ADVENTURES

Popular Hiking Trails in Margalla Hills

MARGALLA HILLS HIKING TRAILS

The capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad is located in the northwest of the country on the Potohar Plateau. This area has been significant in history for being part of the crossroads of Rawalpindi and the North West Frontier Province. The city was built in 1960 to replace Karachi as the Pakistani capital, a role it has held since 1963. Due to Islamabad's proximity to Rawalpindi, they are considered sister cities. Compared to other cities in the country, Islamabad is a clean, spacious and quiet city with lots of greenery. The site of the city has a history of going back to the earliest human habitations in Asia. This area has seen the first settlement of Aryans from Central Asia, ancient caravans passing from Central Asia, and the massive armies of Tamerlane and Alexander. To the north of the city you will find the Margalla Hills. Hot summers, monsoon rains and cold winters with sparse snowfall in the hills almost summarises the climate of this area. Islamabad also has a rich wildlife ranging from wild boars to leopards.

JASMINE CORNER & MUSIC LOUNGE

Two interesting sites, approachable using same parking (3 kms above Daman-e-Koh), Jasmine Corner site maybe developed as family picnic spot with arrangement of umbrellas, benches and BBQ place. Climbing routes are good for beginners and novice climbers (4 to 5 French grade)

SAIDPUR VILLAGE

Outside the village, there are good sites for various grade climbing which include:

  1. Beetles Nest / Hang Loose 5a+ with good space for large teams and spectators at belay area
  2. Saxony Ramp-easy grade climbing for beginners (route bolts are missing)
  3. Teamwork-Difficult approach, with space for large teams-grade 5 to 6+
  4. Belvedere-Difficult approach, no space for large groups-grade 6+
  5. Monkey Tower-easy route-Grade 4+ to 5

Trail 3

Using the parking of trail 3, its 15 to 20 minutes uphill walk to Legacy rock with multiple routes of advanced level starting from 6a. No vast space available at belay area

Daman-e-Koh / Jungle Rock

Using the parking of Daman-e-Koh, one has to follow a tricky uphill trail. The place is ok for small parties with advance level climbing routes of 6a+

Shahdara Picnic Spot

An interesting place but right on the road side. Routes available from 5a onwards. Easy approach, parking available with good space for teams and spectators

LOOKING AFTER THE ENVIRONMENT

The capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad is located in the northwest of the country on the Potohar Plateau. This area has been significant in history for being a part of the crossroads of Rawalpindi and KPK. The city was built in 1960 to replace Karachi as Pakistan's capital, which it has been since 1963. Due to Islamabad's proximity to Rawalpindi, they are considered twin cities.

VISITOR SAFETY AND RESPONSIBILITIES

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Stay on the marked tracks at all times.
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Obey all safety directions, notices and warning signs..
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Preferably walk or climb with another person, particularly in the areas that are not frequented by visitors.
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Carry and drink one liter of water for every hour you walk or climb in hot weather.
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Wear sturdy, rubber-soled bots or shoes, a hat with a secure strap, a long sleeved shirt, and sunscreen.
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In very hot weather walk only in the coolest part of the day.
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Do not climb or do a strenuous walk if you have: High or low blood pressure, heart problems, breathing problems, or if you are not reasonably fit.
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If you feel ill or have been injured, stay where you are and tell someone to arrange help.

ROCK CLIMBING IN MARGALLA HILLS - SAFETY & CONSERVATION

Rock climbing in Margalla Hills offers an exciting yet safe experience when approached with the right precautions and respect for the environment. Despite the perceived risk, advancements in safety measures and equipment have made this sport more accessible and less daunting, aking to learning to swim or trying gymnastics.

Islamabad stands out for the accessibility and quality of climbing opportunities right on its doorstep. With over 50 bolted lines presently available, future developments aim to increase this number significantly in the coming years.

JASMINE CORNER & MUSIC LOUNGE

Two interesting sites, approachable using same parking (3 kms above Daman-e-Koh), Jasmine Corner site maybe developed as family picnic spot with arrangement of umbrellas, benches and BBQ place. Climbing routes are good for beginners and novice climbers (4 to 5 French grade)

SAIDPUR VILLAGE

Outside the village, there are good sites for various grade climbing which include:

  1. Beetles Nest / Hang Loose 5a+ with good space for large teams and spectators at belay area
  2. Saxony Ramp-easy grade climbing for beginners (route bolts are missing)
  3. Teamwork-Difficult approach, with space for large teams-grade 5 to 6+
  4. Belvedere-Difficult approach, no space for large groups-grade 6+
  5. Monkey Tower-easy route-Grade 4+ to 5

Trail 3

Using the parking of trail 3, its 15 to 20 minutes uphill walk to Legacy rock with multiple routes of advanced level starting from 6a. No vast space available at belay area

Daman-e-Koh / Jungle Rock

Using the parking of Daman-e-Koh, one has to follow a tricky uphill trail. The place is ok for small parties with advance level climbing routes of 6a+

Shahdara Picnic Spot

An interesting place but right on the road side. Routes available from 5a onwards. Easy approach, parking available with good space for teams and spectators