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Photo: Shikari7, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
It used to be a sleepy little village lying in the foothills of the Margallas with a mystic past and breathtaking natural beauty. It has now been remodelled. The village now become popular with the citizens of Islamabad who want an occasional break from the frenzy of urban life. Surrounded with lush, tranquil wilderness, the centuries old village is furnished with rustic fittings and offers amenities like a wide range of local food outlets and restaurants. Exhibitions are held regularly to show case the traditional arts, crafts and the rich cultural heritage of Pakistan.
Saidpur is a village and union council (UC-1) located in a ravine in Pakistan in the Margalla Hills, near the Daman-e-Koh overlook, in the Islamabad Capital Territory. It is a Mughal Era village that has a wide spectrum of religious and cultural heritage. It serves as a tourist spot for locals as well as foreigners.
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A lookout point in the hills above E-6 with great views of the city on a clear day/night. Its beauty is enhanced by the greenery and flowers at different sites. High quality restaurants, good food, live music, hiking trails and lush green hillsides make it a favourite place for local and foreign tourist alike.
At the foot of Daman-e-Koh view point. It has more than 300 animals including 200 birds of different kinds, and tigers, lions and other animals.
Opened in 2007, the gallery is a modern, light filled, air conditioned edifice that would not be out of place in many European cities. A diverting collection of almost 450 art pieces, purchased or gifted by the artists for National Art Gallery. Covers a surprising diversity of contemporary and classical paintings, sculpture and other installations. The Gallery is also home to an indoor and outdoor theatre (word-of-mouth and local press for schedules). Open 7 days a week - from 11:00-13:00 (free) and 14:00-19:00 (Rs. 500) - hence it is empty in the afternoons and you may find yourself trailed by gallery staff turning the lights on and off for you! In F5/1, on the corner of Jinnah & Constitution avenues, opposite the Parliament building.
Near Shakarparian, represents Pakistan's four provinces and three territories. From air the monument looks like a star (centre) and a crescent moon (formed by walls forming the petals), these represent the star and crescent on Pakistan's flag. Also a small museum and a nice view of the city.
Also known as the F-9 park, it is considered one of the largest in South Asia. F9 park is ideal for jogging around, and also has a cricket ground and some tennis court (minus nets). The park also has a large children's playground, some interesting sculptures, and an indoor facility with a nice bowling alley.
This is more a place for school trips than a tourist destination - however there is an impressive blue whale skeleton outside.