Welcome to Islamabad, the ultimate new city paradise that awaits you with open arms! Situated at the foothills of Margalla Hills and boasting vibrant culture, hospitality, and modern infrastructure like no other city in Pakistan, Islamabad is a destination worth exploring. Whether you’re planning a trip for business or leisure, Islamabad has something unique to offer anyone who ventures into its winding streets. In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into everything that makes Islamabad such an incredible place to visit – from its rich history and diverse culinary scene to must-see landmarks and local hotspots. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure unlike any other as we discover the ultimate new city paradise Islamabad!

Islamabad – A Little Background

Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is a relatively young metropolis compared to other cities in the country. The idea for creating a new capital was first proposed by President Ayub Khan back in 1959 as Karachi, then-capital, became overcrowded and unmanageable. After years of planning and construction work led by Greek architect Konstantinos Apostolos Doxiadis and British town planner William Holford, Islamabad officially became the capital in 1967.

Located at the crossroads between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province and Punjab province, Islamabad is situated on hilly terrain with Margalla Hills serving as its natural borders. The city boasts clean streets lined with lush green trees and parks that provide respite from the hustle-bustle of daily life.

As Pakistan's political hub, Islamabad houses major government buildings such as Parliament House, Supreme Court of Pakistan Building along with several foreign embassies - making it an epicenter for diplomatic activity in South Asia.

Despite being one of Pakistan’s most developed cities today – featuring modern amenities like universities, hospitals shopping malls etc.,- remnants of ancient civilizations can still be seen throughout its landscape through many historical sites surrounding this beautiful city such as Taxila Museum or Faisal Mosque which are worth visiting for any history buff out there looking to explore some cultural heritage!

What to Expect in Islamabad

Islamabad is a city that offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. As the capital city of Pakistan, you can expect to experience a cosmopolitan lifestyle with all the amenities and facilities of a modern urban center.

One thing that sets Islamabad apart from other cities in Pakistan is its well-planned infrastructure. The city is clean, green and peaceful, making it an ideal place for families and individuals looking for a serene environment.

The architecture in Islamabad is also impressive, featuring several iconic buildings such as Faisal Mosque - one of the largest mosques in the world – which attracts visitors from around the globe.

Additionally, Islamabad boasts numerous parks and gardens like Daman-e-Koh or Margalla Hills National Park where you can enjoy hiking, trekking or just taking in breathtaking views of nature.

Shopping enthusiasts will not be disappointed either as there are plenty of malls, markets selling indigenous handicrafts items reflecting Pakistani culture or luxury brands.

Finally but not least important aspect to expect when visiting Islamabad is hospitality. People here are welcoming and friendly willing to help out foreigners who may need assistance navigating their way through unfamiliar surroundings.

The People of Islamabad

The people of Islamabad are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy for visitors to feel at home in the city. The population is diverse and includes people from all walks of life, including expats who have chosen Islamabad as their new home.

One unique aspect of the people of Islamabad is their love for nature and outdoor activities. This can be seen in the many parks and green spaces around the city that are always bustling with families enjoying picnics or taking a stroll. Sports like cricket and football are also popular among residents, both young and old.

Islamabad is also a hub for education, with some of the country's top universities located within its borders. This attracts students from all over Pakistan as well as international students looking to study abroad.

Despite being a cosmopolitan city, there is still a strong sense of community among residents. Neighbors often know each other by name and look out for one another's well-being. It's not uncommon to see strangers striking up conversations on public transport or in cafes.

The people of Islamabad contribute greatly to creating an inviting atmosphere that makes visitors want to return time after time.

The Climate in Islamabad

Islamabad experiences a subtropical climate with five distinct seasons. The city is blessed with pleasant weather throughout the year, making it an ideal destination for tourists and travelers alike.

Summer in Islamabad usually starts from May and lasts till July. During this season, the temperature can rise up to 40°C. However, the cool breeze blowing across the Margalla Hills helps in reducing the heat intensity of summer days.

Monsoon season commences in August and continues until September. The rain brings relief to people from hot summer days but also causes heavy flooding that disrupts life in some parts of the city.

Autumn arrives later on during October-November when temperatures drop significantly leading to chilly nights. It's a beautiful time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or sightseeing while relishing warm cups of tea or coffee at local cafes.

Winter begins around December-January bringing snowfall in nearby hill stations like Murree and NathiaGali which adds magic to Islamabad’s landscape. In Islamabad, winters experience moderate coldness usually around 5-15°C.

Springtime occurs between March-April when nature comes alive after winter hibernation showcasing colorful blossoms all over Islamabad's parks and gardens providing perfect photo opportunities for visitors who come here during these months!

The Cost of Living in Islamabad

The cost of living in Islamabad is relatively low compared to other major cities in the world. You can easily find affordable housing options, whether you are looking for a studio apartment or a spacious house. The rental prices vary depending on the location and the size of the property.

Food expenses are also reasonable in Islamabad, with plenty of street food options available at very affordable rates. If you prefer eating out at restaurants, be prepared to pay slightly more but still much less than what you would spend in most western countries.

Transportation costs are also quite manageable as public transportation is cheap and widely available. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber are also reasonably priced.

Utilities like electricity, gas, and water bills may vary based on your usage, but they generally don't add up to significant amounts unless you're running an air conditioner all day long during summers.

If you plan your budget right and avoid unnecessary luxury expenses, you can comfortably live in Islamabad without breaking your bank account.

The food of Islamabad

The food scene in Islamabad is a delightful mix of Pakistani and international cuisines. From street food to fine dining, there's something for everyone. The city has an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and fast-food chains that cater to different tastes and budgets.

One must-try dish in Islamabad is the famous "Chapli Kebab" which originated from Peshawar but gained popularity all over Pakistan. It's a spicy beef patty made with pounded meat, onions, tomatoes, green chilies, herbs and spices such as coriander seeds and cumin. Served with naan bread or rice it makes for a delicious meal.

Another popular dish is "Nihari," which is slow-cooked spiced meat simmered overnight on low heat until tenderized. It's usually served for breakfast with naan bread or roti alongside garnishing elements like ginger juliennes, lemon wedges fresh mint leaves.

If you're looking for something sweet then try out traditional sweets like Gulab Jamun (deep-fried milk-based dumplings soaked in sugar syrup), Jalebi (crispy fried swirls soaked in sugar syrup) or Barfi (fudge-like dessert made from condensed milk).

The cuisine scene in Islamabad reflects the diversity of its people; its dishes are influenced by regional cultures while also staying true to their own unique flavors - making it an exciting culinary experience!

Places to Visit in Islamabad

Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is a hub of culture and history. It has plenty of places to visit that will leave you mesmerized.

The Faisal Mosque is one such place that tourists should not miss visiting. It's an iconic landmark in Islamabad known for its unique architecture and beauty.

Another must-see attraction is Rawal Lake. This picturesque lake offers visitors stunning views of the surrounding mountains and provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like boating and hiking.

If you're interested in learning about Pakistani culture, then Lok Virsa Museum is worth a visit. The museum showcases traditional handicrafts, artwork, music instruments, and even houses a reconstructed village from different parts of Pakistan.

For nature lovers looking to escape the hustle-bustle of city life, Margalla Hills National Park offers breathtaking scenery with diverse animal species and trekking trails.

Daman-e-Koh viewpoint situated on top of Margalla Hills provides panoramic views over Islamabad City as well as serving as a starting point for hiking enthusiasts who want to explore more natural sights around the area.

These are just some examples among many other attractions available in this amazing city waiting to be explored by travelers seeking new adventures!

Conclusion

Islamabad offers a unique blend of culture, beauty and modernity that makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure, relaxation or exploration. From the stunning Margalla Hills to the rich history of Faisal Mosque and Lok Virsa Museum, there is something here for everyone.

The people are friendly and welcoming, the food is delicious and diverse, while the cost of living is affordable compared to other major cities in Pakistan. Moreover, with its pleasant climate throughout most of the year, Islamabad can be visited at any time without worrying about weather conditions ruining your trip.

So if you're looking for a new city paradise to discover in Pakistan or simply want to experience something different from what you're used to, make sure that Islamabad is on top of your list. You won't regret it!