Ratti Gali Lake 

A Hidden Gem in the Northern Mountains of Pakistan


Ratti Gali Lake is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventure-seekers and nature lovers. Located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Ratti Gali Lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views, and serene surroundings.

The lake is situated at an altitude of 12,130 feet above sea level and is accessible only through a challenging trek. The trek to Ratti Gali Lake starts from the village of Dowarian, which is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Athmuqam. The trek takes about 5-6 hours, depending on your fitness level and experience in trekking.

The trail to Ratti Gali Lake is a beautiful and scenic one, with lush green meadows, rocky terrain, and several streams and waterfalls along the way. The trek is best undertaken during the summer months, from May to September when the weather is mild and pleasant.

The lake itself is a sight to behold, with its turquoise blue waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and forests. The area around the lake is ideal for camping, and visitors can pitch their tents and spend a night or two under the starry sky. However, visitors must ensure that they leave no trace of their presence behind and follow responsible tourism practices.

For those interested in fishing, Ratti Gali Lake is home to several species of trout, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. Visitors can rent fishing gear from local vendors and try their luck at catching the elusive trout.

Apart from the trek to Ratti Gali Lake, the Neelum Valley offers several other attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The valley is known for its scenic beauty, with several waterfalls, meadows, and forests waiting to be explored. Visitors can also indulge in adventure activities like white water rafting, paragliding, and mountain biking.

In conclusion, Ratti Gali Lake is a hidden gem that offers visitors a chance to connect with nature and explore the beautiful landscapes of Northern Pakistan. Its crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views, and serene surroundings make it a perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a day trip. So, pack your bags, put on your trekking shoes, and head over to Ratti Gali Lake for an adventure of a lifetime.

 

Reaching Ratti Gali Lake can be a bit of a challenge, as the lake is located in a remote area of the Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir. The trek to Ratti Gali Lake starts from the village of Dowarian, which is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Athmuqam.

To reach Athmuqam, visitors can take a bus or hire a private taxi from the city of Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir. Muzaffarabad is well-connected to other major cities in Pakistan, including Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi, with regular bus and taxi services.

Once you reach Athmuqam, you can hire a jeep or a 4x4 vehicle to take you to the village of Dowarian, which is the starting point of the trek to Ratti Gali Lake. The journey from Athmuqam to Dowarian takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the condition of the road.

The trek to Ratti Gali Lake is a challenging one and requires a good level of fitness and experience in trekking. The trail is steep and rocky, and visitors need to cross several streams and waterfalls along the way. It is recommended that visitors hire a local guide to assist them during the trek and ensure their safety.

The trek to Ratti Gali Lake takes about 5-6 hours, depending on your fitness level and the number of stops you take along the way. Visitors can also choose to camp overnight at the lake and return to Dowarian the next day.

In conclusion, reaching Ratti Gali Lake requires some effort and planning, but the journey is worth it for the stunning views and serene surroundings that await visitors. Hiring a local guide, taking a 4x4 vehicle to Dowarian, and packing appropriate trekking gear are essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.

Raheel Rustam