Islamabad is the picturesque capital of Pakistan. Nestled right next to the lush Margalla hills, the city is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway with family. It is a perfect blend of natural beauty, hiking trails, cultural heritage sites, and modern amenities, making it an appropriate destination for a short break. Highly accessible by road and by air from the rest of the country, Islamabad is already a popular tourist destination with something to offer all members of a family.
In this article we are going to share the best 5 cars for family road trips to the northern areas of Pakistan.
Top Family-Friendly Attractions in Islamabad
Islamabad has multiple attractions which can be enjoyed regardless of age. Here are the top destinations to include in your weekend trip:
1. Daman-e-Koh
One of the oldest restaurants in Islamabad, Daman-e-Koh is located in Margalla Hills National Park, offering stunning views of the city. It is a perfect spot for family picnics featuring walking trails, trekking spots, and a beautiful surrounding area to sit back and relax.
2. Faisal Mosque
The Faisal Mosque is a national icon along with being one of the largest mosques in the world. Glimmering like a white jewel against the backdrop of emerald-colored hills, the place is a must-visit for families. The mosque's stunning architecture, combined with its tranquil surroundings makes it a must-visit at least once. Families can explore the expansive grounds, and take pictures, and children can learn about the cultural and religious significance of the magnificent structure.
3. Pakistan Monument & Museum
A visit to the Pakistan Monument and Museum is both educational and inspiring. The monument symbolizes the four provinces of Pakistan and is a great venue for photography. The adjacent museum showcases the country's history through interactive displays, exhibits, and some interesting artifacts, making it an informative experience for children and adults alike.
4. Rawal Lake Park
A visit to Rawal Lake Park is an ideal excursion for families looking for outdoor activities. The attractions in the park include boating, fishing, and picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths offering the perfect combination of activities and scenic locations for a picnic.
5. Saidpur Village
Saidpur Village is a charming historic village that has been preserved to showcase the cultural heritage of the region. It is by the side of Margalla hills, offering a narrow street, handicraft shops, and a delightful section of eateries.
6. F-9 Park (Fatima Jinnah Park)
F-9 Park, also known as Fatima Jinnah Park, is one of the largest parks in Islamabad. The park features vast gardens, playgrounds, extensive walking tracks, and even a small zoo. It's a great place to relax, walk around, have a picnic, or engage in a match of football and badminton with family members.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Getting to Islamabad:
If you're traveling from Lahore, you can reach Islamabad by road in approximately 4-5 hours via the M2 motorway. GariConnect offers multiple rental options tailored to your family’s needs. Find out more about booking your perfect rental by browsing here: https://gariconnect.com/
For families coming from Karachi, a flight to Islamabad International Airport is the most convenient option, with a flight time of about 2.75 hours.
Accommodation:
Islamabad offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options. High-end hotels like Serena and the Marriott are known for their excellent service and family-friendly amenities, including swimming pools and kids' play areas. Mid-range and contemporary options like Roomy and Ramada are also popular choices for families. And if hotels are not within your range, there are multiple budget-friendly options around the city including guesthouses in F-7 and F-8 sectors.
Transportation:
Getting around Islamabad is easy, with several options available for families. Renting a car is a convenient choice, especially if you're planning to visit multiple attractions. GariConnect offers multiple attractive packages for intracity travel. Book your trip now at https://gariconnect.com/
Dining Options:
Islamabad has multiple family-friendly dining options. Here are a few suggestions:
Conclusion
For a family weekend getaway, Islamabad is perfect. It has the perfect spot to entice every age group in the family. And what better weather than this to plan a trip? Pack your bags, and get ready to create memories of a lifetime with GariConnect along with your family in this beautiful capital city of Pakistan.