Pir Sohawa is a popular tourist destination located in the Margalla Hills, just 17 kilometers away from Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan. It is a picturesque place that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The area is known for its natural beauty, fresh air, and peaceful atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
One of the main attractions in Pir Sohawa is the Monal Restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience with its open-air seating arrangement and panoramic views of the city. The restaurant serves a variety of Pakistani and continental dishes, and is particularly famous for its barbeque and grilled items. The prices are reasonable, and the service is generally good, making it a popular spot for families, couples, and groups of friends.
Apart from the restaurant, there are several other things to do in Pir Sohawa, such as hiking, trekking, and camping. There are several trails that lead to different parts of the Margalla Hills, and visitors can choose the one that suits their level of fitness and experience. The area is also home to several species of wildlife, including monkeys, deer, and birds, which adds to its natural charm and appeal.
Geography and Climate
Altitude
Pir Sohawa is a popular tourist destination, located at an altitude of 5000 feet (1524 meters) above sea level. The place is geographically part of the Haripur District and is situated on top of the Margalla Hills, 17 kilometers from Islamabad. The hill station is known for its breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings.
Weather Patterns
The climate of Pir Sohawa is typically continental, with four distinct seasons. The temperature and weather patterns vary significantly throughout the year. The best time to visit Pir Sohawa is from March to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
During the spring season, which lasts from March to May, the temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C. Summer, which lasts from June to August, can be quite hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C. Autumn, from September to November, is also a pleasant season, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.
Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from -4°C to 15°C. During this time, Pir Sohawa experiences occasional snowfall, which adds to the charm of the hill station.
Overall, Pir Sohawa is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some breathtaking views and fresh air.
Accessibility
Pir Sohawa Road
Pir Sohawa is located on top of the Margalla Hills, approximately 17 kilometers away from Islamabad. The most common route to reach Pir Sohawa is through Pir Sohawa Road, which is a well-maintained and carpeted road. The road starts from Daman-e-Koh, which is easily accessible from Islamabad Zoo.
The road is surrounded by lush green trees and offers a picturesque view of the capital city of Islamabad. The drive to Pir Sohawa is an adventure in itself, and tourists can stop at various points to take pictures and enjoy the scenic beauty.
There are several restaurants located on Pir Sohawa Road, making it an ideal place to enjoy with family and friends. The most popular restaurant on Pir Sohawa Road is Monal Restaurant, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and is a must-visit place for tourists.
Overall, Pir Sohawa Road is easily accessible and well-maintained, making it a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend getaway.
Recreation and Tourism
Picnic Point
Pir Sohawa is a popular tourist destination and a great place for recreation. One of the main attractions of Pir Sohawa is the picnic point. The picnic point is located in a scenic hilltop area that offers breathtaking views of Islamabad and its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a memorable picnic experience in the lap of nature while relishing the panoramic views of the city.
The picnic point is a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy a day out in the fresh air. The serene atmosphere and lush greenery make it an ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation. Visitors can bring their own food or enjoy the delicious local cuisine available at the nearby restaurants.
The picnic point is a popular spot for photography enthusiasts. The panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills provide a perfect backdrop for capturing memorable moments. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and bird watching.
Overall, the picnic point at Pir Sohawa is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing day out in nature.
Conservation Efforts
Pir Sohawa, located on top of Margalla Hills, is a rapidly developing tourist resort that has been the focus of various conservation efforts. The local authorities and environmental organizations recognize the importance of preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
To protect the Pine City Waterfall and its surrounding ecosystem, the authorities have taken steps to preserve this natural treasure. Similarly, the Margalla Hills National Park, managed by the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), is responsible for the protection and conservation of wildlife in the area. The Cheer-pheasant, which is indigenous to NWFP, is reared in Margalla Hills as part of the conservation campaign.
Under the Prime Minister’s campaign of ‘Clean & Green Pakistan,’ the SMEC Oil & Gas in collaboration with the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, students, and civil society organizations organized a clean-up drive to purge Pir Sohawa of litter. The campaign involved 150 volunteers who collected garbage and litter from the area. Such efforts not only help in preserving the natural beauty of the region but also promote eco-tourism in the area.
Overall, the conservation efforts in Pir Sohawa demonstrate the commitment of the local authorities and environmental organizations towards preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region.
Local Cuisine and Culture
Pir Sohawa is a place that offers a unique blend of local cuisine and culture. The area is known for its luxury restaurants that serve both international and local dishes. One such restaurant is the Monal Restaurant, which is famous for its amazing ambiance and open-air seating arrangement. It offers a panoramic view of the Capital and is a perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal while taking in the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
The local cuisine of Pir Sohawa is a reflection of the diverse cultures that exist in the region. The food is a blend of Pakistani, Indian, and Middle Eastern influences. Some of the popular dishes include Biryani, Karahi, and Kebabs. The food is known for its rich flavors and unique spices that are used to enhance the taste.
In addition to the food, Pir Sohawa is also known for its cultural heritage. The area is home to several historical sites that date back to the Mughal era. Some of the popular sites include the Faisal Mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world, and the Pakistan Monument, which is a symbol of the country’s independence.
Overall, Pir Sohawa is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the local cuisine and culture of Islamabad. The area offers a unique blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who visits.