Khaira Gali and Galiyat — Pakistan’s Most Underrated Mountain Escape

A stay in Khaira Gali or Galiyat is one of Pakistan’s best-kept travel secrets. Everyone knows Murree. Fewer people know Galiyat. And that is exactly what makes it special.

Galiyat is the chain of hill stations that stretches from Murree to Nathia Gali — a series of forested ridges, colonial-era bungalows, and mountain towns that still feel like they belong to a different era. Khaira Gali is one of these towns, sitting at an elevation of approximately 2,400 metres and offering cooler temperatures, denser forests, and a much quieter atmosphere than the busy bazaars of Murree.

Where is Khaira Gali?

Khaira Gali is located on the Galiyat Road between Murree and Nathia Gali, approximately 25 km from Murree town and 85 km from Islamabad. The drive from Islamabad takes about 2 hours via Murree, or slightly less if conditions are clear.

Why Galiyat Over Murree?

Murree is Pakistan’s most popular hill station — which is also its biggest problem. During peak season, Mall Road becomes gridlocked, prices spike, and the town loses much of the quietness that makes mountains worth visiting in the first place.

Galiyat and Khaira Gali offer everything Murree does — pine forests, mountain views, cool weather, fresh air — without the crowds. The roads are quieter. The walks are more accessible. The atmosphere is calmer. And the properties, when you find good ones, are significantly better value.

Things to Do in Khaira Gali and Galiyat

• Forest walks and trails — Khaira Gali has some of the best maintained forest trails in the region. The pine forests are particularly beautiful in autumn and after snow.
• Nathia Gali — 30 minutes drive, the most popular town in Galiyat, with a market, Governor’s House, and excellent walking routes
• Ayubia National Park — Chairlift, picnic spots, and forest trails through one of KPK’s finest nature reserves
• Dunga Gali — Small, quiet hill town between Khaira Gali and Nathia Gali, ideal for a morning walk
• Murree — 25 minutes away, good for a day trip to Mall Road without staying in the crowds

Where to Stay in Khaira Gali

Saddlewood Presidential Residence is the finest luxury stay in Khaira Gali — a beautifully designed 3 or 4-bedroom mountain apartment inside Serenity Homes resort. Timber and leather interiors, a fireplace in the main lounge, a 75-inch TV, and in-unit heating throughout.

The 3-bedroom configuration accommodates up to 6 guests at Rs. 99,000 per night. Add the kids’ bunk room and the property accommodates up to 10 guests at Rs. 125,000 per night. Room service is available from the on-site restaurant, and the property sits within a gated resort complex with secure parking and CCTV.

Rated 5.0 stars on Airbnb.

Best Time to Visit Khaira Gali

Galiyat is genuinely worth visiting year-round. The summer months (May to September) are the most popular — temperatures rarely exceed 20°C even at the height of summer. Winter brings snow from December to February, and the forests under fresh snowfall are unforgettable. Autumn, from October to November, is the most underrated time — quieter, cheaper, and strikingly beautiful.

Book Your Galiyat Stay

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