Margalla Hills National Park
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Mountain
Location
Islamabad, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Margalla Hills National Park is a large natural area in Islamabad, Pakistan. It covers the Margalla Hills, which are part of the Himalayan foothills. The park is home to many kinds of plants and animals, including different birds and leopards. It offers many walking and hiking paths for visitors. You can enjoy good views of the city from different points in the park. It is a peaceful place for people to relax and be close to nature.
What To Do
- Go hiking on the many trails, like Trail 3 or Trail 5.
- Watch birds and look for different kinds of wildlife.
- Visit Daman-e-Koh for a clear view of Islamabad city.
- Have a meal at The Monal Restaurant, which is high up in the hills.
- Enjoy a picnic with family and friends at specific picnic spots.
What To Buy
- Local Crafts: Hand-made items and souvenirs at stalls near F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
- Traditional Clothes: Shalwar Kameez and other local fabrics from shops in F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
- Pashmina Shawls: Warm, soft shawls available in specialty stores around F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Fresh and local dry fruits from vendors in F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
- Pakistani Sweets: Try local sweets (mithai) from popular sweet shops in F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Keep the park clean; do not litter. Use marked trails for hiking and walking. Open fires are not allowed outside designated areas. Respect wildlife and do not disturb animals. Photography is allowed for personal use.
Health & Safety
- Wear proper hiking shoes, especially for trails. Carry enough water, especially during warmer months. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Be aware of weather changes and avoid hiking during heavy rain. Some trails can be steep, so a basic level of fitness is helpful.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is mild and pleasant, perfect for hiking and outdoor fun. Flowers are in bloom.
Summer: Hot, especially during the day. Best to visit early mornings or late afternoons for short walks. Not ideal for long hikes.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Rains make the hills green and fresh, but trails can be slippery. Be careful of mud and watch weather reports.
Autumn: Cool and dry weather, good for walking. Trees change colors, offering nice views.
Winter: Cool to cold, clear skies. Excellent for long hikes and enjoying views without heat. Sometimes light frost at higher points.
How to Reach
- By Air: Nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 30 to 40 kilometers from Margalla Hills National Park, taking around 45 to 60 minutes by car.
- By Road: Margalla Hills National Park is easily reached by car or taxi from anywhere in Islamabad. Major roads like Margalla Road provide direct access to different entry points and viewpoints.
- By Train: Nearest active railway station is Islamabad Railway Station. It is about 10 to 15 kilometers from the park, taking around 20 to 30 minutes by car.
- By Public Transport: You can use ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber for direct access. Local mini-buses and vans operate on routes close to the base of the hills, from where you can take a short taxi ride or walk to specific entry points.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- The Monal Restaurant: Pir Sohawa Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2898044. Get Directions
- Daman-e-Koh Cafe: Daman-e-Koh Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9206275. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Islamabad Marriott Hotel: Agha Khan Road, F-5/1, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2826121. Website: www.marriott.com Get Directions
- Serena Hotel Islamabad: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Sector G-5, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 111133133. Website: www.serenahotels.com Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), G-8/3, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9260742. Get Directions
- Ambulances: Rescue 1122 (Official emergency service for Pakistan): 1122.
- Police Station: Kohsar Police Station, F-7 Markaz, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9203673. Get Directions