Tilla Charouni is the highest point of margalla hills standing at 1604 meters. It is located in district Haripur, KPK. Due to its location it is not just the highest point of Islamabad, it is the highest point of district Haripur as well. For hikers’ community this blog post covers complete details on how to approach Tilla Charouni Hike with ease and comfort.
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Route from Bari Imam:
For experienced and regular hikers, there is a route that starts right from parking of Loh e dandi (Bari Imam). Starting from Loh e dandi, the hike would take almost 4 – 5 hours to reach Tilla Charouni. After cave of Bari Imam one reaches Bruti top and continue further steep hike to reach near Isloo grill restaurant on main Pir Sohawa road. Trekking from Isloo Grill restaurant to the base point of Tilla Charouni is 2 km on road track.
Tilla Charouni base point:
On main pir sohawa road, Dino valley theme park is the starting point for Tilla charouni hike. From main Islamabad (zero point) drive till dino valley theme park is approx 25 km.
Parking at Tilla Charouni base point:
Dino Valley theme park is visited by hundreds of tourists on daily basis having spacious parking lot. Staff presence with adequate security is a safe option to park vehicle and start your Tilla Charouni hike.
Route from Dino Valley to Tilla Charouni peak:
Right at the edge of dino valley theme park there is a big dinosaur holding a car in his mouth; this is the starting of the track. Keep dinosaur as reference point and take right turn on a narrow path to reach to the top of Tilla Charouni peak.
Tilla Charouni track width:
The track from Dino Valley theme park is quite narrow at the beginning and continues until the highest point of Tilla Charouni peak. There are patches where the track widens a bit where two hikers can hike side by side. More than 90% of the track is narrow and only one hiker can pass through.
Tilla Charouni is dense forest of pine trees:
The track of Tilla Charouni passes through dense forest of pine trees. The lush green environment and the valley views of Haripur and Islamabad are breathtaking. Margalla hills are the lesser Himalayas extending from Islamabad connecting to Haripur district, KPK.
Wildlife at Tilla Charouni:
Margalla Hills National Park is home to rare birds and animals. Tilla Charouni hike gives you the chance to observe chirping of rare birds and fine butterflies at the top. Donkeys, goats, and cows kept by villagers can be witnessed too grazing around the track.
Rainwater collection at Tilla Charouni:
After some 40 minutes of Tilla Charouni hike, one reaches the rainwater collection point. This is the resting point for hikers and villagers passing through the area. This rainwater collection also serves the needs and requirements of water for cows and donkeys grazing the area.
Tilla Charouni summit at 1604 meters:
Standing at 1604 meters, Tilla Charouni hike takes you to the highest point of Margalla hills. There is a big telecom tower installed at the summit point. The telecom tower at the top is visible from far away and even from the base of Tilla Charouni, i-e; Dino Valley theme park.
Time required summiting Tilla Charouni:
It takes almost 60 – 80 minutes of hiking to reach the top of Tilla Charouni near telecom tower. For beginners and occasional hikers, the time might vary depending on the endurance and capacity of every individual. Return time is lesser as compared to uphill running and one can reach the base point in 30 – 40 minutes. Total time for the loop track is almost 90 – 120 minutes.
Views from Tilla Charouni peak:
The views after moderate to intense Tilla Charouni hike are mesmerizing. The feel of summiting the highest point of Margalla Hills after viewing the city skyline is difficult to explain in words. As every individual is unique, so is their experience. The cool breeze even during hot summer days relaxes your nerves and soothes the mind.
Camping at Tilla Charouni peak:
Camping can be done after written approval from Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB) with a condition that firing up wood for cooking is not allowed in Margalla Hills National Park. The office of IWMB is located at the base of trail 5 Islamabad.
Can you go solo for Tilla Charouni hike?
Absolutely Yes! The area is safe as the base point ‘Dino Valley theme park’ hosts lot of tourists daily. With adequate staff presence and locals using the track to/from their home and work place is another point that makes the passage safe for solo hikers.
Essentials to carry for Tilla Charouni hike:
Following items should be considered for going on your first Tilla Charouni hike:
- Sturdy shoes / hiking boots.
- Hiking stick.
- Hiking bag or pouch to contain essentials.
- Water bottle (at least 1 liter during summer), dry nuts, chocolates, biscuits etc.
- Full sleeves shirt and cargo trouser / pant. As one had to pass through thick forest having wild bushes with thorns, it is recommended to cover completely.
- Basic first aid kit (optional).
- GPS or charged mobile with internet connection to locate the right direction.
- Cash and a copy of identification document.
Conclusion:
With the right gear and a positive mindset; Tilla Charouni is a nice spot for hikers and mountain climbers. Summiting the highest peak of Margalla Hills gives a sense of achievement with outstanding views sitting at the top. For any guidance and support, we are here to make your hiking experience safe and secure. If this blogpost helps you in any way, please share and comment.
Nice post!