Thandiani

Thandiani is a hill station located about 31 kilometers from the city of Abbottabad in the Gilyat area of Pakistan. It is situated 2700 meters above sea level on a small plateau surrounded by pine forests.

Thandiani literally means “very cold”. It is a superb place for nature lovers. The beauty of this lush green hill station is not spoiled by the crowds like many of other hill stations in summer making it a perfect place to go for those who want to relax in a peaceful place far away from the hustle bustle of busy modern life.

Thandiani was discovered and established as a sanatorium during British rule, for the comfort of officers positioned at the Abbottabad Cant. There are some European houses and a small bazaar which are occupied only during the summer months. To the east beyond the Kunar River are the mountains of Kashmir and the mountains of Kaghan and Kohistan are visible to the north and northeast. To the northwest are the ranges of Swat and Chitral.

Thandiani is not a well established area. There are few shops and only one basic guesthouse. But the beauty of this area lies in its charming landscapes and magnificent weather. There are beautiful trees on the way to Thandiani and also a few small caves which are probably home for wildlife. Local wildlife includes leopards, monkeys, pheasants and the flying squirrel.

The dawn in Thandiani is heart touching but very cold as well. It is very cold in Thandiani especially at night even in summers. When first enter Thandiani, at the top there is a road which seems to go all the way to the sky. It gives wonderful view of surrounding areas. The lush green peaceful Thandiani is a place worth visiting.