Flights To Islamabad Guide

Arriving at Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is a seamless experience, reflecting Pakistan’s hospitality and modernity. With its spacious terminals, diverse dining and shopping options, and convenient transportation services, travellers are welcomed into the heart of the city with ease. For an alternative option, Benazir Bhutto International Airport (ISB) in Rawalpindi is a considerable airport nearby.

Direct flights from the UK take around 7 to 8 hours to reach Islamabad. Moreover, major air carriers that facilitate this operation include Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), British Airways, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines.

Woking Travel offers seamless transfer services from the airport to your accommodation. To book a transfer, please visit Transfers-Woking Travel.

For your destination, Woking Travel offers a selection of hotels that are tailored to fit various price ranges and preferences. Explore our range of hotels at Hotels-Woking Travel or discover exciting holiday packages at Holidays-Woking Travel. Islamabad offers a variety of accommodation options catering to various preferences and budgets. Here are some of the top hotels in the city:

1. Serena Hotel Islamabad: Renowned for its luxurious amenities and exquisite service, Serena Hotel stands out with its beautiful architecture and lush gardens, offering an oasis of comfort in the city’s heart.
   
   
2. Islamabad Marriott Hotel: With its prime location and top-notch facilities, the Marriott is a favourite among travellers seeking luxury and convenience. The hotel boasts well-appointed rooms, multiple dining options, and extensive leisure facilities.
   
   
3. Centaurus Serviced Apartments: Ideal for those looking to blend hotel luxury and home comfort, these serviced apartments within the Centaurus Mall complex offer modern amenities and easy access to shopping and entertainment.
   
   
4. Envoy Continental Hotel: Offering a comfortable stay without breaking the bank, Envoy Continental provides excellent service and comfortable rooms, making it a great choice for business and leisure travellers.
   
   
5. Ramada by Wyndham Islamabad: Overlooking the picturesque Rawal Lake, Ramada offers a tranquil retreat with spacious rooms, fine dining, and a range of leisure activities.
   
   
6. Sapphire Hotel Islamabad: Curating a comfortable experience for guests, this 4 star hotel offers all modern amenities, including a well-equipped gym, chic accommodation, and a plethora of dining choices.
   
   
7. Hotel One Islamabad: Being a reliable option, this hotel prioritises cleanliness and provides comfortable rooms and basic facilities at a reasonable cost. The hotel offers utmost comfort and extends a cooperative service to guests.
   
   
8. Gofas Lodge: This hotel curates a home-like ambience for guests and being centrally located in the city, provides easy access to the main attractions of Islamabad. The hotel provides great value for your money and is a considerable option for budget travellers.
   
   
9. Pearl Continental Hotel Islamabad: Establishing a luxurious standard nationwide, Pearl Continental provides guests with a blend of utmost comfort and opulence with their exceptional facilities, cosy accommodation, and impeccable service.
   
   
10. The Wellington Hotel: Another considerable option for budget travellers, the Wellington hotel offers simple yet comfortable lodging with all standard amenities at a low cost.

Getting around Islamabad is convenient, with several transport options available to suit your preferences:

1. Buses: The city’s bus service, including the Metrobus system, offers an efficient and  affordable way to navigate Islamabad and its neighbouring areas.
2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis are readily available throughout the city, and ride-sharing services like Uber, In-Drive, and Careem provide a convenient and reliable way to get around the city with just a few taps on your smartphone.
3. Car Rentals: For those preferring to explore at their own pace, car rental services offer the flexibility to travel around Islamabad and beyond.

From serene landscapes and historical monuments to cultural treasures and bustling markets, this city offers a unique blend of experiences for every kind of visitor.

1. Faisal Mosque: An iconic symbol of Islamabad, known for its contemporary design and stunning location at the foot of the Margalla Hills. It’s one of the largest mosques in the world and a must-visit for its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere.
   
   
2. Pakistan Monument: This is a national symbol representing the four provinces of Pakistan. Located in the Shakarparian Hills, it offers a panoramic view of Islamabad and houses a museum that delves into the country’s history.
   
   
3. Daman-e-Koh: A viewpoint in the Margalla Hills offering breath-taking views of the entire city. It’s a popular spot for picnics and watching the sunset over Islamabad.
   
   
4. Rawal Lake: An artificial reservoir that provides the water needs of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. It’s a perfect spot for picnicking, boating, and bird-watching in a tranquil setting.
   
   
5. Lok Virsa Museum: Also known as the Folk Heritage Museum, this museum is dedicated to preserving Pakistan’s cultural heritage. It displays a wide array of traditional artefacts, folk music, and art.
   
   
6. Saidpur Village: A historic village transformed into a cultural site, showcasing the traditional lifestyle of Pakistani villages. It’s now home to restaurants, art galleries, and souvenir shops.
   
   
7. Margalla Hills National Park: A haven for nature enthusiasts, offering numerous hiking trails, wildlife watching, and the chance to escape into nature within the city’s limits.
   
   
8. Islamabad Zoo: Also known as Marghazar Zoo, this facility is home to various species of animals and birds and provides entertainment and education about wildlife conservation.
   
   
9. Shakarparian Hills: Another scenic spot offering splendid views of Islamabad and its surroundings, including the Pakistan Monument. The hills are also home to the Islamabad Rose & Jasmine Garden.
   
   
10. Centaurus Mall: A modern shopping and entertainment complex symbolising the contemporary lifestyle of Islamabad. It houses a range of international and local retail brands, a food court, and a cinema.
    
    

These destinations offer a comprehensive glimpse into Islamabad’s diverse attractions, from natural wonders and historical sites to modern amenities, catering to various interests.

Here are the top 10 restaurants in Islamabad:

1. Dawat: This is an Indian Asian restaurant that offers you quality Asian dishes.
   
   
2. The Carnivore: This is a Turkish Middle eastern restaurant. You can visit the place to enjoy Turkish food and delight. 
   
   
3. Fuoco: This restaurant in Islamabad serves exceptional Italian cuisine. With a wide range of dishes such as pasta, pizzas, seafood, and more, and a calming ambience, it has made it to the top restaurants in Islamabad. 
   
   
4. Wild Rice Restaurant: This restaurant has wooden aesthetics. It offers Asian Thai food and curates a memorable food experience. 
   
   
5. Kabul Restaurant: This is a must-visit place to enjoy BBQ Afghani specialties in Islamabad. 
   
   
6. Burger in Town: This is a small cafe serving burgers in the city. To enjoy juicy burgers, you can visit the place. 
   
   
7. Al Maghreb: This is a Lebanese food serving place. They offer you the best high-quality food. 
   
   
8. Café Flo: Specialising in French cuisine, Café Flo offers exquisite delicacies with a Parisian interior.
   
   
9. The Royal Elephant: This is the go-to place to savour authentic Thai food in Islamabad. With its beautiful setting, it is a great option for both casual dining and for celebrating your special days.
   
   
10. Sakura: For Japanese food, Sakura is the ideal place to go. It serves a wide range of Japanese dishes, including incredible sushi and sashimi, in a delightful ambience.

Islamabad offers a plethora of activities to make your visit truly memorable. From thrilling outdoor adventures in the Margalla Hills to peaceful strolls through lush gardens and enlightening cultural tours, the city has something special for everyone.

1. Hiking in Margalla Hills: Explore the numerous trails offering varying difficulty levels and stunning views of the city and nature.
   
   
2. Visiting Faisal Mosque: Experience the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of one of the largest mosques in the world.
   
   
3. Exploring Lok Virsa Museum: Dive into Pakistan’s rich cultural and historical heritage through a vast collection of artefacts and exhibits.
   
   
4. Boating at Rawal Lake: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the serene waters, surrounded by lush greenery.
   
   
5. Picnicking at Daman-e-Koh: Pack a picnic and relax at this popular viewpoint, offering panoramic views of Islamabad.
   
   
6. Shopping at Centaurus Mall: Experience modern shopping, dining, and entertainment in one of Islamabad’s most iconic malls.
   
   
7. Strolling through Islamabad Zoo: Get up close with various animals and learn about wildlife conservation.
   
   
8. Sightseeing at Pakistan Monument: Marvel at this national landmark, symbolising the unity of the Pakistani people.
   
   
9. Dining in Saidpur Village: Savour traditional Pakistani cuisine in the historic and picturesque setting of Saidpur Village.
   
   
10. Bird Watching in Shakarparian Park: Immerse yourself in nature and observe a diverse array of bird species in this tranquil park.
    
    

Islamabad invites you not just to see its sights but also to engage deeply with its spirit. With memories of adventurous hikes, tranquil afternoons in gardens, and cultural discoveries, you’ll leave Islamabad carrying a piece of its heart, beckoning you to return and uncover even more.

Islamabad experiences various weather conditions throughout the year, characterised by a humid subtropical climate. 

• The Summers (May to July) are hot and humid, often rising above 35°C (95°F). 
• The monsoon season follows from late July to September, bringing heavy rainfall and cooler temperatures. 
• Winters (November to February) are mild and pleasant, with daytime temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F) and occasional cold snaps dropping below four °C (39°F). 
• Spring (March to April) and autumn (October to November) are delightful, with moderate temperatures and blooming flora.
  
  

To stay up-to-date with Islamabad’s weather conditions, follow this weather guide.

• During GMT: From PST to GMT (Greenwich Mean Time): When the UK is on Greenwich Mean Time, Pakistan is 5 hours ahead.
• During BST: From PST (Pakistan Standard Time) to BST (British Summer Time): Pakistan is 4 hours ahead of the UK during British Summer Time.

Please note that these differences can vary slightly with daylight saving time adjustments.

Currency:

The currency used in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Banknotes and coins are available in various denominations, and foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and authorised exchange dealers throughout the city.

Language:

Urdu is the official language of Pakistan. Most of the people in Islamabad speak urdu. However, residents understand and communicate in English to a certain extent.

Local Customs:

In Pakistan you should greet people by shaking hands before speaking. People offer to pay for your food, do not immediately say yes, they offer it for politeness. It is advisable to dress modestly when travelling to tourist attractions and religious sites.

Laws:

It is best to consult official government sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding local laws and travel advice for Pakistan. Here are two helpful links:

• Gov. uk – Pakistan travel advice: This page provides comprehensive travel advice for Pakistan, including safety and security, entry requirements, and local laws and customs.

• Pakistan Government Tourism Advice
  
  

When planning your trip to Islamabad or any part of Pakistan, keeping informed about the local weather, understanding the time difference, using the local currency, and being aware of the local laws and customs will enhance your travel experience and ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan since the 1960s, was constructed in accordance with a meticulously planned layout that was segmented into areas along a grid of tidy, tree-lined avenues. The Margalla Hills, which are the Himalayan foothills and home to endangered species of deer, birds, porcupines, and leopards, provide protection for the city. Numerous hiking trails terminate in Daman-e-Koh, an idyllic picnic area offering a breathtaking panorama of the entire city, encompassing the imposing modernist Faisal Mosque and even the Rawal Dam.

Book your trip to Islamabad with Woking Travel today!