Daman-e-Koh (Urdu: دامن کوہ) is a hilltop garden north of Islamabad. It is in the center of the Margalla Hills. The name is a fusion of two Persian words, which collectively denote 'foothills'. It is about 2400 ft above sea level and about 500 ft above Islamabad. The area is a popular destination for both residents and tourists.[1]
Daman-e-Koh | |
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دامن کوہ | |
Location in Islamabad Capital Territory | |
Type | Public |
Location | Pir Sohawa Road, Islamabad |
Nearest city | Islamabad |
Coordinates | 33°44′22″N 73°03′20″E / 33.7395548°N 73.0554566°E |
Elevation | 2,400 feet (730 m) |
Administered by | Capital Development Authority |
Hiking trails | Trail 2 |
Tourist treats are a popular attraction for monkeys.[2] Leopards are reported to descend from higher hills of Murree during the winter months.[3]
Airblue Flight 202 crashed near here on 28 July 2010.[4]
Daman-e-Koh is located on the route to Pir Sohawa, which is approximately 3600 ft above sea level. Since the road is slender and winding, it is cited as a reason for traffic jams for the lack of public transportation alternatives.[5] Environmental concerns led to the suspension of the chairlift from Daman-e-Koh to Pir Sohawa.[6]
From Trail 2, it is possible to access the viewpoint by hiking.[7]
From the southern spot, there is a panoramic view of Islamabad. Faisal Mosque, Seventh Avenue, and Rawal Lake are all visible to the visitors.
In addition, there are observational telescopes installed. Furthermore, there is a substantial sign nearby, which displays an authentic map of Islamabad.
Electric-powered vehicles and an expanded car-parking area were added by the Capital Development Authority.
Daman-e-Koh is described in the book The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini.