Escape from the city: Regional retreats

ISLAMABAD:

With the onset of sweltering summer heat and the fasting month of Ramazan, one cannot help but dream of a holiday escape. Social media posts of people enjoying their vacation also fuel fire to one’s wanderlust.

However, one does not have to fly beyond borders in order to have a rejuvenating holiday experience as there are plenty of spectacular resorts that people of Islamabad and Rawalpindi can go to.

The Express Tribune can suggest a few summer getaways just a few hours from the capital.

Murree  



Murree is scenic and perfect for those who want a quick escape. You can enjoy the lush green gardens at the Pearl Continental hotel in Bhurban, take a chairlift, ride a horse, or enjoy a meal in the hustle and bustle of the Mall Road. There is never a dull moment in Murree. However, for those who want more peace of mind, heading up further north is recommended.

Drive time: One hour and 20 minutes

Room and board: Starts from Rs3,000 per night

Mangla



 

Mangla Lake is the perfect getaway for just about anyone, couples, families or a group of friends. You can enjoy the pristine waters of the lake that come with a number of water sport activities such as jet skiing, water skiing as well as a restaurant on a raft. Moreover, you can behold history at the Mangla power station which has a mural by Sadequain. Visitors can stay overnight at a hotel in Mirpur or a guest house in Mangla.

Drive time: Two hours and 15 minutes

Room and board: Starts from Rs2,500 per night

Khanpur Dam



Khanpur Dam is the perfect option for those looking for an adrenaline rush. The place comes packed with many adventure sports activities at an adventure club including paragliding, rock climbing, trekking, water sports, boating, paddle-boating and jet skiing. Moreover, the aquamarine waters of the dam have several islands where you can go for a picnic or use their cliffs for a water dive. These islands also have chalets that can be booked.

Drive time: One hour and 20 minutes

Room and board: Starts from Rs3,000 per night

Sangada, Pir Sohawa



This is the closest getaway from Islamabad with a spectacular view and a cool climate. Only 45 minutes from Islamabad and 15 minutes from Pir Sohawa, this place is much quieter than Murree and Nathiagali and good for those looking for a tranquillising holiday close to home. You can enjoy hiking through trails, the restaurants in Pir Sohawa and book yourself a night stay at the whispering pines resort.

Drive time: 45 minutes

Room and board: Starts from Rs8,000

Nathia Gali



The picturesque town of Nathiagali, covered in pine and oak trees is a therapy in itself. You can book a resort and enjoy in the cool atmosphere and the view of the hilly valleys. Take a walk in nature and calm your nerves by jogging up a track starting from the Governor’s House to top of the Miranjani Hill. You can stroll through pine forests, go horse riding, camping and enjoy Iftar at many eateries.

Drive time: Two hours

Room and board: Starting from Rs3,000 per night

Published in The Express Tribune, June 21^st, 2015.