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Makhniyal Second Ridge
HardIslamabad (Margalla Hills) · Makhniyal

Makhniyal Second Ridge

The Makhniyal Second Ridge Trail (also called the 2nd Ridge of the Margalla Hills) is a scenic, secluded and less-traveled backcountry trekking route. It runs parallel behind the main commercial Margalla trails (Trails 1-6).

Difficulty
Hard
Distance
12.5km
Elevation gain
738 m
Duration
2h
Best season
Oct – Apr

The journey

Makhniyal Second Ridge is a 12.5km hard out-and-back hike near Makhniyal. It climbs 738 m and takes about 2h.

The Makhniyal Second Ridge Trail (also called the 2nd Ridge of the Margalla Hills) is a scenic, secluded and less-traveled backcountry trekking route. It runs parallel behind the main commercial Margalla trails (Trails 1-6).

Trail Statistics

12.5km
Distance
Total trail length
2h
Duration
Estimated hiking time
+738m
Elevation Gain
Total ascent
Hard
Difficulty
Trail difficulty level
Out & back
Route Type
Shape of the trail
1,519m
High Point
Highest elevation
-737m
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.

Elevation1,4101,518 m · +738 m gain
0 km6.2 km12.5 km

Weather

Five-day forecast at the trailhead, 1,409 m.

  1. Today

    20°16°

  2. Tomorrow

    25°16°

  3. Sun

    25°16°

  4. Mon

    25°16°

  5. Tue

    25°17°

Forecast from MET Norway, updated hourly.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Makhniyal Second Ridge trail start?

The trail is accessed along the Makhniyal–Pir Sohawa road ridge in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

How demanding is the track?

It is an easy-to-moderate ridge walk with rolling elevation changes and panoramic valley vistas.

Is there shade along the ridge path?

Shade is intermittent with open pine scrub, so sun protection and ample water are essential.

What wildlife should hikers stay alert for?

Wild boars, monkeys, and occasional snakes during warmer summer afternoons.

What can I see along the way?

A specific lookout point lets you view Rawal Dam and Khanpur Dam simultaneously.

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