The Pearl Valley

Azad Kashmir “Heaven on Earth” and “Switzerland of East” is known for its mesmerizing sceneries, tranquil waterfalls, flowering meadows, snow caped mountains and clear pure lakes. Each valley and district of Azad Jammu Kashmir (AJK) is awe-inspiring and deserves to be appreciated for its natural beauty. Our visit to Rawalakot was as amazing it was with Muzaffarabad.

Kashmir

About Rawalakot:

Rawalakot is also known as “Pearl Valley” situated in the heart of district Poonch of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). It appeared to be Saucer shaped valley and it altitude is 1615 meters high. It is 76 Kilometers far form Kohala and is linked to Islamabad via Azad Pattan and Muzafarabad. Alternate route is to take Guoien Nullah road that is recently constructed between Rawlakot and Azad Patan, road has immensely reduced time to get Rawalakot. It usually takes three and half hour drive from Rawalpindi/Islamabad to Rawalakot. 

Rawalakot

Rawalakot weather is always fluctuating and seems to be erratic. Temperature varies from 16C to 24C in summers, there is heavy snowfall by the end of the November and the whole month of December it usually last throughout January. If you are rain lover the best time to visit Rawalakot is to around the month from April to June.

 

There are small hotels available all over Rawalakot for stay, they are mostly owned by Government, it would be appropriate to make reservations for rooms in advance as these accommodations are mostly used by government officials on their tours. 

Rawalakot is also famous for its educational institutes such as Agriculture University and several colleges and secondary educational institutes. The tourism is at its peak there several activities ranging form trekking, hiking, paragliding and water based activities.  

How to get Rawalakot:

Rawalakot is accessible through Islamabad/Rawalpindi by a three and a half hour long drive. You can leave for Kohala around 7.00AM from Islamabad and reach Azad Pattan than take Guoien Nalla road to finally get Rawalakot. 

Places to Visit:

Poonch is the district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) at the very heart of which lies Rawalakot, its beauty says it all and is referred as “Pearl Valley” and “The Valley of Pearl”. The best advice we can give you is that you have the accurate knowledge of the city when visiting however navigation around city is not that difficult. Some of the must see places are Banjosa Lake, Toli Peer, Poonch River, Tata Pani, Bagh and Ghori Mar.

Banjosa Lake:

Banjosa is a beautiful lake surrounded by lush green mountains offering spectacular views. A few rest houses are constructed in the surroundings of this lake. Some tuck shops are also present at the lake but not properly managed and arranged. Weather is pleasant in summer and occasional snowfall in winter. The lake is located on Banjosa Road, 19 kilometer away from Rawalakot City in Tehsil Hajira, District Poonch, (AJK).

Banjosa Lake

Tolipeer:

Tolipeer is the premier mountainous site in the northeastern region of Rawalakot; it is the point of origin of three different mountain ranges. The tourist rest house on the way up to Tolipeer is also placed in a picturesque scene. There are some relics of an old mazar on the uppermost hilltop. Tolipeer is most accessible during the months of summer; the weather gets really chilly from end of the year in October and lasts till March. The temperature stats to decrease around spring and environment gets really healthy to ones who visit Tolipeer can never ever forgets it.

Tolipeer

Tolipeer Guest House

Poonch River:

The river provides visitors with attractive views of clear water fronts. The river is quite wide and green land right by the side of the river is best spot for outdoor picnic. The weather is pleasant in summers but it gets hot as we move to the month of July while it gets really chilly during winters. This site is located 35 kilometers form Rawalakot at Hajira Kotli Road. People who are fond of natural beauty of water is in for treat for the mesmerizing views of habor.

Poonch River

Hot Spring (Tatta Pani):

On the right side of Poonch river lies Tatta Pani, it is almost 20 kilometers away from Hajira, you can reach Tatta Pani via Hajira-Mandol road and alternate road you can take is from Kotli it almost 26 kilometers. Tatta Pani means “Hot Spring” as well due to its recognition for its “Sulpher Water Springs”. Since the ancient time people know the miraculous/therapeutic property of this water and come from all over to take a dip into the Sulphur springs: this water provides relief from joint pains, fatigue and stress and skin disease. As per test reports hot spring water has got 37 precious minerals which has got therapeutic medicinal values. During winter season a large number of people visit this place daily to have hot water bath for the cure of Skin and rheumatic ailments.

Tatta Pani (Hot Spring)

Bagh:

The town of Bagh is located 48 kilometers away from Rawalakot, this town is located on the union of two mini nullahs, i.e. Malwani & Mall, which flow all the year round.  “Haji Peer Pass” is located about 32 kilometers away from Bagh and is linked through metaled road. All necessities are available is Bagh Bazar, different hotels are available for the visitors to stay the night.

Dirkot Park- Bagh

Paniola:

About 17 kilometers form Rawalakot and 52 kilometers away from Kohala is located Paniola, the sites has known for its charming and clam environment, likewise AJK Tourism Department has constructed many rest houses over here as well, the views here are out of the world.

Paniola

Koyian:

It is 17 kilometers far away from Rawalakot and it is surrounded by dense forests, it seems to be the perfect spot for the stay and tourist rest house has been constructed by Tourism department.

Restaurants:

When visiting Kashmir it is your duty to enjoy there delicacies, most famous dish of Rawalakot is Tawa Ghosth. The best places to enjoy meals are Rawalkot International Hotel and Restaurant and Dhara Resturant.

 

Rawalkot International Hotel and Restaurant

Places to shop:

Rawalakot bazaar is the most visited and one of the busiest markets. Rawalakot has a downtown area, which consists of shops selling everything from groceries to electronic goods. Handicrafts, carpets, wood carvings, mushrooms apples and other fruits are the mostly purchased by tourists.

Rawalakot is only know for its beauty but also for the lively people that resides within, they are supportive in nature especially women, if until now you have not made your mind to visit, here is something that will push you over the edge.

It is every Pakistani dream to visit Azad Kashmir, it was mine the same, I was lucky enough to get to be part of such experience but there still a lot for me and my friends to explore not only in Rawalakot but other valleys of Azad Kashmir. My thoughts on the way back from every visit to Rawalakot was nothing but of serenity, it made me realize not matter where I will be I can always find my way to my paradise.

Travelling To Bahawalpur

It was an autonomous state until the making of Pakistan 1947. The town of Bwp was worked in around 1780 on an old site. It was Nawab Bahawal Khan I (1746 to 1749) who established the framework of Baghdad-ul-jadidin 1748 and made it as his capital. His decision period was about 3 years and was buried in the memorial park of Malook Shah. The chronicled record demonstrates that before the Sikh standard in Punjab the zone of Bwp was a lot more prominent. Aside from the whole Dera Ghazi Khan locale. A few sections of Sukkur, Multan, Sahiwal and Muzzafargarh locale were likewise incorporated into it.
Beside past, it is currently a significantly more created city of Pakistan. It has turned into a Mega city regarding Real Estate, Parks, Markets, and Institutions. A wide range of offices are away just by a telephone call.
Recently structured home perspectives. Bazaars look particular, weaved fabrics, shoes and the fragile privately made filigree stoneware. Created streets, condition, and green belts make the city wonderful

Places to visit

Nur Mahal

Nur Mahal is an extremely delightful castle (mahal) work by Nawab Sadiq, the previous leader of Bahawalpur. It is utilized by the military and nonnatives are not permitted to enter. The development of the castle was finished in 1875 at an expense of Rs 1.2 million. It covers a zone of 44,600 square feet. There are 32 rooms incorporating 14 in the basement, 6 verandas, and 5 vaults.

Tomb of mir jindan

Tomb of Mai Jindan is a standout amongst the most renowned milestones of Pakistan

Lal suhanra

The excursion to Lal Suhanra National Park is intriguing for naturalists. The recreation center was created in 1972, is the home of numerous creatures and flying creatures, including the uncommon chinkara gazelle and abundant wild hog

Darbar mahal

The Darbar Mahal is a notable fortification situated in the Pakistani city of Bahawalpur. The city is nevertheless its grounds are a well known vacation spot as they give closeness and magnificent perspective of the engineering that takes after that of the old Mughalai Forts.

Gulzar mahal

The development of Gulzar Mahal was likewise affirmed in the meantime of Darbar and Nur Mahal. Its engineering is on the comparable lines and the intention is likewise same. It is outstanding amongst other vacation destinations present in Bahawalpur

Sadiq garh palace

This is the main Palace which is better than the rest as far as class and brilliance. Its development took very nearly 10 years before it was finished and the expense caused to fabricate this was 15 Lac Rupees. It is a great Palace with rich green yards with excellent plants and blossoms

Bhawalpur museum

This historical center exists since 1976 comprising of archaic exploration, craftsmanship, legacy, current history and religion. When you visit Bahawalpur the historical center has a great deal to offer as far as vacation spot.

Jamia Masjid Al Sadiq

It is a lovely mosque with a dazzling design. It is white as marble with two gigantic columns (Minars). The marble is liable to excellent calligraphy of the names of Allah and sections of the Quran. The mosque was built up it can suit 50000 to 60000 individuals at one time

Bhawalpur Museum

Regularly known as "Sher Bagh" exists since 1942 on 25 sections of land of land. There are lions, tigers, hyenas, pelicans, cranes, geese, peafowl, dark buck, hoard deer, nilgai, European dear, chinkara and European mouflon enclosures. The visit to the zoo is intriguing when we hear the hints of various creatures and watch them move around, it turns into a fascinating site for the sightseers, particularly youngsters.

Famous Resturants in bhawalpur

Like all Punjabis, this city holds sustenance in high regard, with different renowned luxuries ascribed to this city. Following are probably the most visited and supported places in Bahawalpur.

Chicken cottage

Situated at the Railway street, the eatery is an absolute necessity visit for old and youthful alike. Despite the fact that it's a drive-thru food eatery, it has peculiarly different fan following and the sustenance is finger licking great.

Zanzibar food club

Another hot most loved cheap food club to join this rundown is Zanzibar sustenance club, situated on the roundabout street. Open 12 hours every day, it serves sizzling, tasty sustenance, from burgers to pasta and pizzas, this joint truly is the best the town brings to the table.

Four season resturant

Cheap food eateries might give different places around the local area a keep running for their cash, yet four season eatery truly transcends the opposition by giving the most heavenly nearby dishes and mainland menu, including a plume in their effectively decorated top. Arranged on the Muhammad container Qasim Road, it gives an easygoing and comfortable condition and can house a few major families at one time.

Famous Foods

The native of bhawalpur used to eat meat with great interest. The food includes

·         Seekh kabab

·         Tikka

·         Karahi gosht

·         Nihari

Dresses

The dress is an important part of culture of any region.the dress worn by the people of bhawalpur includes

·         Kurta

·         Embroided shirt

·         Chadar

·         Turban

·         Women mostly wear ghaghra

Footwear

Khussa is the most popular foottwear in bhawalpur

Next up: Naran-Kaghan

It was the first week of July and we were all super excited to be going to Shandur for the polo festival. We had been preparing for days. We had reserved seats on a C-130 to take us there. The flight was scheduled for Saturday. Unfortunately, the plane departed from Islamabad on Friday due to bad weather forecast on Saturday, but nobody informed us. Saturday morning came and we were all set to leave for the airport when we received the news. We got disheartened but our luggage was packed and we were yearning to travel. Therefore, we shoved our luggage into our car and decided to travel to the Naran-Kaghan region instead.

We started our journey at 11am and made our first stop at Abbottabad for lunch at Usmania restaurant, which never disappoints. After satisfying our hunger, we moved on towards Shinkiari and passed Mansehra on the way. Mansehra was almost an hour away from Abbottabad and it took us another hour or so to reach Shinkiari.

 We stayed the night in Shinkiari at an army mess. Shinkiari was a small and peaceful place, very close to nature.

We were relaxed the next morning and ready to travel again. We crossed Balakot and almost 30 minutes ahead, got caught up in a landslide. It took heavy machinery almost 2 hours to open the road for traffic. A long queue of cars had formed. It took us another 30 minutes to get out of traffic but we were finally through. As soon as we got out, we realized that we had a punctured tyre. A local told us to go back to Balakot and get it fixed because we were not going to find any shop ahead that fixed tubeless tires. So we headed back to Balakot to get it fixed. We were almost 4 hours behind schedule by then. After getting the tyre fixed, we headed towards Shogran.

The road to Shogran is very steep. Most cars cannot even make the climb to the top. Night had fallen when we got there. It had started raining as well, and we were exhausted. We went into our hotel rooms and slept. We woke up in the morning to the sound of rainfall and thunder. We were starving so we ordered breakfast. The weather had ruined our whole plan to visit Siri Paye. Siri Paye is an amazing spot with lots of hills, plains and greenery, so there was no point going there in fog and rain.

 The rain came to a halt in the afternoon so we left our rooms to explore Shogran. It was a very touristy place with lots of people everywhere. The Government rest house there is particularly famous because of its huge gardens and scenic location. We stayed the following night in Shogran as well.

The next morning we were up early to head to Naran. We came back down the steep road and joined the main road. We stopped for lunch in Kaghan at a restaurant on the river.

 The food was delicious. We got back in our car and went straight to the bazaar of Naran city.

 Luckily, we found a new hotel of which we became the very first guests. It was clean and affordable, what more could we ask? There was no internet though. Anyways we dumped our luggage in our rooms and walked out to see what the bazaar had to offer. There were all sorts of shops from clothes and souvenirs to everyday commodities. We also came across a very large chicken that weighed almost 10kgs! We had dinner from one of the restaurants, did some souvenir shopping and went back to the hotel to sleep.  

The following afternoon, we went to a local restaurant known for its trout fish. It was the first time we were having trout, which is a very delicate fish that swims against the flow of the water. It tasted sublime. Around two in the afternoon, we got on the road to head to our destination for the day: Lake Saif ul Mulook. It is a lake situated between mountains at a height of 10,500ft. The road that leads up to the lake is quite rough and the only access is through jeeps.

 We hired a jeep to take us there. It was a constant ascend and we came across two glaciers as well. Encountering glaciers in the middle of June is itself quite something.

When we reached the lake, we were left in awe by the beauty of it. It had snowcapped mountains surrounding it, and it had bright teal water itself. It was stunning.

 We went sledding on the snowy mountains, which was a lot of fun considering it was summer season. We also came across a guide who briefed us about the history of the lake and the myth that it has fairies which come out at night. We got intrigued and decided to spend the night there. Therefore, we rented a tent and camped for the night. It was a full moon night and the lake looked gorgeous in the moonlight. We did not see any fairies though.

We woke up early the next morning and came back to Naran. We changed clothes and freshened up, and headed towards this place called Jhalkad. We did not make it to Jhalkad but the Naran-Jhalkad road is one of the best drives I have ever had. The road is full of ever-changing scenery. You get to see snow-capped mountains, lush green mountains, waterfalls and even water crossings on the road. It was an amazing experience.

We were out of time and decided to return back to Islamabad the next day, even though there was a lot more to see that we wanted to but it just wasn’t possible in that trip.