From Margalla to Murree: The Ultimate Hill Station Road Trip
Escape Islamabad's heat with this breathtaking mountain drive through pine forests, colonial-era hill stations, and panoramic viewpoints. Our complete guide covers everything from scenic routes and must-see stops to essential driving tips for your perfect hill station getaway.
Trip Highlights
- Distance: 60-90km (depending on route)
- Drive Time: 2-3 hours (without stops)
- Best For: Nature lovers, photographers, families
- Key Attractions: Daman-e-Koh, Bhurban, Patriata
Why This Route?
- Cool mountain air just hours from Islamabad
- Mix of adventure and relaxation options
- Beautiful colonial architecture
- Excellent road conditions (compared to other mountain routes)
Choosing Your Perfect Route
The Classic Route: Islamabad-Murree Highway
Distance: 60km (2 hours)
Route: Islamabad → Daman-e-Koh → Lower Topa → Murree
Highlights: Most direct route, well-maintained roads, iconic viewpoints
Best For: First-time visitors, those short on time
Tip: Stop at Lower Topa for incredible valley views without the Murree crowds
Road Condition: Excellent
The Scenic Route: Via Bhurban & Patriata
Distance: 90km (3 hours)
Route: Islamabad → Bhara Kahu → Bhurban → Patriata → Murree
Highlights: Less traffic, stunning forest drives, cable car at Patriata
Best For: Nature lovers, those wanting to avoid crowds
Tip: Have lunch at the Pearl Continental Bhurban for spectacular views
Road Condition: Good with some narrow sections
Alternative: Lehtrar Road
Distance: 75km (2.5 hours)
Features: Less commercial, authentic village life
Challenge: Steeper climbs, sharper turns
Hidden Gem: Lehtrar Waterfall (seasonal)
Combination Route
Plan: Take one route up, another down
Recommendation: Scenic route up, classic route back
Advantage: Experience maximum diversity
Time Needed: Full day with stops
Unmissable Stops Along the Way
Daman-e-Koh (Margalla Hills)
Why Stop: Panoramic Islamabad views from 2,400ft
Activities: Short hikes, photography, breakfast at Monal Restaurant
Best Time: Early morning for clear skies
Facilities: Parking, restrooms, small cafes
Tip: Visit the nearby Pir Sohawa for an even higher viewpoint
Distance from Islamabad: 15km
Lower Topa
Why Stop: Stunning valley views without Murree's crowds
Activities: Picnics, short nature walks
Hidden Gem: The old British-era church
Facilities: Basic roadside stalls
Tip: Buy fresh seasonal fruits from local vendors
Distance from Daman-e-Koh: 30km
Bhurban
Highlight: Luxury resorts amidst pine forests
Must-Do: Tea at Pearl Continental's terrace
Photo Spot: Golf course views
Distance: 65km from Islamabad
Patriata (New Murree)
Highlight: Longest cable car in Pakistan
Must-Do: Ride to 7,000ft for breathtaking views
Adventure: Chairlift and amusement park
Distance: 75km from Islamabad
Murree Mall Road
Highlight: Colonial-era architecture
Must-Do: Buy woolen goods and souvenirs
Iconic Spot: Murree Brewery building
Distance: 70km from Islamabad
Essential Driving Tips
Vehicle Preparation
Check brakes, tires, and coolant before departure. Mountain roads demand reliable vehicles - consider renting a car with good horsepower if yours isn't suitable.
Navigation
Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) as cellular service can be spotty. Look for brown tourist signs marking viewpoints.
Road Etiquette
Use your horn on blind curves, yield to uphill traffic, and never stop on the road - use designated pullouts for photos.
Weather Watch
Check forecasts - afternoon fog is common. If visibility drops below 50m, consider waiting it out at a café.
Parking Tips
- 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 Stops
- Last reliable petrol pumps in Bhara Kahu
- Small stations in Murree but prices higher
- Always keep at least 1/4 tank
Where to Eat & Stay
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 PC: Splurge-worthy buffet with valley views
Tip: Try local wild mushrooms when in season (October-November)
Must-Try: Makai (corn) bread with local honey
Luxury Stays
Pearl Continental Bhurban: 5-star with golf course
Hotel One Murree: Modern amenities near Mall Road
Residency Hotel: Colonial charm with mountain views
Book Early: Weekends fill up months in advance
Budget Options
Al-Haram Hotel: Clean basic rooms near Mall
Hill View Hotel: Great value with views
PTDC Motel: Government-run reliable option
Tip: Negotiate rates on weekdays
Unique Experiences
Forest Cabins: Several eco-friendly options near Patriata
Heritage B&Bs: Converted colonial homes
Camping: Permitted in designated areas with permits
Note: Nights get cold even in summer
Seasonal Considerations
Summer (May-August)
- Peak season - book everything in advance
- Daytime: 18-25°C, nights cooler
- Afternoon showers common
- Weekends extremely crowded
Autumn (September-November)
- Best weather - clear skies, comfortable temps
- Fall foliage spectacular in October
- Fewer crowds after Eid season
- Ideal for photography
Winter (December-February)
- Snow transforms the landscape (Dec-Jan)
- Chains may be required for vehicles
- Many hotels have heating issues
- Christmas/New Year is premium pricing
Final Road Trip Tips
Timing: Leave Islamabad by 7am to avoid traffic and enjoy morning light
Essentials: Pack warm layers, sunglasses, cash (ATMs scarce), and car charger
Cultural Note: Dress modestly when stopping in villages
Responsible Travel: Carry trash back, respect wildlife, support local businesses
Most Importantly: Build in extra time - the best experiences come from unplanned stops and conversations with locals along the way.
Pro Tip: Weekday visits mean fewer crowds
