A Day into the Snow Flakes -by – Munaza Kazmi

Munaza Kazmi

In Pakistan when we talk about snow, it’s obviously Murree. The scenic snow-white valley of huge hills and mountains laden with tall green trees covering themselves in a thick silvery snow. The curvy roads, pleasing sounds of birds, thrill of the rare sight of a leopard, appetizing smells coming from the stalls, the dramatic sunset, cozy feel from just looking at the cup of tea, and the tranquility of cold night which stills every business of life.

Murree a mountain resort town, located in the Galyat region of Pir Panjal Range, with the average altitude of 2,291 meters. From Islamabad to a distance of more or less 2 hours, its Murree, to which locals call “The Queen of Mountains”, that however is very comfortable due to the construction of Express way, which comes with bump less road, opening of various small cafes and petrol pumps, hence you don’t need to pack bags of snacks.

Murree as a town constructed in 1851 and was a popular tourist station built in order to escape from the heat of summers by the British Raj. It is known for its scenic landscapes of mountains laden with huge pine trees, crisscrossed with springs and rivulets and dotted with meadows and orchards. Moreover, on a clear day you can have good view of the snowy peaks of Kashmir, also the roof of Nanga Parbat.

Talking about the tourist attraction of the area, includes the Wildlife Park, Mall Road that is more or less loaded with every commodity of life, however with a slight increase in price, and delicious local foods.

Then comes Patriata, famous for chairlift that gives a bird-eye view of the hills and of the valley. Next is Ayubia, that is located on the highest attitude and provides the tourist with the fine view of Islamabad. While in Ayubia you can also find the chairlift, which is really a fun and a big bazaar selling traditional cloaks, jewels, dry fruits and local specialties.

A little further if you go, is Burhan, in local language it stands for “Burning Jungle”, since in the autumn when the trees standing in festive golden clocks, the last rays of the sun falling on them makes a mirage of fire burning in the jungle.

History and culture, that is a major theme of tourism had also built itself ages long in Murree. The Colonel era buildings including some churches, old homes, schools and colleges can still be found. Let’s say, an Anglican church, built in 1857, located at the center of the town, is a recommended place to visit, moreover it is still in operation. Long, you will encounter several little alleys, some old Victorian style houses, now functioning mostly as hotels.

The Governor House an imposing building built in the 19th century, is another work of art and offer several tales to the visitors.

For accommodation, there comes various options from 2-star to 5-star luxury hotel, hence you can tailor your stay according to the needs while enjoying the beauties of nature.

However, I laced up for Burhan Murree on the beginning of last day of last year to celebrate the New Year’s Eve with the love and warmth of family, the day was clear, hence we had a full opportunity to sight the farthest of the mountains, the Kashmir Hills, the peak of most celebrated Nanga Parbat.

As I mentioned above about the Express way, it was really a comfortable along scenic all the way, we parked our car twice on the way, just to look around the natural beauty. Meanwhile, we stopped at “Chaaye Khana” for warming up ourselves with a hot cup of tea, there are several different cafés, small general stores, a couple of Banks with ATMs, quite convenient.