Pir Sohawa
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Scenic Viewpoint
Location
Islamabad, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
2 to 3 Hours
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Pir Sohawa is a popular spot located high up in the Margalla Hills. It gives clear views of Islamabad city from above, especially beautiful at night. Many people go there for picnics, to enjoy the cool air, and to relax away from city life. The road to Pir Sohawa winds through green forests of the national park. It is a good place for a day trip to see the natural beauty.
What To Do
- Enjoy the wide view of Islamabad city from the top.
- Eat a meal or have tea at one of the restaurants on the hill.
- Go for a short walk on the paths near the viewpoint.
- Watch the sunset or sunrise over the city landscape.
- Take photos of the scenery and the city lights below.
What To Buy
- Handicrafts: Look for hand-made items like pottery or small wooden crafts in local shops around F-6 Markaz. Get Directions
- Traditional Clothing: Find scarves, shawls, or simple shirts (kurtas) at stores in Safa Gold Mall. Get Directions
- Local Snacks: Buy different Pakistani sweets or dry fruits from a grocery shop near F-7 Markaz. Get Directions
- Souvenirs: Small gifts like keychains or magnets with Islamabad designs can be found at Centaurus Mall. Get Directions
- Local Honey: Fresh honey from the Margalla Hills area, sometimes sold by small vendors or shops in nearby towns like Bara Kahu. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Keep the area clean by putting trash in bins.
- Do not harm the plants or animals in the Margalla Hills National Park.
- You are allowed to take photos for your own use.
- Dress in a respectful way, especially if you visit nearby villages.
- Follow traffic rules and drive slowly on the winding mountain roads.
Health & Safety
- Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk on any trails.
- Bring enough drinking water, especially on hot days.
- Drive carefully on the winding roads; they can be steep in places.
- Watch children closely, as some areas have steep drop-offs.
- Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change quickly in the hills.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March to May): The weather is pleasant and mild. Many flowers are in bloom, making it good for outdoor visits.
Summer: (June to August): Days can be hot, but the air is cooler on the hill. It might be less comfortable for long walks.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy (July to September): It is rainy and humid. The hills become very green. Roads can be wet and slippery.
Autumn: (October to November): The weather is cool and dry. Skies are usually clear, offering great views. It is a very good time to visit.
Winter: (December to February): It is cold, especially at night. Fog can sometimes hide the views. It is nice if you enjoy chilly weather.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 40 km from Pir Sohawa and takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.
- By Road: You can drive to Pir Sohawa using Pir Sohawa Road, which starts from Islamabad. The road is in good condition but has many turns.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Islamabad Railway Station. It is about 20 km from Pir Sohawa and takes around 45 minutes by car.
- By Public Transport: You can easily find local taxis or ride-hailing services like Careem or Uber in Islamabad to take you directly to Pir Sohawa. There are no direct public bus routes up the hill.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- The Monal Restaurant: Pir Sohawa Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2898044. Get Directions
- Highlander's BBQ and Grill: Pir Sohawa Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 331 5005051. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Serena Hotel Islamabad: Khayaban-e-Suhrawardy, Sector G-5, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 2874000. Website: serenahotels.com. Get Directions
- Ramada by Wyndham Islamabad: Club Road, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 111 200 400. Website: ramada.com. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Shifa International Hospital: Pitras Bukhari Road, Sector H-8/4, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 8463000. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122 - nationwide emergency service)
- Police Station:
- Kohsar Police Station: Sector F-7, Islamabad. Phone: +92 51 9205364. Get Directions