Islamabad Walks: Saidpur, Parks and Markets
Advisory as of 31 October 2026. Washington rates Pakistan Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) in its 16 June 2026 update and tells travellers to avoid or reconsider trips to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. London’s Foreign Office, in advice revised on 27 October 2026, leaves Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree and Taxila off its warning lists, yet it warns against all or all but essential travel to a long list of areas elsewhere, among them parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The capital has had major attacks, including the November 2025 court bombing and the 6 February 2026 blast at a Shia mosque in Tarlai, on the city’s edge. Check the US State Department page and the Foreign Office page before booking anything. Plan for police checkpoints, road closures during protests and phone-network cuts, keep away from rallies, and keep your original passport on you.
What walking looks like here
No free walking tour company operates in Islamabad. Walking happens on hill trails, in one restored village and in the market streets, on your own or with a local guide.
The Margalla trails
Of the marked trails in Margalla Hills National Park, two are useful for visitors. Trail 3 begins on Margalla Road opposite Sector F-6, climbs steeply and takes about 1.5 hours going up. Trail 5 begins near F-5 on the same road and is easier. Details are on the CDA adventure page .
The district administration closed Trails 2 to 5 and the Saidpur trail for rain in April 2026, and similar closures have repeated, so look for a notice on the day. Leopards are resident. Trail 3 was closed after sightings in 2022, and a warning was issued for Trail 5 in 2023. Walk in daylight, with others, away from dawn and dusk, and descend before sunset. Macaques and wild boar are common. The park has no waterfalls.
Saidpur Village alleys
CDA restored Saidpur at the foot of the hills. Its alleys take about an hour to walk. The temple is empty, and part of its apron holds a restaurant terrace. Des Pardes and Dera Pakhtoon are the names given in guides for meals, so check they are open.
Fatima Jinnah Park
The F-9 park has loops for an easy morning walk, along with playgrounds.
Kohsar Market and F-6
Kohsar Market sits in F-6/3. Cafes and street stalls line the market, and the area is good for a short stroll before or after a hill walk.
Walking tips
Carry water, wear sturdy shoes and keep your original passport with you. Expect checkpoints. Do not photograph government buildings, checkpoints or embassies, as it is illegal. Stay away from crowds and demonstrations.
Read more: Sightseeing in Islamabad and Adventure sports .
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