MARGALLA HILLS NATIONAL PARK
The Margalla Hills National Park was instituted in 1980 and is located in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. It comprises the Margalla Hills (12,605 hectares), the Rawal Lake, and Shakarparian Sports and Cultural complex. The hill range nestles between an elevation of 685 meters at the western end and 1,604 meters on its east.
The National Park is the most accessible in Pakistan due to its close proximity to the national capital, Islamabad. There are several hiking trails, with the most famous being Trail 3 and trail 5. It is also home to a large number of birds such as larks, paradise flycatcher, black partridge, shrikes pheasants, spotted doves, Egyptian vultures, falcons, hawks and eagles. Reptiles such as the Russell's viper, Indian cobra and saw-scaled viper are found here.
Margalla hills have beautiful torrents gushing down in the monsoon and also natural springs. Margalla have a variety of mammals. They include the leopard, gray goal, barking deer, wild boar, among others.
How to travel to MARGALLA HILLS NATIONAL PARK?
The best way to get to Margalla Hills National Park is by public transport. The park is located just outside Islamabad, and there are several public transport options that run from the city. Cars and jeeps are available for hire, and there are also buses and vans that run from the city centre. The journey takes around an hour, and the cost is very reasonable. Once you arrive at the park, there are plenty of hiking trails to explore, as well as a variety of wildlife to see. There are also several picnic spots and a small lake, making it a great place to spend a day or two.
What is the season to visit the Margalla Hills National Park?
The Margalla Hills National Park is a beautiful and serene place, located in the north of Pakistan. The park covers an area of almost 3,000 hectares and is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, porcupines, and foxes. Visitors can also enjoy views of the Islamabad skyline and the Faisal Mosque. The best time to visit the Margalla Hills National Park is from October to February, when the weather is cool and dry. During this time of year, the park is full of flowers and lush greenery. However, visitors should be aware that the park can be quite crowded on weekends and holidays. If you're looking for a peaceful getaway, it's best to plan your visit for mid-week.