Best Resorts in Pakistan The Ultimate List

In Pakistan, the concept of a “resort” takes on a different flair. In America or in Mexico for example, resorts might be all-inclusive places you go for a big group holiday. As always, Pakistani hotels have a flavor all their own.

While you won’t be getting all-you-can-drink margaritas, with the best resorts in Pakistan, can expect a high level of service and a focus on on-site activities, great food, epic views, etc. Some of the “resorts” on this list are also just straight-up hotels that tend to be on the more high ends price range.

In any case, if you are looking for a great place to relax with friends or family in Pakistan in a beautiful setting and high-end atmosphere – you have come to the right place.

If staying at resorts is your thing – read on my friends…

 At a Glance: The Best Resorts in Pakistan

Breakdown: The Best Hotels in Pakistan

There are only a handful of resorts across Pakistan, but don’t be fooled into thinking they aren’t worth a visit! Have a look at some of the best resorts in Pakistan, all the way from the foothills of the Himalayas to the bustling streets of Lahore.

Goldcrest Resort, Rawalpindi

$$ | 4-star | Large apartments | Airport transfer | Fitness Center

If you are traveling in a large group, this is the perfect place to stay near Islamabad. Goldcrest Resort scores 10s across the board for its hospitality, cleanliness, and overall value for money. 

The largest apartment can house 12 adults and three children, and the smallest is perfect for two adults and a child. There is a comfortable communal lounge and a beautiful, lush garden.

There are tons of attractions within less than 10km from the property including the Pakistan Army Museum, Nawaz Sharif Park, Raja Bazaar, and Ayūb National Park. Islamabad airport is also 19km away, and the property offers a convenient airport shuttle.

Dreamworld Resort, Hotel & Golf Course

$$$ | 5-star | Close to Jinnah International Airport | Multiple Pools | Golf Course

Where do I even begin to list the luxuries available at Dreamworld Resort? I guess their name says it all! This dream destination offers quality five-star accommodation perfect for just about any traveler. 

They have multiple pools, a waterpark, a lake for boating, bowling, archery, horse riding, a spa, a jogging track, and more than 160 other facilities. Don’t be surprised if you end up extending your stay to make use of all of these. 

If you are thinking all these activities will leave you famished, don’t fret! There are five on-site restaurants catering to your every need, and you can order room service if you rather fancy a night in. 

Highland Country Club & Resort

$$$ | 5-star | Close to Pir Sohawa | Mountain Views | Restaurant

Honeymooners heading to Islamabad need not look further than Highlands Country Club & Resort. The rooms are elegant and romantic with amazing views of the surrounding Margallah Hills.

The resort is around 30 minutes from Islamabad and also features large conference facilities. There are two restaurants on site, and guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast every morning.

The service is impeccable, and they pride themselves on it being highly individualized, catering to your every need. They can also arrange all kinds of activities in the area including cycling, archery, hiking, and more.

Arcadian Spruce woods Himalayan Resort

$$ | 5-star| Close to Lake Paye | Mountain Views |Restaurant

High up in the Kaghan Valley is one of the best resorts for couples in all of Pakistan. Nestled in a scenic spruce forest, the resort overlooks the lush valley, and guests can’t get enough of the majestic views. 

Couples can hike up to Siri and Pai or climb Makkra if they are feeling daring. There are also Jeep safaris in the valley and mountain biking trails. But nothing stops you from curling up with a good book on one of the charming terraces, or in your cozy room, especially when the snow falls.

The Silver Ibex restaurant on site has amazing dishes from all over the world, and you are spoiled for choice with their menu. There is also a beautiful picnic area if you want to relax in nature.

The rooms are warm and cozy with wood-paneled details and the communal lounge with a fireplace is the perfect place to relax in the cold months. 

Defence Raya Golf & Country Club

$$$ | 5-star | Close to is Mall of Lahore | Golf Course | Two Pools

Families heading to Lahore would be remiss if they booked in anywhere other than Defence Raya Country Club. It is especially attractive for active families or those who love the outdoors with a slew of family-friendly activities on the premises. 

Start your day off with a round of golf on their stunning 18-hole golf course and then cool off in one of their two luxurious pools. You can head over to the tennis courts for a quick game or work up a sweat in the state-of-the-art fitness center. There is also a kid’s club, games room, children’s playground, squash courts, billiards, and more to keep everyone occupied.

If mom and dad need a night off, the resort offers babysitting services at an extra charge. Or the whole family can head out to dinner at the on-site restaurant that caters to all. 

Families will especially love the spacious rooms with ample seating space and balconies overlooking the manicured property. 

Riverdale Resort

$$$ | no star rating | Close to Gilgit Airport | Free Wi-Fi | Swimming Pool

Gilgit Airport is one of the major domestic airports in northern Pakistan, especially for those heading up for mountaineering expeditions. It is important to get accommodation close to the airport as northern roads can be unpredictable and cause unnecessary delays. The resort is only a 20-minute drive from the airport, and they offer a convenient airport shuttle to have you there on time. 

Another highlight of the property is the beautiful garden with fruit trees that spring into bloom, coloring the landscape in vibrant pinks. You can also take a dip in the seasonal outdoor pool when Pakistan’s heat becomes too unbearable. The fire pit is also a nice bonus in the evenings. 

The constant rumble of the water from the water canal has a soothing effect and will lull you to sleep at night. This property is so picturesque you will more than likely want to stay here a couple of nights to soak it all in, instead of the usual rush before and after a flight. 

Arcadian Blue Pines Resort

$$ | no star rating | Close to Lawrence College | Mountain views | Restaurant

Few places in Pakistan boast such a marvelous view of the Himalayan foothills as the Arcadian Blue Pines Resort. This resort is tucked away in a tranquil part of the Murree hills and is the perfect spot for a break away from city life. 

Year-round, this corner of the mountains offers perfect weather. A break from the normal heat in the summer and crisp sunny days in the winter while snow lies thick around you. The rooms are cozy and charming with refreshing views of the surrounding forest.

In the surrounding areas, you can go hiking, take a horseback ride, or take a guided tour to Muree to explore the town. The luxury suites have large, attached living rooms, but the standard rooms are equally comfortable. Lounging the communal living room is the perfect way to meet some other holidaymakers.

Shangrila Hotels and Resort

Muree is a popular resort town in Pakistan and there are a couple of cool places to stay offering you plenty of excursions in the summer and beautiful snowy vistas in the winter – even if I am not a huge fan of Muree personally – others seem to like it.

Shangrila Resort is one of the best value-for-money resorts in the area. It is a three-star property with plenty of modern and clean rooms.

They have plenty of value-added services like free Wi-Fi, room service, and a 24-hour front desk. The kids will also love the playground, billiards room, and playroom. The area is very popular for hiking as it is surrounded by stunning spruce forests. They have rooms for couples and rooms that fit up to four people comfortably, perfect for a family vacation. There is also a restaurant on site and guests can enjoy a continental breakfast.

Bahria Grand Hotel & Resort

This is one of the best resorts in Lahore, a four-star palatial hotel and resort with quality service and manicured surroundings. The hotel offers luxury accommodation, but they never shy away from personable and individualized service. 

Everyone loves the delicious breakfast, especially the donuts! Rooms look out onto the beautiful green gardens and are spacious with plenty of seating. The interiors are elegant and comfortable with plush couches, carpeted floors, and warm lighting. 

There is mini golf on the property and a children’s playground for the young ones too. Each room has a minibar, desk, and TV and there is free Wi-Fi all across the property. Allama Iqbal Airport is around 30km and the hotel has an airport shuttle. 

Cordillera Resort

This is a three-star resort in Hassa perfect for short stays on your way to the north of the country. The resort has lovely spacious rooms complete with a minibar, TV, and air-conditioning. 

There is a restaurant and minimarket on-site, and guests can enjoy a tasty continental breakfast too. Mountain view rooms have beautiful views of the snowcapped mountains in the distance which can be enjoyed from your private balcony. The River Kunhar is also less than one kilometer away and is a beautiful sight to behold. 

The on-site restaurant offers a buffet breakfast and room service throughout the day. You can make use of their 24-hour front desk or the tour desk that will help you to organize trips in the region.

Wrapping Up: Best Resorts in Pakistan

Resorts are probably not the first form of accommodation that springs to mind when you think about Pakistan. Yet, there are plenty of fabulous resorts to be discovered, whether you are looking for a luxury family holiday or a quiet breakaway in the mountains.

The Arcadian Group has a variety of resorts in the stunning mountains of Muree perfect for couples, families, or even solo travelers looking to explore the mountains. There are few resorts as all-encompassing as Dreamworld Resort and well worth the splurge if you are looking for non-stop fun and entertainment. 

However, don’t forget about the little guys! Places like Riverdale Resort might be small, but their hospitality is world-class, and the remote scenery is breathtaking. 

Let me know if you have enjoyed any resort stays in Pakistan that are worth writing home about.