Best Picnic Spots in Pakistan for Summer Vacation
Published: 05/02/2025
In many parts of Pakistan, summers get really hot, especially in the south. That’s why, when the heat becomes too much, people often plan a trip to the north. The cool weather, fresh breeze, green hills, and quiet views offer a nice break from busy, noisy city life.
Whether you’re going with family, friends, or just taking some time alone, there are many good places to visit where the weather is pleasant and the surroundings feel calm.
In this article, we’ll talk about some peaceful picnic spots in the northern areas of Pakistan that are great for summer vacations.
Let’s begin.
Perfect Picnic Places in Pakistan for Summer Vacation
When summer gets too hot, especially in cities like Lahore, Karachi, or Multan, people start looking for places where they can breathe in some fresh air and enjoy cooler weather. Northern Pakistan becomes a favorite choice during this time, and for good reason.
Up in the hills, the weather stays pleasant. You’ll find green valleys, quiet lakes, cold rivers, and soft breezes that feel refreshing after the dry, hot days in the south. These places aren’t just beautiful; they help you feel calm inside, too. Whether you’re going with family for a day out, with friends for some fun, or even alone to rest and think, these picnic spots offer something for everyone.
Some people like to sit under a tree near a lake and enjoy a simple cup of tea. Others prefer short hikes, peaceful views, or just lying on the grass and doing nothing at all. And that’s the best part — there’s no rush, no noise, and no big plans needed.
So in this article, I’ll walk you through some of the best places to visit during summer in northern Pakistan. Each one is special in its own way — and perfect for a calm, simple, and fresh summer break.
1. Northern Areas – A Cool Retreat for Summer Vacations
The northern areas of Pakistan are perfect for a summer escape. With their pleasant weather, towering mountains, and breathtaking landscapes, these regions are among the best picnic spots in the country.
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Naran & Kaghan Valley
Naran and Kaghan valleys are packed with greenery, flowing rivers, and cool weather. One of the must-see locations here is Lake Saif-ul-Malook, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering mountains. You can enjoy boating, horse riding, and camping by the lake.
Fairy Meadows
Fairy Meadows is one of those places that makes you stop and just look around. It sits right in front of Nanga Parbat, the ninth-highest mountain in the world. The view is huge and quiet, with snowy peaks in the distance and green grass under your feet.
People usually come here to camp. At night, the sky is full of stars, and everything feels still. There’s no city noise, no lights, just cold air, silence, and the sound of wind through the trees.
If you enjoy sitting by a campfire, walking on soft grass, or just watching the clouds move past the mountain, Fairy Meadows is a place you’ll remember for a long time.
Hunza Valley
Hunza is a calm and beautiful valley surrounded by tall mountains like Rakaposhi and Ultar Sar. The views are wide and open, and the air feels fresh all day.
In Hunza, you can visit old forts like Baltit Fort and Altit Fort, where you’ll learn a bit about the history of the valley. There are also places like Attabad Lake, where the blue water looks like a painting, and the famous Passu Cones, sharp mountain peaks that stand out from far away.
Whether you’re walking through small villages, sitting by the lake, or just enjoying the cold breeze with a cup of tea, Hunza gives you a break from busy life. It’s the kind of place where time feels slow, and that’s what makes it special.
Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Neelum Valley is one of the most loved places in Azad Kashmir. It has clear rivers, green hills, and cool weather that feels like a break from the heat and noise of the city.
Some of the most famous picnic spots here are Keran, Sharda, Arang Kel, and Taobat. In Keran, you can sit by the river and watch the water flow slowly. Sharda has old ruins and open fields to walk around. Arang Kel is like a small heaven on top of a hill, with wooden houses and soft grass all around. And Taobat, the last village in the valley, is quiet, green, and full of raw beauty, where the Neelum River enters Pakistan.
Whether you’re going for one day or a few, Neelum Valley gives you space to rest, breathe, and feel fresh again.
Deosai National Park
Deosai, also called the Land of Giants, is a high, flat land between Skardu and Astore. It looks like a big green field stretching as far as your eyes can see. The place is full of soft grass, wildflowers, and open skies. If you love quiet nature and want to be somewhere far from the noise, this is a great spot. Whether you want to camp, take photos, or just sit and enjoy the fresh air, Deosai gives you that peaceful feeling.
Skardu
Skardu is one of the most beautiful places in Gilgit-Baltistan. It has high mountains, calm lakes, and wide green areas where you can just sit and enjoy the view.
Popular picnic spots here include Shangrila Resort, with its red-roof huts and lake, and Satpara Lake, where the water is clear and cold. The weather stays pleasant in summer, and the quiet surroundings make it a nice break from busy city life.
Skardu is also a great place to take simple walks, enjoy local food, and spend time near nature with family or friends.
Hushe Valley
Not far from Skardu, Hushe Valley is a quiet place with big mountain views and small villages. It’s one of the last valleys before the great peaks like K2 and Masherbrum, so the surroundings feel wild and peaceful at the same time.
People who enjoy walking, camping, or just spending time away from noise will like it here. The air is fresh, the nights are cold, and the views are wide open. It’s not crowded, so you can really slow down and enjoy nature.
Kalash Valley
In Chitral, Kalash Valley is one of the few places in Pakistan where nature and culture come together in a very special way. It’s home to the Kalash people, who live in small wooden houses, wear bright clothes, and follow traditions that are many centuries old.
The valley is surrounded by tall green mountains and fresh air. It’s a quiet place, good for simple walks, peaceful picnics, and learning about a different way of life.
One of the most famous times to visit is during the Chilam Joshi Festival, held in May. This is when the whole valley comes alive. Locals sing, dance, wear their best dresses, and welcome guests with smiles. It’s a festival full of joy, color, and community, something that stays with you long after you leave.
If you want a place that feels different, peaceful, and full of life, Kalash Valley is worth a visit.
2. Hill Stations – Cool and Calm Picnic Places for Summer
When the summer heat gets too much in the big cities, people look for cooler places to relax. That’s why hill stations are a favorite. These places stay cool in the hot months and give you a calm break from the rush of daily life.
Whether you’re planning a picnic with your family or just want to enjoy quiet time with nature, hill stations are a great choice. You get fresh air, nice views, and space to breathe. Some are easy to reach, while others take a bit of a drive — but once you’re there, it always feels worth it.
Murree
Murree is one of the most famous picnic places in Pakistan. When it gets very hot in the cities, many people go to Murree to enjoy the cool weather.
You can visit Patriata (New Murree) and take a chairlift ride to see the trees and hills from above. For quiet moments, you can go to Pindi Point or Kashmir Point and just sit, relax, and look at the hills.
Murree gets busy in summer, but the weather is nice, and the views are lovely. It’s a good place for a family trip or a peaceful picnic with friends.
Nathia Gali
Nathia Gali is a quiet and cool place, perfect for summer. It has big green trees, fresh air, and soft walking trails.
If you like to walk, you can go on easy treks to Mukshpuri or Miranjani hills. From the top, you can see wide views all around. It’s not very hard, and the path is full of trees and birds.
The weather here stays nice, even when it’s very hot in other places. That’s why many people come here to rest, enjoy nature, and have a slow, peaceful day.
Ayubia National Park
Ayubia National Park is a nice place for a picnic, especially if you enjoy quiet walks and being close to nature. The park has lots of tall trees, fresh air, and walking paths that are not too hard.
You might see birds, monkeys, or other small animals while walking. Many families come here to relax, walk under the trees, and have lunch in the open air.
It’s a peaceful spot, not too far from Murree and Nathia Gali, and the weather stays cool, even in summer.
Toli Peer (Azad Kashmir)
Toli Peer is a quiet place on top of a hill in Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir. From up there, you can see green valleys all around, and the view feels wide and open.
It’s a great place to sit on the grass, enjoy the cool wind, and take simple walks with friends or family. It doesn’t get too crowded, so you can relax and enjoy your time.
The air feels fresh, the land is open, and it’s the kind of place where you can just sit and forget about busy life for a while.
3. Lakes and Rivers in Pakistan for Summer Vacation
If you enjoy sitting by the water, Pakistan has many beautiful lakes and rivers where you can relax and enjoy your summer day. These places are calm, quiet, and great for a family picnic or just a peaceful break.
Saif-ul-Malook Lake
Saif-ul-Malook is a very famous lake near Naran. It sits high in the mountains and stays cold even in summer. The lake is big and deep, and its water looks greenish-blue.
You’ll see tall snow-covered peaks all around. The view is calm and quiet, and many people like to sit there, walk along the edge, or take photos. You can also enjoy a simple boat ride.
The weather changes fast here, so it’s good to bring a warm jacket even in hot months. It’s a nice spot if you want to spend a slow, peaceful day close to nature.
Attabad Lake
Attabad Lake is in Hunza, and it was formed after a big landslide back in 2010. The water here looks bright blue, and the lake is long and deep.
People come to sit by the water, take boat rides, or try fun things like jet skiing and fishing. You’ll see big mountains all around, and the view feels wide and open.
It’s a quiet place to spend time with family or friends. Whether you want to try something fun or just sit and enjoy the fresh air, this lake has something for everyone.
Khanpur Dam
Khanpur Dam is close to Islamabad and a fun place for people who like water activities. You can ride a boat, try jet skiing, swim, or even jump from small cliffs if you enjoy a little adventure.
The dam is big and open, with hills around it. Many families and groups of friends come here for a day picnic, especially on weekends.
It’s a nice spot to enjoy fresh air, some fun in the water, and quiet time away from the city.
Rawal Lake (Islamabad)
Rawal Lake is a quiet place in Islamabad where many people go for picnics, especially in summer. You can sit by the water, ride a boat, or just enjoy walking on the small tracks around the lake.
Some people also come here for fishing or to watch the sun go down in the evening. It’s a nice spot for families and friends to relax and spend time outdoors without going too far from the city.
4. Cool Valleys and Forests
Pakistan has many green valleys and forest areas where the air feels fresh and the weather stays cool in summer. These places are great for a calm picnic, a short walk, or just spending time with your family and friends away from the heat.
Swat Valley
Swat Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in summer. It has tall green hills, cold rivers, and many small waterfalls. The weather stays cool, which makes it a good place to relax when other parts of the country get too hot.
Popular picnic spots here include Malam Jabba, Mingora, and Fizagat Park. You can ride a chairlift in Malam Jabba, go for light hikes, or just sit near a waterfall and enjoy the sound of water.
Swat is peaceful, clean, and full of natural beauty, a great place for families, groups, or even solo travelers.
Kumrat Valley
Kumrat Valley is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It has big green trees, cool rivers, and quiet places to relax. The weather is nice in summer, and it feels fresh and calm.
Two good places for picnics are the Panjkora River and Jahaz Banda Meadows. You can sit near the water, walk around, or just enjoy being in the forest. Many people come here with friends and family to camp, cook food, and spend time in nature.
If you want a break from city noise, Kumrat is a good place to visit.
Shogran & Siri Paye
Shogran is a small hill spot with cool weather and fresh air. It’s a nice place to relax in summer when the cities get too hot. From here, you can go up to Siri Paye Meadows, which are wide green fields high in the hills.
You can see Makra Peak from here, and the views are beautiful. People come to enjoy walking, taking photos, and having tea with friends while sitting on the soft grass.
It’s quiet, simple, and a great place for a peaceful picnic.
Adventure & Camping Picnic Spots in Pakistan (Summer Special)
If you like adventure, Pakistan has many picnic spots where you can enjoy nature and also try fun things like hiking, camping, and boating. These places are not just for sitting and eating — they’re for moving around, exploring, and making exciting memories with your friends or family.
Ratti Gali Lake
Ratti Gali Lake is in Azad Kashmir and is one of the prettiest places you can visit in summer. You can get close to the lake by jeep, then walk a little to reach it. The walk is easy for most people, and the views on the way are amazing.
The lake has clear blue water, and big snow-covered mountains stand all around it. It’s a great place for a picnic, short hike, or even camping if you want to stay longer. Many people just sit by the water and enjoy the quiet and fresh air.
Arang Kel
Arang Kel is a small, green village in Neelum Valley. It’s high up in the mountains and feels very calm and quiet. To reach it, you can either ride a cable car or hike through the forest — both ways are fun and full of great views.
Once you’re there, you’ll see open green fields, wooden houses, and snow-covered peaks in the distance. People come here to walk around, camp, and enjoy the cool weather. It’s a good picnic spot if you want peace and something different from the usual places.
Malam Jabba
Malam Jabba is in Swat and is known for skiing in winter, but it’s also a good place to visit in summer. The weather is cool, and you can walk on the hills, try the zipline, or just sit and enjoy the view.
It’s a fun spot for families, friends, or anyone who likes a little adventure with their picnic. You can also find food stalls and tea shops nearby, so you can relax and enjoy the fresh air.
- Best Time to Visit – The best time to go on a picnic in Pakistan is from May to September. During these months, the weather is usually pleasant, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- Packing Essentials – When packing for your picnic, bring light clothes to stay cool in the heat. Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. It’s also a good idea to pack snacks and water to keep you energized and hydrated. A first-aid kit can come in handy for any minor injuries.
- Travel Tips – If you’re planning to visit remote areas, make sure to check the road conditions and availability of accommodation beforehand. Some areas might have limited services, so it’s better to plan.
- Safety Advice – Always carry the right gear for your trip, especially if you’re going hiking or to an unfamiliar place. It’s also a good idea to tell someone close to you about your travel plans in case of emergencies.
- Make a Budget First – Before you go, plan your budget. Think about how much you’ll need for travel, food, accommodation, and activities. Setting a budget will help you avoid any surprises and ensure a stress-free trip.
- Decide Where You Want to Go – Think about the type of picnic you want. Do you prefer the mountains, a beach, or a forest? Choose a place that suits your mood and fits your budget.
- Book Hotels in Advance – If you’re traveling during busy seasons, like summer holidays, it’s a good idea to book your hotel in advance. This way, you can avoid last-minute struggles and ensure you have a comfortable place to stay.
FAQs
Some of the best spots include Naran & Kaghan Valley, Hunza, Neelum Valley, Murree, Swat Valley, and Fairy Meadows.
Murree, Nathia Gali, Rawal Lake, and Swat Valley are excellent family-friendly destinations.
You can enjoy hiking (Fairy Meadows, Ratti Gali), boating (Attabad Lake, Khanpur Dam), zip-lining (Malam Jabba), trekking (Arang Kel), and camping (Deosai, Hushe Valley).
Yes, camping is popular at places like Fairy Meadows, Deosai National Park, Ratti Gali Lake, and Toli Peer, offering stunning views and starry nights.
Most spots are accessible by road from Islamabad (e.g., Naran is 7-8 hours, Murree is 1-2 hours). Public buses or private cars are common, with some requiring jeeps for remote areas like Arang Kel.
Conclusion
So, friends, in this guide, we’ve talked about the best picnic spots in Pakistan for summer vacations.
From peaceful hills to cold lakes, green valleys to adventure tracks — there’s something for everyone. If you love nature, you’ll find places like Murree, Swat, and Nathia Gali perfect for relaxing with your family. If you’re into camping and hiking, Fairy Meadows, Ratti Gali, and Malam Jabba are waiting for you.
And if water is your thing, you can enjoy boating and fun at Attabad Lake, Khanpur Dam, and Rawal Lake.
Pakistan is full of amazing places. You just have to choose one, pack your things, and go enjoy the fresh air and calm views.
So, are you ready to leave the city heat behind? Make a plan, pick your favorite spot, and enjoy a day out with your loved ones. And yes, wherever you go, please keep the place clean. Let’s protect the beauty we enjoy.
If you’ve already been to any of these places, tell us about it. We’d love to hear your story.
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
