Abbottabad is a popular tourist attraction because of its scenic mountains and beautiful hill stations like Ayubia, Thandiani, and Galyat.
Abbottabad founded in 1853 and named after Major James Abbot, was headquarter of Hazara during British Raj. There are still few active churches in the city.
Abbottabad has been attracting tourists to the city since the colonial era, as it is a major transit point to all major tourist regions of Pakistan such as Nathiagali, Ayubia, and Naran. The Karakoram Highway, which traces one of the paths of the ancient Silk Road, starts from Hasan Abdal on the N5 and heads north passing through the city, eventually reaching Khunjerab Pass. The Karakorum Highway is a major attraction itself for its views.
The Karakoram, Himalayas, and the Hindu Kush ranges can be approached from Abbottabad, and it continues to be a transit city for tourists, serving as a base for visiting nearby places, such as Hunza, Gilgit, Skardu, and Indus Kohistan, of the Karakoram range.
Thandiani
A hill station located about 31 kilometers from the city of Abbottabad in the Gilyat area of Pakistan. It is situated 2700 meters above sea level on a small plateau surrounded by pine forests.
Thandiani means “very cold”. It is a superb place for nature lovers. The beauty of this lush green hill station is not spoiled by the crowds like many other hill stations in summer making it a perfect place to go for those who want to relax in a peaceful place far away from the hustle and bustle of busy modern life.
Thandiani was discovered and established as a sanatorium during British rule, for the comfort of officers positioned at the Abbottabad Cant. There are some European houses and a small bazaar which are occupied only during the summer months. To the east beyond the Kunar River are the mountains of Kashmir and the mountains of Kaghan and Kohistan are visible to the north and northeast. To the northwest are the ranges of Swat and Chitral.
Thandiani is not a well-established area. There are few shops and only one basic guesthouse. But the beauty of this area lies in its charming landscapes and magnificent weather. There are beautiful trees on the way to Thandiani and also a few small caves which are probably home for wildlife. Local wildlife includes leopards, monkeys, pheasants, and the flying squirrel.
The dawn in Thandiani is heart-touching but very cold as well. It is very cold in Thandiani especially at night even in summers. When first enter Thandiani, at the top there is a road that seems to go all the way to the sky. It gives wonderful views of the surrounding areas. The lush green peaceful Thandiani is a place worth visiting.
Shimla Hills
Shimla Hills, known as Shimla Pahari in the local language, is a hilly tourist destination in Abbottabad. It’s only a 10-kilometer drive from Abbottabad city. The Shimla Hills are surrounded by beautiful green forests and gentle slopes. The weather here is very pleasant in the summer, though a bit frosty and cold.
This place is best for hiking and mountain climbing. A jeep is best if you want to explore this area on one of the many roads. If you want to spend a few days here, summer is the best time to come. Most hotels and restaurants in the surrounding area are open during that time, and the traveling conditions are also favorable.
In winter, the area is colder, and there is a greater chance of landslides and road blockage.
Still, if you come to Abbottabad, do not miss a trip to the beautiful Shimla Hills. Even if you don’t go by road, you can still trek into this area. Children can enjoy rides in the park, while elders can have a cup of tea or coffee. There are also snacks available in one of the nearby open-air restaurants.
Harnoi
Abbottabad has many tourist spots, but Harnoi is the most famous and beautiful of them all. It is situated about 11 kilometers away from Abbottabad. Harnoi is surrounded by tall green mountains, which have a lot of different species of trees and medical herbs.
Cold water streams, known as Nadi Dhorr in the local language, are the main attraction for tourists. No matter the season, a cool northern breeze flows through the area. There are a lot of hotels, restaurants, and small shops in this area. There is also a park there for visitors. Inside the park, there is a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and other attractions. Be warned that this place is crowded in the summer.
The best way to enjoy the beauty of this place is to visit during autumn or spring. These seasons allow you more time to relax and explore the surrounding areas. Harnoi is situated roughly between Abbottabad and Nathiagali. Travelers hoping to avoid the crowds can trek into the surrounding areas instead of Harnoi itself.
There is plenty to see, with plains and streams that are surrounded by small mountains on both sides. These surrounding hillside areas are good places to travel for a day trip. If you are going to spend a day trekking, you should think about bringing food, water, and any other equipment you might need for a day out.