Fatima Jinnah Park
Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, is often known for its clean and peaceful atmosphere. In 2015, it was ranked among the most beautiful capitals in the world. The city is home to important political buildings such as the Senate and Parliament of Pakistan. Located at the base of the Margalla Hills, which are part of the foothills of the Karakoram Range, Islamabad is the best-planned and least polluted city in the country. It offers a calm and green environment for everyone, whether they are residents or visitors.
Among its many attractions, Fatima Jinnah Park is one of the most visited and admired places. It is a great spot for people of all ages to enjoy leisure time, exercise, and experience the natural beauty of Islamabad.
Overview of Fatima Jinnah Park
Also known as Capital Park or F-9 Park, Fatima Jinnah Park is a huge recreational area in the heart of Islamabad. It attracts thousands of visitors every week, both local and foreign, thanks to its jogging tracks, children’s play areas, and open green spaces.
The park is spread over a vast area, mostly covered by natural greenery, with only a few man-made structures such as pathways, fountains, and monuments. In fact, most of the park feels like a wildlife sanctuary due to its peaceful environment and open natural land.
The entire park is surrounded by a steel fence, with gates placed at different sides for entry and exit. However, only a few gates remain open for the public. Inside, you’ll find clean walking paths, well-maintained lawns, benches, and a few artistic sculptures that add to the park’s charm.
Location
Fatima Jinnah Park occupies the entire Sector F-9 of Islamabad. It is around 6.1 kilometers from the city center and takes about 15 minutes to reach by car. The park is easily accessible from all sides of Islamabad and is surrounded by main roads, making it convenient for visitors from different parts of the city.
History and Development
Fatima Jinnah Park covers about 750 acres of land, making it one of the largest parks in Pakistan. It was first planned and dedicated in 1992 and was named after Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, the sister of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and a respected leader known as Madr-i-Millat (Mother of the Nation).
The park was designed by architect Michael Japero and took around five years to complete. In 2017, the park began using solar energy with the installation of 3,400 solar panels across five acres of land, costing about $4.8 million. These solar panels produce 0.85 megawatts of electricity, mainly used for lighting within the park.
Another major addition is the Metropolitan Club, designed by the famous architect Nayyar Ali Dada. Spread over 22 acres with a covered area of 265,000 square feet, it includes a main lobby, atrium, cigar lounge, and several other facilities. According to the Deputy Mayor of Islamabad, Syed Zeeshan Ali Naqvi, the Metropolitan Corporation Islamabad (MCI) is continuously working to improve recreational and entertainment infrastructure in the city.
Leisure Arena
The Leisure Arena, originally known as Super Zone, was reopened in December 2019 after renovation. It offers various indoor sports and entertainment activities. There’s a gym, swimming pool, table tennis, snooker, laser tag, bowling, and arcade games. Visitors can also enjoy fast food, shopping, and family dining areas within the arena.
Although the Supreme Court once ordered the closure of certain facilities, such as McDonald’s and the Aeromodelling Club, most of these spots still remain open to visitors. The Fatima Jinnah Park area has plenty of greenery, flowerbeds, walking and jogging tracks, cycling paths, benches, and even small water ponds. Families, students, and couples often visit in the evenings to relax and enjoy Islamabad’s cool and pleasant weather.
The Margalla Hills provide a beautiful backdrop to the park, making the view even more attractive.
Public Area and Structure
Most parts of Fatima Jinnah Park are natural and open, with only a few man-made clusters of buildings and structures. The wide open spaces are perfect for walking, jogging, or simply spending quiet time outdoors. Some areas are also used for driving lessons due to their open roads.
Main Gates:
The park is surrounded by a steel boundary with four main gates — one on each side. These gates are connected by jogging tracks that form a network throughout the park. Near each gate, you’ll find a parking area, public restrooms, and a mosque for visitors’ convenience.
Future Plans
The Capital Development Authority (CDA), which manages Fatima Jinnah Park, has several future plans to further develop the area. The park is often called the “sleeping heart” of Islamabad, as it holds great potential for recreation and nature-based activities.
CDA aims to add new features like streams, fountains, aquariums, and rock gardens to make the park even more attractive. With Islamabad residents increasingly looking for outdoor and family spaces, improving Fatima Jinnah Park has become one of the city’s top priorities.
Best Time to Visit
Fatima Jinnah Park can be visited any time of the year, but evenings and early mornings are the most pleasant. In summer, the weather is warm but comfortable due to the park’s greenery. During winter, the crisp air and mountain views make it even more refreshing.
Contact Us to Visit Fatima Jinnah Park
If you’re planning to explore the calm beauty of Islamabad and visit Fatima Jinnah Park, contact RepeaTrip Tours. We arrange city tours covering major attractions, including parks, viewpoints, and cultural sites.
Contact us to visit the place and enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by greenery and peaceful nature.