The city is located in a valley and is known for it's pleasant weather, educational institutes of high standards and military establishments. It remains a hub of tourism in the summer.

              
  In 1998 the population of Abbottabad District was 881,000. According to the 1998 census, over 70% of population  speak Hindko as their first language, Pushto accounted for almost 30% .The national language of Pakistan - Urdu is understood by everyone and English is widely used in business and education.

The major tribes of Abbottabad District are Jadoons, Pathans, Tanoli, Abbasi, Karlal, Sardar and Rajas.
The Karakorams, the Himalayas and the Hindukush mountains can be approached from Abbottabad. Abbottabad continues to be a transit city for tourists, serving as a base for visits to numerous nearby places, such as Hunza, Gilgit, Skardu and Indus Kohistan, of the Karakoram Range.

While other hill stations are deserted during the winter Abbottabad has visitors due to its mild winters. A cricket stadium, is located on Murree Road. The Cantonment area of Abbottabad is still very British. The European bungalows, the club, the church and cemetery are still there. Abbottabad is an hour's drive from Nathiagali, the summer capital of the North West Frontier Province.