Islamabad is the capital of Pakistan, and is located in the Potohar Plateau in the northwest of the country. It is located within the Islamabad Capital Territory and has historically been a part of the crossroads of Punjab and the North-West Frontier Province.
It is a modern and well-organised city divided into different sectors and zones. These include the diplomatic enclave; the commercial district, the educational sector and the industrial area and each have their own shopping area and park.
The city’s architecture is a mix modern and tradition with the Saudi-Pak Tower being a good example of this combination in one building. The city is also home to the Faisal Mosque, which is well known for its architecture and immense size.
Quaid-i-Azam University is also located in the capital city along with numerous government buildings and foreign embassies such as the National Assembly building, the Supreme Court building, the President's official residence (Aiwan-e-Sadr) and the Prime Minister's secretariat.
It is a relatively young city and very green, and the pleasant climate has enabled the introduction of many exotic plants. The views from the sculpted gardens of Islamabad's Shakar Parian Hills, National Monument, the fascinating Heritage Museum, and the huge marble Shah Faisal Mosque are major highlights to see.
There is also much wildlife in the north in the Margalla hills, which have been turned into a national park. The hills are home to various species of wild life including a variety of exotic birds and carnivores such as the rare and presently endangered Margalla leopards.
To the west of Islamabad is the town of Taxila, dating from 500 BC with heavy Buddhist influences. Sculptures here show a strong Greek influence, a result of Alexander the Great's journey through the region.
