Events / Announced annually
Islamabad
Urs of Bari Imam
Islamabad's patron-saint festival at Nurpur Shahan, qawwali, dhamal, langar, and pilgrim crowds in the capital's hills.
The annual Urs of Hazrat Bari Imam at his shrine in Nurpur Shahan, on the edge of Islamabad, brings qawwali, dhamal, langar, and prayers, drawing pilgrims from across the country to the capital's most important Sufi gathering.
- Shrine of Bari Imam
- Qawwali & dhamal
- Langar
- Capital-city Sufism
- Announced annually
- When to plan
- Held over three days on dates announced annually; verify before planning.
- Getting there
- Nurpur Shahan is a short drive from central Islamabad, near the Margalla foothills.
- Region
- Islamabad guide →
Sufism in the capital
Bari Imam is the patron saint of Islamabad, and his Urs is a rare large-scale folk-religious gathering in the otherwise planned capital.
Visiting respectfully
Expect crowds and security; dress modestly and follow your guide and the stewards around the shrine.
More in Islamabad
Region guide →
October - November
Lok Virsa Festival
National folk heritage festival at the Lok Virsa museum, crafts, music, and regional food from across Pakistan.
23 March
Pakistan Day Parade
The national day on 23 March, marked by a formal parade in Islamabad and civic events across the country.
Shawwal & Dhu al-Hijjah (variable)
Eid Festivals
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, Pakistan's two great religious festivals of feasting, family, new clothes, and hospitality.