Things To Do
in Murree
Murree is a hill station in the foothills of the Himalayas, just a short drive from Islamabad, renowned for its lush pine forests and scenic mountain views. Its colonial-era charm along Mall Road blends with modern cafes and guesthouses, making it a popular summer retreat. The town sits at high elevation, delivering cool air and misty mornings that attract families, hikers, and travelers year-round.
Murree serves as a gateway to nearby gales of nature and hill-station towns, offering a relaxed atmosphere and panoramic vantage points over the surrounding valleys.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the picturesque hill station of Murree. Take some time to check into your hotel and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savouring traditional Pakistani dishes.
Stroll along the Mall Road, exploring quaint shops and enjoying the fresh mountain air. Stop at Pindi Point and Kashmir Point for stunning panoramas of the lush green hills. A mid-afternoon snack at a local eatery will be perfect to recharge before further explorations.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot with a view to witness the breathtaking colors painting the sky. Indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, trying out the famous Murree cuisine. Wind down the evening with a peaceful walk along the hills, enjoying the cool mountain breeze.
After breakfast, head to Patriata (New Murree) to ride the thrilling chairlift and cable car up to the hilltop. The ride offers stunning vistas and a unique perspective of Murree's lush landscapes. At the top, take a moment to appreciate the panoramic views while enjoying some local snacks.
After descending, explore the scenic hiking trails around Patriata, where you'll discover beautiful pine forests and serene spots perfect for picnics. Visit the nearby Kashmir Point to capture fantastic photographs of the valleys. Return to Murree for a relaxing afternoon at your hotel or a nearby café.
For dinner, choose a restaurant with live music to engage in some local culture. Spend the evening strolling through the bustling streets, and keep an eye out for local artisans showcasing their crafts. Relax back at your hotel, enjoying a cup of tea while reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.5-2 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.3-1 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride | $3-8 |
| 🏨One-night hotel (mid-range) | $30-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and fresh air
- Close to Islamabad, easy weekend getaway
- Limited nightlife and major medical facilities
- Roads can be crowded and challenging in peak season
- "Assalamu alaykum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Is ki keemat kitni hai?" - How much is this?
- "Bathroom kahan hai?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kya aap English bolte hain?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Murree
Visit one of these nice places.
One of Murree’s premier viewpoints with sweeping valley views and a backdrop of conifer forests.
Historic lane with colonial architecture and atmospheric golden-hour light over the hills.
Elevated vantage points accessed near the chairlift; ideal for wide landscape shots and forest textures.
Dense pine stands and misty glades that create moody, natural photography opportunities.
Food in Murree
Murree Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Lentil stew served with fluffy rice, a comforting staple found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced meat patties, often served with naan and chutney.
A thick, tomato-based curry simmered with spices, best enjoyed with naan or rice.
Grilled or fried trout caught from the nearby rivers, a specialty in mountain towns.
Mustard greens with corn flatbread, a traditional Punjabi dish offered in many local places.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Popular spots for chaat, samosas, pakoras, and freshly pressed tea.
Market lanes offering spices, snacks, handicrafts, and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by dressing modestly, especially around mosques and sacred sites.
Use polite greetings such as As-salamu alaykum; ask before taking photos of people.
Keep noise to a reasonable level in residential areas; dispose of trash properly to protect the environment.
Safety
Tipping in Murree
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 10% in restaurants if service is not included; small tips for guides or drivers are appreciated.
Cash is widely used; many shops accept card payments at larger hotels and cafés, but ATMs can be limited in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild daytime temperatures with cool evenings; expect crowds on weekends. Good time for outdoor walks and highland photography, but book accommodations in advance.
July through September can bring heavy rain and landslides; roads may close temporarily. Carry rain gear and plan extra travel time.
Cold to very cold temperatures, with occasional snowfall and frosty mornings. Snow can limit some routes but offers dramatic scenery; wear warm, layered clothing.
Murree at Night
Hiking in Murree
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and ridge views accessible from New Murree; good for day hikes.
A bit farther afield but popular for longer treks with varied terrain and wildlife.
Short, scenic route offering vantage points and photo opportunities along the ridgeline.
Airports
How to reach Murree by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 60-70 km from Murree; accessible by car or private transfer via the Islamabad–Murree Motorway and ghat roads.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Punjabi-speaking families and workers from the hill town network.
Tourists from Islamabad/Rawalpindi and other parts of Punjab who visit for weekend getaways.
Hikers and families who visit during summer and winter for scenic views and snow experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; casual matches pop up in open spaces and community fields.
Common recreational activity among locals and visitors.
Popular for day trips and multi-hour hikes through pine forests and ridgelines.
Available along the hillsides and near tourist corridors during peak seasons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Murree.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most eateries. Look for daal, veggie curries, and paneer dishes; request no ghee if needed.