Flights to Islamabad

Islamabad, peaceful parkside capital

Islamabad is Pakistan's capital city and the heart of business and government in the country. Despite its size and position as main financial and business district, Islamabad is also known for its lush greenery and calm, relaxed atmosphere.

Best time of year for Islamabad

The city enjoys high temperatures in the warmer months, so travellers who prefer a milder climate may enjoy visiting any time from November to April. Alternatively, May and June are the hottest months of summer, with the mercury reaching up to 38 degrees. July and August form the monsoon season, with lots of wet weather, meaning these months are best avoided.

Before you travel to Islamabad - what you need to know

Don't forget - if you're travelling on a British passport, you'll need to apply for a visa before making your trip to Pakistan. Your passport will need to have at least six months remaining when you apply. Some routine vaccinations, including Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid and Polio are needed. You'll need to see your GP at least 8 weeks before your visit. Islamabad is one of Pakistan's most expensive cities, but is of course much cheaper than London. A meal out should cost about meal around 200 Rs. If you're arranging a business lunch, expect to pay close to 500 Rs.

Local information - handy hints and tips

There is no public transport running from the airport, so you'll need to find a shared car or taxi. Taxis cost around 400 Rs, but it might be cheaper to flag one down just outside the airport. Once you reach the city centre, mini buses are a fast and cheap method of travel. You can stay in a guesthouse or cheap hotel for about 1000 Rs.

Airport Islamabad International ISB

Islamabad International Airport is officially called Islamabad - Benazir Bhutto International Airport and is currently the third largest commercial airport in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. The airport used to be called Islamabad International Airport and is served by a number of major airlines including Airblue, which also operates flights from Manchester to Islamabad. Other ailrines that provide flights from England to Islamabad are Pakistan International Airlines with flights from Leeds, Manchester and London. Islamabad airport is due to be replaced by a new airport, the Islamabad Gandhara International Airport, in the year 2013.

• URL: Official website
• Nearby cities: Islamabad (4 km), Rawalpindi (4 km), Chakwal (79 km), Jhelum (96 km)
• Directions by car: The airport is on the Islamabad Highway in Rawalpindi - Chaklala, about 20 km south of Islamabad.

Location

The airport is about 20 km south of the Pakistani capital in Chaklala, a suburb of the city of Rawalpindi and may be reached following signs on the Islamabad Highway. Please use the train, shuttle bus, rental cars, tuk-tuk for the onward journey.