Things to Do in Murree

Perched in the Himalayan foothills about 60 kilometers northeast of Islamabad, Murree has been Pakistan's premier hill station since British colonial times. The town sits at around 2,300 meters above sea level, offering a refreshing escape from the sweltering plains below, which explains why it's been drawing visitors for over a century. You'll find a mix of colonial-era architecture, bustling bazaars, and pine-covered hills that create an atmosphere that's part mountain retreat, part carnival. The main Mall Road can get genuinely chaotic during peak season - think bumper-to-bumper traffic and crowds that might make you question your timing - but venture slightly off the beaten path and you'll discover quieter spots with panoramic views that remind you why people keep coming back.

Murree's dining scene centers around hearty Pakistani fare with a mountain twist - you'll find lots of karahi restaurants, kebab joints, and places serving steaming cups of chai that taste even better in the cool air. Mall Road has the highest concentration of eateries, from street vendors selling roasted corn and fresh fruit to sit-down restaurants offering traditional curries and grilled meats. Local specialties include fresh trout from nearby streams and seasonal strawberries that vendors sell by the roadside. For a more upscale experience, the resort hotels in Bhurban offer continental and Pakistani cuisine in more refined settings, though you'll pay accordingly.

The peak season runs from May through September when the weather is most pleasant and you can escape the brutal heat of the plains below. July and August bring the heaviest crowds along with occasional monsoon rains that can make roads slippery but also create dramatic misty landscapes. Winter visits from December to February offer a completely different experience - you might encounter snow, fewer crowds, and a more peaceful atmosphere, though many outdoor activities become limited and some accommodations close. Spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November) actually provide some of the best weather with mild temperatures and clearer mountain views, though you'll miss the full green lusciousness of summer.