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Lions Den
ModerateIslamabad (Margalla Hills)

Lions Den

Lions Den is a scenic trekking destination in the Islamabad (Margalla Hills) region of Pakistan.

Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
10.5km
Elevation gain
609 m
Duration
4h
Best season
Oct – Apr

The journey

Lions Den is a 10.5km moderate out-and-back hike in Islamabad (Margalla Hills). It climbs 609 m and takes about 4h.

Lions Den is a scenic trekking destination in the Islamabad (Margalla Hills) region of Pakistan.

Trail Statistics

10.5km
Distance
Total trail length
4h
Duration
Estimated hiking time
+609m
Elevation Gain
Total ascent
Moderate
Difficulty
Trail difficulty level
Out & back
Route Type
Shape of the trail
1,353m
High Point
Highest elevation
-638m
Descent
Total descent

Trail map

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Elevation profile

Climb over the length of the trail. Tap or drag along it to read elevation and grade.

Elevation9101,353 m · +609 m gain
0 km5.3 km10.5 km

Weather

Five-day forecast at the trailhead, 910 m.

  1. Today

    27°20°

  2. Tomorrow

    28°20°

  3. Sun

    29°20°

  4. Mon

    28°20°

  5. Tue

    28°21°

    Precipitation 0.3

Forecast from MET Norway, updated hourly.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the trail actually begin?

You start the trek by parking your car at the famous Monal Restaurant on Pir Sohawa Road and heading down the road toward Gokina Village

Why is it called the Lion's Den?

The name was coined by local hikers and villagers referring to a massive, imposing cave visible from the valley floor

What makes the terrain particularly tricky?

The trail cuts through very rough, unmaintained patches filled with dense, thorny overgrowth and steep rocks

Is there a water source along the route?

Yes, the surrounding area stays lush and green because the Neelan Bhotu river stream passes through the vicinit

What is the recommended dress code for this specific hike?

You must wear thick, full-length hiking pants and full-sleeve shirts to avoid getting scratched by the thick briars and thorns

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