Islamabad

Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan and sits on the Potwar Plateau, surrounded by the Margalla Hills at an elevation of 490 meters (1,600 feet). The city follows a grid plan with numbered sectors that separate different functions such as housing, commerce and administration.

Greek architect Constantinos Apostolou Doxiadis drew up the master plan for the new capital in 1960, intended to replace Karachi. Islamabad officially took over the role as seat of government of Pakistan in 1967 and was built up systematically.

The Lok Virsa Museum collects traditional crafts and textiles from all regions of the country, showing how different cultural expressions are within Pakistan. Visitors can discover everyday objects, musical instruments and clothing that reflect life in various provinces.

Orientation is easy thanks to the clearly separated zones, divided into eight areas each with their own focus ranging from administration and diplomacy to commerce and housing. A well organized road network connects all sectors together and makes movement within the planned structure straightforward.

The Faisal Mosque does without traditional domes and instead combines contemporary design with Islamic architecture through its tent-like shape. The prayer hall offers space for 100,000 worshippers simultaneously and is therefore among the largest mosques worldwide.

Location: Islamabad Capital Territory

Inception: 1960

Elevation above the sea: 490 m

Shares border with: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Website: http://islamabad.gov.pk

GPS coordinates: 33.69889,73.03694

Latest update: December 12, 2025 19:03