10 Places to Visit in Nathia Gali: A Nature Lover’s Paradise
Discover the top 10 places to visit in Nathia Gali, from scenic hiking trails to historical landmarks. Explore why Nathia Gali is the perfect destination for nature lovers, families, and adventurers.
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Introduction
Nathia Gali, a beautiful and peaceful hill station in the Galyat region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, is a favorite destination for travelers seeking a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surrounded by dense pine forests, this scenic hill station offers cool weather, breathtaking views, and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat to escape the heat or wish to witness the area covered in a blanket of snow in the winter, Nathia Gali has something magical to offer all year round. This article will guide you through the best places to visit in Nathia Gali to help you plan a memorable and enjoyable trip.
10 Places to Visit in Nathia Gali
1. St. Matthew’s Church
The most remarkable and must-see place to visit in Nathia Gali is the historic St. Matthew’s Church. This beautiful wooden church, which is more than a century old, is constructed entirely from cedar wood, giving it a rustic and charming appearance that blends perfectly with the surrounding natural landscape.
The church is maintained by a local Muslim family, a testament to the region’s rich history of cultural and religious harmony. Visitors are often drawn to the quiet, peaceful atmosphere of the church, where they can appreciate its colonial-era architecture and reflect on its significant history. If you’re interested in heritage sites, St. Matthew’s Church should be one of your first stops among the many places to visit in Nathia Gali.
Read Also: The Wonders of Kumrat Valley: A Hidden Gem of Pakistan
2. Mukshpuri Top: A Hiker’s Paradise
When it comes to trekking and outdoor adventure, Mukshpuri Top is one of the most popular places to visit in Nathia Gali. This stunning peak offers a moderate 4-kilometer hike that winds through thick pine forests and scenic meadows, providing you with fresh mountain air and beautiful views every step of the way.
The trail is well-maintained and can be completed in around 3 to 4 hours. Once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping, panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The hike is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and people of all fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just someone who enjoys nature walks, Mukshpuri Top is one of the must-visit places in Nathia Gali for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
3. Miranjani Top: for Adventure Seekers
For those looking to challenge themselves with a more strenuous hike, Miranjani Top is the highest peak in the Galyat region and a must-visit for adventure seekers. Standing at an impressive height of 2,992 meters (9,816 feet), this trek is longer and steeper than Mukshpuri, requiring a bit more stamina and endurance.
The effort to reach the summit is truly rewarded with an amazing experience. From the top of Miranjani, you’ll experience stunning, unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and on a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of the mighty Nanga Parbat in the distance. Miranjani Top is a must-visit in Nathia Gali for trekking enthusiasts seeking an exciting and memorable hiking adventure.
4. Nathia Gali Park: A Family-Friendly Place
If you’re visiting Nathia Gali with family, especially with children, then Nathia Gali Park is a fantastic spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. This small but delightful park, located just in front of St. Matthew’s Church, offers plenty of greenery and open space for children to play.
The park is equipped with swings and benches, making it an ideal location for a family picnic or a relaxing afternoon. Parents can enjoy the cool mountain breeze while kids have fun in the open space. The park’s scenic surroundings provide great opportunities for capturing beautiful family photos. For those traveling with young ones, Nathia Gali Park is the best place to visit in Nathia Gali to unwind and enjoy some family time.
5. Nathia Gali Wildlife Park
For wildlife lovers, the Nathia Gali Wildlife Park offers a unique opportunity to get close to nature. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including leopards, known locally as Guldar. While spotting a leopard is rare, the park provides a safe habitat for these elusive creatures and many other species of birds and small mammals.
Walking through the park allows visitors to appreciate the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. It’s a fantastic place for families, photographers, and nature enthusiasts to explore and learn more about the wildlife native to the Galyat region. If you’re seeking places to visit in Nathia Gali where you can enjoy nature and wildlife, this park should be high on your list.
6. Green Spot: A Hidden Gem in Nathia Gali
Managed by the Pakistan Air Force, Green Spot is a beautiful and less-crowded destination located along the Murree-Nathia Gali road. Although access is somewhat limited, it’s open to the public for exploring. The area is surrounded by lush meadows, rolling hills, and breathtaking views of the valley below.
Green Spot is an excellent location for those who want to experience the natural beauty of Nathia Gali away from the more popular and busier spots. Whether you’re looking to take a quiet walk, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or simply admire the stunning landscape, Green Spot is a must-see destination among the places to visit in Nathia Gali.
7. Kala Pani: A Refreshing Natural Spring
The lesser-known place to visit in Nathia Gali is Kala Pani, a refreshing natural spring located a short distance away. The crystal-clear water of the spring flows year-round, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to stop and enjoy. Surrounded by dense forests and scenic beauty,
Kala Pani provides a peaceful escape where you can relax and connect with nature. The journey to the spring is just as enjoyable, with winding roads that offer picturesque views of the hills and valleys. For a tranquil outing, Kala Pani is the top place to visit in Nathia Gali.
8. Water Supply Tank: An Engineering Marvel
Though it may not seem like a typical tourist attraction, the Water Supply Tank in Nathia Gali is an impressive feat of engineering from the British colonial era. With a capacity of over 3 million gallons, this tank provides water to Nathia Gali and the surrounding region.
The area around the water tank is peaceful, with greenery and walking paths, making it a great place for a quiet stroll. If you’re a history or engineering enthusiast, visiting the Water Supply Tank offers a unique insight into the area’s past.
9. Samandar Katha Lake: A Scenic Place for Boating
For those who enjoy water activities, Samandar Katha Lake is a beautiful and peaceful spot located about an hour’s drive from Nathia Gali. This serene lake is surrounded by forests and mountains and offers boating facilities that are popular with both locals and visitors.
The calm waters of the lake and the surrounding natural beauty make it a perfect spot for a relaxing day trip, picnic, or boat ride. There are also small tea stalls and restaurants nearby where you can take a break and enjoy the view while sipping a cup of tea. Samandar Katha Lake is the most scenic place to visit in Nathia Gali for anyone who enjoys water activities and peaceful surroundings.
10. Ayubia National Park
Just a short distance from Nathia Gali lies Ayubia National Park, a natural wonder and haven for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers. The park is home to a variety of animals, including leopards and black bears, as well as numerous bird species.
One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking along the famous Pipeline Track, a beautiful and scenic trail that offers stunning views of the valleys and mountains. For an even more thrilling experience, you can take the Ayubia Chairlift, which provides aerial views of the park and surrounding areas. Ayubia National Park is undoubtedly the top place to visit in Nathia Gali for anyone looking to explore the region’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Conclusion
Nathia Gali is a dream destination for nature lovers, families, and adventurers alike. Whether you’re hiking to the peaks of Mukshpuri Top and Miranjani Top, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere at St. Matthew’s Church or Green Spot, or exploring the rich biodiversity of Ayubia National Park, there’s no shortage of breathtaking places to visit in Nathia Gali.
With its refreshing climate, lush greenery, and serene ambiance, Nathia Gali is the perfect getaway for anyone looking to escape the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in nature. Pack your bags, and get ready to discover the natural beauty and hidden gems that Nathia Gali has to offer!