Abbottabad – The City of Beautiful People & Majestic Mountains
Published: 14/03/2025
I started my journey from Faizabad Terminal, Islamabad, at 11 AM, boarding a bus to Abbottabad. As we left the city behind, the wide highway stretched ahead, cutting through rolling green hills. The cool mountain breeze rushed in through the windows as we passed Havelian, where pine trees lined the road and small tea stalls dotted the roadside.
As we approached Abbottabad, the temperature dropped, and the scenery became even more stunning. Nestled between towering mountains, it had a peaceful charm that made me want to explore more.
Though the hidden waterfalls and scenic spots weren’t visible from the main road, I knew they were waiting to be discovered.
In this article, we’ll explore Abbottabad’s top attractions, must-visit places, nearby waterfalls, and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Let’s explore everything you need to know!
Where is Abbottabad Located?
Abbottabad is in northern Pakistan, in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). It is about 120 km from Islamabad and takes about 2.5 hours to reach by car. It is also close to Kashmir, Nathia Gali, and Harnoi.
If you are traveling from Lahore, the distance is about 450 km, which takes around 6–7 hours by road. The city is well-connected by highways and public transport.
What is Abbottabad Famous For?
Abbottabad is known for its beautiful landscapes, top educational institutions, and historical sites. The famous Pakistan Military Academy (PMA) Kakul is located here. Many travelers visit Abbottabad for its cool weather, hiking spots, and natural attractions.
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Top Tourist Places in Abbottabad
Abbottabad is home to many breathtaking locations. Here are some must-visit spots:
1. Harnoi & Harnoi Park
Located 11 km from Abbottabad, Harnoi Park is a favorite picnic spot. It offers:
✔️ Boating facilities
✔️ Playgrounds for kids
✔️ Relaxing sitting areas with stunning views
2. Shimla Hill – Best for Hikers
Shimla Hill, also known as Shimla Pahari provides breathtaking panoramic views of Abbottabad City. The scenic drive and hiking trails make it an ideal spot for photographers and adventure seekers.
3. Ilyasi Mosque & Famous Waterfall
One of Abbottabad’s oldest landmarks, Ilyasi Mosque, is famous for its natural spring flowing from the mountains. Nearby, a hidden waterfall attracts visitors. Don’t forget to try the famous pakoras from the food stalls near the mosque!
4. Sajikot Waterfall (Hazara Waterfall) – A Hidden Gem
Located 47 km from Abbottabad in Havelian Tehsil, Sajikot Abshar (Hazara Waterfall) is one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in Pakistan. With crystal-clear water cascading down rocky cliffs, it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers.
5. Nathia Gali – A Short Scenic Drive
Distance from Abbottabad: 35 km (1-hour drive)
Nathia Gali is a famous hill station known for:
✔️ Cool weather – Even in summer
✔️ Hiking trails – With scenic mountain views
✔️ Lush pine forests – Perfect for picnics and camping
6. Thandiani – Best for Snow Lovers
Located 30 km from Abbottabad, Thandiani is a peaceful hill station known for snowfall in winter and lush greenery in summer.
7. Lady Garden Park – Family-Only Picnic Spot
Lady Garden Park is one of Abbottabad’s oldest picnic spots. It is a family-only park, meaning bachelors are not allowed. It offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere, making it perfect for a family day out.
Best Hotels in Abbottabad
There are many hotels in Abbottabad for travelers. Here are some of the good options:
Luxury Hotels
- Pearl Continental Bhurban (Located near Abbottabad)
- Stargaze Hotel & Apartments
Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel One Abbottabad
- Alpine Hotel & Resort
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Alaf Laila Guest House
- Green Valley Lodge
If you plan to visit during peak seasons, book your hotel in advance.
How to Reach Abbottabad?
Reaching Abbottabad is a fantastic experience; along the way, you’ll see new places and diverse landscapes.
1. Abbottabad from Islamabad
The distance between Islamabad and Abbottabad is 120 km. You can travel by:
- Car (2.5 hours) – Via the M1 and Hazara Expressway.
- Bus (Daewoo, Faisal Movers) – Frequent services available.
2. Abbottabad to Kashmir
The Abbottabad to Kashmir distance is about 70 km. You can reach Muzaffarabad in around 2 hours.
3. Abbottabad from Lahore
If you’re coming from Lahore, the journey takes 6–7 hours by road. Many travelers take buses or private cars.
Best Time to Visit Abbottabad
Abbottabad is beautiful all year round, but here’s the best time for different experiences:
- Summer (May–August): Best for a cool summer escape.
- Winter (November–February): Perfect if you love cold weather and nearby snowfall.
- Spring & Autumn: Best for sightseeing with pleasant weather.
If you love green landscapes, visit in April or September.
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FAQs About Abbottabad
Yes, Abbottabad is a safe and peaceful city for tourists. It is a well-developed, secure area, especially in popular tourist spots. Follow basic travel safety tips, like avoiding late-night solo walks in unfamiliar areas.
Abbottabad is beautiful year-round, but summer (May–August) is best for escaping the heat, while winter (November–February) is great for snow lovers. Spring and autumn bring ideal weather, making them perfect for sightseeing.
You can reach Abbottabad from Islamabad in about 2.5 hours by car via the M1 and Hazara Expressway. Buses like Daewoo and Faisal Movers also operate regular services.
Some of the best places include Harnoi, Ilyasi Mosque, Sajikot Waterfall, Shimla Hill, and Thandiani. If you have extra time, visit Nathia Gali, which is just an hour away.
Yes! The Sajikot Waterfall (Hazara Waterfall) is about 47 km from Abbottabad in Havelian Tehsil. It’s a hidden gem with crystal-clear water and a peaceful atmosphere.
Abbottabad is famous for Ilyasi Mosque’s crispy pakoras, which are a must-try! You’ll also find delicious Chapli Kebabs, Afghani Pulao, or Qabili Pulao and other traditional Pakhtun dishes at local restaurants. These flavorful dishes make Abbottabad a great destination for food lovers.
Yes, Abbottabad has luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels. Some popular options include Pearl Continental Bhurban, Hotel One, and Green Valley Lodge.
Absolutely! Public transport, budget hotels, and affordable street food make it a great destination for budget travelers. Many natural attractions, like Harnoi and Ilyasi Mosque, have little to no entry fee.
Yes, Lady Garden Park is a family-only park, meaning bachelors are not allowed. It’s one of the oldest picnic spots in Abbottabad, offering a peaceful and relaxing environment.
Nathia Gali is 35 km from Abbottabad, and it takes about one hour by car to get there. It’s a perfect short trip for enjoying cool weather, lush pine forests, and scenic hiking trails.
Conclusion
So, guys, in this article, we’ve covered Abbottabad’s top attractions, hidden waterfalls, and travel essentials. If you’re an adventure lover, I highly recommend a trip to Shimla Hill for sunrise views or a short drive to Nathia Gali for an epic hiking experience.
Abbottabad has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation! Have questions or need travel tips? Drop a comment below, and let’s plan your perfect trip together!
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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
