Things To Do
in Abbottabad
Abbottabad is a picturesque city located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. Known for its lush greenery and pleasant climate, it serves as a gateway to several mountain resorts and hiking trails. The city has a rich history and is named after Major James Abbott, a British officer.
Abbottabad is also famous for its educational institutions, making it a hub for students and tourists alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Pakistan Military Academy, where you can admire the impressive architecture and enjoy the serene environment.
Head to the Ilyasi Mosque, a stunning structure located near a natural spring, followed by a walk in the nearby Shimla Hill for panoramic views of the city.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely stroll in the Abbottabad Mall for some shopping and people-watching.
Visit the beautiful Ayubia National Park, where you can take a chairlift ride to the top of Mukshpuri Hill for breathtaking views.
Explore the quaint village of Nathiagali, known for its charming architecture and hiking trails.
Return to Abbottabad and savor traditional Pakistani cuisine at a local eatery, followed by enjoying a local cultural performance if available.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a cheap restaurant | $3 |
| ☕Cappuccino | $2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $1 |
| 🛒Basic groceries (1 week) | $20 |
| 🏨Night in a budget hotel | $15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and scenic views.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Milder climate compared to other regions.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Transportation can be challenging.
- Language barrier for non-Urdu speakers.
- "السلام علیکم" - Peace be upon you
- "شکریہ" - Thank you
- "کیا حال ہے؟" - How are you?
- "آپ کا نام کیا ہے؟" - What is your name?
- "معاف کیجیے" - Excuse me/Sorry
Places to Visit in Abbottabad
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning mosque set against the backdrop of lush hills, perfect for capturing architectural beauty.
Offers panoramic views of Abbottabad and is ideal for landscape photography.
Natural beauty abounds here, with dense forests and wildlife providing excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Abbottabad
Abbottabad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spiced minced meat patty served with chutney and naan.
Must-Try!
Fried or baked pastry filled with spiced potatoes or meat, often enjoyed as a snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A popular street vendor serving delicious kachoris, a type of fried pastry filled with spiced lentils.
Local vendors selling freshly fried fish, a must-try for seafood lovers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
While Abbottabad is more liberal than other regions, dressing modestly is still recommended.
Showing respect to elders is important; greetings should be polite.
Pakistanis are known for their hospitality; it's polite to accept food or drink if offered.
Safety
Tipping in Abbottabad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; usually around 10-15% of the bill is customary.
Cash is preferred, although some restaurants accept credit cards; ATMs are available in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming flowers, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Warm and pleasant, with occasional rain; perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, great for photography and outdoor excursions.
Cold and sometimes snowy; suitable for winter sports in nearby hill stations.
Abbottabad at Night
Hiking in Abbottabad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail that leads to the Mukshpuri Peak, offering breathtaking views and a moderate hiking experience.
A more challenging hike that takes you to Miranjani Peak, known for its stunning vistas and diverse flora.
Airports
How to reach Abbottabad by plane.
Located about 120 km from Abbottabad, this is the nearest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in the region, known for their rich traditions and customs.
Migrants from India who settled in Pakistan post-partition, contributing to the cultural diversity of Abbottabad.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Abbottabad, with many local teams and matches held regularly.
Football is also widely played, with local clubs and schools participating in competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Abbottabad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to ask for details.
All food is halal; still, it's good practice to confirm with the restaurant.