Islamabad to Murree: A Scenic Drive through the Hills
By Emma Wilson
Missed the First Part?
If you haven’t read the beginning of my journey, check out the first blog: "Pakistan, Here I Come - Preparing for the Ultimate Road Trip".
Waking Up to an Unforgettable Morning
The alarm buzzed loudly, and I groggily reached out to turn it off. My excitement from yesterday returned in an instant—today, I was finally hitting the road.
After a quick shower, I packed my bags into the SUV and grabbed a light breakfast. Islamabad’s fresh morning air and scenic surroundings made me eager to start my journey to Murree.
Setting Off: The Journey Begins
By 8 AM, I was on the road, heading towards Murree, a beautiful hill station just a couple of hours from Islamabad. The smooth roads, lush green hills, and cool breeze made the drive absolutely breathtaking.
But little did I know that an unexpected incident was waiting for me ahead.
The Unexpected Accident
As I was enjoying the peaceful drive, I suddenly heard a loud screech of brakes. A small car in front of me had lost control and skidded on the wet road
Instinctively, I pressed my brakes hard, my heart pounding. My SUV came to a halt just in time. The other driver was safe, though shaken. Some locals rushed to help, and I, too, stepped out to see if I could assist.
Thankfully, no one was injured, but the incident reminded me of how unpredictable road trips can be. I made a mental note to drive even more carefully, especially on winding mountain roads.
A Refreshing Stop at a Roadside Café
After the nerve-wracking moment, I needed a break. I spotted a charming roadside café nestled between tall pine trees.
I parked my SUV and stepped inside, welcomed by the inviting aroma of chai (tea) and fresh parathas (buttery flatbread). The café owner, an elderly man with a warm smile, offered me a cup of Kashmiri chai, a delicious pink-colored tea. I gladly accepted.
Sipping my tea, I looked out at the breathtaking view of the hills. The accident had shaken me, but this peaceful moment reminded me why I had embarked on this journey—to embrace every experience, good or bad.
Reaching Murree: A Town Among the Clouds
By afternoon, I had reached Murree. The town was lively, with tourists strolling through the famous Mall Road, street vendors selling local crafts, and children enjoying ice cream.
I checked into a cozy guesthouse and freshened up. Then, I decided to explore some of Murree’s famous spots.
Exploring Murree’s Famous Attractions
Pindi Point
My first stop was Pindi Point, which offered stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The cool mountain air and the sight of Islamabad in the distance were mesmerizing.
Kashmir Point
Next, I visited Kashmir Point, a quiet spot away from the crowds. Standing there, gazing at the faraway snow-capped mountains of Kashmir, I felt a deep sense of peace.
Shopping at Mall Road
As the evening approached, I walked along Mall Road, Murree’s bustling market street. I bought some handcrafted souvenirs, a warm shawl, and of course, some more delicious street food.
Ending the Day with a Campfire
Back at the guesthouse, the owner invited me to join a small group of travelers around a campfire. We shared travel stories while enjoying the warmth of the fire.
As I lay in bed that night, I felt grateful for the day’s adventures—the breathtaking views, the roadside café, the warm people, and even the accident that reminded me to stay cautious.
What’s Next? A Terrifying Experience Awaits
Tomorrow, I leave for Kohala and the stunning Kaghan Valley. But what I didn’t know was that I would face a terrifying moment—a landslide that nearly sent my car plunging into a ditch
Stay tuned for the next part of my journey: "Murree to Kohala: Exploring the Kaghan Valley’s Hidden Gems."
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