Shakarparian (also known as Shakarparian Hills) is derived from two words from the Potohari language, Shakar – meaning “sweet”, and Parian from Parao – meaning a place to rest, or stop over – layover during long journeys. Comprising mainly of a hill and a local park, it is in near proximity to Zero Point Interchange. One of the landmarks of Shakarparian is the Pakistan Monument located here.
A long winding old road along the mountain side takes the visitors from Islamabad Highway to the 7th Avenue which is a pleasurable experience. During the winter, spring and autumn, the hills are in full spectrum of colour with green and brown leaves presenting a spectacular view. Along the main road of the park, there is a pathway, which is a few kilometers walk made of bricks between a row of trees providing a soothing experience. Local cafes and museum provide the traditional flavour of food and historic significance.
This hill rises 609 meters above sea level and is home to a terraced garden. The garden offers sweeping vistas of surrounding hills, Rawal Lake and the cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
To enable tourists to take full benefit of the beautiful park, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) plans to commence an amusement park and a golf course over 25 acres of land.