For bargain finds, check this list of Islamabad shopping spots. Islamabad–the capital of Pakistan–is a well-planned city with tree-lined avenues, beautiful gardens and newly paved roads. The people are also artistically gifted, as evidenced by its prolific carpet and crafts industry. The Pakistanis are strongly influenced by their religion–Islam–and are thus very conservative. If you want to go shopping, don’t show too much skin. And, don’t walk the streets alone at night.

Super Market

Islamabad is separated into sectors, with each one having its own shopping area. The Super Market–located in F6–is one of the oldest supermarkets in Islamabad. It is still considered a great place to shop in the city due to its reasonable prices. Items such as medicines, cosmetics, clothes, books, DVDs, fresh flowers and food could be bought here. Bargaining is expected, although some shops have fixed prices.

Jinnah Supermarket

Jinnah–located at F7–is the biggest and hippest place to shop or hangout in the city. It houses various restaurants and cafés, as well as a supermarket and a wide array of stores that sell anything from branded clothes to books, antiques, handicrafts and home furnishings. There are also sports items, computer and electronics shops, flower shops, music shops and gift stores. Most shops have fixed price items.

Handicrafts Village

If you’re looking for souvenirs to take back home to family and friends or a memento of your tour in this great place, then you may want to check the handicrafts village near Super Market. Handicrafts and traditional items from different parts of the country are sold in small stores, so you get a bird’s eye view of the country’s products and culture. Bargain hard for the items you want. 

Kohsar Market

This small, but reputable market–located at F6–is  a grocery store with perhaps the best collection of imported grocery goods from different parts of the world including frozen seafood, breakfast cereal, taco shells and varieties of cheese. It also offers vegetables straight from the farm, sirloin steak cuts, salads, desserts and fresh breads. Produce here are always fresh and available. Visit no other place if you plan to concoct a foreign recipe.

Sunday Market

The Sunday Market is so called because it only opens on Sunday. This is a street market located between the Aabpara (intersection) Market and Red Mosque. It features small stands selling fruit and vegetables, fish, meat, spices, kitchen utensils, home items and clothing. Exercise your bargaining skills when buying. You might like to take a walk through the market and buy something that interests you.