
- Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of local visitors and their privacy.
Health & Safety
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the paths can be uneven.
- Carry enough drinking water, especially during hot weather.
- Be careful when exploring inside the caves as some areas might be dark or slippery.
- Protect yourself from the sun if visiting during the day.
- It's advisable to visit during daylight hours.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March-May) The weather is mild and pleasant. This is a great time for exploring the caves and enjoying the green surroundings.
Summer: (June-August) It gets very hot and humid. Visits are best done in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the strong sun.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July-September) The area can be wet, and paths might be slippery. The landscape becomes very green, but caution is needed.
Autumn: (September-November) The weather is cool and dry. This season is very good for walks and outdoor activities around the caves.
Winter: (December-February) It is cold, especially in the evenings. The skies are usually clear, making for peaceful visits.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 30-40 minutes drive from the caves.
- By Road: You can reach Shah Allah Ditta Caves by car or taxi from Islamabad city center, typically taking 20-30 minutes. The caves are accessible via Margalla Road.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Islamabad Railway Station, located in Sector I-9. From there, it's about a 25-minute drive to the caves.
- By Public Transport: Local buses or ride-hailing services like Careem or Uber are available from different parts of Islamabad directly to Shah Allah Ditta village.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Monastery Bistro: Shah Allah Ditta Road, Islamabad. Phone: 0333 5143322 Get Directions
- Savour Foods: Melody Food Park, Islamabad. Phone: 051 2824647 Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Islamabad Serena Hotel: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Islamabad. Phone: 051 2874000. Website: serenahotels.com Get Directions
- Ramada by Wyndham Islamabad: Club Rd, Islamabad. Phone: 051 111 888 888. Website: wyndhamhotels.com Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Shifa International Hospital, H-8/4, Islamabad. Phone: 051 8463000 Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122, Pakistan's official emergency service)
- Police Station: Golra Sharif Police Station, GT Road, Golra Sharif, Islamabad. Phone: 051 9278065 Get Directions