The Capital of Tranquility

Why does Islamabad feel different from every other city in Pakistan?
Because it is the capital of tranquility — a place where urban life slows down to breathe with the hills, and nature feels like a constant companion. Nestled at the base of the Margalla Hills, Islamabad is a rare blend of modernity and calm, where wide boulevards, tree-lined streets, and green open spaces create a soothing rhythm for both residents and travelers. Unlike Karachi or Lahore, there’s no rush here. The city moves at a pace that lets you pause, exhale, and notice the beauty in every corner.

The city is designed like a living garden. Mornings begin with golden light spilling over the Margallas, and evenings bring cool breezes that carry the scent of pine from the hills. Its neighborhoods — called sectors — are spread across a grid that gives Islamabad a sense of openness. Parks and green belts run throughout, from the vast Fatima Jinnah Park to the peaceful trails that wind into the hills. Rawal Lake mirrors the sky in the southeast, offering a quiet escape for a picnic or boat ride, while Daman-e-Koh and Saidpur Village invite travelers to watch the sunset with the city glittering below.

For those heading toward the northern mountains, Islamabad is more than just a stop — it is the perfect starting point. After a long flight or drive, this city offers a

gentle landing. It has comfortable hotels, vibrant yet calm cafés, and scenic spots that give you a taste of nature without leaving the city. RaahTravels often recommends spending a night here before starting the adventure toward Gilgit, Chitral, or Skardu, because Islamabad lets your journey take a deep, grounding breath before the mountains unfold.

While it is calm, the city is not without life. F-6 and F-7 buzz with small bakeries, craft shops, and restaurants tucked between shady streets. The Lok Virsa Museum and Pakistan Monument tell the story of the country’s heritage, while the hiking trails — especially Trail 3 and Trail 5 — pull you straight into nature within minutes. Evenings often end with the silhouette of the Faisal Mosque glowing under the hills, a sight that feels both grand and peaceful.

As the founder of RaahTravels often says, “Islamabad is where your northern journey pauses to inhale — and your soul exhales.” It may not carry the raw adventure of the mountains, but its serene charm prepares you for them.

Spending even a day or two here can change how you start your travels. Walk its trails, sip chai in a hillside café, watch the sky reflect in Rawal Lake — and let the city remind you that tranquility can exist in the heart of a capital.

WHAT’S THE WEATHER LIKE?

When to visit Skardu Valley

Experience the vibrant colors of spring at the Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Marvel at millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths in bloom, creating a stunning tapestry of colors and fragrances.