Nathia Gali: A pristine escape in the heart of Pakistan
Places to visit in Nathia Gali, Nathia Gali, located in the heart of Pakistan, is a peaceful hill station that provides relief from the rush and bustle of city life. This lovely refuge, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Abbottabad District, is a favorite resort for visitors seeking quiet and natural beauty.
List of Places to Visit in Nathia Gali
Below are some of the top places to visit in Nathia Gali and the surroundings
- Miranjani Trek
- Mushkpuri Peak
- Dunga Gali Pipeline Track
- Ayubia National Park & Chairlift
- St. Matthew’s Church
- Thandiani
- Harnoi Picnic Area
- Nathia Gali Waterfall
Miranjani Trek
It is the tallest mountain in the Galiyaat area, rising about 9,700 feet above sea level. The trip begins a little ahead of the Saint Matthews Church. The road goes to the Governor’s House. Before the House, there is a right descending bend that leads to the Miranjani Trek. Along the trip, you’ll come across Bakot woodland, Abshaar Road, a white cottage, Khan Kalaan, a waterfall, and Namli Maira villages.
The hike is around 5 kilometers long, and the average time to accomplish it is roughly 4 hours, depending on your speed and continuity. Because the top receives snow in the winter, July is the best season to hike.
The trail is filled with natural beauty, flowers, and big trees.
- Height: 9,700 feet from sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: roughly 7 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 88 kilometers.
Mushkpuri Peak
It is the region’s second-highest mountain, located in the Nathia Gali highlands. Miranjani Peak is now ranked first. The beautiful green mountain is well-known among walkers. People from all around the country and beyond come to see this sight.
The summit begins with NathiaGali and finishes in the deep forest. It takes three hours and is around 9,100 feet above sea level. The peak provides views of the Jhelum River, Murree, and the Bagh District. The weather is frequently cool and breezy, so you should dress warmly.
- Height: 9,100 feet from sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: roughly 3 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 80 kilometers.
Dunga Gali Pipeline Track
The route from Dunga Gali to Ayubia is four km long. The course is primarily covered with a thick grove of pine trees. Although the trail is safe for hikers, officials encourage them to keep alert and avoid hiking alone because they may encounter wild creatures along the way.
There are no rest spots on the path. However, there are several eateries and rest places at either end of the track. If you are not a trekker, you can always cover the path by riding a horse.
The trail is worth visiting since it is simple and provides wonderful summer weather. The journey is generally blocked in the winter owing to deep snow beds.
- Height: 8,200 feet above sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: roughly 6 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 80 kilometers.
Ayubia National Park & Chairlift
The location is named after Pakistan’s late President, Muhammad Ayub Khan. There are several hotels and eateries around. The location provides a variety of amenities to its guests, including riding courses, hiking trails, picnic areas, lodgings, a chairlift, and a walking trail called Dunga Gali.
Ayubia National Park, located between Murree and NathiaGali, is 8,000 feet above sea level. It is abundant with towering pine trees and high mountain slopes. Not to mention the exotic birds perched atop these huge trees, sending their chirping noises across the neighborhood.
- Height: 8,000 feet from sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: roughly 4 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 81 kilometers.
St. Matthew’s Church
Colonel Hope Waddell Kelsall erected the church in Nathia Gali in 1914, during British colonial rule. The church is composed of cedar wood. Saint Matthews Church is located near Paradise Point and Nathia Gali Park.
- Height: 9,020 feet from sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: about 0 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 83 kilometers.
Thandiani
Thandiani is another beautiful destination for nature enthusiasts. It has an elevation of 9,022 feet and is a must-see attraction when visiting NathiaGali.
The region is rich in lofty pine trees. The road travel from NathiaGali to Thandiani is picturesque, passing via Abbottabad. The weather is pleasant throughout the summer. During the winter, temperatures drop dramatically.
Thandiani also has a few restaurants and cafés. However, if you want something other than outside food, you may always bring your own or prepare it with your camping gear.
- Height: 9,020 feet from sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: roughly 53 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 160 kilometers.
Harnoi Picnic Area
The picnic spot is located between Nathia Gali and Abbottabad. The picnic area is famed for the Harnoi River, which flows from the gulleys into Havelian and eventually joins the Daur River.
The water is cool and tourists may enjoy various thrilling activities, including a plunge in the river, a few water sports, a children’s theme park, and dining out with family and friends.
- Height: 8,000 feet from sea level.
- Distance from Nathi Gali: roughly 22 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 142 kilometers.
Nathia Gali Waterfall
Nathia Gali Waterfall, located near Nathia Gali, is noted for its breathtaking natural beauty. The waterfall is surrounded by rich flora and provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers and photographers.
The Nathia Gali Waterfall falls down the slope, providing a calm and relaxing scene. The waterfall is ideal for picnics, with plenty of room for tourists to unwind and appreciate the beauty of nature. The surrounding region is also fantastic for photography, with several opportunities to capture picturesque landscapes.
Overall, the Nathia Gali Waterfall is a hidden gem that provides a tranquil and calm respite from the rush and bustle of daily life. It’s a must-see location for anybody visiting Nathia Gali, because of its breathtaking natural beauty and serene ambiance.
- Height: roughly 4,000 feet above sea level.
- Distance from Nathia Gali: roughly 5 kilometers.
- Distance from Islamabad: roughly 83 kilometers.
Things to do in Nathia Gali
Nathia Gali provides a wide range of activities for guests of all ages and interests. Here are some of the most popular activities in Nathia Gali:
- Hiking: Nathia Gali is surrounded by beautiful green woods and undulating hills, making it an ideal location for hiking and trekking. There are several hiking paths to select from, ranging from simple to hard. The Miranjani Track, Pipeline Track, and Mushkpuri Track are three of Nathia Gali’s most popular hiking paths.
- Sightseeing: Nathia Gali has several tourist sites, including the Governor’s House, the Church, and the Nathia Gali Bazaar. The Governor’s House is a stunning colonial-era structure surrounded by picturesque grounds. The Church is a historic structure established in the nineteenth century. The Nathia Gali Bazaar is a thriving marketplace where you may purchase souvenirs, handicrafts, and local cuisines.
- Picnicking: Nathia Gali is an excellent area to have a picnic with family and friends. There are several picnic locations to select from, each with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Horse riding: Horse riding is a common sport in Nathia Gali. Several horseback riding operators provide tours in the local region.
- Camping: Nathia Gali is an excellent area to camp. There are several campsites to select from, each with breathtaking views of the night sky.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nathia Gali is a hidden gem that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or simply seeking a relaxing vacation, Nathia Gali offers it all. So pack your bags and visit this picturesque hill station for an amazing experience!
