Rawalpindi vs Islamabad – which one is the best? Keep reading to find out!
The twin cities of Pakistan are known for their rich history, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and peaceful environment. If you are looking for an exceptionally well and comfortable residence, then the twin cities should be on your list.
Interestingly, people always compare Islamabad and Rawalpindi due to their proximity. The distance between the two cities is around 14 kilometers, which sums up their closeness. Some people prefer Islamabad for its peaceful aura, whereas some go for Rawalpindi because of its lively and colorful ambiance.
To make things easier for you, we have created a detailed comparison between the two cities. The comparison is designed to give you clarity and valuable information about both cities.
So, let’s examine the factors that make Rawalpindi and Islamabad so different.
Rawalpindi vs Islamabad – An Overview
| Factors | Islamabad | Rawalpindi |
| 1. History | Relatively new city | Rich in history |
| 2. Ambiance | Peaceful; Full of greenery | Lively; Full of hustle and bustle. |
| 3. Cost of living | High | Low |
| 4. Food options | Desi and International cuisines | Desi and International cuisines |
| 5. Security | High | Moderate |
| 6. Traffic | Low | Moderate |
| 7. Transportation | Limited options | More options |
| 8. Education | Good | Good |
| 9. Health | Good | Good |
| 10. Shopping | Good for branded products | Good for local products |
1. History
Memory is the treasure house of the mind wherein the monuments thereof are kept and preserved.-Thomas Fuller.
Twin cities, especially Rawalpindi, are known for their rich culture and history. If you have a knack for history and rich culture, Rawalpindi is the perfect place for you. From old bazaars to ancient architecture, Rawalpindi is truly a gem.
In the heart of the city, you will find Raja Bazaar, one of the oldest local markets in Pakistan. The bazaar is known for its huge selection of affordable products, including electronics, apparel, shoes, and jewelry. There is also the China market in Rawalpindi, which many tourists visit.
Apart from the local bazaars, the city has innumerable old buildings built before the partition. The architecture, interior design, and craftsmanship found in these buildings are plausible. So, there are many things to do in the twin cities.
On the other hand, Islamabad is a relatively new city. It was constructed around 1960 as the capital of Pakistan. If you want to settle in a modern and well-planned city, go for Islamabad, there are many peaceful and attractive places to visit in Islamabad.
Who wins in history: Rawalpindi.
2. Ambiance
If you are a nature lover who prefers a peaceful environment, loads of greenery and beautiful landscapes, Islamabad a touring capital might be the dream place for you. The city, situated at the foothills of Margalla, is known across the globe for its exceptional natural beauty and lush green landscapes and hiking tracks.
On the other hand, if you are someone who likes to live in a city that is full of hustle and bustle and lively aura, then Rawalpindi is your city. The radiant and pomp city is full of busy local markets, food streets, parks and much more.
Which city wins for ambiance: It depends on your personal preference.
3. Cost of living
The cost of living varies between the two cities. On average, Islamabad is one of the most expensive cities in Pakistan. Especially, if you are residing in the posh areas of Islamabad, you will have to spend quite a lot of money. There are many affordable guest houses in Islamabad.
On the other hand, Rawalpindi is considered to be a relatively cheaper city than Islamabad. There are a lot of local markets and eateries where you can find cheap products at an affordable price. You can find 5 marla house for sale in Rawalpindi at low price.
Which city wins in terms of low-cost living: Rawalpindi.
4. Food Options
Both cities have their own distinct range of eateries and food street option. If you are looking for a fine dining experience, you may want to scan the hotels and restaurants in Islamabad. You can find all the famous cuisines in the capital, ranging from desi to Chinese to French to Thai and to fast food places in Islamabad. If you want to explore hotels in Rawalpindi and hotels in Islamabad, give this article a read.
If you are a street food lover, Rawalpindi is food heaven. If you are looking for hot jalebis and dahi baray, head to Bhabra Bazaar. If you are in the search of hot and crisp Lahori samosas, College Road’s famous Lahori samosas will do the trick. While you are on College Road, do not forget to try out the famous Savour Foods.
Apart from these options, you can also find a huge variety of restaurants in the Rawalpindi, that too at an affordable price.
Which city has the best food options? It depends on your personal preferences and budget.
5. Security
According to ‘The News’, Islamabad is the safest city in the country. If you are concerned about the safety and security of yourself and your family members, Islamabad might be the haven for you. Surveillance cameras and police force continuously monitor the city.
On the other hand, Rawalpindi is also a very safe city due to the presence of military headquarters. You can roam around the city alone without feeling unsafe.
Which city is more secure: Islamabad.
6. Traffic
We all hate traffic jams. Don’t we?
If you want to escape heavy traffic jams and live a noise pollution-free region, do consider Islamabad. Islamabad is the only planned city in Pakistan. That means, the whole infrastructure of the city is organized and you won’t have to get stuck in the traffic for hours.
On the other hand, Rawalpindi is a bit crowded, and you can easily get stuck in traffic, especially on Murree Road and the Saddar area. Rawalpindi to Islamabad distance is quite and people can easily travel to and from both cities.
Which city has a better traffic system: Islamabad wins.
7. Transportation
A good transportation facility is essential for everyone, especially for the people who have to go to educational institutes and offices daily. Luckily, Islamabad and Rawalpindi are blessed with good transport facilities.
You can travel by metro bus service with stations at almost all public spots including hospitals, markets, and universities. You can also avail services of ride-hailing services like Careem, Uber vice versa.
Similarly, you can travel to Rawalpindi by the metro bus service. However, unlike Islamabad, Rawalpindi has an abundance of rickshaws, local wagons, and taxis. You have to pay as low as Rs.30 to travel from one location to the other location. So, if you have to commute a lot on a daily basis, Rawalpindi might be a better option for you.
Which city has better transportation: Rawalpindi.
8. Education
If you are a student or you have kids in your house, you should choose a residential area that is near to your educational institution. There are the best schools in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Government universities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi are in abundance. No doubt, Islamabad and Rawalpindi both are blessed to have some of the top universities in Pakistan.
Renowned universities such as NUST, FAST, Bahria University, International Islamic University, Arid Agriculture University, and Air University are in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. These universities provide top-notch education to students in different categories, ranging from engineering to medicine to humanities.
Which one is better in terms of educational institutes? Both are equally good.
9. Health
Like educational institutes, the twin cities also has a good number of private and public clinics and hospitals. All these hospitals are providing exceptional medical care facilities to the masses, that too at an affordable price. Hospitals in Islamabad include PIMS, Shifa International Hospital, Kulsoom Hospital, and vice versa. On the other hand, hospitals in Rawalpindi include Benazir Bhutto Hospital, CMH, and MH and vice versa. Get to know amazing gyms in Islamabad.
Apart from providing basic medical services, these hospitals and clinics are also providing other services such as surgeries, medical workshops, and educational drives vice versa to the people.
Which one is better in terms of healthcare institutes? Both are equally good. Get to know major dams in Pakistan.
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10. Shopping
If you are a shopaholic, then Rawalpindi and Islamabad have some great options lined up for you. If you are looking for branded products then head to Giga Mall, Centaurus Mall, and Safa Gold Mall. These malls are loaded with renowned international and local brands.
They also have the best cinemas in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. There are also the best options for swimming pools in Islamabad in these malls. One of the best ways to kill the warm weather is by taking a dip in a swimming pool. Get to know the cost of building a swimming pool in Pakistan.
On the other hand, if you are looking for cheaper options, try visiting Saddar Bazaar, Raja Bazaar, Commercial Market and Sunday markets. If you are looking for posh shopping malls and international brands, Islamabad is a better option for you because of the versatile selection of malls in Islamabad.
Conversely, if you are looking for affordable apparel, shoes, appliances, home décor, etc., head to Rawalpindi. The city has a huge number of shops that sell quality products at an affordable price.
Which city has better shopping options: depends on your personal preference.
If you are looking to invest in twin cities then there are many best real estate projects to invest in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
So, this was a concise yet informative comparison between Rawalpindi Islamabad. Give this article a read and let us know what you think about it. We hope the contrast between Rawalpindi and Islamabad will help you make better decisions regards your residence. Get to know securing your home.
If you have any questions in mind, let us know. We would love to help you.
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