5-Day Nature Escape – Islamabad, Khanpur Lake & Ayubia Tour
Khanpur Lake Discover the thrill and beauty of Khanpur Lake, one of Pakistan’s most stunning water destinations, on this unforgettable 5-day nature escape.
About this journey
Khanpur Lake
Discover the thrill and beauty of Khanpur Lake, one of Pakistan’s most stunning water destinations, on this unforgettable 5-day nature escape. Nestled among rugged cliffs and turquoise blue waters, Khanpur Lake offers a paradise for adventure lovers. Experience adrenaline-pumping activities like cliff diving, jet skiing, parasailing, boating, and more—all set against the breathtaking natural backdrop of this iconic lake near Islamabad.
After an exciting day at the lake, unwind in the serene Margalla Hills National Park with a sunset dinner at Monal Restaurant—Islamabad’s most celebrated dining spot. Enjoy panoramic city views as you dine under the stars, perfect for couples, families, and foodies alike.
The adventure continues with a refreshing getaway to Ayubia National Park, located in the heart of the Galyat region. Trek the scenic Pipeline Walking Trail, spot native birds and wildlife, and soak in the peaceful forest atmosphere. Wrap up the day with a memorable Patriata chairlift and cable car ride, gliding above lush green hills for one of the most beautiful aerial views in Northern Pakistan.
Whether you’re craving nature, adventure, or just a break from city life, this Khanpur Lake tour delivers a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility.
Day by day
1Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad
Arrive at Islamabad International Airport, where our representative will receive you and transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy rest and relaxation before a welcome dinner and briefing in the evening. Overnight Stay: Islamabad
2Day 2: Islamabad to Taxila, Khanpur Dam & City Tour (Drive Time: Approx. 4 hours total)
Explore ancient artifacts at the Taxila Museum, then enjoy thrilling water sports at Khanpur Dam. Return to Islamabad for a city tour, visiting Faisal Mosque and Pir Sohawa for dinner at Monal Restaurant.
Overnight Stay: Islamabad
3Day 3: Islamabad to Ayubia & Patriata Chairlift (Drive Time: 5–6 hours)
Hike the Pipeline Trail at Ayubia National Park, then ride the scenic Patriata Chairlift. Experience forested trails, wildlife, and breathtaking hill views.
Overnight Stay: Murree
4Day 4: Murree Sightseeing & Return to Islamabad (Drive Time: 2 hours)
Wander Mall Road, enjoy tea at Kashmir Point, and soak in Murree’s alpine charm. Head back to Islamabad by evening.
Overnight Stay: Islamabad
5Day 5: Departure from Islamabad
After breakfast, transfer to Islamabad Airport for your onward journey.
What you will experience
- Thrilling Water Sports at Khanpur Dam
- Enjoy cliff diving, jet skiing, parasailing, and boating against the stunning blue backdrop of Khanpur Lake, a hotspot for adventure tourism in Pakistan.
- Sunset Dinner at Monal Restaurant in Margalla Hills
- Dine with spectacular views at the iconic Monal Restaurant, perched in the Margalla Hills National Park, offering panoramic sights of Islamabad city at sunset.
- Nature Walk on the Ayubia National Park Pipeline Trail
- Hike the serene Pipeline Walking Track, surrounded by coniferous forest, with chances to spot local wildlife and enjoy views of Mukshpuri Peak.
- Scenic Patriata Chairlift & Cable Car Ride
- Experience one of Pakistan’s most beautiful aerial rides over pine-covered mountains and deep valleys in New Murree (Patriata).
- Islamabad City Sightseeing Tour
- Discover Pakistan’s modern capital with visits to the Faisal Mosque, Pakistan Monument, Lok Virsa Museum, and Saidpur Village, blending nature, culture, and heritage.
What to bring
A practical starting point for this trip. Your guide will send a final, weather-checked list two weeks before departure.
Documents & essentials
- Passport valid 6+ months, plus photocopies stored separately
- Pakistan visa or e-visa confirmation printout
- Travel insurance certificate (mandatory — must cover altitude if trekking)
- Flight tickets and this itinerary, printed and on your phone
- Cash in USD or EUR for exchange; cards are not widely accepted outside major cities
- Passport-sized photographs for permits and hotel registration
Clothing
- Layered clothing — northern valleys are cool at night even in summer
- Fleece or insulated jacket for high passes such as Khunjerab and Babusar
- Light waterproof jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes plus sandals or trainers
- Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for mosques, forts and villages
- A scarf or shawl (women should carry one for religious sites)
- Sun hat and sunglasses — UV is intense at altitude
Health & personal care
- Personal medication with a copy of the prescription
- Basic first-aid kit: blister plasters, painkillers, antihistamine, rehydration salts
- Anti-diarrhoeal and a broad-spectrum antibiotic if your doctor advises it
- High-factor sunscreen (SPF 50) and SPF lip balm
- Insect repellent
- Hand sanitiser and wet wipes
- Toilet paper — not reliably supplied outside hotels
Electronics
- Universal adapter — Pakistan uses type C and D sockets, 230 V
- Power bank; mains power is intermittent in mountain areas
- Camera with spare batteries — cold drains them quickly
- Phone with offline maps downloaded before departure
Good to have
- Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste
- Small padlock for luggage
- Snacks you like — choice is limited outside cities
- Earplugs and eye mask for long drives and shared lodges
- A small gift or postcards from home if you plan to visit local families
Good to know before you go
What’s included
- All accommodation (private groups have the option of Standard/Luxury)
- Daily Meals
- All land travel
- All tolls/attraction tickets
- Local English speaking guide
- Driver/Guide expenses
- Private transfers to and from the Airport
Not included
- Flights (unless domestic flights have been outlined in the itinerary)
- Travel Insurance
- Snacks and personal expense
- Recreational activities such as horse riding, parasailing etc.
- Tips (optional and completely at the guests’ discretion)
- Any other personal expenses
When to travel
Recommended travel window. Highlighted months are when we run this itinerary. Private departures can be arranged on any date — just ask.
Dates shown are guide departures. Exact start dates are confirmed at the time of booking and can be adjusted to suit your flights.
Plan your 5-Day Nature Escape – Islamabad, Khanpur Lake & Ayubia Tour
Tell us your dates and we will build this itinerary around them — private guide, your pace, your interests. We reply within one working day.
Or call +92 342 5017535
Questions travellers ask
1. Is this tour suitable for families, couples, and international travelers?
Yes, this tour is ideal for families, couples, solo travelers, and international tourists looking to explore the natural beauty and cultural landmarks of Northern Pakistan. It offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing with comfortable accommodations and private transport.
2. What are the travel times between destinations on this tour?
Islamabad to Taxila: 1.5 hours
Islamabad to Khanpur Dam: 1.5 hours
Islamabad to Ayubia: 3.5–4 hours
Murree to Islamabad: 2 hours
All transfers are in air-conditioned private vehicles, ensuring a smooth and safe journey.
3. What activities can I enjoy at Khanpur Dam and Ayubia National Park?
At Khanpur Dam, guests can try jet skiing, parasailing, cliff diving, and boating. In Ayubia National Park, enjoy the Pipeline Trek, wildlife spotting, nature photography, and optionally, horseback riding or mountain biking. The Patriata chairlift ride also provides stunning aerial views of the forested hills.
4. What should I pack for this 5-day hill station and adventure tour?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, seasonal clothing (light layers in summer, warm jackets in winter), sunglasses, sunblock, and a camera. For water activities, bring a quick-dry towel and a change of clothes.
