Things To Do
in Abbottabad
Abbottabad sits amid the green hills of the Hazara region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, offering a cool climate and scenic valleys just north of Islamabad. The city blends colonial-era charm with modern markets, making it a pleasant base for hill-station getaways. It serves as a gateway to nearby highland retreats like Ayubia, Thandiani, and Nathiagali.
Visitors come for the pleasant weather, easy mountain access, and relaxed atmosphere that makes this area ideal for nature lovers and travelers seeking a quieter Pakistani escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Abbottabad, where you can stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Pakistani dishes like parathas and chai. As you walk, take in the sights of important landmarks such as the old British-era church and the bustling local market.
After lunch, head to the Shimla Hill, a popular picnic spot that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Spend your afternoon hiking along the well-maintained trails, surrounded by lush greenery and chirping birds. Capture stunning photographs of the landscape and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
As the sun sets, return to the city and visit a local restaurant to indulge in a traditional Pakistani dinner. Try local specialties like biryani or kebabs, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals. End your day with a leisurely walk through the park, soaking in the serene atmosphere.
Begin your day with an early morning trek to Miranjani, a stunning peak located just outside of Abbottabad. The walk to the base is invigorating, and as you ascend, you'll be greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. Bring along a packed breakfast to enjoy amidst nature as you take in the tranquility of the lush forests.
After reaching the summit, relax and take in the panoramic views before descending back to the base. Stop for lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional food that reflects the region's rich culinary heritage. Spend the afternoon exploring nearby trails and natural spots, immersing yourself in the beauty of the area.
As evening approaches, make your way back to Abbottabad and unwind at a local café, sipping on refreshing drinks. Reflect on your adventurous day while enjoying a light meal. Later, visit the local market for some shopping, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs to take home.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Local shopping / snacks | $2-10 |
| 🚎Local transport | $0.5-2 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool climate and scenic hill country
- Good base for short trips to Ayubia, Thandiani, and Nathiagali
- Warm hospitality and affordable prices
- Relaxed pace away from big-city crowds
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Some roads can be steep and weather-dependent
- Fewer international flight connections directly to Abbottabad
- "Shukriya" - Thank you
- "Aap kaise hain?" - How are you?
- "Kahan hai bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Kia iski keemat hai?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kripya madad karen" - Please help
- "Aap English bolte hain?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Abbottabad
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush conifer forests and rolling valleys offer misty morning light and dramatic sunsets; a classic spot for nature and landscape photography.
High-altitude viewpoints with sweeping panoramas of the Green Mountains and cloud-covered valleys, ideal for wide-angle shots.
Colonial-era architecture in tree-lined avenues and bustling markets provide characterful street photography opportunities and candid portraits.
Food in Abbottabad
Abbottabad Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spiced minced meat kebabs popular across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa; best enjoyed with fresh naan and chutney from local grills.
Must-Try!
Lentil curry served with steamed rice; a comforting staple found in many eateries.
Fried lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt and chutneys; a popular street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling daytime market where you can sample samosas, pakoras, fresh fruit, roasted corn, and grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite “Assalam-o-Alaikum”; dress modestly in public; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Hospitality is valued; remove shoes when entering some homes; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Abbottabad
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants and for guides; 5-10% is common in better establishments. Round up taxi fares as a courtesy.
Cash is widely accepted in markets; many hotels and larger restaurants accept cards. ATMs are available in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Greenery returns in full force; comfortable temperatures and blooming flowers make for pleasant walks and vibrant landscapes.
Mild to warm daytime temperatures with cooler nights; occasional showers possible, making misty mornings a treat for photos and hikes.
July to September can bring heavy rain and landslide risks on some routes; plan with local advice and carry proper rain gear.
Cool to cold conditions; higher elevations may see light snowfall and frosty mornings, creating dramatic landscapes.
Abbottabad at Night
Hiking in Abbottabad
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible forest trails with scenic viewpoints and opportunities for birdwatching, especially in the spring and early summer.
High-elevation trails offering panoramic valley views; ideal for sunrise photography and cool-weather hikes.
Forest walks and hill country scenery just a short drive from Abbottabad, popular for day hikes and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach Abbottabad by plane.
Primary nearby international and domestic hub; roughly 130-150 km from Abbottabad, reachable by road via the M-1 and N-35 corridors. Taxis, private cars, and bus services are common options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of local Hazara communities, Hindko-speaking families, and Punjabi and Pashtun migrants. Students and military personnel contribute to a diverse urban population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport countrywide, widely played in schools, clubs, and parks around Abbottabad.
Common among youth and local clubs, with informal matches in parks and community grounds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Abbottabad.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat-based, but you can find dal, sabzi (vegetable dishes), roti, and paneer-based options; ask for vegetable curries or daal with rice.