Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan and also its tenth largest city. The city has seen tremendous growth (both in population and infra-structure) over the last decade. The population of Islamabad is now close to 2 million, which is a far cry from the 100,000 inhabitant the populated the city on its inception.
Getting to Islamabad
If you are an international traveller you will most likely arrive in Islamabad via air travel. The city is connected to major destination around the world via the Benazir Bhutto International Airport (formerly Islamabad International Airport).
For those coming from the South, Islamabad is connected to Lahore via the M-2 Motorway, while visitors from the North can reach Islamabad via M-1 Motorway.
Climate
Islamabad has a variant of humid sub-tropical climate. The summers are hot and humid, the winters are dry and cold. The hottest months are from May to July when the temperature easily exceeds 40C (101F). The monsoon season lasts from July to September which brings heavy rainfall and severe thunderstorms especially in the evening. Winters (between October and March) are generally cold and dry with an odd shower or two. In winters the days are usually sunny. However night-time temperatures can drop below freezing points. Most road and air networks also face disruption during winters due to heavy fog.
What is there to see?
You will want to spend the majority of your time in your elective activities. However do set aside time to visit the city and explore its people and culture. Islamabad has become a truly cosmopolitan city. You will see examples of Islamic architecture blending with architecture of modern design. The Shah Faisal Mosque, Pakistan monument are examples of traditional Islamic architecture, while the under construction Centaurus represents the best of modern construction. The points of interest you might like to visit include:
– Fatima Jinnah Park
– Shakarparian, Lok Virsa & Folk Art Museum
– Potohari Arts & Craft Village
– Daman-e-Koh & Pir Sohawa
– Islamabad Zoo
– Saidpur Historic Village & Margalla Hiking Trails
– Pakistan Museum
– Islamabad Food Street
Eating Out
Most international fast-food chains are represented in Islamabad. These include Hardees, Pizza Hut, McDonalds’, KFC, Subway. If you have friends in Islamabad they should already know of these places. However almost all transport services (taxis, public transport) are also aware of their locations.
For a truly local experience do try out the Islamabad food street as well restaurants that cater to local cuisines. Des-Pardes (Saidpur village), Jahangir (Blue area) are some places you can visit.
Getting to Shifa
All taxi services know the location of the College. Just ask your driver to take you to Shifa International Hospital and you’ll arrive at the College. The working hours of the College are between 8 and 4 pm Monday to Saturday. You should plan your visit so that you arrive at the college in early hours of the morning (preferably between 8 and 10 am).