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How to Get to Islamabad

How to Get to Islamabad

Islamabad Islamabad, Pakistan Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airport & Airlines

Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is Pakistan's largest airport, approximately 20 kilometers southwest of the city center.

Airlines

  • International: Emirates, Qatar Airways, The National flag carrier airline of turkey, British Airways.
  • Domestic: Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), AirBlue, Serene Air.
  • Direct flights from West Asian hubs, Europe, and some Asian cities.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

ISB offers various facilities for travelers, and several options for reaching the city.

Airport Services

  • Duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange.
  • Free Wi-Fi, prayer areas, passenger lounges.
  • Accessible with ramps, elevators, and restrooms.

Taxi Services

Pre-paid taxis and metered taxis are at the airport. Journey time to the downtown area is 30-45 minutes.

Ride-hailing Apps

Careem and Indrive services are at the airport, offering transparent pricing.

Hotel Shuttles & Bus

Upscale hotels have pick-up services. Metro Bus connects to Rawalpindi and parts of Islamabad.

Flight Availability & Prices

High Season October-November, March-April

  • Flight prices tend to be higher due to increased demand.
  • Increased demand around Eid holidays.
  • Increased demand during major summer vacation periods.
  • Booking flights in advance is a good idea. (Dollar Flight Club, Skyscanner)

Low Season May-August, January

  • Generally lower flight prices due to reduced tourist numbers.
  • Summer heat can deter some travelers.
  • January is the coldest month.
  • More flexibility on prices and availability.

Direct Flight Options

Europe

London (LHR) with Ba, Istanbul (IST) with Turkish Airlines.

Middle East

Dubai (DXB) with Emirates/FlyDubai, Doha (DOH) with Qatar Airways, Abu Dhabi (AUH) with Etihad.

Asia

Some direct flights from major Asian cities; check specific routes for Air China.

Land Transportation

Train Connections

Pakistan Railways connects Islamabad to major cities nationwide. Stations are Margalla (Islamabad) and Rawalpindi.

Rail Travel Details

  • Connects to Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta.
  • Various classes: economy, AC Standard, AC Business, AC Parlor.
  • Reservations are a good idea for longer journeys.

Long-Distance Buses

Private bus companies provide inter-city services from Islamabad and Rawalpindi to other significant cities.

Bus Services Overview

  • Popular operators: Daewoo Express, Faisal Movers, Niazi Express.
  • Major terminals in Rawalpindi and Islamabad outskirts.
  • Air-conditioned coaches, executive classes, entertainment, refreshments.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving can be challenging due to aggressive styles and varying road conditions. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is needed.

Driving Considerations

  • IDP and national driving license are needed.
  • Motorways are excellent; national highways range in condition.
  • Not for first-time visitors without experience in challenging conditions. (DiscoverCars.com)

Road Safety & Border Crossings

Stay aware of road quality and driving practices. Border crossing details are specific.

Safety Notes

  • Reckless driving and lack of lane discipline are concerns.
  • Avoid night driving on unlit rural roads.
  • Wagah Border (near Lahore) with India. No easy day trips from Islamabad to other countries.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

  • Islamabad is an inland city.
  • No international ferry services or cruise ports.
  • No public river transportation for tourist access.
  • Immigration procedures at seaports are not relevant here.
  • No connections to land transportation from non-existent sea/river arrivals.
  • This section is not applicable to Islamabad travel.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure to be sure a smooth exit from Islamabad.

Timing & Steps

  • International flights: Arrive 3 hours before departure.
  • Domestic flights: Arrive 2 hours before departure.
  • Complete check-in, security, and immigration (international).

Airport Facilities

Islamabad International Airport presents various amenities for departing travelers.

Available Services

  • Lounges, duty-free shopping.
  • Restaurants, cafes, currency exchange.
  • Prayer areas and free Wi-Fi.

Exit Fees

No separate exit fees or taxes directly charged; typically included in air ticket price.

Documentation

Keep passport, boarding pass, and any travel documents readily accessible.

Rail/Bus Stations

Provide basic waiting areas, food stalls, and restrooms; less extensive than airport facilities.

International Flights Snapshot

Peak Travel Seasons

Demand for flights peaks during specific times, leading to higher prices.

High Demand Periods

  • October-November (Autumn season).
  • March-April (Spring season).
  • Around Eid holidays.

Off-Peak Travel

Lower flight prices and fewer visitor numbers are characteristic of off-peak travel times.

Lower Demand Periods

  • May-August (Summer heat and monsoon).
  • January (Coldest winter month).
  • More availability and potential deals.

Domestic Flight Operators

Pakistan International Airlines PIA

National flag carrier, extensive domestic network.

AirBlue

Private airline with competitive fares.

Serene Air

Another private airline, good service.

Flight Booking Insight

For optimal prices, book international flights several months in advance, especially for peak seasons.
How to Get to Islamabad. Flights, Transportation, Airlines