Changla Gali is a peaceful mountain resort in Pakistan’s Abbottabad District, part of the Galyat range that includes the well-known hill station Murree. Located about 16 kilometers north of Murree, it sits in the Himalayan foothills at an elevation of 2,804 meters (9,199 feet). Visitors can enjoy its natural beauty and historical significance, as it was once the headquarters of the Northern Command School of Musketry during British colonial times.
Travelers from Islamabad can reach Changla Gali in about 2-3 hours by car. The drive takes you through winding mountain roads with stunning views of the landscape. This makes Changla Gali an accessible and appealing escape from city life. Tourists come here for the tranquility and natural beauty, enjoying activities like hiking, bird watching, and admiring the panoramic views of the lush green mountains.
Location
Changla Gali, located at a significant elevation, is a charming mountain resort town in the Abbottabad District of Pakistan’s Galyat region.
How To Get There?
Access to Changla Gali is relatively straightforward, thanks to a network of roads that connect it with neighboring towns and regions.
- From Islamabad: Visitors can travel along the Murree Expressway, branching off to Abbottabad Road to reach Changla Gali.
- Local Transport: Public transportation options are available, including buses and taxis from nearby cities, affording easy access to tourists.
By maintaining well-established roads and available transport services, Changla Gali remains an accessible destination for those looking to experience the tranquility and natural splendor of Pakistan’s mountainous regions.
Climate and Weather
Changla Gali enjoys a climate that is classified as mild and moderate. Known for its significant precipitation, the area receives rainfall throughout the year, even during the driest months. The climate classification, according to the Köppen and Geiger system, is Cfb. This denotes a temperate oceanic climate characterized by mild summers, cooler winters, and precipitation during all months.
The region has an average annual temperature hovering around 13.6 °C (56.6 °F). At certain times, Changla Gali’s weather can be brisk. For instance, temperatures can drop to a chilly 4°C (39.2°F), with the perceived temperature being even colder due to wind chill factors. The area often experiences southeast winds at speeds of around 8 mph. The sky conditions can vary, with clear days and cloudier periods, occasionally accompanied by morning showers.
Nearby Attractions
Changla Gali is conveniently located near other popular destinations, enhancing its appeal for travelers. To the northwest, it shares a close proximity to the renowned hill station of Nathia Gali, situated approximately 16 kilometers away. Additionally, the picturesque town of Murree, a hub of activity in the region, is situated roughly 45 kilometers to the east of Changla Gali.
- Dunga Gali: 12.8 km
- Mushkpuri Top: 16.1 km
- Nathia Gali: ~16 km
- Ghora Gali via Kashmir Road: 22.1 km
- Ghora Gali via Abbottabad Road: 26.5 km
- Miranjani: 22.6 km
- Murree: ~45 km
These distances enable tourists to incorporate Changla Gali into a larger itinerary that explores the scenic beauty of the Galyat area. Now we’ll discuss each of the places one by one.
Miranjani Top
Experienced hikers will find the Miranjani Trek a challenging yet rewarding climb to the highest peak in the Galyat region. Starting from the historic Governor House in Nathia Gali, the trek takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your fitness level. The trail splits after a few kilometers: one route leads to the beautiful Namli Maira Village, offering a slightly easier trek, while the other is steeper and more challenging but rewards hikers with stunning summit views.
Mushkpuri Top
Mushkpuri Top, the second-highest peak in the Galyat region, is popular for its easy accessibility and beautiful hikes year-round. Located at an altitude of 9,200 feet, it is part of Ayubia National Park. The moderately challenging trail starts just above Nathia Gali and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Hikers can spot various birds and wildlife along the way. At the summit, there’s a grassy plateau with picnic areas and benches, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the panoramic views.
Nathia Gali
Nathia Gali is a charming town in the Galyat region, favored by tourists seeking a peaceful escape. Known for its ideal weather and serene natural beauty, it offers a variety of activities. Visitors can explore bustling bazaars filled with local crafts and souvenirs, try horseback riding in the scenic meadows, or enjoy a picnic in Ghora Ki Gali (Horse Galli). For history lovers, the Anglican Church, a beautiful stone structure from the British Raj, is a must-visit.
Murree
Murree is a vibrant hill station in the Galyat region, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, it boasts a rich history and colonial-era architecture. Visitors can stroll along the picturesque Mall Road, lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes, or take a ride on the Murree Cable Car for panoramic views. Kashmir Point offers breathtaking vistas and opportunities for horseback riding and paragliding.
Murree also holds historical sites like the colonial-era Murree Brewery and the Gandhi House, where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during the British Raj. For nature lovers, Ayubia National Park, extending into Murree’s outskirts, offers hiking and picnic spots.
Ghora Gali
Ghora Gali is a beautiful mountain resort town near Dunga Gali, 34.9 km away, in north eastern Punjab. At an altitude of 1,691 meters, it was a popular spot for British colonialists and troops during the British Raj.
In 1860, Lawrence College was established in Ghora Gali as a home for orphans of British soldiers. The town also had a brewery that produced beer for British troops. But it was destroyed in 1947 when Pakistan gained independence. Today, Ghora Gali offers activities like an 1,100 meter long chairlift ride from Ghora Gali to Pindi Point. It’s a great place for history buffs and nature lovers.
Hotels Nearby Changla Gali
Here is the table of hotels with their features, ratings, and prices:
| Name | Features | Ratings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shangrila Hotels & Resort | Free breakfast, Wi-Fi, Free parking, Restaurant, Room service, Full-service laundry, Child-friendly | 3.9 (1,001) | Rs 21,223 |
| Summer Retreat Changlagali | Child-friendly | 3.4 (16) | Rs 8,357 |
| Hummingbird Resort & Executive Suites | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Restaurant, Room service, Full-service laundry | 4.1 (618) | |
| Pluto Cottage | Cottage, Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 bed, Air conditioning, Heating, Kitchen, Smoke-free | Rs 23,579 | |
| The Cloud Resorts | Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 bed, Smoke-free, Cable TV, Free parking, Free Wi-Fi, No air conditioning | 3.9 (68) | Rs 22,020 |
| Peaceful Private Cottage | Cottage, Sleeps 7, 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 5 beds, 12 sq m, Air conditioning, Balcony, Heating | 5.0 (1) | Rs 19,141 |
| Quality Lodges | Sleeps 2, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 bed, Air conditioning, Balcony, Heating, Ironing board, Smoke-free | 3.6 (2) | Rs 10,832 |
| Umda Hotel Montana | Breakfast ($), Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Room service, Full-service laundry, Child-friendly, Smoke-free | 4.2 (176) | Rs 9,999 |
| Fogland Hotel | Free breakfast, Free Wi-Fi, Free parking, Pet-friendly, Restaurant, Room service, Full-service laundry | 4.2 (250) | Rs 12,480 |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Changla Gali is a serene mountain resort town in Pakistan’s Abbottabad District, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Easily accessible from Islamabad, it provides a peaceful escape with activities like hiking, bird watching, and enjoying panoramic views. Nearby attractions such as Nathia Gali, Mushkpuri Top, Miranjani, and Murree add to its appeal, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. With a range of accommodation options available, including hotels and private cottages, Changla Gali is an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway in the Galyat region.