Elevation
2,500 m
Best Time
April – October
Temperature
5°C – 22°C (summer), -5°C – 8°C (winter)
Region
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
About Nathia Gali
Nathia Gali is a serene hill station located at 2,500 metres in the Galyat area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, about 90 km from Islamabad. Less crowded than Murree but equally beautiful, it is set among tall pine and fir forests with cool mountain air and stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The town is a favourite with those seeking a quieter, more relaxed mountain getaway. Key attractions include the 3,000m Mukshpuri peak (accessible by a 3-hour trek), Miranjani peak, and the forested trails of the Galyat Game Reserve. Nathia Gali serves as the base for exploring Ayubia National Park, Dungagali and Khanspur.
How to Get There
From Islamabad: 90 minutes by road (90 km) via the Murree Expressway, then through Murree or via Havelian and Abbottabad. From Murree: 35 km, approximately 45 minutes. Regular public transport runs from Rawalpindi to Murree with connecting vans to the Galyat towns.
Things To Do in Nathia Gali
Mukshpuri Trek
A popular 3-hour hike to the 3,000m Mukshpuri peak offering sweeping 360-degree views of the Galyat range, Nanga Parbat on clear days, and the Kashmir foothills. Moderate difficulty, no guide required.
Miranjani Trek
A challenging 5–6 hour return trek to the 2,992m Miranjani peak through dense forest. One of the most scenic day hikes in northern Pakistan.
Ayubia National Park
A 3,312-hectare protected forest famous for its biodiversity, rare birds and pleasant walking trails. Chairlift available from Pipeline Track to Ayubia.
Pipeline Track Walk
A gentle 6 km forest walk through Ayubia connecting Nathia Gali to Dungagali — one of the most pleasant walks in the Galyat. Very easy, family-friendly.
Khanspur Viewpoint
A short drive from Nathia Gali to the quiet village of Khanspur, offering peaceful forest walks and valley views with far fewer crowds.
Dungagali
A small hamlet 6 km from Nathia Gali with forest rest houses, a small bazaar and quiet trails — an ideal picnic spot for families.
Tips for Visiting Nathia Gali
- Nathia Gali is far less crowded than Murree — ideal for a quieter, more peaceful retreat.
- The town has limited restaurants — most visitors eat at their hotels or in nearby Ayubia.
- Mornings are the best time for trekking — afternoon clouds can reduce visibility.
- Leeches are present on forest trails in the monsoon season (July–August) — wear long socks.
- Accommodation is limited — book well in advance for weekends and public holidays.
- The area is cooler than Murree — even in July temperatures rarely exceed 22°C.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Nathia Gali from Islamabad?▾
Nathia Gali is approximately 90 km from Islamabad and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by car via the Murree Expressway.
Is Nathia Gali less crowded than Murree?▾
Yes, significantly. Nathia Gali attracts far fewer day-trippers than Murree, making it a more peaceful option especially for those seeking nature walks and quiet evenings.
What is the Mukshpuri trek like?▾
Mukshpuri is a 3-hour moderate hike (return) starting from a marked trailhead near Nathia Gali. The path goes through pine forest and open meadows. No guide is needed in clear weather but carry water and a snack.
When does it snow in Nathia Gali?▾
Nathia Gali receives snowfall from December to February. Light snow can also occur in November and March. The area is accessible year-round but roads may be slippery in winter.
What accommodation is available in Nathia Gali?▾
There are several guesthouses, hotels and forest rest houses (PTDC) in and around Nathia Gali. Prices range from PKR 6,000 to PKR 25,000/night. Options also exist in nearby Dungagali and Khanspur.
Book Hotels in Nathia Gali
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View HotelsNearby Attractions
- Ayubia National Park
- Mukshpuri Peak
- Miranjani Peak
- Dungagali
- Khanspur
- Murree