The northern area of Pakistan holds magic and among them is a piece of heaven known as Azad Kashmir. Boasting its breath-taking scenic views, vast meadows, gleaming waters, and many other beautiful destinations to have a wonderful trip, especially in the summers.
Ratti Gali Lake is one of the highest situated lakes in the world. The fascinating lake is situated in the heart of snow-peaked mountains and is fed by the melting glaciers of Karakoram peaks. It is known as Ratti Gali for its red-shaded slopes and surrounding plateaus. The lake is also known as the Dowarian lake by the locals.
Explore his jewel of Neelum valley through this article.
Location
The lake is at an altitude of 12,130 ft / 3,700 m above sea level. It lies in the beautiful Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir. The crystal-clear water of this huge lake, sky-reaching mountainous peaks, scenic views, and amazing weather and an experience to behold.
Reach Ratti Gali Lake
Prepare your trip to Azad Kashmir this year. The lake is present at a long distance. However, it’s worth visiting. Tourists must first reach Muzaffarabad as it is the closest city and the capital of Azad Kashmir. The lake is at a distance of 75 Kilometers from Muzaffarabad.
If the tourists are traveling by road, they need to reach a small village Dowarian in Kashmir. From this village, tourists must take a jeep (4 x 4) as the path is rocky and dangerous. After the jeep ride, the tourists reach the base camp area of the lake. It is trekking almost 2 hours from the base camp to reach this wonder of nature.
Horseback riding is also available for tourists who do not want to trek.
Weather
Ratti Gali’s weather is amazing, especially during summers. As it is a glacial lake, the weather is cold throughout the year. Do not forget to take your warm clothes and jackets along with you. The tourists can take dry fruits and things for a bonfire as well.
Things to do at Ratti Gali lake
Explore the beauty of the lake by trekking in the surrounding mountains. However, trekking in such a challenging area is adventurous. Grasp the beauty and peace of the wilderness. There are certain walks and tours arranged at the lake.
Enjoy fishing in the base camp area and have it with your friend and families. Bonfire can also be done around the lake or base camp. The most popular activity is camping. Friend and families plan their visit to have an experience of camping and get up to the fascinating views of Ratti Gali lake, which is truly an experience to behold.
Recommended Gear
Do not forget to take the following items with you for your trip.
- Warm clothes
- Backpack
- Sunblock
- Raincoat
- Hiking/trekking shoes
- Sunglasses
- Hiking stick
- Medicines
- Water bottle
Nearby hotels
The area has several staying options as Azad Kashmir is flooded with tourists throughout the year. The popular hotels around Neelum valley which can be considered are Wadi Resort, Sharda Resort, State Continental Sharda, Neelum Star River Guest House, Park River House Sharda, and many others.
These hotels are good at their services and ensure all the facilities are provided to the tourists. Many resorts are located alongside the Neelum river and provide breath-taking views from your hotel room. Their rooms are furnished traditionally to promote the beautiful tradition of Kashmir.
The tourists can also avail some tourism packages as they arrange transportation, book resorts, food, and fun activities. The article concludes everything you need to know about Ratti Gali lake before planning your trip
