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Field guides / Islamabad Capital Territory / Rawal Lake
Field guide · Nature
The main reservoir supplying Islamabad and Rawalpindi, a pleasant lakefront with boating, birdwatching, and picnic grounds set beneath the Margalla Hills.
Rawal Lake is a 8.8 km² reservoir in the Margalla Hills foothills, sitting on the edge of Islamabad and supplying drinking water for both the capital and Rawalpindi. Its proximity to dense forest, calm water surface, and backdrop of forested hills makes it a popular weekend spot for boating, birdwatching, fishing, and lakeside dining. In terms of accessible green space within a Pakistani city, Rawal Lake has few equals.
Why go
Rawal Lake is one of the best accessible birdwatching sites in the Islamabad region. Over 100 species have been recorded, including common kingfisher, purple heron, greater flameback woodpecker, and winter-visiting ducks. Best from dawn to 9am.
Rowboats and pedalos are available for hire on the main lakefront. The eastern shore is calmer and quieter. Early morning boat trips on the lake's surface offer views of the Margalla ridgeline and wildlife.
Rawal Lake supports rohu, catla, and trout, licensed fishing is permitted. The dam and reservoir ecology are actively managed. The lake also supplies drinking water, so swimming is not permitted.
Planning tip
Best Time to Visit, Year-round. Winter draws migratory waterfowl. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for boating. Monsoon turns the surrounding hills vivid green.
Getting there, 10 km from Islamabad Blue Area, a 25-minute drive via Rawal Dam Road. Boats available to hire at the main jetty.
Allow, 2-3 hours for boating and lakeside time. Combine with Margalla Hills trails for a full-day nature itinerary.
Straight-line distance from Rawal Lake, within 30 km.
