Nature's Haven Blog

 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...

           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...