Written by: Asfa Asad
Posted on: September 01, 2026 | 
Parasailing at Mabali Island
Just an hour’s drive from Islamabad, nestled right beside the friendly waters of Khanpur Lake, lies Mabali Island. The island is a perfect getaway to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, without the fatigue of a long journey. Surrounded by some of nature’s finest elements, the island has a rugged terrain that runs along the perimeter with a scenic hiking trail, and the inviting turquoise waters of Khanpur Lake for a retreat that is both relaxing and adventurous. Whether it is a plan for a family day out, a romantic weekend getaway, or a corporate get-together, Mabali Island caters to all.
What is most appealing about Mabali Island is its location. The Khanpur region is located right by the Potohar Plateau, which is replete with rugged green plains full of scenic beauty. And paired with the crystal clear waters of the Khanpur Lake, the picture is pretty striking. The island is situated in the Khanpur Dam territory, which was originally built with the purpose of providing fresh water to the cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi; however, it has turned into a tourist spot today.
Dam side picnic spots are not new to Pakistan. For instance, the Mangla Dam, which is located in the Mirpur District of Azad Kashmir, has remained a popular day-trip spot. It offers an array of water sports, a few dining options, and some enticing landmarks such as the Rohtas Fort. However, unlike Mabali Island, Mangla Dam does not offer a full-fledged resort with cohesive services and amenities. Therefore, this particular aspect of Mabali Island makes it exclusive in its offerings.
One of the island's restaurants
As far as the resort goes, there are a few accommodation options ranging from luxury huts, suites, caravans, and even glamping-style stays for those with a predilection for the outdoors. All the accommodations are equipped with amenities parallel to a nice hotel, including modern furnishings, spacious interiors, and lakeside views for certain suites. These amenities ensure guests can experience nature without compromising on comfort.
In complement with the accommodations, the resort also offers a multitude of dining options. For guests who opt for one of the accommodations, breakfast is complimentary and is served in a curated lakeside setting to start the morning with peaceful, scenic views. For lunch, dinner, and everything in between, the resort offers the options of an open-air BBQ, a floating restaurant, and a lakeside clubhouse serving Pakistani and continental cuisine. Juice and tea bars are scattered all around the resort, allowing guests to sip on fresh, rejuvenating drinks as they explore the island’s many attractions.
Complementary breakfast spread for overnight guests
Mabali Island boasts more than fifty different recreational activities, making it one of Pakistan's most comprehensive adventure destinations. Water sports seem to be the most popular activity on the island. Those inclined towards getting a thrill can opt for jet-skiing, wake-tubing, and parasailing, while those with the goal of relaxation can serenely sail across the waters in either a traditional boat or a kayak for just a tinge of adventure. The resort also has exclusive play places for children, such as a swimming pool and a splash area. These water activities are accompanied by land activities for guests to get a glimpse of the incredible terrain of the Potohar Plateau. Guests can cruise around the rugged landscape in an ATV, hike up to the Mabali Hill Top, test their aiming skills at the shooting club, or soar over the lake’s waters in a zipline.
Between the adventurous activities and the decadent dinners, the resort offers a meditative atmosphere for quiet reflection. The island blends with the area’s ecosystem and is surrounded by indigenous wildlife. The melodious calls of the Potohar’s birds, the soft susurration of the water-side breeze, and the colorful sunsets and sunrises hide in plain sight, revealing themselves to those who pause amidst the goings-on.
Picture spot with a scenic view
Beyond its amenities and recreational activities, Mabali Island has become more than just a weekend retreat spot. The island has stimulated the local economy of the Khanpur region by providing employment and valuable human capital to the residents. Its popularity as a tourist spot has prompted the region’s development authorities to improve its infrastructure, such as roads, which not only elevate the tourists’ experience but are also beneficial to the locals for commuting. And, due to the resort’s consistently high standards, it has even managed to attract foreign ambassadors and diplomats, all in all improving Pakistan’s image.
Another commendable feature that distinguishes Mabali Island is its emphasis on family-friendly recreation. In a country which offers few opportunities of enjoyment to women and children, Mabali’s context-conscious approach offers families a peaceful atmosphere that prioritises comfort and safety.
The island resort has also become an anchor of sorts for visitors to explore the larger Potohar region. Just a short drive away lies the ancient Bhamala Buddhist Complex, an important archaeological site associated with the Gandhara civilisation, which visitors can explore after dropping their bags and freshening up at the resort.
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Tarzan Boat at Mabali Island
While every season adds a little something to the experience on the island, according to the resort itself, November is the best month to visit, as at this time of the year, visitors can comfortably engage in all the recreational activities without any weather-related inconveniences. However, it appears that summer weekends are particularly popular, with families from Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and other cities traveling to Khanpur to beat the heat.
Mabali Island is a reflection of Pakistan’s potential in promoting tourism. It has proven that the country is capable of building world-class recreational destinations with its own resources, both material and human. By combining adventure sports, luxury accommodation, family entertainment, and breathtaking natural beauty, the resort has established itself as one of the country's most exciting weekend escapes. For anyone seeking to escape the redundant routine of everyday life, Mabali Island at Khanpur Dam offers an exquisite experience.
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