Things To Do
in Ziarat
Ziarat is a hill town in Balochistan known for its ancient Juniper Forest and cool highland air. It sits near Quetta and serves as a gateway to alpine landscapes, trekking routes, and a calm, pastoral pace. The town hosts the historic Ziarat Residency, a reminder of colonial-era architecture amid rugged mountains.
With stunning viewpoints, hospitable communities, and quiet markets, it offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and culture seekers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Quaid-e-Azam's Residency, where Muhammad Ali Jinnah spent his summers. As you walk through the lush gardens, take in the serene atmosphere and admire the wooden architecture that reflects the colonial era. Don’t forget to capture some photographs of this iconic structure against the backdrop of the majestic Ziarat mountains.
After a leisurely lunch at a local eatery, head to the nearby Ziarat Valley to explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Discover the enchanting Juniper forests, which are among the oldest in the world, and enjoy a nature trail that allows for birdwatching and photography. As the afternoon sun filters through the trees, the scenery becomes even more captivating.
Wrap up your day by enjoying a traditional Pakistani dinner at a local restaurant, relishing dishes like Sajji and Karahi. As the evening cools down, take a peaceful stroll around the Residency, where you can reflect on the day's activities under the starry sky. The tranquility of the area at night creates a perfect ending to a memorable day.
Kick-off your adventure with an invigorating breakfast before heading into Ziarat Valley for a day of exploration. Trek through the picturesque landscapes, breathing in the fresh mountain air while surrounded by breathtaking views of valleys and peaks. Look out for the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this ecological haven.
In the afternoon, enjoy a packed lunch at a scenic spot within the valley, where the views are nothing short of spectacular. Afterward, continue your trek to the stunning Ziarat Lake, where you can relax by the water’s edge or engage in light activities like fishing or boating. The serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for some quiet reflection or simply soaking up nature.
As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Ziarat town, where you can unwind at your accommodation. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant, featuring fresh, local ingredients that showcase the flavors of the region. Conclude your day with a bonfire under the stars, sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel/guesthouse per night | $15-25 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-7 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning juniper forests and alpine scenery
- Warm hospitality and cultural experiences
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Seasonal road closures and accessibility challenges
- "Assalamu Alaikum" - Hello/Peace be upon you
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Barā-e-karam" - Please
- "Yeh kitne ka hai?" - How much is this?
- "Mujhe madad chahiye" - I need help
- "Aapka din achha ho" - Have a good day
Places to Visit in Ziarat
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient, towering juniper trees across rolling hills; ideal for morning mist, golden hour silhouettes, and wide valley shots.
Historic colonial-era residence with mountain backdrops—great for architectural and environmental portraits.
Scenic lookouts along the ridge roads offer sweeping vistas of the valley and surrounding peaks, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Open viewpoints where the sun sinks behind the hills, casting dramatic colors over the Juniper forests.
Food in Ziarat
Ziarat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole lamb or chicken slow-roasted over an open fire, often served with rice and chutney; a signature dish of the Quetta region popular at roadside grills.
Must-Try!
Spiced minced meat patty shallow-fried until crisp; best enjoyed with flatbread, onions, and raita.
Stone-baked, thick flatbread that travels well and pairs with curries, lentils, or kebabs.
Fragrant rice pilaf with saffron, vegetables, and sometimes meat; a common accompaniment for main dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main town market where you can taste fresh tea, bread, dried fruits, nuts, and quick street snacks from local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees; loose-fitting clothing is common and comfortable in the hills.
Politely request permission before photographing people or private homes; some may prefer not to be photographed.
Warm greetings are standard; accept tea or snacks when offered and show appreciation for local hospitality.
Safety
Tipping in Ziarat
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip (5–10%) is appreciated if service is not included. For guides and drivers, consider 100–500 PKR per day depending on service and distance.
Cash in Pakistani Rupees is the most reliable method; some guesthouses may accept cards or mobile wallets, but ATMs are sparse in rural areas. Carry small denominations for markets and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings with warming days; wildflowers emerge; misty hills can create magical photography beginnings.
Pleasant daytime temperatures for hill country visits; evenings can be breezy; carry sunscreen and water.
Clear skies and dramatic lighting; comfortable temperatures make long walks and viewpoints very enjoyable.
Cold with possible snowfall on higher ridges; roads can be slick; pack warm layers and plan for shorter daytime outings.
Ziarat at Night
Hiking in Ziarat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes through ancient junipers with valley and ridge views.
Airports
How to reach Ziarat by plane.
Main regional gateway; typically a several-hour mountain drive from Ziarat; connects to major Pakistani cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Languages include Pashto and Urdu; strong family networks and hospitality are culturally central.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport across the region; informal games are common in towns and villages.
A popular pastime among youth and in community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ziarat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Meat-centered dishes dominate, but you can choose lentil-based curries, dal, rice, breads, and dairy. Ask for vegetarian preparations and confirm there’s no meat stock in curries; many guesthouse kitchens can accommodate simple veggie meals.