Nature's Haven Blog

 Banjosa Lake – Rawalakot’s Natural Beauty Introduction: Nestled in the heart of Rawalakot , Banjosa Lake is one of Azad Kashmir’s most beautiful natural spots. Surrounded by tall pine trees, cool breezes, and peaceful waters, this lake is a favorite for tourists looking for calm and scenic beauty. Location & Accessibility: Banjosa Lake is located about 18 kilometers from Rawalakot city and can be reached easily by car through a smooth mountain road. The journey itself is stunning, with lush green hills and winding roads offering breathtaking views. Natural Beauty: The lake sits at an elevation of around 1,981 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level. Its clear waters reflect the surrounding pine forests and sky, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Early mornings and evenings are especially magical when mist floats over the lake. Things to Do: Boating: Paddle boats are available for visitors, offering a peaceful ride across the lake. Picnics: There are shaded areas, benc...

 Shounter Lake – A Secluded Paradise Introduction: Hidden deep within the Shounter Valley of Azad Kashmir, Shounter Lake is one of Pakistan’s most breathtaking yet least explored destinations. With its turquoise water, wildflowers, and snow-capped peaks, it feels like a piece of untouched paradise. Location & Access: Shounter Lake is located near Kel in Neelum Valley , at an elevation of around 3,100 meters (10,200 feet) . From Kel, a rough jeep track (about 2 hours) leads to Shounter Valley , followed by a short hike to the lake. The journey is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Natural Beauty: The lake is fed by glacial waters, giving it a stunning turquoise color that changes with sunlight. Surrounded by green meadows and high mountains, Shounter Lake offers complete peace and silence — a true escape from city life. In summer, the area blooms with alpine flowers and colorful butterflies, making it a dream for photographers and campers. Things to Do: Camping: The g...

 Neelum Valley in All Four Seasons Introduction: Neelum Valley , often called the “Blue Gem of Azad Kashmir,” is one of Pakistan’s most stunning destinations. Every season paints this valley in a new color — from spring flowers to winter snow, each visit feels like a fresh experience. Let’s explore how Neelum Valley transforms throughout the year. Spring (March to May) – The Season of Blossoms Spring brings life back to Neelum Valley. The hills turn green, wildflowers bloom, and the river flows stronger with melted snow. Villages like Keran and Sharda become colorful and full of fresh energy. Best for: Nature walks, photography, and peaceful sightseeing. Summer (June to August) – The Season of Adventure Summer is the best time for travelers. The weather is pleasant, roads are open, and places like Arang Kel , Kel , and Ratti Gali Lake are fully accessible. The valley is alive with tourists enjoying camping, hiking, and boating. Best for: Camping, hiking, and exploring high...

 Ratti Gali Lake: Nature's Mirror in Neelum Valley Introduction: Hidden deep in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Ratti Gali Lake is one of Pakistan’s most mesmerizing alpine lakes. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows, its crystal-clear waters reflect the sky like a mirror — earning it the name “Nature’s Mirror.” Location & Access: Ratti Gali Lake lies at an altitude of 3,700 meters (12,130 feet) above sea level, near Dowarian village in Neelum Valley. From Dowarian, visitors can take a jeep track (about 2 hours) up to the base camp , followed by a 1-hour trek to the lake itself. The journey is steep but breathtakingly beautiful. Natural Beauty: The lake is fed by glacial waters, giving it a striking blue color that changes with sunlight. Wildflowers, grassy slopes, and snow patches surround the lake, creating a fairytale-like setting. When the water is still, the reflection of mountains and clouds forms a perfect mirror image — a photographer’s dream. Thi...

 Hidden Natural Gems in Northern Pakistan Introduction: Northern Pakistan is a paradise for nature lovers. Beyond the famous tourist spots like Hunza and Skardu, there are many hidden natural gems waiting to be explored — untouched, peaceful, and breathtakingly beautiful. 1. Basho Valley – Skardu’s Hidden Heaven Nestled near Skardu, Basho Valley is a lush green wonder surrounded by pine forests and streams. Its peaceful setting makes it perfect for camping and stargazing. 2. Chitta Katha Lake – The Jewel of Azad Kashmir Located in Shounter Valley , this turquoise alpine lake sits at 13,500 feet. It’s less crowded than Ratti Gali and requires a challenging but rewarding trek. 3. Minimarg & Domel – The Hidden Side of Astore Just beyond Astore, these villages are blessed with green meadows, rivers, and wooden bridges. The area looks like a scene from a postcard and remains one of Pakistan’s best-kept secrets. 4. Phander Valley – The Little Gilgit Often called “Little Gilgit,” ...

           Neelum Valley General Area: Neelum Valley is a long, scenic valley with multiple hiking and trekking opportunities throughout its expanse. Popular areas within Neelum Valley for hiking include Arang Kel and Ratti Gali Lake. Starting Point: The village of Kel, located about 155 km from Muzaffarabad, is a common starting point for various treks. From Kel, one can trek to Arang Kel, a lush green village located at the hilltop, which takes around 2-3 hours. Another popular trek from Neelum Valley is to Ratti Gali Lake, where the trek usually starts from Dowarian. 2. Sharda : General Area: Sharda is a picturesque village known for its ancient Sharda University ruins and beautiful landscapes. Starting Point: Sharda itself is a base for trekking. Treks from Sharda often lead to nearby villages and viewpoints. One common trek is to the surrounding hills and towards the ruins of Sharda University, which offers a moderate hike. 3. Keran : General Area...