Saidpur Village Islamabad
Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, is ranked as the 2nd most beautiful capital in the world. The city is synonymous with scenic beauty, a neat and clean atmosphere, and a very peaceful environment with a well-structured accommodation plan.Uncovered within Islamabad, Saidpur village is a land of cultural heritage with a scenic view of Margalla Hills. It is one of the oldest villages in Islamabad and Pakistan. The village has a long and rich history, dating back to the time of the Mughal Empire. Saidpur was once a thriving center of trade and industry and was known for its fine craftsmen and artisans. The village retains its old-world charm, with narrow streets and traditional houses.
The most prominent feature of Saidpur village is its Hindu temple, which the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built in the 17th century. The temple is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and is still used by the village’s Hindu community for religious ceremonies. Saidpur village is also home to many other historical sites, including the ruins of a factory built by the British during the colonial era. The village is a popular tourist destination and is well-known for its scenic beauty and friendly people. If you’re ever in Islamabad, be sure to visit Saidpur village!
Saidpur Village Islamabad Attractions
History of Saidpur Village
Back in 1530, the old name of Saidpur village was “Fatehpur Baoli” – It was named after its founder Mirza Fateh Ali. The village was developed under Raja Said Sultan, son of Sultan Sarang Khan, who transited from Iran. In 1580, Hindu Commander Raja Man Singh converted Saidpur village into a worship place by constructing religious places, including temples and Gurdwaras.
Establishment and Early years
The village’s name was altered to “Saidpur Village” after Mughal Emperor Akhbar offered it to Sultan Said, who later endowed it to his daughter, who was married to the Mughal emperor Jahangir – son of Mughal emperor Akbar.
Saidpur village is also mentioned in Jahangir’s autobiography “Tuzk-e-Jahangeri,” where he mentioned his stay at the village en route to Kabul. The village was only a garden resort then, and a natural spring flowed across it, providing water for drinking and irrigation.
Use as Hindu Site
Historic evidence tells us that in the 16th century, a temple called Rama Mandir or Ram Kund Temple was dedicated to the Hindu God Rama. Hindus believed that God Rama lived in the area with his family during the 14 years of their exile. Saidpur Village used to be a garden and gathering place where Hindus celebrated the carnival of Baisakhi. Several ponds named after characters from the epic Ramayana (including Hanuman Kunda, Lakshaman Kunda, Rama Kunda, and Sita Kunda) and Temples were built for this purpose.
Interfaith Harmony at Saidpur Village
Later in the 20th century, a gurdwara was also constructed adjacent to the temple by the Sikhs. This Gurdwara served as a school for spreading the teachings of Guru Nanak. A church and a mosque were also located nearby, as was the shrine of Zinda Pir (Living Saint), symbolizing interfaith harmony. However, after 1947, the local Hindus migrated to India and took their idols.
CDA Renovation
The work to convert Saidpur into a tourist place started by the Capital Development Authority in 2006. Rs. 400 million was spent on renovating this majestic tourist place. The primary school, the Gurdwara, and an old Sufi tomb in the village were also preserved, and finally, in 2008, all the renovation work was completed.
Attractions Offered by Saidpur Village
Saidpur village is also home to several other historical sites, including the ruins of a factory built by the British during the colonial era. The village is a popular tourist destination and is well-known for its scenic beauty and perfect atmosphere.
Historical Buildings at Saidpur Village
The chronological buildings are the main attraction for visitors in Saidpur village Islamabad. You can visit temples, Gurdwara, and the museum located in the village. You can take the help of local tour guides who will explain the history of the village, temples, and museum.
Souvenir Shops and Art Galleries
Saidpur village has a few small antique and souvenir shops where you can buy jewelry and antique items. It also has a few art galleries where you can witness the area’s historical art. It is a go-to place to buy some stunning and creative souvenirs. Traditional jewelry at these stalls includes necklaces, bracelets, and rings made from silver. You will find the most popular designs are intricate patterns with floral motifs. Many jewelry pieces are also decorated with precious stones, such as rubies.
Restaurants at Saidpur Village
Not only local and foreign tourists but many residents of Islamabad like to enjoy their evenings at this beautiful place. After the renovation, many restaurants have been opened which offer ethnic cuisines with a beautiful scenic view of Margalla hills. Some of the most favored restaurants in Saidpur village are Des Pardes, Dera Pakhtoon, Cafe 99, The Polo Lounge, Kehwah, Lahore Chatkhara, and many more. You will also find numerous stalls selling delicious snacks if you don’t feel like having a full meal.
Mountaineering
After traversing the residential area of Saidpur village Islamabad, there is a rock-climbing spot. Adventure sports organizations often arrange joint events on the spot on payment, and you can enjoy this thrilling adventure. Furthermore, visitors from rock climbing spots can reach hiking trail number 5 in the Margalla Hills National Park in just 5 minutes. The trail converges with trail 3 and ends at Monal, above Saidpur Village Islamabad.
Handmade Pottery
Saidpur village Islamabad is enriched and aged and is quite famous for its handmade pottery. The village is popular and mostly gets crowded on weekends and special events. If you want to enjoy the history and architecture, make sure to come a little early when quite a few people are around so you will have the place to yourself.
Spectacular Sights at Night
The village reflects a spectacular sight at night as well. Saidpur town Islamabad is one of the real vacation destinations of the city, and especially at night, it gives a scenic view of the area. Being surrounded by Margalla Hills makes the site more pleasant and attractive in diminishing lights at night.
Renovated Walkways at Saidpur Village
The town features many renovated walkways. Many people come here for great photos of the old buildings and the spectacular scenery. It offers some of the most postcard-perfect pictures with blissful architecture and scenery in the background.
Multi-Cultural Heritage
Saidpur Village once functioned as a garden lodge for Mughal Emperor Jahangir. It was also an influential place of worship for Hindus and Sikhs. It has a Sufi shrine, a Hindu temple, and a gurdwara, all in the same area. It not only yields homage to Muslim, Hindu, and Sikh cultures but also depicts the rich history of the Pothohar region. Such amazing diversity makes the village even more charming and worth visiting.
Hindu Temple & Gurdwara
Until 1947, Hindu devotees in the area gathered in Saidpur to celebrate the carnival of Baisakhi. In the early 20th century, a Sikh gurdwara was constructed next to the temple.
However, after the partition, most Hindus migrated to India and took their sacred statues with them, leaving the temple abandoned. Meanwhile, the Sikh school in Saidpur became a primary school for girls. You can still visit the abandoned temple and witness some cool art from the past.
Saidpur Village Timings
As it is not only a visiting place but people also live there, there are no open or close timings, but yes for the visitors it is open seven days a week, and the suggested timings are from 1000 AM to 2300 PM. During this time, you will get the guides and the restaurants open. It may be closed upon special restrictions from the government or if there is any threat.
Saidpur Village Location
Saidpur village is at a prime location in the heart of the capital city of Pakistan. Usually, such exquisite sites are far away from the city and not easily accessible. However, Saidpur village is easily accessible. It is located on Margalla road, opposite sector F6, Islamabad. You can easily find a cab or uber to the village.
Conclusion
The village has the impressions of various civilizations, including Ashoka, Mughal, Buddhist, Greek, and Gandhara. Today, Saidpur village is well preserved and a popular recreational spot for local and foreign visitors.
The village retains its old-world charm, with narrow streets and traditional houses. The most prominent feature of Saidpur village is its Hindu temple, which the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan built in the 17th century. The temple is a beautiful example of Mughal architecture and is still used by the village’s Hindu community for religious ceremonies. Saidpur village is also home to many other historical sites, including the ruins of a factory built by the British during the colonial era. The village is a popular tourist destination and is well-known for its scenic beauty and friendly people. If you’re ever in Islamabad, be sure to visit Saidpur village!
FAQs
Where is Saidpur village located?
Saidpur village is located in the Islamabad Capital Territory of Pakistan. It is about 25 kilometers from Islamabad city center. The village has a long and rich history, dating back to the time of the Mughal Empire. Saidpur was once a thriving center of trade and industry and was known for its fine craftsmen and artisans. If you are in Islamabad, try visiting this picturesque place and enjoy your day with friends and family.
Is Saidpur Village open?
Yes, Saidpur Village is open to the public. It is a popular tourist destination well-known for its scenic beauty and friendly people. If you’re ever in Islamabad, be sure to visit Saidpur village!
Is there any restaurant in Saidpur Village?
After roaming around the village, you’ll probably require a good meal! There are several restaurants in Saidpur village, most of which serve traditional Pakistani food. Be sure to try the spicy curries and tandoori chicken! If you’re looking for something a little more Western, a few restaurants also serve burgers and pizza. Des Pardes, Dera Pakhtoon, and Charsi tikka are other must-try restaurants. Moreover, if you are looking for snacks, this place has some good Dhabas, and you can enjoy fries and tea.
How old is Saidpur Village?
Saidpur village is believed to be more than 500 years old. It is located in the Islamabad Capital Territory of Pakistan. Saidpur village has a long and rich history, dating back to the time of the Mughal Empire. Saidpur was once a thriving center of trade and industry and was known for its fine craftsmen and artisans. The village retains its old-world charm, with narrow streets and exceptional architecture.