Islamabad Weather in March

Mild days, changeable skies

March feels springlike in Islamabad, and it's warmer than you might expect. The average high climbs to 25°C from February's 20°C, and April pushes it higher still. Evenings stay cool, though, and rain falls on about eight days, so the weather can turn quickly. After showers, the Margalla Hills get cloudy and slippery.

When the sky clears, though, it's a pleasant time to walk around Faisal Mosque, visit the Pakistan Monument, or explore the trails above the city. Save a long Margalla hike for a dry day, and don't count on clear views from Daman-e-Koh after rain.

Pakistan Day and city life

Pakistan Day falls on March 23, and celebrations can include a parade near Shakarparian. Arrangements may change, so expect traffic restrictions around the parade area and check local notices before crossing the city that day.

If crowds put you off, go to the Pakistan Monument on a weekday, away from the holiday. March is generally quieter than Islamabad's November-to-January peak, though Pakistan Day brings its own local visitors. Prices may be gentler than in those months, but they depend on the hotel and the event.

A good spring visit

With plenty of daylight and mild afternoons, March suits a city break that mixes sights with a meal in Saidpur Village. Try a local karahi, a spicy curry cooked in a deep pan, after a walk through the village's old lanes. Travelling with kids? Fatima Jinnah Park has open lawns that make an easy outing when it's dry.

If you're heading to Daman-e-Koh, take the road up from Margalla Road rather than relying on a trail after rain. Low cloud may hide the city view, so go on a clear morning if you can. March earns an excellent 8.9/10, but if you can plan around it, November to January is the best window.