Margalla Hills National Park — Attraction in Zone III

Margalla Hills, Islamabad

Margalla Hills, located in Islamabad, is one of the most beautiful and serene natural attractions in Pakistan. This mountain range is part of the Himalayan foothills and offers breathtaking views, lush greenery, and a refreshing escape from the busy city life.

Scenic Beauty & Environment

Margalla Hills are covered with dense forests, featuring a variety of trees, including pines and acacias. The hills are home to numerous species of birds, monkeys, and even leopards in the deeper areas. The air is fresh, and the scenic views of Islamabad from the top are truly mesmerizing, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Hiking & Outdoor Activities

The hills are famous for their hiking trails, with Trail 3, Trail 5, and Trail 6 being the most popular. These trails vary in difficulty, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers. Along the way, hikers can enjoy stunning viewpoints, small waterfalls, and peaceful picnic spots.

Food & Refreshments

After a tiring hike, visitors can relax at Monal Restaurant, which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Islamabad along with delicious Pakistani cuisine. There are also several small cafés and dhabas along the way where visitors can enjoy tea and snacks.

Accessibility & Safety

Margalla Hills are easily accessible from different parts of Islamabad. The roads leading to Daman-e-Koh and Pir Sohawa are well-maintained, making it a comfortable drive for visitors. However, hikers are advised to be cautious, stay hydrated, and avoid venturing too deep into the forests alone.

Final Verdict

Margalla Hills is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat. Whether you want to hike, enjoy the views, or simply relax in a natural setting, Margalla Hills offers an unforgettable experience.

⭐ Rating: 9/10 Would you like a more detailed review on any...

Margilla hills national park is one of the more well maintained national parks of Pakistan. It is also probably the most easily accessible one, too. Flaura and fauna of the park are so breathtaking. Wildfires do occur though, almost every year.

The park is as safe as it gets, for a national park, since it is close to the city, data signals do appear from time to time, it is easy to call for help, animal encounters are also common but not dangerous.

The park offers about 7 different trails. All of which are worth trekking through. Trail 5 is the most well maintained with proper markings throughout the trail. I also recommend trail 3 and new one, trail 7. Before travelling, you may need to confirm if they are open or not, as a local I know that trail 6 has been close for quite some time now to protect wildlife whereas trail 5 was also closed for a week in August 2025.

There are different rock climbing spots across the parks, most famous of which is Beetle's nest located behind Saidpur Village.

Then, there's different camping spots in the parks, most common of which is trail 5 camping spot.

Furthermore, there are some historical spots in the Margilla hills as well, such as Shah Allah Dita caves.

Overall, The whole park cannot really be visited in just a day. My recommendation is to stay at least a week in nearby Islamabad and explore it. To be fair, I have been living in Islamabad for 10+ years and I have not really been able to explore all of it so It is justifiable. There are many other spots that I have visited in the park, which are not really mapped on Google Maps, such as the plane crash site in...

This is the real reason why I love Islamabad beauty or marglla hill's 🥰❤️😍✨ Natural Beauty: 5/5 Margalla Hills National Park is a stunning natural oasis in the heart of Islamabad. The park's lush green forests, rolling hills, and scenic trails offer breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.

Wildlife: 4/5 The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and deer. However, spotting wildlife can be challenging due to the park's popularity among visitors.

Hiking Trails: 5/5 The park offers several well-marked hiking trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy to challenging. The trails offer spectacular views of Islamabad and the surrounding hills.

Facilities: 4/5 The park has basic facilities, including parking, restrooms, and food stalls. However, more developed facilities would enhance the overall experience.

Conservation Efforts: 4/5 The park is generally well-maintained, but more efforts are needed to protect the natural habitat and prevent littering.

Tips and Recommendations:

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and heat. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks. Respect the park's wildlife and natural environment. Explore the park's many trails and scenic viewpoints.

Overall Experience: Margalla Hills National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and scenic trails make it an ideal spot for hiking, picnicking,...