Things To Do
in Haripur
Haripur is a historic town in the Hazara region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, perched in a green valley near the Margalla foothills. It blends agricultural villages with remnants of colonial-era architecture and modern markets. The area serves as a gateway to Khanpur Dam, Galliyat hills, and nearby archaeological sites, offering scenic landscapes and easy day trips.
Visitors are drawn by friendly locals, affordable prices, and a relaxed pace that makes Haripur a solid base for exploring northern Punjab and northern Pakistan.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with an early arrival in Haripur, where you can take in the scenic views of the surrounding mountains. After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a traditional breakfast at a local café. Stroll through the quaint streets to get a feel for the local culture and hospitality.
Head to the Haripur Bazaar for an afternoon of shopping and mingling with locals. Try some street food delicacies and discover handcrafted souvenirs that reflect the rich heritage of the area. Make sure to visit the nearby historic sites that echo the vibrant history of Haripur.
As the sun sets, find a local spot to enjoy dinner featuring authentic Pakistani cuisine. Engage in conversations with residents to learn about their traditions and stories. Cap off your day by visiting a local tea house, savoring the warmth of chai while mingling with friendly locals.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the magnificent Tarbela Dam. Marvel at the engineering feat and the stunning views of the Indus River. Take a short hike in the area for some fresh air and breathtaking scenery.
After exploring the dam, picnic by the waterside and enjoy the serene environment. Spend the afternoon engaging in water activities like boating or simply soaking up the sun. Discover the local wildlife and take photographs of the picturesque landscape.
Return to Haripur for a relaxed dinner while enjoying the local ambiance. Consider visiting a nearby mosque to experience the tranquil evening prayers. Reflect on the day’s adventures and enjoy the night sky filled with stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-10 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨One night in a budget hotel | $25-40 |
| 🚌Local transportation (one-way) | $0.5-1 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5 L) | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic nature and proximity to Khanpur Dam and hills
- Friendly locals and good value for money
- Limited upscale nightlife and dining options
- Occasional road closures during the monsoon
- "السلام علیکم" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "شکریہ" - Thank you
- "معاف کیجیے" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "یہ کتنے کا ہے؟" - How much is this?
- "میں چاہتا/چاہتی ہوں کہ آرڈر دوں" - I would like to order
Places to Visit in Haripur
Visit one of these nice places.
Overlooks around the dam offer water reflections and mountain backdrops at sunrise or sunset.
Massive hydroelectric dam with dramatic river scenes and expansive skies.
Colorful daily-life scenes and colonial-era architecture provide candid photography opportunities.
Food in Haripur
Haripur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spiced minced meat kebab commonly found in Hazara and Potohar regions, best enjoyed with naan or roti.
Must-Try!
Comforting lentil curry served with steamed rice, a staple for many locals.
Slow-cooked beef or lamb stew, rich in flavor and often eaten with bread.
Slow-cooked wheat, lentils and meat paste, enjoyed with fresh lemon, onions and coriander.
Yogurt-based drink—sweet or salted—perfect for warm days.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market area near Khanpur Dam offering fresh produce, snacks and local bites.
Main market street with vendors selling spices, tea, samosas and seasonal fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; use Urdu or Hindko where possible; some women may prefer a modest approach.
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Haripur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common for good service: 5-10% in restaurants and hotels; guides may expect more for longer tours.
Cash in PKR is widely used; some places accept cards; carry local currency for street vendors and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings with blooming flora; ideal for walks, dam-side photography and markets.
Hot days; carry water and sun protection; dam areas stay cooler with breeze from the hills.
Heavy rainfall can cause slick roads and occasional flooding; plan alternate routes.
Mild to cool; evenings can be chilly; layered clothing is recommended.
Haripur at Night
Hiking in Haripur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and viewpoints in the Galliyat belt, popular for day hikes from Haripur/Abbottabad.
Short scenic trails around the dam with river views and forested hills.
Airports
How to reach Haripur by plane.
Major gateway; about 60-90 minutes by road from Haripur, depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Hindko and Urdu speakers form the majority; Punjabi and Kashmiri communities also reside in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local games are common.
Played in schools and clubs; informal matches occur.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haripur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in market eateries; look for dals, vegetable curries and breads; request no ghee or dairy if vegan.