The Perfect Weekend in Murree: A 2-Day Itinerary
Escape to Pakistan's most beloved hill station with this carefully crafted weekend itinerary. From colonial-era charm to breathtaking mountain vistas, discover how to experience the best of Murree in just two days - with perfect timing to beat crowds and maximize your experience.
Itinerary Highlights
- Day 1: Colonial heritage, Mall Road, sunset viewpoints
- Day 2: Nature trails, Patriata adventure, local culture
- Perfect For: Couples, families, solo travelers
- Best Season: April-November (snow season requires adjustments)
Key Benefits
- Avoids common tourist mistakes
- Balances sightseeing with relaxation
- Includes hidden gems alongside must-sees
- Optimized timing to beat crowds
Day 1: Classic Murree & Colonial Charm
Your first day focuses on Murree's historic heart, with strategic timing to enjoy popular spots before crowds arrive.
7:00 AM - Departure from Islamabad
Route: Take the Islamabad-Murree Highway (60km, 2hr drive)
Tip: Leave early to avoid traffic and enjoy cool morning air
Breakfast Stop: Kala Khan Hotel in Bhara Kahu for fresh parathas (opens 6:30 AM)
9:30 AM - Arrival & First Impressions
Parking: Secure parking at Pindi Point (Rs. 200/day)
Morning Activity: Walk along Mall Road as shops open (least crowded time)
Must-See: Christ Church (1857), Murree Brewery building
11:00 AM - Kashmir Point Exploration
Why Go: Stunning valley views without Patriata crowds
Activity: Short nature walk along flower-lined paths
Hidden Gem: The old British cemetery with fascinating gravestones
1:00 PM - Lunch with a View
Recommendation: The Himalayan Restaurant near Mall Road
Must-Try: Their signature trout fish and garlic naan
Alternative: Cafe de Bambino for Italian with valley views
Tip: Reserve window seats when booking accommodation
Meal Time: 1-2:30 PM (avoid 2-3 PM rush)
3:00 PM - Pindi Point & Chairlift
Experience: Short chairlift ride (Rs. 300/person)
Best For: Panoramic photos of Jhelum Valley
Alternative: Children's Park if traveling with kids
5:00 PM - Sunset at Patriata (New Murree)
Drive Time: 30 minutes from central Murree
Golden Hour: Arrive by 5:30 PM for best light
Pro Tip: Skip the crowded main viewpoint - ask locals for "Photographer's Rock"
7:30 PM - Dinner & Evening Stroll
Recommendation: Savour Foods for authentic Pakistani cuisine
Evening Magic: Mall Road lit up with fairy lights
Nightcap: Kashmiri chai at roadside stall
Day 2: Nature Trails & Local Experiences
Your second day ventures beyond tourist areas to discover Murree's natural beauty and authentic culture.
6:30 AM - Sunrise at Ghora Gali
Why Early: Misty morning views worth waking up for
Location: 20-minute drive from central Murree
Activity: Short walk to Lawrence College viewpoint
8:30 AM - Breakfast in Nature
Spot: Sunny Bank (historic British-era bungalow)
Experience: Outdoor breakfast with panoramic views
Order: Their famous omelets and fresh juice
10:00 AM - Ayubia National Park Adventure
Drive Time: 45 minutes through scenic roads
Activities: Chairlift, hiking trails, wildlife spotting
Must-Do: Trek to Mushkpuri Top (2 hours roundtrip)
1:00 PM - Village-Style Lunch
Recommendation: Dunga Gali Village Restaurant
Specialty: Organic chicken karahi and makai ki roti
Experience: Authentic village atmosphere
Tip: Try their homemade rhododendron juice
Location: En route back from Ayubia
3:00 PM - Bhurban Resort Relaxation
Option 1: Day pass at Pearl Continental (Rs. 2,500 with food credit)
Option 2: Walk around Bhurban golf course
Pamper: Spa treatments available at PC
5:30 PM - Last-Minute Shopping
Best Buys: Woolen shawls, handmade jewelry, local honey
Where: Bhurban roadside stalls (better prices than Mall Road)
Bargaining: Start at 50% of quoted price
7:00 PM - Farewell Dinner
Recommendation: The Den at PC Bhurban
Special: Live music on weekends
Alternative: Cafe Lazeez in central Murree
Where to Eat in Murree
Best Fine Dining
The Den (PC Bhurban): International cuisine with live music
Himalayan Restaurant: Renowned for fresh trout dishes
Residency Hotel Restaurant: Colonial ambiance
Best Local Eats
Savour Foods: Authentic Pakistani flavors
Murree Coffee House: Cozy spot for breakfast
Roadside Corn Stalls: Must-try roasted corn
Best Views
Cafe de Bambino: Italian with valley vistas
Sunny Bank: Historic bungalow with terrace
Pindi Point Cafeteria: Quick snacks with panorama
Dining Pro Tips
Timing: Book dinner by 6PM to avoid waits
Budget: Meals range Rs. 800-3,000 per person
Must-Try: Trout fish, corn bread, Kashmiri chai
Hidden Gem: Ask locals about "dhabas" for authentic flavors
Where to Stay in Murree
Luxury Options
Pearl Continental Bhurban: 5-star with golf course
Residency Hotel: Colonial charm meets modern comfort
Hotel One Murree: Centrally located with amenities
Mid-Range Choices
Hilltop Hotel: Great views, reasonable prices
Al-Haram Hotel: Clean rooms near Mall Road
Pine View Hotel: Cozy atmosphere
Budget Stays
PTDC Motel: Government-run reliable option
New Shalimar Hotel: Basic but clean
Backpackers Hostel: Dorm-style affordable stays
Essential Weekend Trip Tips
Packing List
- Warm layers (even in summer)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Power bank (frequent outages)
- Cash (many places don't accept cards)
Transport Advice
- Arrive before 10AM to find parking
- Consider hiring local driver for day 2
- Metro buses available from Islamabad
Cultural Notes
- Dress modestly outside tourist areas
- Ask permission before photographing locals
- Friday prayers may affect opening hours
Final Thoughts
This itinerary balances must-see attractions with authentic local experiences, all while avoiding the crowds that overwhelm Murree on weekends. The key is starting early, booking key meals and activities in advance, and allowing flexibility for weather changes or unexpected discoveries.
Murree reveals its true beauty when you move beyond the souvenir shops and crowded viewpoints. Follow this guide to create a weekend getaway that feels both exciting and restorative - the perfect mountain escape just hours from Islamabad.
Remember: The journey is as beautiful as the destination
