Ratti Gali Lake
Azad Kashmir, a region known for its breathtaking landscapes and mesmerizing natural beauty, is home to numerous hidden gems that continue to captivate the hearts of travelers. Ratti Gali Lake is famous for its stunning alpine beauty, crystal-clear blue waters, and picturesque surroundings. Located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, it is a popular destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. The lake is fed by glacial waters, which add to its pristine and mesmerizing appeal. Ratti Gali Lake offers an unforgettable experience for its visitors seeking peace and natural splendor.
At a Glance
Located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Ratti Gali Lake is situated at an elevation of approximately 12,130 feet above sea level, and its 237 km away from Islamabad. The lake derives its name from the red-colored stones, known as ‘Ratti’ in the local language, found in the surrounding mountains. Ratti Gali lake has gained sudden popularity recently among the tourists after its basecamp is made accessible via 4WD jeeps. The jeep ride from Dowarian to Ratti Gali Base Camp costs around PKR 5,000 to PKR 7,000 (approximately USD 30 to 45), depending on the season and negotiation. This natural marvel is accessible through a thrilling and adventurous trek that takes visitors through enchanting meadows, dense forests, and rugged terrains.
Reaching Ratti Gali Lake
You can access the lake easily as Ratti Gali lake’s distance from islamabad is 237 km.The journey to Ratti Gali Lake begins from the village of Dowarian, Neelum Valley AJ& K, which is located at 106 Km from Muzaffarabad. From Dowarian onwards, you need to hire 4WD jeeps to reach the base camp of the lake. It took almost 2 hours by jeep ride to reach the base camp. Camps and other essential food items are available at the basecamp. Take good rest, refuel your body for a challenging hike ahead. From base camp, embark on a trek of around 16 kilometers, which can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, depending on one’s fitness level and pace. The trek itself is a treat for adventure enthusiasts, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and colorful alpine flowers.
Ratti Gali Lake Hike
As you ascend towards the lake, the air becomes crisp, and the symphony of flowing water echoes through the valleys. The trail is dotted with small wooden bridges, narrow pathways, and occasional resting spots where you can catch your breath and take in the surrounding beauty. It is advisable to be well-prepared for the trek, with comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, and sufficient supplies of food and water.
Upon reaching Ratti Gali Lake, visitors are rewarded with a sight that seems straight out of a postcard. The tranquil waters of the lake reflect the surrounding peaks, creating a mirror-like effect that is truly magical. The turquoise and blue hues of the lake’s water, coupled with the lush green meadows, glaciers and towering mountains, paint a picture of sheer serenity and natural grandeur.
Things to Do at Ratti Gali Lake
Once you reach this spellbound destination, indulge yourself in,
Embracing Ratti Gali’s Beauty
One can spend hours by the shores of Ratti Gali Lake, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and immersing oneself in the beauty of nature. The calmness of the surroundings, interrupted only by the occasional chirping of birds or the gentle rustling of leaves, is a balm for the soul.
Photography
Photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the mesmerizing landscape, with each frame telling a unique story.
Camping
For those seeking further adventure, camping by the lake is an experience not to be missed. Setting up tents amidst the pristine wilderness and spending a night under the starry sky is an unforgettable escapade. The breathtaking sunrise over the mountains is a sight that will forever be etched in your memory, and the calmness of the early morning hours is a chance to truly connect with nature.
Best Time to Visit
As the beauty of the tourist destination heavily depends on the weather conditions, so if you chose the wrong time to visit Rati Gali Lake , your trip and effort to reach there might end up as sheer disappointment.
The perfect time to visit the lake are peak summers in the month of July and August. At this time of the year, the lake is easily approachable as well as at the peak of its alluring beauty. However, it is advisable to always check the weather forecast to avoid heavy rains during your trip, because flooding and landslides are common during rainy seasons.
Ratti Gali Lake Weather
Brace yourself for an epic heat escape during your trip, because the weather is really cold here. The highest temperature is 10 – 12 degree celsius. During nights, the mercury drops to 5 degree celsius, so keep your winter clothing and thermals handy while visiting Ratti Gali lake.
Hotels at Ratti Gali Lake
Ratti Gali lake is a remote location with no hotels available at the spot, however one can opt for camping options for a night stay. There are many hotels available at cheap rates in nearby towns of Ratti Gali lake including
● Keran Resort
● Valley Trackers Resort
● Diyar Resorts
● Eagle Nest Cottage
● Hotel Neelum Elites
● Neelum Star River Sharda
The night stay room cost starts at PKR 4000 up to PKR 20000 as per 2023 rates.
Recommendations for Visitors
For a hassle free and pleasant trip,
● Ensure to keep CNIC with you all the time as entry in Neelum Valley is not possible without valid CNIC.
● Travel in well maintained 4wd vehicle
● Keep enough food and water supplies during the trek
● Keep warm clothing with you
● Ensure to wear comfy trek suitable shoes and keep an extra pair in your bag
● Don’t forget to keep first aid kit in your backpack
● Apply an effective sunscreen during the hike
While Ratti Gali Lake is a paradise for nature lovers, it is essential to practice responsible tourism to preserve the beauty of this pristine destination. Visitors are encouraged to leave no trace behind, ensuring that the area remains unspoiled for future generations. It is crucial to respect the environment, avoid littering, and follow designated trails to minimize the impact on the delicate ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
Ratti Gali Lake stands as a testament to the mesmerizing beauty that Azad Kashmir has to offer. Embark on the journey to Ratti Gali Lake with GTP. Contact us Now!
Unlock an unforgettable experience at Ratti Gali lake that will leave you captivated by its beauty for many years to come.
