In This Post:
History and Tourist Sites
Real Estate Market
Cost of Living
Safety and Security
Food, Shopping, and Leisure Activities
Rawalpindi and Islamabad are more than just the inseparable twins of Pakistan – one is the capital and home to highly esteemed bureaucrats, diplomats, and famous personalities of Pakistan, while the other hosts the headquarter of the Armed Forces of the country. The debate over which is the better twin – Rawalpindi vs. Islamabad – has existed for a very long time. Given the fact that both cities are incredibly diverse in terms of population and development, most people side with Islamabad for its lush green spaces, constitutional importance, and the level of safety and security in the city. Meanwhile, Rawalpindi is home to the famous Raja Bazaar, ancient tourist sites, and the pedestrian food street in Saddar.
So, is there really a clear winner in the comparison between Rawalpindi and Islamabad?
Let’s find out!
Rawalpindi vs. Islamabad – Which City is Better and Why?
Most people say that they do not see much of a difference between Rawalpindi and Islamabad since both cities are extremely similar. However, we believe that both cities boast unique characteristics that cannot be seen with a naked eye.
To give you a clearer picture of what we mean, we have rounded up some factors that are extremely crucial for both visitors and residents. You can take them into consideration and utilise them to choose a side in the debate:
- History and Tourist Sites
- Real Estate Market
- Cost of Living
- Safety and Security
- Food, Shopping, and Leisure Activities
History and Tourist Sites
Rawalpindi or Islamabad – which city attracts more visitors? This is one of the most contentious issues when it is about finding a clear winner.
Rawalpindi is truly a gem when it is about finding ancient architecture, prehistoric sites, and modern development all existing in one place. In comparison, Islamabad is a new settlement that received the title of federal capital in 1960. And, the city boasts a great fusion of contemporary architecture that has stood tall for more than five decades.
Now, let’s elaborate on the most historic structures in each city since judging the quality of the attraction is trickier than you think.
Both cities are famous for their vibrant and robust recreational spots that are enough to engage tourists for the entire duration of their trip.
Islamabad is home to the famous Shah Faisal Mosque that reserves a special spot, not just in Pakistan but in the Muslim world at large. Besides its sacredness and religious significance, the mosque represents the friendly ties between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. Situated in proximity to F-5, Islamabad, the unique structure of the mosque – which can accommodate over 100,000 worshippers – mimics a desert tent held together by four pencil-like minarets.
On the other hand, the skyline of Rawalpindi includes a series of ancient sites that comprise the remains of four prehistoric civilisations, including Buddhists monasteries and mosques coupled with madrassas (religious schools).
Taking into consideration the historical and architectural importance, both these cities are extraordinarily significant for Pakistan’s tourism industry and add value to the country’s history.
Real Estate Market
As per the user’s data on Zameen.com, the real estate market of the twin cities has witnessed a considerable hike. Property trends indicate growth, and the existing infrastructure is being enhanced with several interchanges, elevated road networks, and ultra-modern housing schemes.
Commenting on real estate market of twin cities, CEO of Zameen.com Zeeshan Ali Khan said, “On the whole, Islamabad’s real estate market has remained dominated by two segments: the downtown, which is now more or less synonymous with the commercial hub of Blue Area, and then we have the real estate behemoths expanding over the periphery of the city, such as Bahria Town, Gulberg Islamabad, and DHA Islamabad-Rawalpindi,”
For further clarity among the two segments, you can visit our recently published blogs and get a comparison between the two:
- Market report of the twin cities for the first half of 2019
- Market report of the twin cities for 2019
Since housing projects and infrastructure are fairly shared by both cities, we really can’t name a winner in this leg of the race.
On a side note, you can also visit Zameen Area Guides if you want to find out more about real estate in Rawalpindi, and the factors affecting it. And if you are looking for popular areas in the city for buying properties, consider adding Bahria Business District, Rawat, or Metro Homes in your list.
Cost of Living
The cost of living in both cities differs due to a number of reasons. Given the fact that Islamabad is the federal capital, it is famous for featuring a lavish lifestyle that comes at a high cost of living. Rawalpindi is relatively economical, and it is cherished by anyone who is looking to make the most of a limited budget.
Islamabad is populated with posh areas, fine-dining restaurants, and residents usually prefer shopping from contemporary marts and malls, hence it is deemed as the most expensive city of Pakistan. Meanwhile, Rawalpindi is home to several economical markets and eateries where you can find alternatives and products at extremely reasonable rates.
After reading this section, your first instinct would naturally be leaning towards Pindi. But, before you start taking any sides in the Rawalpindi vs. Islamabad debate, you should know that it usually depends on personal income, preferences, and the lifestyle you adopt.
Safety and Security
As per the latest stats released by the World Crime Index, Islamabad is safer than the world’s major cities such as Amsterdam, Sydney, Berlin, Paris, and London. The reason behind this ranking is primarily the fact that the city is always under the spotlight, and the capital’s well-trained officers have played a major role in making its boundaries safe and secure for residents. You can watch the video shared below and witness why the city reserved a better place on the World Crime Index.
On the other hand, Rawalpindi is also extremely safe. You can measure this statement by the fact that the city hosts the headquarters of Pakistan’s Armed Forces.
Food, Shopping, and Leisure Activities
The way to any Pakistani’s heart is through food, and both Islamabad and Rawalpindi have a lot to offer when it comes to eateries, restaurants, and dhabas. The streets of old Pindi are occupied by makeshift stalls that are busy in either frying piping hot samosas or wrapping caramel soaked jalebis. If you want to taste the real essence of the city, order Bala Tikka in Banni Food Street, Chappal Kabab from Tabarak, or the famous daal from Mian Jee. All things considered, Pindi is a haven for foodies who are looking for affordable yet delectable thrills.
Islamabad, on the other hand, may not have a personal cuisine, but the city is home to some of the best themed cafes, fine dining restaurants, and modern eateries serving organic food with a touch of desiness such as Chaye Khana and Khokha Khola.
Fine-dining at Monal Restaurant or savouring Jalebi near Murree Road? The answer depends on your preferences, mood, and the weather, of course.
Besides the food options, both brothers provide a host of shopping spots. If you want to shop on a budget, then Pindi is your best bet. And, if you are going to treat yourself, visit Islamabad without any second thoughts.
This wraps up our take on the legendary Rawalpindi vs. Islamabad debate. Tell us how you feel about the cities at blog@zameen.com. If you want to see more of such informative posts, subscribe to Zameen Blog – Pakistan’s most trusted source of information.
