Places to Visit in Islamabad: 09 Family Places to Visit in Islamabad

Looking for the Family Places to Visit in Islamabad during Eid al-Adha?

No issue, in this blog, we compile the 9 Top Spots to visit in Islamabad during the Eid holidays. Islamabad is a peaceful and green capital city located at the base of the Margalla Hills. It’s known for its wide roads, planned layout, and mix of natural and urban attractions.

Quick Facts

• Location: Capital Territory of Pakistan
• Famous For: Green landscapes, organized layout, family parks, spiritual spots
• Best for Eid: Cultural sites, prayer gatherings, peaceful outdoor settings
• Activities: Picnics, sightseeing, spiritual visits, shopping, sunset dinners
• Ease of Travel: Smooth roads, ride-hailing apps, family-friendly zones

Why Spend Eid in Islamabad

Eid ul Adha wave carries joy, spirituality, and togetherness throughout Pakistan. And if you’re in Islamabad for these holidays, you’re in for a treat. The capital is renowned for its serene ambience, large stretches of greenery, and structured layout, and is an ideal location for a family vacation.

From cold hillsides to historical places, the mini-New York has innumerable thrilling sites that one must visit with one’s family. Local destination area guides you to the best places you can visit with family this Eid. Here are some of the top family places to visit in Islamabad.

09 Top Family Places to Visit in Islamabad During Eid al-Adha

1. Daman-e-Koh – The City’s Balcony

• Location: Margalla Hills National Park
• What to Expect: Sweeping views of the city, monkey sightings, sunset spots
• Perfect For: Evening visits with kids and elders

Daman-e-Koh is a classic favorite among locals. Situated halfway up the Margalla Hills, it offers a panoramic view of the city below. It’s especially popular during Eid evenings when the weather cools down, and families gather to watch the sunset over Islamabad.

Children love spotting monkeys and running along the railings. With snack stalls, parking spaces, and telescopes installed along the viewpoint, it’s an easy and scenic stop for all age groups.

Why It’s Great on Eid:

• Cool breeze and mountain air
• Beautiful sunset views
• Free entry and relaxing atmosphere
• Nearby parking and trails

2. Faisal Mosque – A Peaceful Start to the Day

• Location: At the foot of Margalla Hills
• What to Expect: Eid prayers, Islamic architecture, peaceful gardens
• Perfect For: Spiritual start to Eid with family

Start your Eid day the traditional way at one of Pakistan’s most iconic landmarks — Faisal Mosque. Designed by Turkish architect Vedat Dalokay, this stunning piece of architecture accommodates thousands for Eid prayers.

Surrounded by gardens and framed by mountains, it’s a beautiful place for reflection. After prayers, families often stroll around the courtyard or relax in the green lawns surrounding the mosque.

Why It’s Worth Visiting:

• Iconic and peaceful for Eid prayers
• Great spot for family photos
• Open courtyards and mountain backdrop
• Free and well-maintained

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3. Lake View Park – Picnic by the Water

• Location: Near Rawal Lake
• What to Expect: Paddle boating, kids’ rides, aviary, food stalls
• Perfect For: Daytime family picnics and kids’ fun

Lake View Park is one of Islamabad’s most popular outdoor attractions, especially during Eid holidays. With Rawal Lake on one side and lush green picnic lawns on the other, it combines natural beauty with fun-filled family activities.

Kids can enjoy paddle boating, camel rides, and swings, while adults can relax under shady trees with a picnic basket. There’s even an aviary and a mini-train that circles the park.

Why It’s a Family Favorite:

• Huge picnic lawns
• Safe boating options
• Horse rides and carnival games
• Affordable entry

4. Shakarparian Hills & Pakistan Monument

• Location: Garden Avenue, near Zero Point
• What to Expect: Light walks, museum tours, scenic gardens
• Perfect For: Educating kids and relaxing

Shakarparian combines culture and nature beautifully. During Eid, it’s an excellent spot for families who enjoy light hiking and educational sightseeing.

The hilltop park includes a large garden area, walking paths, and the famous Pakistan Monument — shaped like a blooming flower to represent the four provinces. You’ll also find a museum here that tells the story of Pakistan’s history.

Why Visit on Eid:

• Views of twin cities
• The Pakistan Monument Museum
• Shaded walkways and seating areas
• Nearby Lok Virsa museum

5. Lok Virsa – Explore Pakistan’s Cultural Soul

• Location: Adjacent to Pakistan Monument
• What to Expect: Cultural exhibits, regional art, handicrafts
• Perfect For: Afternoon indoor visit

Lok Virsa is an underrated gem, especially for Eid afternoons. It celebrates Pakistan’s folk culture, with galleries showcasing traditional homes, musical instruments, dresses, and crafts.

It’s cool and shaded indoors, perfect for hot days, and it lets children explore the country’s diversity through dioramas and cultural displays.

Why Families Love It:

• Indoor galleries with traditional exhibits
• Cool air-conditioned halls
• Kid-friendly educational value
• Occasional folk performances

6. Saidpur Village – History Meets Family Dining

• Location: Margalla Hills, near Faisal Mosque
• What to Expect: Rustic village vibe, art shops, local eateries
• Perfect For: Cultural dinner outing

Saidpur Village is a restored heritage village that blends history, food, and family time. Originally a Hindu settlement, it now features cobbled streets, historic temples, and artisan cafes.

Families love dining outdoors during Eid evenings, with the cool air from the hills and traditional food served in lantern-lit courtyards.

Why It’s Worth the Visit:

• Blend of history and modern hospitality
• Great traditional food options
• Relaxing strolls in scenic surroundings
• Open-air seating

7. Fatima Jinnah Park (F-9 Park)

• Location: Sector F-9
• What to Expect: Giant green zone, walking tracks, playgrounds
• Perfect For: Outdoor family fun and sports

Covering over 700 acres, this is Islamabad’s largest green space. It’s ideal for laid-back Eid afternoons — you can fly kites, play cricket, or simply relax under a tree.

Unlike other commercialized parks, F-9 remains quiet and peaceful. It also includes jogging tracks, kids’ play zones, and small snack corners.

What Makes It Special:

• Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
• Perfect for cricket, kites, or reading
• Free public access
• Safe and spacious

8. Bari Imam Shrine – A Spiritual Retreat

• Location: Near Nurpur Shahan, behind Japanese Park
• What to Expect: Quiet prayers, Sufi culture, respectful ambiance
• Perfect For: Spiritual reflection after Eid

Bari Imam’s shrine is one of the city’s most revered spiritual spots. This 17th-century Sufi saint is known for preaching peace and humility, and his shrine reflects that same calm energy.

Eid afternoons are quiet here. It’s a place for reflection and respectful family visits, away from crowds and noise.

Reasons to Go:

• Experience Sufi traditions
• Serene green surroundings
• Easy to reach from main city
• Great for a calm break from the crowd

9. Centaurus Mall – All-in-One Family Stop

• Location: Jinnah Avenue, Blue Area
• What to Expect: Shopping, food court, cinema, play zones
• Perfect For: Indoor fun, quick meals, last-minute Eid shopping

Sometimes, all you need is a full-service place with everything under one roof. Centaurus Mall delivers — with shopping, dining, an arcade (Fun City), and a cinema.

During Eid, the mall is lively but organized. Families come for lunch, last-minute Eid shopping, or just to enjoy the indoor rides and food court.

Why Visit During Eid:

• One-stop for food, shopping, and fun
• Arcade and movie options for kids
• Branded clothing for Eid gifts
• Air-conditioned escape from summer heat

Travel Tips

• Start early on Eid day to avoid crowds at popular spots
• Dress modestly especially when visiting mosques or shrines
• Carry cash for small vendors and roadside stalls
• Stay hydrated and bring hats or sunglasses for day outings
• Use ride-hailing apps like Careem or InDrive to avoid parking hassle
• Keep snacks and extra clothes when traveling with kids

Best Time to Visit Each Spot During Eid

Destination	Best Time to Visit	Ideal For
Faisal Mosque	Early Morning	Eid prayers & photos
Daman-e-Koh	Late Afternoon	Sunset & cool breeze
Centaurus Mall	Afternoon to Evening	Indoor fun and dining
Lake View Park	Morning to Midday	Picnics and boat rides

Final Thoughts

Eid ul Adha is a time of joy, prayer, and community. Islamabad makes that celebration even more special with its calm energy, scenic views, and family-first spaces.

If you’re looking for family places to visit in Islamabad, this city offers a thoughtful mix of culture, nature, and comfort for all ages. Whether exploring local heritage, enjoying a quiet meal, or breathing in fresh mountain air, the capital has plenty to offer this Eid.

So gather your family, plan a full day, and enjoy everything Islamabad has waiting for you. It’s a celebration of both Eid and the beauty of the city.