Nestled in the lush green of the Shakarparian Hills the Lok Virsa (National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage) is a great addition to Islamabad's cultural places. It works towards preserving the living folk and traditional culture of Pakistan. Situated in a vast open area, the Lok Virsa museum is a one of its kind place in Islamabad. There are many parks and eating outlets in Islamabad, but Lok Virsa is absolutely unique and matchless for now, which adds to its charm.

Lok Virsa's Folk Heritage Museum has a large display of embroidered costumes, jewellery, woodwork, metalwork, block printing, ivory and bone work. Traditional architecture facades exhibiting such skills as fresco, mirror work, marble inlay, and tile mosaic and stucco tracery are also displayed.

There are certain stalls, which even sell these traditional pieces of work to people who like them to take back as souvenirs for friends and family! These stalls particularly attract people from outside Islamabad and foreigners who truly cherish hand embroidered and hand made stuff. Traditional hand embroidered bags are probably the most sold item there!

One thing that I particularly like about this place is that it's accessible to all without any discrimination! While some types of entertainment in Islamabad are only accessible to the rich and privileged, the entry ticket here cost a very nominal amount making it easier for anyone and everyone to come, visit and stay for as long as they want; though the ticket is a little more expensive for foreigners.

Because of all the things they have in store for you in that one building, which seems like an old mansion from the outside, it is a must-see place for all! Any praise cannot do justice to the work done at Lok Virsa. It truly is a one of a kind museum not only in Islamabad but the entire country and this speaks a lot about why you should visit Lok Virsa if you haven't as yet.

Islamabad is, without any doubt, the heart and soul of Pakistan. It is a city which represents the aspirations of a dynamic nation that looks forward to a bright future for its people, a city which welcomes modern ideas but at the same time cherishes and remembers its customs, culture, heritage and traditional values. And places like Lok Virsa helps it preserve the culture and heritage!

It's a great place to visit on a day off, with friends, family or when guests are at your place. If you have guests from abroad, make sure you take them to Lok Virsa. It is one of the most traditional and cultural places in Pakistan. Teachers and schools should also take school and field trips to Lok Virsa, so that children can learn to appreciate art, culture and heritage!