Rawal Lake and Lake View Park Islamabad
Rawal Lake and Lake View Park in Islamabad form a massive artificial reservoir and eco-recreational park featuring water sports speedboating a walk-in bird aviary and pine gardens.
ExploreMargalla Hills Hiking Trails Trail 3 Trail 5 Trail 2 Islamabad
Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory
Overview
Spanning the rugged pine-clad slopes of the Margalla Hills National Park in Islamabad Margalla Hills Hiking Trails Trail 3 Trail 5 and Trail 2 represent the premier eco-tourism adventure network in the federal capital. Trail 3 is the most iconic and challenging steep ridge hike originating from Sector F-6 Margalla Road up to Monal Pir Sohawa. Trail 5 is the most popular family-friendly trail featuring lush greenery shaded forest canopies and pristine freshwater streams. Trail 2 starting near zoo view point offers a peaceful scenic route leading up to Daman-e-Koh. Protected by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board these trails offer fitness enthusiasts nature lovers and birdwatchers an extraordinary wilderness trek right inside the capital.
Highlights
- Premier network of mountain hiking trails in Margalla Hills National Park elevated up to 5000 feet
- Trail 3 offers an iconic steep ridge challenge leading straight to Monal and Pir Sohawa viewpoint
- Trail 5 features family-friendly paved pathways natural freshwater streams and shaded pine canopy
- Trail 2 provides a quiet scenic forest route connecting Zoo Viewpoint to Daman-e-Koh lookout
- Rich biodiversity haven home to wild Rhesus monkeys Asian leopards Barking deer and 250 bird species
- Maintained by Islamabad Wildlife Management Board with safety checkposts rested benches and water points
Things To Do
- Hike steep ridge pathways on Trail 3 for a rewarding fitness workout terminating at Monal Pir Sohawa
- Explore family-friendly streams pine forests and shaded wooden bridges along scenic Trail 5
- Trek the quiet forest route of Trail 2 connecting Zoo Viewpoint up to Daman-e-Koh garden plaza
- Spot native wildlife wild Rhesus monkeys Barking deer and migratory birds along forest glades
- Enjoy fresh mountain air panoramic city views and refreshing kehwa at the top mountain viewpoints
Local Transportation
Trailhead parking plazas located along Margalla Road Sector F-6 Trail 3 and Sector F-5 Trail 5. Easily accessible via private car sedan taxi or ride-hailing apps Uber Careem Yango InDrive from anywhere in Islamabad.
Accommodation
Capital city hospitality hub. Luxury 5-star hotels Serena Hotel Marriott Hotel boutique guest houses and budget stays are widely available across Sectors F-6 F-7 F-8 and E-11.
Food & Cuisine
Fresh water points energy snack stalls and fruit sellers available at trailheads. High-altitude dining at Monal La Montana and Pir Sohawa cafes awaits hikers reaching the summit terminals.
Safety Information
Protected by Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and ICT Police. Stay strictly on marked trails, carry sufficient drinking water, do not feed or provoke wild Rhesus monkeys, hike in groups, and complete treks before sunset.
Travel Tips
Start early in the morning, wear sturdy non-slip hiking shoes, carry a reusable water bottle, pack small trash bags to keep trails clean, and keep emergency contact numbers saved.