Pakistan is a land of diverse landscapes and natural beauty, and one such place that truly showcases this beauty is the glacial lake of Ratti Gali. Located in the heart of Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir, this alpine lake is a true gem that is worth visiting.
The lake is fed by the glacial melt of the surrounding mountains, and it is named Ratti Gali due to the red shades of the adjacent slopes and plateaus. The locals in the area call it Dowarian Lake, and it is also referred to as the ‘jewel of Neelum Valley’.
To reach Ratti Gali, you can start your journey from Muzaffarabad, the administrative capital of Azad Kashmir, which is about 76 km away from the lake. After passing through the village of Keran, you will reach Dowarian, which is only 19 km away from the lake. From there, you would need to hire a jeep to continue your journey to Ratti Gali. The jeep ride usually costs around Rs. 8,500 for same-day return, and Rs. 9,500 for next-day return, as of 2022. It is important to note that the jeep ride can be quite bumpy and challenging due to the rough terrain, so be prepared for an adventure.
After the jeep ride, you will reach the base camp area, and from there, you would need to trek for another 2 hours to reach Ratti Galli. The trek can be challenging, but the beautiful scenery and serene surroundings will make it all worth it. If you are not up for the trek, you can also choose to go on a horse ride for this trail, which costs around Rs. 500 per person.
Along the way, you will also come across a small lake that has been formed by water flowing downwards from Ratti Gali. This lake is also worth a visit and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
If you are traveling from Naran, the distance to Ratti Gali is about 203 km via the Muzaffarabad Gary Habibullah Road. From Islamabad, the distance is 159 km, and it takes about 4 hours to reach.
In conclusion, Ratti Gali is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. The breathtaking beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes is truly a sight to behold, and the journey to reach there is an adventure in itself. So pack your bags, get ready for an adventure, and head out to Ratti Gali to experience the beauty of Pakistan’s natural wonders.