Popular hostel in F-7 sector catering to backpackers and budget travelers. Dorm beds and private rooms available, communal kitchen, rooftop terrace, and helpful travel advice. Great place to meet other travelers planning northern trips.
Backpackers Den Islamabad is a well-regarded hostel in the F-7/2 sector, roughly 1 km from the Super Market commercial strip and about 3 km from the Blue Area central business district. The F-7 neighbourhood is relatively walkable and well-served by Islamabad's Speedo bus network and ride-hailing apps, both of which operate frequently through the area. Islamabad International Airport is around 20 km northwest.
Accommodation divides into mixed and single-gender dormitory beds and a small number of private double rooms. Bathrooms are shared across most categories, maintained by daily housekeeping. The fully equipped communal kitchen features gas hobs, a refrigerator, and basic cooking supplies, enabling budget travelers to self-cater and reduce food costs. A rooftop terrace with seating and a relaxed atmosphere serves as the social hub, drawing guests into conversation most evenings and becoming particularly lively when groups are staging for northern trips.
The travel desk is the hostel's most practical asset for its core audience. Staff maintain current contacts for shared jeep services to Gilgit and Skardu, as well as trusted local guides for Taxila (35 km) and Murree (60 km). Guest noticeboards carry route conditions and traveler tips updated by recent arrivals. The hostel is Islamabad's established starting point for overland travelers heading into Gilgit-Baltistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and onward to Central Asia via the Karakoram Highway.
There is no on-site restaurant, but the F-7 Super Market area within walking distance provides a wide range of local dhabas, bakeries, and street food at low prices. Wi-Fi coverage is adequate for basic browsing and itinerary planning.
Amenities
- dorm beds
- private rooms
- kitchen
- wifi
- terrace
- travel desk
Location
F-7/2, Islamabad 44000
33.7256, 73.0586 View on map
Highlights
- Active travel desk with contacts for shared jeep routes to Gilgit and Skardu and guides for Taxila
- Fully equipped communal kitchen for self-catering — a meaningful budget saving
- Central F-7 location near Super Market with walkable access to food stalls and local transport
- Mixed and gender-separated dormitories plus private rooms at the lowest price point in Islamabad
- Rooftop terrace serving as the social gathering point for overland and northern-bound travelers
Tips for visiting
- Book a private room at least two weeks ahead during May–September when northern-bound travelers concentrate here and rooms fill quickly
- The travel desk can coordinate shared jeep bookings to Gilgit, saving significantly compared to arranging private transport
- Store valuables in the provided lockers; dormitory rooms are shared with unknown co-travelers
- F-7 Super Market's local dhabas serve excellent nihari and karahi at prices well below restaurant levels
- Register with your country's embassy in Islamabad before heading into Gilgit-Baltistan or remote KPK — it is standard advice for remote-area travel in Pakistan
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Are private rooms available?
Yes. A small number of private double rooms are available alongside the dormitory beds. Private rooms book out faster in the May–September peak trekking season; reserve early.
Is there a curfew or late check-in restriction?
The front desk operates 24 hours. There is no formal curfew, though communal areas generally quiet down by midnight.
Can staff help arrange transport to northern Pakistan?
The travel desk maintains contacts for shared jeep services to Gilgit and Skardu and can advise on current road conditions and permit requirements for Gilgit-Baltistan.