Nathia Gali is a popular hill station in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Located only a 35km drive away from Muree and Abbottabad, the place is known for its lush greenery, snowing weather, and hiking trails.
Although Nathia Gali is beautiful all year round, the summers, which are the months between March – June, are a real picture of heaven. Imagine leaving the hot plains behind and entering a realm where the temperature is comfortable (18.9°C to 32.6°C) and a light breeze caresses your skin. Spectacular greenery surrounds you at every turn. Nathia Gali is the ideal summer vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers alike because of its picturesque surroundings.
How to get there:
The journey from Islamabad to Nathia Gali is a breeze, taking approximately 1 hour and 14 minutes. Buckle up and unwind as the cityscape fades into the rearview mirror. Here are your travel options:
Hit the Road:
For those who love the open road, rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive through the mountainous foothills.
Taxi it There:
If you prefer a hassle-free journey, pre-book a taxi from Islamabad. Relax and enjoy the picturesque landscape as your driver takes care of the navigation.
Places to visit:
Mushkpuri Top:
A hidden gem among the hills of Nathia Gali, Muskpuri Top is an ideal place for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The trek is filled with multiple forests, lush greenery, and a quiet and serene atmosphere. The top is 3150 m high and at the very top of the mountain, you can even see the Kashmir valley.
Dunga Gali Pipeline:
The 3.5-kilometer Dungan Gali pipeline track, which is quite easy to walk and descends to an elevation of around 8,200 feet, traces the pipeline from Donga Gali to Ayubia. The hike is filled with breathtaking scenery, delightful weather, and fleeting moments of nature’s wonders like rain, sunshine, fog, and clouds.
Ayubia National Park:
If you are trekking Dunga Gali, you will get an aerial view of Ayubia National Park below. This journey is not recommended for those who are afraid of heights; the park extends from Dunga Gali to the Jehlum River.
This National Park is famous for its wildlife. The park has been transformed into a wildlife sanctuary housing multiple local and foreign species of animals.
Nathia Gali Waterfall:
Located at Namli Maria Road, this is a hidden gem among the locals, and not many tourists know about it. Therefore, it is the perfect spot to visit to enjoy the scenic view in tranquility without the rush of other tourists.
Samundar Katha Lake:
This lake was man-made by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. This recently built tourist attraction provides the following experiences: fishing, canoeing, boating, zip line, camping, archery, and mountain biking. The area around the lake has basic facilities including picnic and rest places, a few tourist-oriented stores and restaurants, and lots of unoccupied parking; nevertheless, hotel and housing arrangements are not currently in place.
Ayubia Chairlift:
One of the most well-known and historic chair lifts in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is the Ayubia chair lift.
The Ayubia chair lift ride is perfect for thrill-seekers who wish to see breathtaking natural scenery while soaring above the snow-capped mountains and feeling like they’re in the clouds.
What to Pack:
Clothes:
For daytime exploration, bring lightweight, breathable cotton items like kurtas, shalwar kameez, and breezy t-shirts.
Because the weather can drop significantly at night, remember to bring jackets and shawls. When exploring the place or hiking, don’t forget to bring good walking shoes.
Sunscreen:
It’s crucial to shield your skin from the sun. Carry a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and remember to reapply often, especially in the daytime hours.
First-Aid Kit:
Include necessities such as bandages, wipes, and painkillers for leg aches and headaches.
Other Essentials:
Remember to pack a camera to take pictures, a water bottle to stay hydrated, and a power bank to keep your electronics charged.
Booking a Stay:
Nathia Gali caters to all budgets, offering a range of accommodation options to suit your travel style. Budget-minded travelers can find cozy apartments or guesthouses for between Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 10,000 per night. For added comfort and convenience, consider mid-range hotels or charming cottages priced between Rs. 15,000 and Rs. 20,000. If ultimate luxury is something you are looking for, you can find villas ranging from Rs. 45,000 to Rs. 60,000 per night. To book at the best possible price, you should consider comparing prices among various online booking platforms such as Agoda Hotels, Booking. GoZayan, Roomy.
