How much do you know and understand Pakistan? It is often associated with terrorism, extremism, sectarianism, corruption, load shedding and inflation. These negative aspects prevail, but if you can love Pakistan despite them, imagine the depth of love you would feel if you saw the positive side of the country, which knows no borders.
Here lies the most beautiful Kaghan Valley in the world, the mystical Saif-ul-Muluk lake with its unknown depths, high snow-capped peaks, majestic deserts and lush green valleys. Have you seen all of these? If not, we have tried to show the beautiful face of Pakistan, which is often covered by negative media coverage. We started with the snow-capped peaks, reviewed the mesmerizing lakes and now, in our third installment, we present the mountainous region of Galyat, which lies in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab and is unmatched worldwide.
Galyat is essentially a series of beautiful mountain roads that form a narrow strip of stunning scenery.
Baragali
This enchanting place is 2350 meters above sea level, 15 miles from Abbottabad and 25 miles from Murree. It serves as the summer campus of Peshawar University. Evergreen trees like pine and cedar adorn the mountain peaks, adding to the charm of the area. It is said that during the British era, there was a small military cantonment here where the soldiers stayed during the summer.
Changla Gali
This beautiful place Galyat, a dream land for many, is 2559 meters above sea level, 16 kilometers north of Murree. From the top, the view of the clouds in the valley below is mesmerizing. However, for drivers, the journey can be a nightmare due to the narrow, winding road with blind bends that obscure oncoming traffic.
Chhara Pani
This picturesque place in Galyat is about 15 kilometers from Islamabad, with a crystal clear and fast flowing stream. The water from the mountains is usually very cold, making it a popular stopping point for its beauty and for cooling vehicles. It’s a fantastic picnic spot, especially for kids, but adults find it refreshing too.
Ghora Gali
This beautiful mountain place is 1691 meters above sea level and is a union council of Tehsil Murree. Ghora Gali is famous for its 1100 feet long chair lift which runs from Ghora Gali to Pindi Pindi. Lawrence College, famous for its hostel and a renowned cadet college are also located here.
Nathia Gali
Nathia Gali is the most famous scenic spot in Galyat, situated at an altitude of 8,200 feet on the road connecting Murree to Abbottabad in Abbottabad district. It is 80 kilometers from Islamabad, with a pleasant summer climate that attracts many tourists. July and August have daily rainfall, while winter brings bitter cold and heavy snowfall in December and January. A large rock at the entrance reads “Paradise of Pakistan”, a claim with which visitors often agree. Nearby are Mukshpuri and Miranjani peaks.
Harno
About 12 kilometers from Abbottabad on the way to Nathia Gali, Harno amazes every passer-by with its beauty, especially along the banks of river Dor. During the tourist season, the area along the river is lively and festive.
Thandiani
This beautiful place, which means “cold”, is 9000 meters above sea level. To the east lies the Kunhar River and the Pir Panjal range of Kashmir. To the north and northeast are the Kohistan and Kaghan mountains, while to the northwest are the snow-capped peaks of Swat and Chitral. From this high point, the dark green forests of the surrounding heights and slopes offer a stunning view. These forests are so dense that sunlight often does not reach the ground, keeping snow in shaded areas even in summer.
Donga Gali
This beautiful tourist spot in Galyat is 8,200 meters above sea level and is part of the Ayubia National Park. It is located 3 kilometers from Nathia Gali. The Makshpuri hiking track here offers stunning views of the verdant mountains from its top and the fresh and sweet water from the spring is so nourishing that it can quench your hunger.
Khaira Gali
This place, 2347 meters above sea level, is also part of the Ayubia National Park. A famous hexagonal house on the high peak, owned by a well-known oil brand owner, is famous.
Jhika Gali
This beautiful place in Galyat is part of Tehsil Murree and is famous for its scenic views and numerous boarding schools.
Khanaspur
Part of the Ayubia National Park, this place is 7,500 meters above sea level. Winter brings snowfall, attracting many visitors, while summer’s moderate climate attracts people from the hot plains.
Ayubia National Park
Ayubia National Park, 26 kilometers from Murree, is named after former president Ayub Khan. It combines four mountain points: Ghora Gali, Changla Gali, Khaira Gali and Khanaspur. In addition to picnic spots, scenic areas and greenery, the park features a chair lift that attracts tourists. It was the first recreational activity of its kind in Pakistan, providing a great way to explore the area. The park is home to various birds such as the golden eagle, wild pigeon and vulture, as well as animals such as the black bear, wild fox and hyena.
Murri
Murree, known as the “Queen of Hills”, is Pakistan’s most famous tourist destination, just an hour from Islamabad. The drive from Islamabad or Abbottabad to Murree is filled with green mountains, dense forests and beautiful clouds. The mountains of Murree, green in summer and white in winter, are a major attraction for tourists. Situated 2,300 meters above sea level, Murree was founded in 1851 and served as the summer seat of the British government. From here you can see the snow-capped peaks of Kashmir in summer, while the play of clouds and sunset are daily spectacles during the rainy season. Some parts of this recreation area, especially Kashmir Point, are lush and extremely beautiful.
Burban
Bhurban, a small town in Punjab and a mountain resort in Galyat, is named after a nearby forest. Located around 9 kilometers from Murree, its lush green hills make it a paradise for tourists. Its proximity to Ayubia National Park makes it a boon for hiking enthusiasts. Bhurban Hill Apartments is a beautiful resort here and visitors often don’t want to leave.
