Shahdara is a hidden treasure in Pakistan’s capital city of Islamabad, tucked within the gorgeous Margalla Hills. Shahdara offers a charming retreat from hectic daily life with its stunning vistas, serene surroundings, and rich cultural heritage.
This blog will take you on a fascinating tour of Shahdara as we explore its calm landscapes, historical significance, and the wide range of activities available to explorers and nature lovers.
Category | Information |
---|---|
Location | Shahdara Village, suburbs of Margalla Hills, Islamabad, Pakistan |
Distance | – 7 km from Barakhao |
– 10 km away from Aiwan-e-Sadr (Official residence of the President of Pakistan) | |
– 15 km from Faizabad Islamabad | |
– Near Quaid-e-Azam University | |
Climate | – Winter (November to February) |
– Spring (March to April) | |
– Summer (May to June) | |
– Rainy monsoon season (July and August) | |
– Autumn (September to October) | |
Languages | Pothohari (most common), Punjabi, Urdu |
Economy | – Relies heavily on agriculture |
– Commute to nearby areas like Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Murree for employment | |
– Locals earn income by selling food and cultural items to visitors at Shahdara Picnic Point | |
Tourism | – Shahdara Picnic Point is a tourist attraction |
Shahdara Islamabad, also known as Shahdara Picnic Point, is one of the most famous picnic points in Islamabad that is ideal for family visits. It is situated approximately 8 kilometers away from Barakahu and 16 kilometers from the central city.
It has a striking cold-water stream on the valley floor below the Margalla Hills. Moreover, this valley is surrounded by green areas, freshwater streams, mountains, and a rock climbing point. Additionally, the weather is usually pleasant, so people often come here during the summer to escape the scorching heat (mainly since the water provides a refreshing backdrop).
Visiting early morning and departing the area well before dusk is advised. That gives you plenty of time to explore the place and see any surrounding areas. If you want to avoid busy crowds, you can plan a visit during the weekdays instead of the weekends as that is when most tourists come.
There is also a splendid picnic area near Shahdara Valley, which attracts several tourists, particularly on the weekends. You can pack your food and have lunch at this spot or visit the famous Shahdara Valley Restaurant.
These also serve traditional snacks like ‘pakoras’ and ‘samosas’ with tea, which you can enjoy while admiring the view. You can even sit on chairs or ‘charpai’ seated right on the water. Pack some open-toed shoes with you and additional clothing for any children with you.
Shahdara Village is situated 7 kilometres away from Bhara Kahu, 10 kilometres from Aiwan-e-Sadr, which is the official residence of the President of Pakistan, and 15 kilometres from Faizabad.
The village of Shahdara can also be found in close proximity to Quaid-e-Azam University. Hence, it is easily accessible through direct routes from several main areas of the city.
You can participate in various activities that await you in Shahdara Valley.
Even though Shahdara Valley is located away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is in proximity to areas like Bani Gala (just a half hour’s drive away) and Barakahu (just 20 minutes away).
For residents of Rawalpindi, however, it can take up to one hour and fifteen minutes to reach Shahdara. Despite the long distance, the journey is not too difficult due to the well-structured, straightforward routes. Just go there during the day and return before sunset, as navigating the roads at night may be hard.
Apart from the numerous restaurants in Shahdara Valley, there is one unique restaurant named Hidden Terrace. A private seating area is in the middle of the moving river stream. People indulge in mouthwatering meals while dipping their toes in the chilly water simultaneously.
The tips listed below can also help you plan your trip to Shahdara Picnic Point:
Because the water is clean and refreshing, the Shahdara Valley Picnic spot in Islamabad is a place that should not be missed, particularly if you are looking to plan a summer getaway. For more guides on popular tourist areas in the capital city, visit the Graana blog.
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