Introduction:
Brief
overview of Ratti Gali Lake's location and background
Ratti
Gali Lake is a high altitude lake located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu
and Kashmir, Pakistan. The lake is situated at an elevation of 12,130 feet
above sea level and is surrounded by mountains and lush green forests. It is
fed by the melting snow of the surrounding peaks and is known for its
crystal-clear waters.
The
Neelum Valley, where Ratti Gali Lake is located, is a popular tourist
destination in Pakistan. The valley is known for its breathtaking natural
beauty, including rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and forests. It is also home to
several historic sites and landmarks, such as the ruins of the ancient city of
Sharada and the Kutton Jagran Valley.
Tourism
plays a crucial role in the economy of the Neelum Valley, providing employment
opportunities and contributing to the region's overall development. The influx
of tourists has led to the growth of the hospitality industry, with numerous
hotels, guesthouses, and resorts catering to visitors. The area also offers
various adventure tourism activities, such as hiking, camping, and rock
climbing.
Ratti
Gali Lake is one of the main attractions of the Neelum Valley, and its pristine
natural beauty draws visitors from all over the world. The lake is accessible
via a trekking trail from the village of Dowarian and offers stunning views of
the surrounding mountains and valleys. The lake is also a popular spot for
fishing and boating, adding to the overall appeal of the region for tourists.
How to reach Ratti Gali Lake:
Ratti Gali
Lake is a beautiful alpine lake located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and
Kashmir in Pakistan. The lake is accessible through a trekking route that
starts from the village of Dowarian. Here are the steps to reach Ratti Gali
Lake:
First, you
need to reach Muzaffarabad, the capital city of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. You can
reach Muzaffarabad by road or by air from major cities of Pakistan.
From
Muzaffarabad, you need to reach the town of Athmuqam, which is about 80 km
away. You can hire a private car or take a local bus to reach Athmuqam.
From
Athmuqam, you need to reach the village of Dowarian, which is about 20 km away.
You can hire a jeep or take a shared taxi to reach Dowarian.
From
Dowarian, you need to start trekking towards Ratti Gali Lake. The trek is about
17 km long and takes around 6-8 hours to complete. You will pass through
beautiful meadows, dense forests, and scenic valleys on the way.
Once you
reach Ratti Gali Lake, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding
mountains and the crystal-clear waters of the lake.
Attractions at Ratti Gali Lake
Ratti Gali
Lake is a popular tourist destination located in the Neelum Valley of Azad
Kashmir, Pakistan. It is situated at an altitude of 12,130 feet above sea level
and is known for its breathtaking beauty and serene surroundings. Here are some
of the attractions at Ratti Gali Lake:
Boating: One of the main attractions at
Ratti Gali Lake is boating. Visitors can rent small boats and paddle around the
crystal-clear waters of the lake. It is a great way to enjoy the stunning
scenery and the peaceful environment.
Hiking: Ratti Gali Lake is surrounded by
beautiful hills and mountains, making it an ideal spot for hiking. Visitors can
take a scenic hike through the lush green forests and enjoy the panoramic views
of the surrounding landscape.
Camping: The area around Ratti Gali Lake is
perfect for camping. Visitors can set up tents and enjoy the peaceful
atmosphere and natural beauty of the surroundings.
Fishing: The lake is home to a variety of
fish species, including trout. Visitors can bring their fishing gear and try
their luck at catching some fish.
Photography: Ratti Gali Lake is a photographer's
paradise. The stunning natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscape
offer endless opportunities for photography.
Sightseeing: Visitors can explore the nearby
villages and towns, which offer a glimpse into the local culture and way of
life. The area is also home to several historical sites and monuments.
Overall,
Ratti Gali Lake offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers, adventurers, and
those looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Scenic beauty and landscape
Ratti Gali
Lake is a place of incredible scenic beauty and breathtaking landscapes. The
lake is situated amidst lush green hills and forests, which are home to a wide
range of wildlife and plant species. The crystal-clear waters of the lake
reflect the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a magical and serene
atmosphere.
The area
around Ratti Gali Lake is dotted with small villages and hamlets, which offer a
glimpse into the local culture and way of life. The people living in these
villages are known for their hospitality and warmth, and visitors can
experience the true essence of rural life in Pakistan.
The hills
and mountains around Ratti Gali Lake are covered with dense forests of pine,
fir, and deodar trees. The forests are home to a variety of wildlife, including
leopards, bears, and various species of birds. Visitors can take a hike through
the forests and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
One of the
unique features of Ratti Gali Lake is the presence of several waterfalls in the
area. These waterfalls are fed by the melting snow and glaciers of the nearby
mountains, and offer a beautiful and refreshing sight to visitors.
Overall, the
scenic beauty and landscape of Ratti Gali Lake are truly awe-inspiring, and
provide a perfect escape for those looking to get away from the hustle and
bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.
Boating and other water activities
Boating is
one of the main attractions at Ratti Gali Lake. Visitors can rent small boats
and paddle around the crystal-clear waters of the lake, taking in the stunning
scenery and peaceful surroundings. Boating is a great way to relax and enjoy
the serenity of the lake, as well as to get a closer look at the surrounding
mountains and forests.
In addition
to boating, there are other water activities that visitors can enjoy at Ratti
Gali Lake. Swimming is a popular activity, especially during the summer months
when the water is warmer. The lake is also an ideal spot for kayaking and
canoeing, as the calm waters are perfect for these activities.
Fishing is
another popular water activity at Ratti Gali Lake. The lake is home to a
variety of fish species, including trout, which are prized by anglers. Visitors
can bring their fishing gear and try their luck at catching some fish.
For those
who prefer a more adrenaline-fueled water activity, there are also
opportunities for white-water rafting in the nearby rivers. The rapids offer a
thrilling and exciting experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Overall,
Ratti Gali Lake and its surrounding waterways offer a range of water activities
that cater to all interests and skill levels, making it a popular destination
for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Rati
Galli Lake in Pakistan's Azad Kashmir region is a beautiful destination for
those interested in hiking, boating, wildlife, and flora. Here are some
activities and things to see in the area:
Hiking and Trekking
Ratti
Gali Lake Trek: This is a popular trek that takes around 5-7 hours to reach the
lake. It's a moderate trek that requires some physical fitness and stamina, but
the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains are worth it.
Nanga
Parbat Base Camp Trek: For experienced trekkers, the Nanga Parbat Base Camp
trek is a challenging but rewarding trek that offers breathtaking views of the
world's ninth-highest mountain.
Boating and Water Activities
Boating
on Rati Galli Lake: Visitors can rent a boat and enjoy a peaceful ride on the
calm and serene waters of Rati Galli Lake.
Fishing:
Rati Galli Lake is known for its trout fishing, and visitors can enjoy catching
trout and cooking it on a campfire.
Wildlife and Flora
Birdwatching:
The Rati Galli Lake area is home to various species of birds, including the
Golden Eagle, Snow Partridge, and Chukar Partridge.
Wildlife:
The area around Rati Galli Lake is home to various species of wildlife,
including Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, and musk deer.
Flora:
The area is rich in diverse flora, including coniferous forests, alpine
meadows, and wildflowers. Visitors can enjoy a scenic walk or hike through the
forests and meadows and witness the beauty of nature.
Accommodation options near Rati Gali Lake
Camping
facilities: There are several camping options available near Rati Gali Lake.
Visitors can bring their own camping gear and set up camp in the designated
areas around the lake.
Guesthouses
and resorts: There are a few guesthouses and resorts located near the lake,
offering basic to mid-range facilities for visitors.
Availability
of food and other amenities:
Food:
There are a few restaurants and food stalls available near Rati Gali Lake,
offering local and traditional dishes.
Other
amenities: Basic amenities such as toilets and showers are available in the
camping areas, and some guesthouses and resorts offer additional facilities
such as electricity and hot water.
Best time to visit Ratti Gali Lake
Weather
and climate information: The best time to visit Rati Gali Lake is during the
summer months, from June to August when the weather is mild and pleasant. The
temperature during this time ranges from 10-20 degrees Celsius.
Peak
season and off-season periods: The peak season for visiting Rati Gali Lake is
from June to August when the weather is pleasant. The off-season is from
October to May when the temperature drops, and the area experiences snowfall.
Special
events and festivals: There are no special events or festivals celebrated at
Rati Gali Lake.
Safety and security
Precautions
for travelers: Visitors are advised to take precautions and carry warm clothes,
as the temperature drops significantly during the night. It's also essential to
carry enough food and water supplies, as the options are limited in the area.
Medical
facilities and emergency services: There are no medical facilities available
near Rati Gali Lake. In case of an emergency, visitors can travel to nearby
towns for medical assistance.
Local
laws and customs: Visitors are advised to respect local customs and traditions
and dress modestly. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited in the area.
Precautions for travelers
Visitors
are advised to check the weather forecast before traveling and carry
appropriate clothing and gear according to the weather conditions.
It's
essential to carry enough food and water supplies as the options are limited in
the area.
Visitors
should be aware of the risk of altitude sickness and take necessary
precautions.
It's
advisable to hire a local guide or join a guided tour to explore the area
safely.
Medical
facilities and emergency services:
There
are no medical facilities available near Rati Gali Lake, so visitors should
carry a first aid kit and any necessary medication.
In
case of an emergency, visitors can travel to nearby towns such as Dawarian, Kel
or Athmuqam for medical assistance.
Local laws and customs
Visitors
are advised to respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly and avoid
offending local sentiments.
Alcohol
and drugs are strictly prohibited in the area, and visitors should not carry or
consume any such substances.
Visitors
should avoid taking pictures of people without their permission, especially
women and children.
Visitors
should also be mindful of environmental conservation and avoid littering or
damaging natural habitats
Conclusion
In
conclusion, Rati Gali Lake in Pakistan's Azad Kashmir region offers a range of
activities and attractions for visitors interested in hiking, boating,
wildlife, and flora. Accommodation options include camping facilities and
guesthouses, and visitors can enjoy local cuisine and basic amenities such as
toilets and showers. The best time to visit Rati Gali Lake is during the summer
months from June to August, and visitors should take necessary precautions,
carry warm clothing, and be aware of the risk of altitude sickness. Medical
facilities are limited, so visitors should carry a first aid kit and any
necessary medication. Visitors should also respect local laws and customs,
dress modestly, and avoid offending local sentiments. Overall, Rati Gali Lake
is a beautiful destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for
an off-the-beaten-path.