As a regular trail-goer in Islamabad, I finally explored Trail 4 (Dhok Jeevan Track) for the first time, and here's my honest review.
Compared to Trail 3 and 5—which are my usual go-tos—Trail 4 is definitely less challenging and has a gentler incline. That said, it lacks the kind of scenic beauty hikers often look for. While the trail is beautifully shaded with trees and rich with nature's calm, it only offers 2–3 good spots to view Islamabad’s landscape. So if you’re in it for the Instagram-worthy views, this may not be the best pick.
We started our hike during the monsoon season, and it began raining as we walked. That made the path quite muddy and slippery, so do wear proper hiking shoes if you're going in the rains. The stream was full and gushing, which added to the experience but also made crossing trickier. Also, do NOT drink from the stream—best to carry your own ample water supply, as there are no water points or refreshment stalls like on Trails 3 and 5.
What stood out to me was the peaceful vibe. Most of the public seemed to be enjoying themselves downstream, and as we ascended, we encountered very few hikers—great for anyone who values quiet, uncrowded trails.
One thing to note: the trail gets confusing at times. There are several forks with no clear signage, and for a first-timer, it’s hard to tell which path leads to the top. We took a couple of wrong turns and felt a bit lost. If you’re new to Trail 4, I strongly suggest going in a group or with a hiking community who knows the route well.
Overall, it was an average experience for me. Peaceful but lacking views, and the trail can be confusing if you're not familiar with it. I’ve decided to stick to Trail 3 and Trail 5 in the future, which offer more variety, better views, and helpful facilities.
Still, if you're looking for quiet, forested walks away from the crowd, this one might be worth a try.
Tip: Go prepared. Good shoes, water, group coordination =...
Read moreIts Total Length of Trail-4 is around 9.5km with 3-4 Hours Hiking, Walking. Most Scenic and wild Trail of Islamabad, Safe for alone hikes but don't hike after 2:00pm, The Best time of Hike 7am to 11am, it is Around About Trail, you can find yourself where you left, so don't be panic if you can't find it's ending, if you turn left from Dhok Jeewan's Sign you'll be able to reach Selfie Point in Just 1 Hour hiking with the distance of 2.9km.
There are very few capital cities in the world that are blessed with such close proximity to nature as Islamabad.
The Margalla Hills are the continuation of the Himalayan mountain range. The soil on the hill is fertile and completely covered with green trees, herbaceous plants and rocks. The forest on the hills is the natural habitat for a variety of animals and birds. The forestry department of Pakistan and the authorities has tried their level best to revive tourism in this area. Every year, many private clubs along with the authorities conduct a hiking excursion to fetch up the importance of the Margalla Hills among all age groups. The authorities have made possible for people to visit the forest, roam about safely, and explore the natural resort. For people who wants to experience hiking and overnight camping can come here as it is the safest place for the purpose.
The two sides of Islamabad are surrounded by the hills. Therefore, it is possible and much easier to access. There are eight trails that vary in distances, and are assigned with numbers, i.e Trails # 1,2,3,4, 5, and 6. The remaining two tracks are named as; the Saidpur trail, and...
Read moreOne of the most peaceful trail. Hiking Tips #bring water: plenty of water if you are heading toward Dhook Jevan and Trail 4.... cz it's almost 8 hours hiking.... otherwise Talhar morr trail is just 2 hours long .... Food: food is not allowed but if security guards are not on duty than you've a good chance to bring food but it's very rare..... So you've to starve. Waterfalls: 2 waterfalls are present but only in rainy season.... otherwise they are dry and dirty Hiking alone? No, it's never Safe especially on Dhook Jevan trail.... you must have 3 to 4 hikers alongside..... girls should never hike alone This trail is Very very close to nature and is very thick nd rich in species of birds and wild animals.... so if you feel wrong or watch footsteps of any heavy animal than don't move forward.... just get your way back..... it's specifically for Dhook Jevan side ( pretty long and dangerous) No signals available.... only very few points where you can access signal which are almost reached after 2 to 3 hours hiking bring mosquito lotion in rainy days Nature Lovers: must give a try... you'll see birds not only chirping but fighting as hell.... nd it's very exciting also bcz when you're ready to face a wild animals and it actually appears a tiny bird with a heavy chirping voice.... u suddenly cool down...hahaha.... Experience: you'll have the best memories and will enjoy the real taste of hiking in pure...
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