With so many amazing places to visit in Pakistan, you won’t know where to start looking first! Fortunately, the capital city of Islamabad sits right in the middle of the country and makes it easy to travel to different cities, states, and regions throughout the country for your ultimate Pakistani travel experience. With so many options, it can be hard to narrow down where you want to go first! To help you out, here are the 18 best tourist places in Pakistan near Islamabad that you should visit next time you’re on vacation or planning a weekend getaway.
1) Islamabad
Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is a place that few tourists see on their tours of the country. Islamabad which is the capital of Pakistan is the 2nd most beautiful capital in the World. It’s also one of the best places to go for people who are interested in experiencing Pakistani culture firsthand and want to learn more about its history. The best tourist places in Pakistan near Islamabad include local landmarks like the Benazir Bhutto International Airport, museums like the National Museum of Pakistan, and historical buildings like Akbar’s Tomb. Other sights include Rashtrapati Bhawan, which is home to many government offices as well as Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s residence.
2) Rawalpindi
While Rawalpindi might not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of places to visit in Pakistan, this city offers a plethora of must-see attractions. Located just outside of Islamabad, this city is worth a day or two on your journey. Highlights include the Garden Tomb, Maha Kali Mandir, and Rawalpindi Railway Station Museum.
3) Taxila
Taxila is one of the best places in Pakistan near Islamabad. It has a huge significance when it comes to Pakistani culture and identity. Taxila holds great importance in the history of this nation, which led to its placement on the World Heritage Site list. The site can be easily reached by car or train and it features archaeological sites, monuments remain relics and carvings that have changed the history of the world. There are many things to do while exploring this incredible place.
4) Rawalakot
Rawalakot is a historical town in the Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. It is situated at the foothills of the Pir Panjal Range which divides Jammu and Kashmir from Azad Kashmir. Rawalakot has several old Buddhist stupas, many dating to the 5th or 6th century CE. Built atop hills, these stupas offer spectacular views of the Poonch plains on one side and the Drazinda plain on the other.
5) Murree
Murree is a city in Punjab Province and the center of Murree Tehsil, which was established by the British Raj during colonial rule. The town is situated about 122 kilometers from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. The region’s temperature ranges from 4 to 14 degrees Celsius with an average of 6 degrees Celsius.
6) Peshawar
Peshawar, the capital of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is one of the oldest cities in South Asia. According to a legend, it was founded by King Pandu 7000 years ago and according to historical accounts was initially known as Purushapura. The ancient city was once famous for its Hindu temples, Buddhist stupas, and Zoroastrian fire temples but they were all destroyed over time or depopulated by wars.
7) Naran Valley
Naran valley is one of the best places to visit because it’s a stunning green land with beautiful mountains and lots of activities to do there. Another great thing about this place is that you can have a glimpse of traditional life. You’ll find it just 55 km away from Islamabad. Make sure to visit Naran if you’re looking for something new, different, and exotic!
8) Mansehra
Mansehra is a picturesque town with a rich history that dates back to the era of the Mughal Empire. Best known for its beautiful landscape, Mansehra offers a perfect escape for those who are on their honeymoon. Mansehra is one of the best places in Pakistan near Islamabad and it has some really good food as well. You’ll find plenty of attractions nearby too – don’t forget to take a stroll along the bustling bazaar or spend an afternoon at Liberty Park Mall.
9) Ayubia
This is one of the best tourist places in Pakistan near Islamabad for tours and tourists love visiting this place. Ayubia Lake is situated at a distance of two kilometers from Naran. This area’s natural beauty and landscape will make anyone fall in love with it. One can spend all day sitting by the lakeside, watching the greenery while listening to the sound of water flowing out of streams. The mild climate, serene surroundings, and rustic lifestyle are sure to please you and make your trip worth remembering.
10) Khanpur Dam
Khanpur Dam is one of the best tourist places to visit in Pakistan near Islamabad. The dam provides drinking water and irrigates the land. There is a boat ride and an excellent view of the surroundings, with various birds to see as well. The best time to go there is during autumn when the leaves are changing colors.
11) Khewra Salt Mines
In Khewra Salt Mines, tourists can take a two-hour guided tour through the tunnels and caverns where salt has been mined for over 350 years. With so many tunnels and caverns to explore, visitors can also feel like they’ve gone on an adventure deep underground.
Khewra Salt Mines is one of the best places to visit in Pakistan if you’re looking for something natural and exotic.
12) Kallar Kahar
Kallar Kahar is a small town and Union Council of Abbottabad District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is named after the Kallar Tribe who was living in this area before Islam. It is located at the foot of Margalla Hills National Park which covers an area of over 6500 acres at the northern end of Islamabad.
13) Tarbela Dam
The Tarbela Dam also called the Tanda Dam and locally known as Toba or Thoba, is one of the largest earth-filled dams in the world. The dam creates the Tarbela Lake, with a length of 25 kilometers and a width of 1 kilometer. The Tanda Dam can store up to 250 million cubic meters of water and has a total capacity to generate electricity.
14) Lohi Bher Wild Life Park
Situated on the outskirts of Islamabad, this national park is a favorite amongst local tourists. Not only do you get to see animals up close, but you also get to enjoy scenic views and nature trails. It’s important to note that the best places in Pakistan for a honeymoon are mainly found in its hill stations such as Murree, Nathia Gali, and Swat Valley. And while visiting Lahore, don’t forget to try some authentic Pakistani cuisine or grab shawarma from one of the many food stalls near Anarkali Bazaar.
15) Rohtas Fort
Located near the Rawalpindi District, the fortress of Rohtas stands as a witness to India’s rich heritage. The fort reflects a fusion of Hindu and Muslim architecture, exemplifying India’s unique culture. Famed for its famed history as well as its architectural features, Rohtas is considered one of the best-preserved forts in the entire country.
16) Mughal Gardens
Mughal Gardens was developed by the Mughal Emperors who ruled the subcontinent from 1526 to 1857 AD. The tomb of Jahangir, a Mughal emperor is also here, as well as Bagh-e Babur – believed to be his first residence in Lahore. Since then the palace has been occupied by various regimes, most notably that of Maharaja Ranjit Singh and then the British Raj.
17) Chattar Park
Chattar Park is one of the best places to visit because it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, while still staying close enough to get back and forth. It offers everything from swimming pools, to BBQ pits, and even horseback riding! It’s also a favorite spot for tourists who are looking for an opportunity to see some of Pakistan’s beautiful landscapes.
18) Gurdwara Panja Sahib
Gurdwara Panja Sahib is one of the most frequented tourist sites near Islamabad, Pakistan. It is well-known for being a holy site where Guru Nanak gave his last sermons and died in 1539. Visitors from all over the world come to pay homage to him and believe that they will receive blessings by visiting. Those who are interested in religious tourism are usually drawn to this place because it provides an excellent way to understand the culture and faith of people who practice Sikhism.
