Ayubia

Ayubia is a beautiful hill station in Pakistan, located in the Abbottabad District. It is famous for Ayubia National Park, which is a protected area with dense forests, lush green hills, and a wide variety of wildlife. The park offers scenic walking trails, including the popular Ayubia Chairlift and the Dunga Gali Pipeline Track, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Ayubia’s cool climate and serene environment make it a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The area is also known for its cozy hotels and local eateries, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers and tourists.

1. Ayubia National Park

Ayubia National Park is a stunning protected area spanning over 3,312 hectares. It is famous for its lush pine forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic hiking trails. The park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Historical Significance

Established in 1984, the park was named after former Pakistani President Ayub Khan. It aims to protect the unique flora and fauna of the region and provide a recreational space for visitors.

Location

Ayubia National Park is located about 26 kilometers from Murree in the Abbottabad District.

Traveling

You can reach the park by car or taxi from Murree. The journey takes about an hour.

Nearby Eateries

• Ayubia Chairlift Restaurant: Offers snacks and meals with a view.
• Local Food Stalls: Serve traditional Pakistani snacks and drinks.

Cost

Entry fee is around PKR 20-50.

2. Ayubia Chairlift

The Ayubia Chairlift is a popular attraction within Ayubia National Park. It provides a scenic ride over the lush green forests and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Historical Significance

The chairlift was established to enhance the tourist experience in Ayubia National Park, making it easier for visitors to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes.

Location

The chairlift is located within Ayubia National Park.

Traveling

You can reach the chairlift station by car or taxi from Murree.

Nearby Eateries

• Chairlift Café: Offers light snacks and beverages.
• Nearby Stalls: Serve traditional Pakistani snacks.

Cost

The chairlift ride costs about PKR 300-500 per person.

3. Dunga Gali Pipeline Track

The Dunga Gali Pipeline Track is a scenic walking trail that runs through the lush pine forests of Ayubia National Park. The trail is 4 kilometers long and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Historical Significance

This track follows the route of an old pipeline that supplied water to the region during the British colonial era.

Location

The track starts in Dunga Gali and ends in Ayubia.

Traveling

You can reach Dunga Gali by car or taxi from Murree, and then start the track on foot.

Nearby Eateries

• Trailside Café: Offers snacks and beverages.
• Local Food Stalls: Serve traditional Pakistani snacks and tea.

Cost

The track is free to use.

4. Mukeshpuri Top

Mukeshpuri Top is the second-highest peak in the Galyat region, standing at 2,800 meters above sea level. The hike to the top is popular among tourists, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills, lush forests, and distant snow-capped mountains.

Historical Significance

Mukeshpuri Top has long been a favorite destination for hikers and nature lovers due to its breathtaking scenery and tranquil environment.

Location

Mukeshpuri Top is near Nathia Gali in the Abbottabad District.

Traveling

You can reach the starting point of the hike by car or taxi from Nathia Gali. The trek to the top takes about 2-3 hours.

Nearby Eateries

• Nathia Gali Café: Offers local snacks and tea.
• Pine View Restaurant: Serves traditional Pakistani cuisine and refreshments.

Cost

The hike to Mukeshpuri Top is free, but you may incur costs for transportation and food.

5. Nathia Gali Church

Nathia Gali Church is a beautiful colonial-era church located in the heart of Nathia Gali. The church’s architecture is reminiscent of the British period, and it is surrounded by lush greenery.

Historical Significance

Built during the British colonial era, Nathia Gali Church is an important historical landmark that reflects the architectural style and cultural influences of that time.

Location

The church is situated in Nathia Gali, Abbottabad District.

Traveling

You can reach the church by car, taxi, or on foot from Nathia Gali.

Nearby Eateries

• Church Café: Offers snacks and refreshments.
• Nearby Restaurants: Serve traditional Pakistani cuisine.

Cost

Visiting Nathia Gali Church is free.

6. Ayubia Wildlife Sanctuary

The Ayubia Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area within Ayubia National Park. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, black bears, and a wide range of bird species.

Historical Significance

The sanctuary was established to protect the diverse wildlife of the region and to promote conservation efforts.

Location

The sanctuary is located within Ayubia National Park.

Traveling

You can reach the sanctuary by car or taxi from Murree.

Nearby Eateries

• Sanctuary Café: Offers snacks and beverages.
• Local Food Stalls: Serve traditional Pakistani snacks and drinks.

Cost

Entry fee is included with the Ayubia National Park entry fee.

7. Miranjani Trek

Miranjani Trek is a scenic hiking trail leading to the highest peak in the Abbottabad District, standing at 2,992 meters. The trail passes through dense pine forests and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Historical Significance

The Miranjani Trek is a popular route for adventure seekers and has been a key attraction in the Galyat region for many years, known for its challenging yet rewarding hike.

Location

The trek starts near the Governor’s House in Nathia Gali.

Traveling

You can reach the starting point by car or taxi from Nathia Gali. The trek to the top takes about 4-5 hours.

Nearby Eateries

• Hilltop Restaurant: Offers a variety of local dishes.
• Tea Stalls: Serve traditional Pakistani tea and snacks.

Cost

The trek is free, but costs for transportation and food apply.

8. Lalazar Wildlife Park

Lalazar Wildlife Park is a small but beautiful park located in the Galyat region. It is known for its lush greenery, diverse plant life, and peaceful environment.

Historical Significance

The park serves as a conservation area for local flora and fauna and is a popular spot for picnics and nature walks.

Location

Lalazar Wildlife Park is located near Nathia Gali.

Traveling

You can reach the park by car or taxi from Nathia Gali.

Nearby Eateries

• Park Café: Offers snacks and refreshments.
• Nearby Food Stalls: Serve traditional Pakistani snacks and tea.

Cost

There is usually a small entry fee of around PKR 20-50.

9. Khaira Gali

Khaira Gali is a picturesque hill station in the Galyat region, known for its beautiful scenery, cool weather, and colonial-era cottages. It’s a great place for hiking, picnics, and relaxing in nature.

Historical Significance

Khaira Gali was developed during the British colonial period as a summer retreat. Many of the old buildings and bungalows from that era still stand.

Location

Khaira Gali is located about 16 kilometers from Murree.

Traveling

You can reach Khaira Gali by car or taxi from Murree. The scenic drive takes about 30 minutes.

Nearby Eateries

• Khaira Gali Hotel and Restaurant: Offers a variety of local and international dishes.
• Tea Stalls and Cafes: Serve snacks and beverages.

Cost

There is no entry fee to visit Khaira Gali, but costs for food and accommodation vary.

10. Thandiani

Thandiani is a hill station located in the Abbottabad District, known for its cool climate, lush green meadows, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Historical Significance

Thandiani was used as a summer retreat during the British colonial period. The name “Thandiani” means “very cold” in Urdu, reflecting its pleasant weather.

Location

Thandiani is located about 31 kilometers from Abbottabad.

Traveling

You can reach Thandiani by car or taxi from Abbottabad. The journey takes about an hour and a half.

Nearby Eateries

• Thandiani Café: Offers light snacks and beverages.
• Local Restaurants: Serve traditional Pakistani cuisine.

Cost

Visiting Thandiani is free, but you may incur costs for transportation and food.