Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, may not be famous for its ancient artificial architecture. Still, it is a city with modern architecture and is very peaceful and surrounded by beautiful areas that can easily be accessed. To get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, to discover historical monuments, or to find a quiet place for a weekend, it is possible to do it in a couple of hours by car. Below is the list of the top ten places for a one-day trip near Islamabad, which could be a perfect day tour. 

1. Murree

Situated just two hours' drive from Islamabad Murree is one of Pakistan's most visited hill stations. This is because it has a hilly landscape of greenery, pine tree forests and a cool climate, which makes it an excellent escape from warm city weather. It has nature walks, shopping centers at Mall Road, and scenic vantage points at Pindi Point and Kashmir Point. 

2. Pir Sohawa

Pir Sohawa is one of Islamabad's natural beauty places, just a 30-30-minute drive from Islamabad. Roads to Pir Sohawa are picturesque, and the place has a panoramic view of the Margalla hills and the lower side of Islamabad. Monal Restaurant at the top remains one place plotted for eating and eating with jaw-dropping scenic views, more appropriately during the sunset. 

3. Taxila

It is captivating for history lovers to visit Taxila in one day. Taxila is an ancient city that can be visited today and is located 35 kilometers from Islamabad. Moreover, it has the status of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Through tourists, the site allows them to visit some of the remaining provinces belonging to the Gandhara civilization; these include old monasteries, stupas as well as the Taxila Museum, which accommodates several relics belonging to the Buddhists. 

4. Rawal Lake

Rawal Lake is suitable for an escape to relax from the bustle and have an outing short adventure. This natural lake within Islamabad has facilities for launching boats for fishing, group picnicking, etc. There are also other leisure spots at the sides of the lake like the Lake View Park and the newly established Japanese Garden. 

5. Khewra Salt Mine

Khewra Salt Mine is the second largest salt mine in the world and is situated about 160 kilometers away from Islamabad, which is a perfect idea for a day trip. One can take a round on the mine, see the natural salt sculptures, and light up the mosque and other constructions made of salt only. 

6. Neela Sandh

Murree offers a place for animal lovers – Neela Sandh, a waterfall, which is a good place to visit. It is only two hours from Islamabad and presents tourists with blue water pools and the surrounding greenery. It is a silent place where one can take a shower, swim on the water or even organize an outdoor meal. 

7. Ayubia National Park

It is situated nearly 70 kilometers from Islamabad, famous for its forests, and has a comparatively low temperature and wildlife. Currently, it provides a series of attractive hiking tracks, such as the "Pipeline Track," which links Dunga Gali and Ayubia. It is full of natural beauty and fresh air; occasionally, one may capture sights of wildlife, too. 

8. Khanpur Dam

This place is just a half hour's drive from Islamabad. It has much to offer nature lovers, especially adventure lovers who find Khanpur Dam noteworthy, especially due to water sports activities. It provides water skiing, parasailing, jet skiing and cliff diving services; hence, various water activities can be enjoyed at the reservoir. Located in the backdrop of hills, visitors can camp or picnic around the flowing water of Khanpur Dam. 

9. Shah Allah Ditta Caves

For the people who like history and anything connected with it, and nature, the Shah Allah Ditta Caves in the Margalla hills is the place to visit. These resources are about the caves believed to be 2,400 years old and inhabited by Buddhist monks. It has beautiful landscapes and long peaceful trails that are ideal for making a nature tour in one day. 10. Rohtas FortRohtas Fort is also 120 klm away from Islamabad; it is a world heritage site and one of the most magnificent forts ever in Pakistan. Emperor Sher Shah Suri constructed the fort in the 16th century, and it is famous among tourists because of the walls and gates and the beautiful view of the territory, which stretches as far as the eyes can see. ## Military Forts: Rohtas Fort is an ideal region for a one-day tour to learn about military architecture. 

Conclusion

From historical sites and panoramic viewpoints to nature getaways, there are several places for a one-day trip around Islamabad. Every place on the list will offer the vacationist a different experience so you can get to know more about Pakistan's tourist attractions, history and even culture in a day. If you are done with your last adventure and planning the next one, let Bookkaru plan it for you. You can book now and witness these wonderful places you can reach by crossing the border from Islamabad.