DAMAN-E-KOH ISLAMABAD

Daman-e-Koh Margalla Hill

Daman-e-Koh, about 3000ft from sea level and almost 1000ft higher than City of Islamabad, is a viewing point and hill top modern garden, popular among the residents as well as the visitors to this capital town of the nation. Geologically, it is a spur, off shooting from the main Margalla Hill, which comprise the Margalla National Park.Daman-e-Koh is a midpoint for tourists on their way to the higher view point Pir Wohawa which is located at the top of Margalla Hills at an elevation of about 5000ft.

There is a plan to construct a chairlift from Daman-e-Koh to Pir Sohawa. It is speculated that this plan would start materializing in the near future. Car parking facility is provided close to the Northern Spot where a cafe and some small tuck shops cater the needs of guests. A restaurant is located on the Southern Spot overlooking the city. The Southern Spot is the main attraction as it provides a panoramic view of Islamabad. Telescopes are installed for keener observers. A board displaying basic information about Islamabad is installed for the people coming from outside the city.

The place is a haven for bird watchers. More than 70 different native as well as migrating bird are seen here during various parts of the year. Monkeys are a common sight during winter. It is little risky trying to play or negotiate with or feed these otherwise friendly creatures. Cheetahs are (frequently) reported as seen in these foothills, mostly during winter. They are believed to descend from higher hills of Murree in snowfall days.

Because of Daman-e-Koh’s close proximity to Islamabad taxi cabs drivers are delighted to take visitors to the park at a nominal cost, and cabs are available for return trips to Islamabad in the parking lots. If you are in Islamabad be sure to visit this forest area where nature abounds, the view is marvelous and the atmosphere is so peaceful and tranquil. With so many places to venture, and with wildlife that will entertain you for hours, it’s a must see for all tourists.

There are two vantage points north and south. Both places have ample parking facilities, a large expanse of forest cleared for picnickers, large lush green grass carpeted areas, newly cemented walking paths, as well as benches and tables dispersed throughout. Maintenance of the whole area is superb with beautiful flower beds, large well maintained areas to sit and enjoy the view, as well as clean maintained washrooms and ample room on the cemented paths for wheelchairs.