First rain increases Islamabad’s beauty

ISLAMABAD: It is always enthralling to be in Islamabad during winter rains, particularly because the green-blanketed rolling Margalah Hills, chirping birds, clean and fragrant atmosphere give the city a heavenly look.

For the last two days, the federal capital has had continuous rain. The first rain of December has provided some breathtaking scenes to spectators and has also decreased the temperature significantly.

While the beauty of the federal capital cannot be compared to that of the Northern Areas, Islamabad continues to play gracious host to hordes of awestruck guests who return home with glossy photos and vivid descriptions attesting to the exotic allure of the city in the lap of Margalah Hills.

There is no denying the fact that Islamabad, affectionately known as Isloo, is blessed with natural wealth. The sparkling streams flowing out of the hills and the landscapes offer picture-perfect vistas.

The heat-struck people from the lower part of the country usually flock to the federal capital. Indeed, Islamabad is like a perfect place for people in search of a romantic stop before continuing on to the northern heights of the country.

The winter’s crowd of snow-loving people is sometimes larger than the summer crowd, partially because snow falls can be seen about one hour’s drive from Islamabad.

It would be appropriate to say that the city’s natural beauty is best observed during the monsoons. A wide range of flowers, breathtaking views of Margalah peaks peeping through the monsoon clouds and the beauty of unpredictable weather, either pouring heavy or crystal clear, all contribute to the city’s charm.

To get the best view of Islamabad’s scenic beauty, the public is advised to visit Rawal Dam in the winter drizzle. The dam is like a large silver plate surrounded by green hills. Standing in the midst of such magnificent beauty, a gentle touch of romanticism may strike the observer’s mind.

The city’s natural beauty is not the only factor that contributes to frequent romantisations of the entire area. Some say the power of true love still rules this area of rolling hills.

Long ago, a local man named Rawal was in love with a girl named Jugni. Unfortunately, the dreams of the young lovers could not be realized. Nonetheless, their story became a central part of the area’s reputation for inspiring love.

“Actually, Rawal lived in the area which is now adjacent to Rawal Dam. I have heard these tales from my forefathers,” said Jehangir Abbasi, an elderly local inhabitant. —Shahzad Raza

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