Rawalpindi sits on the Pothohar Plateau along the Soan River, directly adjacent to Islamabad; together the two are known as the twin cities. It is a major logistics and transportation hub for northern Pakistan and a common base for travellers heading onward to Taxila, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.
For a visitor, the practical split is between the older city core and the cantonment, the military and administrative quarter established during the British period. The two are distinct in character and in what they offer a traveller. This guide covers which of these areas to base yourself in, and what each is like for different kinds of trips.
Best areas to stay in Rawalpindi
1. The Mall
The Mall is the address given for the city's principal hotels, including the government-run Flashman's Hotel and the Pearl Continental. It is a central location, which makes it the most straightforward base for a first visit and for anyone who wants to reach both the city and the adjoining capital without a long commute.
This area suits first-time visitors and travellers who prefer a settled, established part of town over the busier older quarters. Expect the city's larger, full-service places to stay here rather than small guesthouses.
2. Saddar
Saddar is the shopping district the British developed for the city's elite, laid out around an archway built to commemorate Brigadier General Massey. It sits within the cantonment side of the city, which by the early twentieth century had grown to overshadow the old city in size and importance.
Staying in or near Saddar puts you close to shopping and to the cantonment's orderly street pattern. It suits travellers who want amenities within walking distance and a calmer environment than the historic core.
3. The old city and central market area
A large market was opened in central Rawalpindi in 1883, and the old city around it holds the historic havelis and temples for which Rawalpindi is known. This is the densest, most traditional part of the city.
This area suits travellers who want to be among the historic fabric of Rawalpindi and within reach of its markets. Expect busier streets and less of the cantonment's spacing; it is a base for atmosphere and access rather than quiet.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: smaller, simpler places to stay, including guesthouse-style accommodation. Availability is limited compared with larger cities, so book ahead.
- Mid-range: established hotels such as Hotel Shalimar, offering a middle ground between the small places and the city's top-end property.
- Splurge: the Pearl Continental, the city's one five-star hotel, often known by its acronym PC, with an outdoor pool and a steakhouse. Rates at the top end of the city's hotels start from around RS 5000 and up.
Best area for a first visit
The Mall is the best base for a first visit. It is centrally located and is where the city's main hotels are found, including the government-run Flashman's Hotel and the Pearl Continental. From here you can reach both Rawalpindi's sights and neighbouring Islamabad without committing to either the old city or the cantonment for your whole stay.
Frequently asked questions
Which part of Rawalpindi is most convenient for a first trip?
The Mall, which is centrally located and home to the city's principal hotels.
Is Rawalpindi a good base for visiting Taxila and northern Pakistan?
Yes. Rawalpindi serves as a hub for tourists visiting Taxila, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, and is linked to the national highways through the M-1 and M-2 motorways.
What is the top end of the accommodation in Rawalpindi?
The city has one five-star hotel, the Pearl Continental, commonly known as the PC, which features an outdoor pool and a steakhouse. Rates there and at Flashman's Hotel start from around RS 5000 and up.
Should I stay in Rawalpindi or Islamabad?
The two cities are adjacent and jointly known as the twin cities, so either can work as a base. Rawalpindi is the transport and logistics hub for northern Pakistan, which makes it the practical choice if your plans head toward Taxila, Azad Kashmir or Gilgit-Baltistan.
Compare live prices for the areas above with the booking tools on this page before you decide.