The Classic Route: Islamabad-Murree Highway
Distance: 60km (approximately 2 hours)
Route: Islamabad → Daman-e-Koh → Lower Topa → Murree
Highlights: Most direct route, well-maintained roads, iconic viewpoints
Best For: First-time visitors and those with limited time
Travel Tip: Stop at Lower Topa for incredible valley views without Murree’s crowds
Road Condition: Excellent throughout
The Scenic Route: Via Bhurban & Patriata
Distance: 90km (approximately 3 hours)
Route: Islamabad → Bhara Kahu → Bhurban → Patriata → Murree
Highlights: Less traffic, stunning forest drives, cable car at Patriata
Best For: Nature lovers and those wanting to avoid crowds
Dining Tip: Enjoy lunch at Pearl Continental Bhurban for spectacular views
Road Condition: Good with some narrow sections
Alternative Route: Lehtrar Road
Distance: 75km (approximately 2.5 hours)
Features: Less commercialized, authentic village life experience
Challenge: Steeper climbs and sharper turns
Hidden Gem: Seasonal Lehtrar Waterfall
Combination Route Strategy
Plan: Take one route going up and another coming down
Recommended Combination: Scenic route going up, classic route returning
Advantage: Maximum diversity of experiences
Time Needed: Full day with stops for maximum enjoyment
Unmissable Stops Along the Way
Daman-e-Koh (Margalla Hills)
Why Stop: Panoramic Islamabad views from 2,400 feet elevation
Activities: Short hikes, photography, breakfast at Monal Restaurant
Best Time: Early morning for clear skies
Facilities: Parking, restrooms, small cafes
Local Tip: Visit nearby Pir Sohawa for an even higher viewpoint
Distance from Islamabad: 15km
Lower Topa
Why Stop: Stunning valley views without Murree’s tourist crowds
Activities: Picnic spots, short nature walks
Hidden Gem: The historic British-era church
Facilities: Basic roadside stalls
Shopping Tip: Buy fresh seasonal fruits from local vendors
Distance from Daman-e-Koh: 30km
Bhurban
Highlight: Luxury resorts nestled within pine forests
Must-Do Experience: Afternoon tea at Pearl Continental’s terrace
Best Photo Spot: Views over the golf course
Distance from Islamabad: 65km
Patriata (New Murree)
Highlight: Longest cable car ride in Pakistan
Must-Do Experience: Ride to 7,000 feet for breathtaking views
Adventure Options: Chairlift and family amusement park
Distance from Islamabad: 75km
Murree Mall Road
Highlight: Colonial-era architecture and historic atmosphere
Must-Do Activity: Shopping for woolen goods and souvenirs
Iconic Landmark: Historic Murree Brewery building
Distance from Islamabad: 70km
“Most tourists rush straight to Murree, but the real magic is in the journey – the small villages, roadside chai stops, and unexpected viewpoints along the way.” – Farah, Travel Blogger
Essential Driving Tips for Mountain Roads
Vehicle Preparation
Check brakes, tires, and coolant before departure. Mountain roads demand reliable vehicles – consider renting a car with good horsepower if your vehicle isn’t suitable for steep climbs.
Navigation Advice
Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) as cellular service can be unreliable in mountain areas. Look for brown tourist signs marking scenic viewpoints.
Mountain Road Etiquette
Use your horn when approaching blind curves
Yield to uphill traffic when possible
Never stop on the road – use designated pullouts for photography
Weather Awareness
Check forecasts before departure – afternoon fog is common. If visibility drops below 50 meters, consider waiting it out at a roadside café until conditions improve.
Parking Tips for Murree
Murree Mall Road parking is extremely limited
Paid parking lots available near Pindi Point
Bhurban hotels often allow non-guests to park for a fee
Fuel Station Planning
Last reliable petrol pumps are in Bhara Kahu
Small stations exist in Murree but prices are higher
Always keep at least 1/4 tank of fuel in mountain areas
Where to Eat & Stay Along Your Journey
Best Roadside Eats
Kala Khan Hotel (Bhara Kahu): Famous for their parathas – perfect breakfast stop
Lower Topa Corn Stalls: Fresh roasted corn with Himalayan salt
Murree Kashmiri Tea Stalls: Warm up with traditional pink tea
Bhurban Pearl Continental: Splurge-worthy buffet with valley views
Seasonal Tip: Try local wild mushrooms when in season (October-November)
Must-Try Local Specialty: Makai (corn) bread with local honey
Luxury Accommodation Options
Pearl Continental Bhurban: 5-star hotel with golf course access
Hotel One Murree: Modern amenities near Mall Road
The Residency Hotel: Colonial charm with mountain views
Booking Advice: Reserve weekends months in advance due to high demand
Budget-Friendly Stays
Al-Haram Hotel: Clean basic rooms near Mall Road
Hill View Hotel: Great value with mountain views
PTDC Motel: Government-run reliable option
Money-Saving Tip: Negotiate rates for weekday stays
Unique Mountain Experiences
Forest Cabins: Several eco-friendly options near Patriata
Heritage B&Bs: Converted colonial homes with character
Camping: Permitted in designated areas with proper permits
Important Note: Mountain nights get cold even during summer months
Seasonal Considerations for Your Road Trip
Summer Travel (May-August)
Peak tourist season – book everything well in advance
Daytime temperatures: 18-25°C, nights significantly cooler
Afternoon showers are common
Weekends become extremely crowded
Autumn Travel (September-November)
Best weather conditions – clear skies and comfortable temperatures
Fall foliage is spectacular throughout October
Fewer crowds after the Eid holiday season
Ideal time for landscape photography
Winter Travel (December-February)
Snow transforms the landscape (especially December-January)
Tire chains may be required for vehicles
Some hotels may have heating issues
Christmas and New Year periods command premium pricing
Final Road Trip Tips
Timing Strategy: Leave Islamabad by 7:00 AM to avoid traffic and enjoy morning light
Packing Essentials: Warm clothing layers, sunglasses, sufficient cash (ATMs are scarce), and car charger
Cultural Consideration: Dress modestly when stopping in village areas
Responsible Travel: Carry trash back with you, respect wildlife, and support local businesses
Most Important Advice: Build extra time into your schedule – the best experiences often come from unplanned stops and conversations with locals along the way.
Pro Travel Tip: Weekday visits mean significantly fewer crowds and more authentic experiences.
“No matter how many times I’ve driven this route, I always discover something new – a hidden waterfall after monsoon rains, a village festival, or simply the way the light filters differently through the pines each season.” – Imran, Local Guide
