Daman-e-Koh Margalla Hills Islamabad
Elevated park offering sweeping city views, Faisal Mosque vistas, and dining with a panorama.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical city lights appear
Daman-e-Koh Margalla Hills Islamabad
Best Time
Magical city lights appear
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Elevated park offering sweeping city views, Faisal Mosque vistas, and dining with a panorama.
"Breathtaking views of the entire city, a peaceful spot for families and tourists to relax and enjoy nature."
🎯 Sunset Spectacle
Arrive by 5-8 PM for the best sunset views and city lights. Be prepared for crowds!
🐒 Monkey Smart
Keep food hidden and maintain distance from monkeys; some can be aggressive.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic City Views
Main viewpoint
Witness Islamabad sprawl beneath you, a stunning vista of city lights and natural beauty.
Faisal Mosque Vista
Viewpoint facing the mosque
Capture iconic shots of the majestic Faisal Mosque nestled against the Margalla Hills.
The Dome Restaurant
Adjacent to the viewpoint
Dine with unparalleled views, offering fine dining amidst the clouds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Monkeys & More
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Sunset Spectacle
Arrive by 5-8 PM for the best sunset views and city lights. Be prepared for crowds!
🐒 Monkey Smart
Keep food hidden and maintain distance from monkeys; some can be aggressive.
📸 Photo Ready
Morning offers clearer shots, while sunset provides dramatic lighting.
🚗 Easy Parking
Ample parking is available, making arrival hassle-free.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Sunset Spectacle
Arrive by 5-8 PM for the best sunset views and city lights. Be prepared for crowds!
🐒 Monkey Smart
Keep food hidden and maintain distance from monkeys; some can be aggressive.
📸 Photo Ready
Morning offers clearer shots, while sunset provides dramatic lighting.
🚗 Easy Parking
Ample parking is available, making arrival hassle-free.
☕ Snack Break
A snack shop and restaurant are on-site for refreshments.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Daman-e-Koh is celebrated for its breathtaking panoramic views of Islamabad, especially stunning at sunset. Visitors appreciate the accessible location, free entry, and the presence of dining options like The Dome Restaurant. However, some note potential smog issues and the need for caution around the local monkey population.
"amazing views of the whole city. you can see the hills and faisal mosque. great views at sunset. lots of monkeys. some are hostile but most are just there doing what monkeys do."
abu bana
"Daman-e-Koh is a beautiful viewpoint in Islamabad with breathtaking views of the entire city. A peaceful spot for families and tourists to relax and enjoy nature. Definitely worth visiting"
Ahsan
"Really a beautiful and stunning place in Islamabad. You will get a stunning view of the whole city and it is very exciting to watch from there. Mostly it is smoggy from over this point but it is worth it visiting there. You can see a few international tourists there and you can get a chance to meet and greet them and have some pictures.
There is a small restaurant also available here and a snack shop. Please visit this place at 5 to 8 PM as it is hot and very sunny in afternoon. If you want better pictures with great colors then visit in the morning."
Mohsin Razzaq
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Daman-e-Koh is easily accessible by car via Pir Sohawa Road. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Islamabad and can take you directly to the viewpoint. The drive offers scenic views as you ascend the Margalla Hills.
While direct public buses are limited, you can take a local bus towards the base of the Margalla Hills and then hire a taxi or motorcycle rickshaw for the remainder of the journey.
Driving your own vehicle or hiring a dedicated taxi gives you the most flexibility for stopping at scenic points and reaching Daman-e-Koh at optimal times for photography, like sunrise or sunset.
Yes, Daman-e-Koh is a popular starting point for several hiking trails that lead deeper into the Margalla Hills National Park. These trails offer a more immersive nature experience.
The travel time to Daman-e-Koh from central Islamabad is typically around 30-45 minutes by car, depending on traffic conditions and your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Daman-e-Koh itself is free of charge. You only pay for any food or services you might use at the on-site restaurant or snack shop.
Daman-e-Koh is generally open from morning until late at night, allowing visitors to enjoy both daytime views and the illuminated city at night. It's best to visit before sunset for the most dramatic views.
Since there is no entry fee, advance booking is not required for Daman-e-Koh. You can visit anytime during its operational hours.
While generally open, it's advisable to check for any temporary closures or restrictions due to weather conditions or local events. Be mindful of the wildlife, especially monkeys.
To avoid crowds, aim for early mornings on weekdays. Weekends and public holidays, especially around sunset, tend to be the busiest times.
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewpoint offers sweeping cityscapes, while specific vantage points provide excellent frames for the Faisal Mosque. The restaurant area also offers unique perspectives.
For clear, crisp photos, visit in the morning. For dramatic lighting and city lights, sunset and early evening are ideal, though it can be smoggy.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks and sensitive areas. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on the Faisal Mosque or city details.
While tempting, it's not recommended to actively seek photos with monkeys due to their unpredictable nature. Focus on the landscapes and city views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, The Dome Restaurant is located at Daman-e-Koh, offering fine dining with spectacular views of Islamabad.
The Dome offers a fine dining experience, including an iftar buffet during Ramadan with over 80 dishes. They also serve regular meals with a focus on quality and ambiance.
The Iftar buffet is priced around Rs4995/- per head, with discounts for children. Regular menu prices reflect a fine dining experience.
There is also a snack shop available for lighter refreshments and quick bites.
Picnicking is generally allowed in park areas, but it's always good practice to clean up after yourself and be mindful of the wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack some snacks and drinks, though there's a snack shop and restaurant available. Visiting in the late afternoon allows you to see the park in daylight and then witness the magical transition to evening as the city lights up. The drive up is also scenic, adding to the adventure.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Consider visiting early in the morning for clearer skies and fewer people, or during sunset for dramatic lighting. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the vastness, while a telephoto can bring distant details closer. Be mindful of the monkeys, as they can sometimes photobomb your shots!
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider a quiet picnic on the grounds or simply enjoying the serene atmosphere together. The cooler evening air and the vast expanse of the sky make it an ideal spot for a memorable date.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Viewpoint
Many visitors describe the view as 'amazing' and 'breathtaking,' highlighting its beauty during both day and night. The accessibility via Pir Sohawa Road makes it a convenient destination for a quick getaway. The park is well-maintained with walking paths, making it pleasant for leisurely strolls while soaking in the scenery.
It's also a starting point for several hiking trails, appealing to adventure seekers who wish to explore the Margalla Hills further. Whether you're looking for a peaceful spot to relax, a prime location for photography, or the beginning of an outdoor adventure, Daman-e-Koh delivers a memorable experience.
Dining with a View: The Dome Restaurant
Reviewers often praise the combination of good food and the spectacular scenery. The restaurant's elevated position ensures that diners can enjoy the city lights and the surrounding natural beauty while savoring their meals. While it offers a premium experience, many find the combination of exquisite dining and the breathtaking panorama to be well worth the cost.
Beyond the main restaurant, a snack shop is also available, catering to those who prefer a quicker bite or a casual refreshment. This ensures that visitors have options for sustenance while enjoying the Daman-e-Koh viewpoint.
Wildlife Encounters: The Monkeys of Daman-e-Koh
It's crucial for visitors to exercise caution and respect the wildlife. The general advice from locals and experienced visitors is to avoid feeding the monkeys, as this encourages dependency and can lead to bolder behavior. Keeping food items secured and out of sight is highly recommended to prevent unwanted interactions.
Maintaining a safe distance and observing the monkeys from afar is the best approach. This ensures the safety of both visitors and the animals, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural beauty of Daman-e-Koh without incident.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit