Centaurus Mall & the Art of Pakistani Carpets

🧵 The Carpet Culture of Islamabad During my time in Islamabad, I often wandered into carpet shops, sipped tea with merchants ☕, and admired the intricate designs of hand-knotted masterpieces. Many carpets sold here are called "Afghan carpets"—though they’re often made in Peshawar by skilled artisans. 🌍 Why Afghan/Pakistani Carpets Are World-Famous ✅ Tribal Craftsmanship: Woven by Pashtun, Baloch, and Turkmen communities✅ Cultural Fusion: Blends Persian, Turkic, and Mughal influences✅ Top Recommendations: Afghan War Rugs (historical motifs)Kashmiri Silk Rugs (softer, floral patterns) 🔍 How to Judge a Handmade Carpet’s Quality 1️⃣ Knot Type:Persian (Senneh) Knot (single, finer detail)Turkish (Ghiordes) Knot (double, more durable) 2️⃣ KPI (Knots Per Inch):120 KPI = High-end (denser, sharper patterns)<80 KPI = Budget (looser weave) 💰 Buying Tips Bargain Hard! Start at 50% of the asking priceAuthenticity Test: Rub the pile—no dye transfer = qualityBest for Gifts: 2x3ft silk rugs (easy to carry home) # Centaurus Mall#Islamabad#Carpets#Pakistan#Pakistan Carpets#travel guide#Pakistan travel#Pakistan diary