Murree

Pakistan's Beloved Hill Station

About Murree

Murree is Pakistan's most popular and accessible hill station, located just 65 km northeast of Islamabad at an average elevation of 2,291 meters. Established as a British colonial hill station in 1851, Murree has been a favorite retreat for generations of Pakistanis escaping the summer heat of the plains. The town features the vibrant Mall Road lined with shops and restaurants, several viewpoints including Pindi Point and Kashmir Point, and a chairlift at Patriata. The surrounding Galyat region (Nathia Gali, Ayubia) extends the experience with pine forests and hiking trails. While Murree can be crowded during peak season, its accessibility and variety of activities make it a perennial favorite for families.

Top Highlights

  • Mall Road, the bustling main street with shops and food stalls
  • Pindi Point with views of Islamabad and cable car rides
  • Kashmir Point offering views towards the Kashmir mountains
  • Patriata (New Murree) chairlift and cable car experience
  • Ayubia National Park for nature walks and hiking
  • Pleasant summer weather when plains are sweltering

Best Time to Visit

Year round destination. Summer (May to August) for escape from plains heat. Winter (December to February) for snowfall. Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.

How to Reach Murree

Murree is just 1.5 to 2 hours from Islamabad via the Islamabad Murree Expressway. Public transport, private cars, and tour buses all operate regularly.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • Extremely crowded on weekends and holidays; visit on weekdays if possible
  • Traffic jams are common; start early in the morning
  • Hotels range from budget to luxury; book ahead during peak season
  • Try local corn on the cob and roasted chestnuts from street vendors
  • The weather can change quickly; carry a light jacket even in summer