Named after a nearby forest, Bhurban is a small hill station in the Punjab province of Pakistan. It is inhabited by the Dhund, Janyal and Ahmedal tribes, who have lived here for centuries, and was the childhood home of former Pakistani prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi. Today, Bhurban serves as a base for exploring the hiking trails of Ayubia National Park.
Things to do in Bhurban
For elevated views across the region, ride the Patriata Chair Lift and Cable Car, which was built in the 1990s. It extends for around seven kilometres from New Murree to the highest peak in the area, Patriata Hill. On the chair lift, you can enjoy sweeping panoramas across the forested hills below, with occasional sightings of monkeys and leopards.
Nearby is Kashmir Point, a 2,286-metre-high summit that looks out across the mountains of Kashmir. A soft-wheeled tourist train journeys to the top, making it a fun trip for young and old alike. If you’re travelling with kids, you can combine your visit with a stop at the New Sozo Adventure Park, which is packed with family-friendly rides.
Bhurban is surrounded by magnificent natural scenery, including photogenic waterfalls and lush meadows. Pack a picnic and enjoy the views of rolling hills north of town or admire the wildflowers while hiking to the top of Mushkpuri Peak. The mountain forms part of Ayubia National Park, where its forests provide a habitat for golden jackals, masked palm civets and leopard cats.
Getting around Bhurban
Bhurban is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Islamabad and two hours from Islamabad International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Renting a car and driver is the most convenient way of getting to Bhurban and exploring the surrounding area.