If you are looking for a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of Islamabad, you don’t have to go far to find a peaceful escape. Waterfalls in Islamabad are a great way to relax with friends and family. Graana.com lists the top five stunning waterfalls near Islamabad below worth visiting.
An Overview of Waterfalls in Islamabad
| Waterfall Name | Location | Distance from Islamabad | Features and Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makhnial Waterfall | Hidden in dense forest near Islamabad | 10 minutes | Turquoise clear waterfall, reachable from Pine Valley Residencia |
| Noori Waterfall | Tial, Haripur (53 miles from Islamabad) | 53 miles (85 km) | 10 feet high, fed from Koh Siri Summit, life jackets available |
| Umbrella Waterfall | Sajikot, Abbottabad | 27 km from Havelian | Parking is available on Sajikot Road, a 30-minute trek to the waterfall |
| Kurri Waterfall | Margalla Hills National Park, Islamabad | – | 30 feet high, lush green surroundings, easy hike |
| Bissa Waterfall | Kotli Sattian, Rawalpindi district | 30 km from Islamabad | Peaceful area surrounded by dense forests |
| Brutti Waterfall | Margalla Hills, Islamabad | 3 km from Bari Imam | Accessible via Trail 5, 10 feet high, natural pool, scenic hike |
Makhnial Waterfall
This turquoise, clear waterfall is hidden between the massive mountains and dense forest. Tourists can reach the Makhnial Waterfall in 10 minutes from Pine Valley Residencia. Visitors also have the option to hike down the Margalla Hills from here.
The climb is relatively easy, and hikers can also take a path in-between to visit a grazing meadow. The Makhnial Ridge Trail is behind Trails 1-6 of the Margalla Trails, which is why it’s known as the Second Hillside Trail. It is also the second stop on the 44-km ridge from Shah Allah Ditta to Murree.
The total travel time from Makhnial to the city of Tilhar is around 4 hours.
Noori Waterfall
Noori Waterfall is in the village of Tial, Haripur. It is an open cave-like formation located approximately 53 miles (85 km) from Islamabad. The waterfall is about 10 feet high and is fed from Koh Siri’s summit, the third-highest peak in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Visitors can purchase life jackets for about Rs. 100.
Umbrella Waterfall
Umbrella Waterfall, located in Sajikot, Abbottabad, is another tourist spot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is about 27 km from Havelian. The same route also leads to the Sajikot Waterfall.
There is a designated parking space on Sajikot Road, where you can leave the vehicle. From that point, the waterfall is a 30-minute trek away.
Kurri Waterfall
Kurri Waterfall is another breathtaking waterfall in Islamabad, located in the Margalla Hills National Park. The waterfall is about 30 feet high and cascades down a rocky hillside. The area surrounding the waterfall is lush and green, with the trees providing shade to visitors.
There are also a few small pools at the base of the waterfall where visitors can swim and relax. The hike to Kurri Waterfall is relatively easy, as the trail is well-maintained. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Margalla Hills.
Bissa Waterfall
Bissa Waterfall is located in the village of Kotli Sattian in the Rawalpindi district, about 30 km from Islamabad. It is situated at the Himalayas’ foothills and surrounded by dense green forests. The area around the waterfall is peaceful, providing a perfect escape from city life. It is one of the most beautiful waterfall near Islamabad.
Brutti Waterfall
Brutti Waterfall is another beautiful waterfall in Islamabad, located in the Margalla Hills, about 3 kilometres from Bari Imam. It has recently become a highly popular spot among tourists. The waterfall is accessible through Trail 5. Visitors can also park their vehicles at Loh-e-Dandi and hike to the Brutti peak for about 30 minutes to reach the waterfall. The trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Brutti Waterfall is about 10 feet high and has a natural pool that is ideal for a family outing. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes and carry sufficient water and snacks for the hike. It is also important to be mindful of the surroundings and to leave no trash behind.
Honorary Mentions
| Waterfall Name | Location | Distance from Islamabad | Features and Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sawan Waterfall | Margalla Hills, Islamabad | Approx. 12 km | Hidden gem, seasonal waterfall during monsoon |
| Neela Sandh Waterfall | Neela Sandh, Islamabad | Approx. 30 km | Surrounded by scenic landscapes, accessible via hiking trails |
| Sajikot Waterfall | Sajikot, Abbottabad | 27 km from Havelian | Beautiful cascades, accessible after a short trek |
| Chirah Waterfall | Chirah, Murree | Approx. 50 km | Majestic waterfall, lush green surroundings |
To read more about the waterfalls in Abbotabad, visit Graana.com.
