WELCOME TO NATURAL BEAUTY OF PAKISTAN

Baghsar Lake.

2009-08-16T12:52:00.000-07:00

Baghsar Lake.

Baghsar is a lake situated at 975 m above sea-level in the Samahni Valley Mirpur District The lake is roughly half a kilometre long and overlooks the Bandala Valley The lake is a popular tourist destination.
Many local and migratory birds especially ducks and geese inhabit the lake.
The lake is habitat to water lilies and the surrounding hills are covered by cheerh or pine trees and lily flowers.
Moghul Fort overlooks the lake from the top of a hill. This four story structure of granite has played important roles in history during the times of Ahmed Shah Abdali Ranjit Singh and Gulab Sing hIt is said that the Mughal Emperor Jahangir on his way back from the Kashmir Valley fell ill and ultimately died in this fort.

The Lake is nearly half a kilometer long and overlooks the Bandala Valley. Bandala is a valley in Azad Kashmir located about 26 kilometres from Bhimber in Pakistan. The valley stretches from the river Tawi in the east to the Samahni valley in the west. The Reech Pahari (Bear Mountain) runs parallel on the northern side and the Baghsar mountain on the southern side. The valley is about 10 kilometres long and about 1.5 kilometres wide.

Bandala joins the valley of Samahni at Sara e Saadabad and Chitti Mitt further east are Chawalian and Nali villages the last villages before the Line of Control.
Many streams flow through the valley producing cascades rapids falls and natural swimming pools.
These pools are very popular among the local youths not only for swimming but also for fishing. The fertile land and mild climate produces a variety of crops or trees especially mango trees.
Farming is still the major source of staple food for the area wheat and corn are grown annually.
The high literacy rate has improved the overall living standards of the people. Because most of the people work for the government or overseas especially in Middle East and Europe dependence on farming for income has greatly reduced but people still cultivate the land for food.

Many birds and animals are found in the valley including peacocks partridges quail birds of paradise falcons and eagles.
The enclosing Reech Pahari serves as the sanctuary for many animal species including tigers hyenas wolves jackals Foxes pythons monkeys deer stags and impalas. The valley is home to many hamlets of which Bandi Pind Gurah Piana Paratiand Ghawalian are the best known.

Borith Lake: Northern Areas of Pakistan

2009-08-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

Borith Lake ....
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Borith Lake is a lake in the Northern Areas of Pakistan. Borith is a hamlet in the surroundings of the Borith Lake to the northwest of Hussaini, a village near Gulmit, Gojal, in the upper Hunza. The altitude of Borith is roughly 2,600 m 8500 feeabove sea levelA short trek of one hour each way will bring you to Ghulkin Glacier.
Just follow the trekking route towards Borith Lake as far as the edge of the glacier and return by the same route.
Bagnator is situated on the Abbottabad-Nathi Gali Road.
beautiful and lush green valley full of pines and marvellous scenery.

The lake can be reached via a 2 km unpaved jeep route from Hussaini village which lies adjacent to Ghulkin village.
It is also accessible by a 2-3 hour trekking route directly from Ghuylkin across the end of the Ghulkin glacier.
The site is an important sanctuary for migrating wildfowl and is a must to be included in the itinerary of bird-watchers and nature lovers.
To witness the large number of ducks arriving from the warmer parts of southern Pakistan, one should visit between the months of March and June. The birds rest here on their way northwards to the cooler waters of central Asia.
Similarly, from September–November, the spectacle occurs in reverse with the onset of winter towards the north.
A short trek of one hour each way will bring you to Ghulkin Glacier. Just follow the trekking route towards Borith Lake as far as the edge of the glacier and return by the same route.
The site is an important sanctuary for migrating wildfowl and is a must to be included in the itinerary of bird watchers and nature lovers. To witness the large number of ducks arriving from the warmer parts of southern Pakistan one should visit between the months of March and June. The birds rest here on their way northwards to the cooler waters of central Asia. Similarly from September November the spectacle occurs in reverse with the onset of winter towards the north.
For the more adventurous, a longer walk to Passu Gar Glacier is another attraction, crossing both Ghulkin Glacier and Borith Lake. Having crossed Ghulkin Glacier by the same route, continue on the southern side of Borith Lake past the settlement of Borith Bala and the now deserted settlement of Shahabad. The lack of a continuous water supply led to the desertification of this village many years ago. On reaching Passu Gar, one finds a spectacular view of all the icy crenellations along its length. The walk takes about 4–5 hours form Ghulkin to PASSU From the glacier, a path leads down to the Karakorum Highway and the Shisper Hotel.

Hanna Lake :Quetta pakistan

2009-08-16T12:21:00.000-07:00

Hanna Lake :

10 kms from Quetta a little short of the place where the Urak valley begins is the Hanna lake.

The golden fish in the lake comes swimming right up to the edge of the lake.

A little distance away the waters of the lake turn on a greenish blue tinge.

Where the river ends pine trees have been planted on the grass filled slopes.

The greenish blue waters of the lake provide a rich contrast to the sandy brown of the hills in the background. It is accessible by local transport. It has plenty of picnic spots which the tourists can enjoy

Hanna Lake nestles in the hills ten kilometres six miles east of Quetta a startling turquoise pool within bare brown surroundings.

There is a lakeside restaurant with picnic tables shaded by pine trees.

At one end, the irrigation dam rises out of the depths like battlements of a fort. It is very attractive for holidaymakers, and is crowded with hikers and campers in holidays. You can hire a boat and paddle on the lake and round the island in the middle.

lake near Quetta city in Pakistan and is one of the main attractions in the city and a great historical bridge wall between two mountains for storing of water was Constructed by the British Empires in 1894,a small action dame Surrpull was constructed on main Urak road for converting of water in to Hanna Lake coming from the Zarghoon Mountains range of streams snow melting and rains through main channel this channel is now a days need repairs and wasting water and the water level is deadly low up to three feets and the thousands of fishes are in dangerous, there is also a water channel was constructed to convert the snow and rain water near spin kaarez coming from murdar mount to surrpull for filling of wat

er in this lake.

this channel was destroyed by the heavy flood in 1976 and still not constructed and all the snow and rain water is going waste till now and resultant the water level is very low and was full dried in 1999 to January 2005.

Lake Hanna Dam is on Brewers Creek in St. Francois County, Missouri. Construction was completed in 1967. It has a normal surface area of 135 acres. It is owned by Lake Hanna Prop. Inc.

The lake is located a little short of the place where the Urak Valley begins and 14 km from Quetta.The beautiful Hanna Lake was built in the time of British Empires in 1894.

Lake Hanna Dam is of

earthen construction. Its height is 38 feet with a length of 1650 feet. Maximum discharge is 5003 cubic feet per second. Its capacity is 2025 acre feet. Normal storage is 816 acre feet. It drains an area of 1260 square miles.

Golden fish in the lake co

me swimming right up to the edge of the lake.

There is a lakeside restaurant with picnic tables shaded by pine trees.

At one end, the irrigation d

am rises out of the depths like battlements of a fort.and on the eastern part the well known Hayat Durrani Water Sports Academy the only Rowing , Canoeing , Kayaking and Sailing Training center

in Balochistan Province.

Hanna Lake is very attractive for holidaymakers, and is crowded with hikers and campers in holidays.

You can hire a boat and paddle on th

e lake and round the island in the middle.the HLDA / HDWSA and MERCK has planted Various trees for the beautification and protection of environment in Hanna Lake Mountains

Only 6-1/2 miles from Quetta is Hanna Lake a delightful picnic spot. The greenish-blue waters of the lake provide a rich contrast to the sandy brown of the

hills in the back ground. One can take a boat ride on the lake or promenade on the terraces. Getting there is no problem as there is a daily bus service. Private taxis can also be hired.

Urak Valley

From the Hanna Lake is a lovely 7mile drive to another favourite picnic spot, the environs of Urak Tangi The road is lined on either side with wild roses and fruits orchards.

Cherries, apricots, grapes apples and peaches of many varieties are grown in this valley.

The Urak Valley is 21 kms away from Quetta City. The road is lined on either side with wild roses and fruit orchards. Peaches plums apricots and apples of many varieties are grown in this valley. The waterfall at the end of the Urak Valley, which is full of apple and apricot orchards, makes an interesting picnic spot.

For a panoramic view of the whole valley one has only to climb to the nearby hills, which can easily be done in about 10 minutes.

Urak is a valley surrounded by mountains in the province of Balochistan in Pakistan. It is located near Hana Lake, and 21 kilometres from Quetta city

Urak has a population of 10000 and about 90% are pashtunThis valley is used for growing apple trees of good quality. It has a small waterfall in the end from where the Wali Tangi valley begins.

The Pashtun owners of the apple garden are very strict about the plucking of apples from the trees; the tourists may view and purchase the apples but may not pluck them from the trees, in case they may fine the tourists more than 500 rs

nathia gali Galiat..abbottabad.pakistan

2009-08-10T09:48:00.000-07:00

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Welcome to Nathiagali. A Picturesque Town of Pakistan

Nathia Gali or Nathiaga .
is a mountain resort town or hill station in (hazara NWFP) It is a part of the (GALIAATH )which are termed such due to several hill-stations in that area ending with the word gali most of which are connected to one other.
Nathiagali is known for its scenic beauty hiking tracks and pleasant weather which is much cooler than the rest of the Galiaath due to it being at a greater altitude. It is situated one hour's drive away from both MURREE and ABBOTABAD it lies midway between the two. Drive time from Islamabad is usually about two hours, unless there is a lot of traffic. clad in Pine Walnut and Oak Maple trees.
is the most picturesque hill station in the Pakistan. From Nathiagali one take many short strolls through the pine forests.
Those who are more adventurous can take a longer trek to climb the top of Mukshpuri which is 2800 meters high.
The real enthusiasts can walk up a track starting from the Governor’s House to the top of Miranjani Hill 2960 meters high a beautiful trek that takes 6 to 7 hours both ways.
Nathiagali also serves as the holiday home of several prominent Pakistani families. Some of these families have been frequenting the Galiaath for 5 decades and own mountain properties and lodges there. These families tend to socialise together on an annual basis often holding barbecues, bonfires, games nights sing-a-longs and trekking parties etc. Some of the more frequent families also give back to the local community, they have helped in renovation of the local church and mosque, and can be seen helping out at the local schools in the summer months.
There are several properties leased by multinationals and other organisations as holiday homes for their executives
There are a number of rest houses and small hotels at the base station of the Chairlift.
The top station of the Chairlift also has a restaurant and couple of food and souvenir stalls.
here are several food items the bazaar is known for although you will not find a posh eatery in the Nathiagali bazaar. The bazaar food is fantastic
but should not perhaps be risked by persons not used to bazaar cuisines. On top of the list would be the roast chicken at the
Taj Hotel which is offered with a delicious chilli preparation. If you do not have the stomach for chillies you should ask the waiter to serve it to you without the chillies.
The daals chicken karhais barbecued foods and fresh naans in the bazaar too are thoroughly enjoyable, as are halwa puri breakfasts and freshy made roadside pakoras and jalebis.
Corn on the cob is usually available all over the hill-station at various points. There are a couple of grocery stores now stock most supermarket items that are available in the cities.
The months of April May or September are ideal for a visit if you like the outdoors and want a relaxing holiday in perfect weather. These months are preferred by those looking to avoid the throngs of tourists in the summer season.thereis a great hotels knows as Sardars Hotel which are managed by Sardar Junaid Zeb Residential of Namli Maira .
Nathia Gali town also serves as the administrative centre of Nathia Gali Union Council. It is located in Abbottabad District North West Frontier Province. At 2500 m 8200 ft it is a popular tourist resort in the summer months. It is forested with pine, walnut and also oak and maple trees.
During the summer Nathiagali is relatively popular amongst tourists but due to its limited size and availability of property it is not thronged by as many people as the hill-station Murree which is only an hour away. The church in Nathi Gali is a remnant from the period of British Government, it is totally made of wood. It is situated at the edge of the mountain from which there is a beautiful sight.
Kashmir can be seen right behind this church, and is a wonderful scene.
Hotels in the local bazaar are of poor quality but there are other decent options loads of rest-houses and a couple of hotels such as Green Retreat formerly known as Greens Hotel which have decent facilities including internet access. There are a few luxurious rest-houses too which can be found through the right contacts.
The people of Nathiagali, the Hazaray-waal are known for their incredible hospitality and friendly nature, they speak mixture of hindku and potohari. Urdu is widely spoken. Mostly the young generation is literate and working as government servants, but most of people has their own business of hoteling and guesthouses. People are very friendly, peace-loving and hospitable.
The majority of people called karals . Some notable people belong to Nathiagali makes great name on national level like Justice Sardar Raza Khan Also Belongs To Namli mera Nathiagali & Sardar Ahmad Nawaz Belongs to Bagan Nathiagali....
Governor's House:
This is a beautiful house. It belongs to the Governor who comes here for a vacation in summers.
I never realized if it was the NWFP Governor or the Punjab one as Nathiagali is just next to Punjab. Behind the house, there is a track which leaves for the Miran Jani Hill. Must visit place
Ayubia: Khairagali, Changlagali Khanspur and Ghora Dhaka, these four mini resorts spread over an area of 26 KM have been developed as a resort complex called Ayubia. It was named after President Ayub Khan, who belonged to Haripur District of Hazara. The central place of Ghora Dhaka has a chairlift which gives a panoramic view of the surroundings
This Chairlift is the first recreation facility of its kind in Pakistan and a major attraction for domestic tourists.
Enjoy The Weather of Winter in Summer Enjoy & Stay in Pollution Free Environment Enjoy First ever Chair Lift of Asia World's Best & Beautiful Hiking Tracks World's Beautiful Scene. Photography Ayubia National Park
Wildlife:
The Nathiagali region serves as home to all kinds of wildlife; various species of birds insects, butterflies and animals.
Unlike the crows of the southern cities of Pakistan you will find ravens in areas like Nathiagali. Visitors are advised to sun their bedding on arrival to get rid of bed-bugs, and to keep repellants and pesticides for insects as these have a tendency to show up a lot, especially in old homes, and in the monsoon season.
Horses are a common sight during summer months and are offered to children and adults alike for rides at rates that are often negotiable. Monkeys are aplenty, previously known to be a little shy they have reportedly become more aggressive in recent years some say this due to increased abuse suffered at the hands of tourists who often tease these monkeys or try to steal them. Monkeys often come up to guesthouses and hotels in search of snacks and can be quite noisy and playful.
The World Wildlife Federation has an office in the Galiaath in recent years, this organisation assisted in the breeding of a certain type of leopard in the Black Forest right by Dungagali and Nathiagali, this area was thought to be a perfect habitat for such creatures but according to local reports they frequently come out of the forest to steal cattle of local villagers.
One such cat had to be shot. Packs of pie-dogs which were previously considered to be a night-time menace can no longer be seen anywhere in the Galiaath, it is thought that most have been killed and consumed by the newly bred leopards.
Visitors need not be concerned as there are no reports of attacks on humans.
These leopards are rarely spotted.
However, a pet dog or animal is very likely to be grabbed by the cats at night and if any such pets are brought to Nathiagali they must be kept indoors to avoid this.
Mammals:

Asiatic leopard, Yellow throated marten, Himalayan palm civet Black bear Kashmir hill fox Red Flying squirrel Masked civet and Rhesus Macaque.
Birds:

Golden eagle Himalayan Griffon vulture Honey buzzard Peregrine falcon Kestrel Indian sparrow hawk Hill pigeon Spotted dove and Collared dove.

Shangrila Lake or Lower Kachura Lake( pakistan)

2009-08-06T03:19:00.001-07:00

Kachura Lakes and Lower Kachura Lake
are two of the lakes in skardu nearly 2500 m or 8200 feet the Upper Kachura Lake and
Lower Kachura Lake. The latter is also known as Shangrila Lake and is inside a tourist resort called Shangrila Resort.
Upper Kachura Lake " is a lake of clear water having a depth of 70 meters. In summer it has a temperature of 15 degree Celsius. In winter the surface is frozen solid. River Indus is located nearby at a lower level then the lake.
All these are loaded with sand and therefore the lake can not have any inflow channel from these streams.
Shangrila was established in 1983 with the opening of the first Resort Hotel in Skardu Baltistan. It was named heaven on earth" because of its spectacular beauty,and breathtaking view and peaceful atmosphere.
Shangrila Resort Hotel: was founded by the late Brig.(Retd) Muhammad Aslam Khan, the first commander of the Northern Scouts who liberated the Northern areas in 1948.

Shangrila was named after a book titled Lost Horizon by James Hilton. In the novel the author narrates a tale in which an aeroplane crash landed near a riverbed, in the early 1920
The surviving passengers came across some Buddhist monks from a nearby temple and sought their help.
They were taken to a beautiful lamasery filled with a variety of fruits and flowers..
The monks looked quite young, although they claimed to be hundreds of years old.
The idyllic place was called Shangri-la, a Chinese word meaning
Heaven on earth".
It is a popular tourist destination, and has a unique restaurant that is built on the fuselage of an aircraft that had crashed nearby.
Only one tourist resort lower Kachura Lake has been managed properly in the whole Baltistan .

Although the security situation in the country in general and NWFP and Northern Areas in specific has hurt tourism, this is not the only reason behind the constantly falling number of tourists in Pakistan.
. As a matter of fact the tourism authorities never devised a good marketing policy.
Even today they have completely failed to tell people that in places like Baltistan security situation is as good as it should be.
According to Zaheer Abbas a resident of Skardu city, headquarter of Baltistan region, the people of this region are very friendly and peace-loving and it has a great potential to be a tourist attraction.
Baltistan is the home of mighty Indus, Deosai plains also known as roof of the world snow capped towering mountains
biggest glaciers anywhere outside the polar region deep ravine green vales waterfalls lakes rare wildlife and centuries old heritage.
But one hardly finds these things marketed or managed properly by the authorities in the region. Tourists come to places only with proper facilities..

He informed that only one tourist resort lower Kachura Lake: in the whole Baltistan valley has been managed properly but privately. If one visits this lake and other areas of Baltistan one can easily observe the difference between the areas managed by the government.
Lower Kachura Lake located at a drive of about 20 minutes from Skardu town is managed by Shangrila Resort Hotel management.
The 80 acre resort hotel was constructed by Brig Muhammad Aslam Khan the first commander of the Northern Scouts in 1983 with the opening of the first Resort Hotel in Skardu, Baltistan.
It is nestled amongst some of the world's highest peaks.
The resort hotel encircles the heart shaped Lower Kachura Lake and is surrounded by flower filled gardens and fruit laden orchards of apples, almonds, apricot cherries peaches, plums pears strawberries mulberries and grapes trees.
The resort is also home to Northern Areas largest trout fish hatchery as well as a zoo.
The trout fish from our hatchery is very famous and we arrange to send it to our customers in different cities of Pakistan including Karachi Lahore and Islamabad.
We grow most of the vegetables in the resort while different jams like apple, apricot and cherries are also prepared within the resort says
Sagar Khan front desk manager of the Shangrila resort hotel.
He says they have many customers mostly expatriate Pakistanis and mountain trekkers who come every year straight to them in Skardu spent a good week and return to their home countries.
We are also the focal point of tourism industry in Baltistan region and many other small hotels in the area depend upon us because we offer a package deal to our customer and arrange visits for them in the different famous tourist spots in the area where these small restaurants are being operated.
One of the most favourite tourist attraction at the resort is a unique aircraft restaurant.
It has been built on the fuselage of an aircraft. According to Arif Aslam Khan, chairman Shangrila Resort Hotels and ex-chairman PTDC this DC-3 aircraft originally belonging to Orient Airways took. On the morning of October 13, 1954 it took off from Skardu and crash landed in the bed of River Indus within three minutes due to engine failure with no casualties.
The crashed air craft remained in the river bed for tmonths after which Brig MuhammadAslamKhan
bye it for hundred rupees one and fifty only.
It took three months and at least three times more money than its actual price to move it on rollers pulled by hundreds of men, yaks and horses to its present location. Now it has been converted into a coffee shop.
Arif Aslam claims that they are in this business just for their love for nature otherwise it is not a profitable business to manage such a huge hotel as well as the lake with the fact that 90 per cent of total tourists to Baltistan visit it just three months from Mid May to Mid August.
The rest of the year one can hardly find a tourist in these areas due to extreme weather and poor road infrastructure.
It takes at least 22 hours from Islamabad to reach Skardu by road. Air travel is the least reliable means to go to Skardu and its adjacent areas.
Government should manage extra flights for the peak season from May to August.
He also bought land in fairy meadows, lush green plateau situated in the foot gin of Nanga Parbat for investment purpose but is discouraged by the deteriorating tourism industry.
The best example of adverse publicity according to him is the government s failure to tell the world that 2005 earthquake had not hit Gilgit and Baltistan region which affected their business a lot in 2006. ConsequentlyPakistan lost many of its foreigner clients and even expatriate Pakistanis are now reluctant to come because they think that Skardu is also part of troubled-tribal areas of Pakistan. For them Northern areas mean Wana and Swat.
The private sector at its own is doing a fairly good job in tourism industry in Pakistan while on the government seems totally indifferent.
Government also failed to give tourism the status of industry although in 1999 it had been decided that tourism and related businesses would be treated as industry in Pakistan.
The lake is also known as Shangrila Lake and is located at a drive of about 20 minutes from Skardu town. Shangrila was named after a book titled Lost Horizon by James Hilton. Shangri-la is a Chinese word meaning Heaven on earth
Actually the registration of this C-47/DC-3 Dakota is AP-AAF and it belonged to Orient Airways. On October 13 1954 AP-AAF on flight from Skardu to Rawalpindi minutes after take-off, crash landed near Indus river bed. Fortunately everyone aboard the aircraft survived the accident. The aircraft was purchased by Shangrila Resort owner, moved to its current location and converted into a cafe.
Located 8200 feet above the sea level amidst the picturesque Skardu town the Kachura Lake is truly one of the popular destinations of Pakistan. A rare beauty on the face of the earth the Kachura Lakes are divided into two distinct parts-The Upper Kachura Lake and the Lower Kachura Lake . While the upper part is not much explored and very rarely visited by tourists mainly owing to its surrounding terrain the Lower Kachura Lake is more widely known as the Shangrila Lake inviting a heavy footfall every year.

The beauty of the Upper Kachura Lake is awesome and keeps one spellbound. However due to lack of infrastructure owing to its rough terrain this pristine place is almost untampered and mostly unexplored by travelers. However this part is full of a rich flora and famous for its wild apricot gardens. One can take a god hike in and around this place and also enjoy the azure waters of the Lake.

Khanpur Lake: pakistan

2009-07-28T05:04:00.000-07:00

Khanpur Lake:

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Khanpur Lake:

Khanpur Lake:
This beautiful lake/dam is 48 km from Islamabad on Taxila Haripur Road
It is an ideal place for day trip/picnic boating angling and watching migratory birds during winter.
The area around the lake has been planted with flowering trees and laid out with gardens picnic spots, and secluded paths.
The terraced garden and the lake are used for picnics fishing and boating. The highest point in the garden offers a panoramic view of the lake Margalla and Murree hills Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Khanpur Dam:
is a dam located on the Haro River near the town of Khanpur about 25 miles 40 km from Islamabad, Pakistan. It forms Khanpur Lake a reservoir which supplies drinking water to Islamabad and Rawalpindi and irrigation water to many of the agricultural and industrial areas surrounding the cities.
The dam was completed in 1983 after a 15 year construction period believed to have cost Rs. 1,352 million. It is 167 feet 51 m high and stores 110,000 acre feet 140,000,000 m³ of water.

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Banjosa Lake

Banjosa Lake situated in Poonch district of Azad Kashmir is a beautiful spot for family vacations. It's also very convenient and approachable from Rawalpindi/Islamabad. In fact from Rawalpindi 2 - 2.5 hour drive you have to take the route towards Kahota and from there you have to go to Rawalakot in AJK. Rawalakot is 65 Kms from Rawalpindi and from Rawalakot Banjosa is 12 Kms.
Banjosa is Situated 20 kilometers from Rawalakot, at an altitude of 1981 meters. Its scenic beauty and impressive surrounding is compelling and attracts tourists to reach here to enjoy the nature for a possible comeback. Amidst the captivating beauty of Banjosa the artificial lake reflects the dense forest standing along the surrounding of the resting calm waters of Banjosa lake.
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The Rawal Dam lake View pakistan

2009-07-28T02:46:00.000-07:00

Rawal Lake
Rawal Lake in Pakistan is an artificial reservoir that provides the water needs for the cities of rawalpindi and Islamabad. This artificial lake covers an area of 8.8 km.
Rawal Lake: is located within an isolated section of the Margalla Hills National Park. This glistening man-made lake covers an area of 8.8 sq. km.
The terraced garden and the lake are ideal for picnic, fishing and boating.
The highest point in the garden commands a panoramic view of the lake, Margallah and Murree hills, Rawalpindi and Islamabad. The PTDC Jaltarang Restaurant offers snack bar facilities for visitors.
The area around it has been landscaped beautifully to provide good recreation be it picnics, taking long walks, fishing or boating.
Wildlife
The reservoir is of considerable importance for wintering waterfowl especially Anas platyrhynchos.Resident mammals include the common .fox .Pangolin Porcupine Jungle cat Jackal Wild boar and yellow-throated marten.Reptiles include indian cobra and Russell's viper.It is a good place for birds watching as the majority of Birds of Islamabad are found here.
Features of Rawal Lake;Location: Islamabad Park Area,Longitude: 73° 7' E, Latitude: 33° 41' N, Catchments Area: 106.25 square miles 275 km Features of Rawal Lake dam Type of Dam: Partly Arched Gravity Dam Stone Masonry Crest Level: 1,742 ft 531 m ,Crest Length: 700 ft 210 m ,Max. Height: 133.5 ft 40.7 m
The Rawal Dam lake View
Sun Rises at Rawal Dam lake View Park
Saddle: Length 6991 ft, Height 24 ft
Spillway: Type Ogee Gated structure, Discharge Capacity 82000 ft³/s 2,300 m³/s
Reservoir Length 3 square miles, Max. Depth 102 feet
Live Storage 43000 acre-feet 53,000,000 m³
Dead storage 4500 acre-feet (5,600,000 m³)
Gross Capacity 47500 acre-feet (59,000,000 m³)

NATURAL view of Fairy Meadows

2009-06-17T02:51:00.000-07:00

view of Fairy Meadows
Fairy Meadow is lush green plateau situated in the foot gin of Nanga Parbat at the Western edge of the Himalayan Range. The name Fairy Meadows is part of the legend that Fairies have their heaven on this lush green plateau. . The Peak in the Background is Nanga Parbat. This is considered as one of the most impressive and beautiful mountain scenery in the whole world. The beautiful meadows and thick ever green forests are the specialty of Kashmir area . This legendry name Fairy Meadows is everlasting gift of the western tourist to the local people.
Fairy Meadow offers superb views of the Nanga Parbat 8125 mthe highest mountain in Pakistan in Himalayas.

Nanga Parbat is a Persian word which means Naked Mountain the local People call Diamer
Fairy Meadows has been a source of enchantment since long for back packers, climbers photographers, painters & geologists, besides nature beauty of pakistan. The pine forests skirting Fairy Meadows are perhaps one of the virgin forests in the north of Pakistan, and are home to a number of species of birds and wildlife. The site overlooks the Raikot Glacier and provides a majestic view of the North Face of Nanga Parbat, commonly known as the Raikot Face.

Fairy Meadows is in the heart of exotic North Pakistan, It is located at the base of Nanga Parbat which, at 8126 m, is the 9th highest mountain in the world and second in Pakistan after K2.

The area in front of Fairy Meadows Cottages is known as Pari Mahal Fairy Palace named by the famous Japanese photographer, Fujita Heroki. The Fairy Meadows Cottages are at a distance of eight minutes hike from main village and other tourist resorts with its breathtaking natural view of great Nanga Parbat side.
Nanga Parbat is also called the Killer Mountain and locals call it Daimoryi which is the end of Himalaya. The meadows are lush green alpine pastures situated in the middle of a pine forest at an altitude of 3,306 m. The meadows have been a thrilling destination for polo lovers, spending couple of days here having a touch of real adventure.

How To Get There

Fairy Meadows can be easily approached from the capital city of Pakistan, Islamabad. Pakistan International Airlines PIA operates two flights to Gilgit daily which is the main city of Northern Areas of Pakistan. Further via silk route up to Raikot Bridge 76 km from Gilgit & further 1 ½ hour jeep able journey.

A road journey from Islamabad on Karakoram Highway takes 11 hours to Chillas. From here Raikot bridge on silk route is 61 km away.

Roots by rood & by airlines

Islamabd to Gilgit 2 Hours by Air
Gilgit to Raikot Bridge 2 Hours by Road
Raikot Bridge to Tatto 1 ½ Hours 4 X 4 Jeep Drive
Tatto to Fairy Meadows 4 Hours Trek
Islamabd to Kaghan Valley 7 Hours by Road
Kaghan to Chilas via Babusar Pass 4 Hours by Road
Chilas to Raikot Bridge 2 Hours by Road
Raikot Bridge to Tatto 1 ½ Hours 4 X 4 Jeep Drive
Tatto to Fairy Meadows 4 Hours Trek

Rupal Valley of pakistan

2009-06-16T00:09:00.000-07:00

Rupal Valley is located in the Astore District of Pakistan's Northern Areas. It lies just south of 8,126 meter Nanga Parbat and is popular for treks to the mountain's Rupal Face one of highest mountain faces in the world. Rupal Village is located in the valley at The Rupal is home to Shina speaking herdsmen, who have grazed and harvested wood in the valley for hundreds of years. Overgrazing has caused some loss of vegetation, leading to wind-blown dust. Towering peaks on either side of the valley make it a breathtaking, albeit remote destination for adventurers.

Rupal Peak is a lofty mountain in Pakistan's western Himalaya. The peak is located just south of Nanga Parbat on the Rupal Valley and is sometimes climbed by mountaineers as they acclimatize for higher local peaks. Despite its unique beauty steep north face and impressive height, Rupal is greatly overshadowed by Nanga Parbatthe Mazeno Wall and the mighty Rupal Face. To its west lies Laila Peak (Rupal Valley) and to its north flows the Rupal Glacier which later forms the Rupal River.

Rupal Glacier is a glacier in the Great Himalaya subrange of Himalayas. It starts north of an unnamed 6,326 m high peak and flows northeastward, north of Laila Peak Rupal Valley and south of Nanga Parbat s many peaks.

Rupal River is an east-west glacial stream rising from the meltwater of the Rupal Glacier in northern Pakistan. The stream flows through the Rupal Valley south of NangaParbat before turning northeast to the village of Tarashing The Rupal drains into the Astore River which eventually reaches the Indus near Jaglot

Welcome to Astore Valley

2009-06-15T23:16:00.000-07:00

wall cam Astore Valley of pakistan(Northern Area.
Astore valley adjoining the eastern side of Nanga Parbat (8,126 m), is about 120 km long and 5,092 sq. km in area. The entrance of the valley is located about 60 km southeast of Gilgit with four side-valleys. The valley has more than 100 villages with a total population of 71,666 (Census 1998. Some of which are Chilm, Bubin, Gorikot, Eid Ghah, Fina, Bulen, Chongra and Tari Shing. Chilm is the most beautiful village among all the villages of Astore, because it is the starting point of Deosai, the world's second highest plane. The majority of people practice subsistence agriculture and livestock is the main source of livelihood complemented by seasonal work in down districts of the country. Due to its diverse landscape and climatic conditions the valley provides excellent habitat for a variety of commercially important medicinal plants. Astore is connected to Gilgit which is well connected by air with Islamabad( weather dependent) and by road with Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Skardu and Chitral. You can take a flight to Gilgit from the capital of the country and drive to Astore from Gilgit on metalled road.
The valley best time to visit is May to October.rama lake
The valley adjoining the eastern side of Nanga Parbat (8,126 m), is about 120 km long and 5,092 km² in area. The entrance of the valley is located about 60 km southeast of Gilgit with four side-valleys. The valley has more than 100 villages with a total population of 71,666 (Census 1998. Some of which are Chilm, Bubin, Gorikot, Eid Ghah, Fina, Bulen, Chongra and Tari Shing. Chilm is the most beautiful village among all the villages of Astore, because it is the starting point of Deosai, the world's second highest plane. The majority of
people practice subsistence agriculture and livestock is the main source of livelihood complemented by seasonal work in down districts of the country. Due to its diverse landscape and climatic .
Astor lie at the junction of several mountain routes, providing ample and varied trekking opportunities, including many short walks through this beautiful area. Tracks head eastwards from the Bulashbar area, up towards the wild but beautiful Deosai Mountains and Plains. To the north west, a trekking route leads to the Muthat Pass and continues on to Fairy Meadow. In the southwest, Rupal valley provides numerous opportunities for short and long treks. Rama lake is a must see!

LAKES BEAUTY IN NARAN VALLEY

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LULUSAR LAKE

· Lulusar is located at a height of 11,200 ft (3,410 m) in the Naran Valley, 48 kms away from Naran itself. Wreathed in blue and gold wild flowers, the lake is the main source of the Kunhar River and has a baby lake beside it. Lulusar is the Reminiscent of those 55 participants of 1857 war of independence who had been arrested near Lulusar. One can hire a jeep from Naran to reach this beautiful lake in about four - five hours time. One should leave Naran in the morning so as to be abck in Naran before sunset after a wonder stay at Lulusar Lake.

Lulusar is group of mountains near the Naran Valley in the North-West Frontier Province of Pakistan. It is famous for the large lake situated there which is a popular tourist attraction. The word sar means top or peak in Pashto.

The lake is the main source of the Kunhar river, which flows through the entire Kaghan Valley through Jalkhand Naran Valley Kaghan Jared, Paras and Balakot until it joins the Jhelum River. The lake is 48 kilometers away from Naran, on the Naran-Babusar road

The lake is much bigger than other lakes around the valley, and is surrounded by snowcapped hills, making it a natural tourist attraction. From Gittidas the Naran-Babusar road, one of the highest in the world, goes through the Babusar Pass to Gilgit In the summer, when the water reflects its surroundings like a mirror, a large number of both domestic and international visitors make the lake a destination stop.

A jeep can be hired from the Naran Valley to visit the lake. From Naran town, Lulusar can be reached in approximately 3 hours. Jeeps can be hired from Naran which will take you to Basel from where one can visit the Lulusar in approximately 30 minutes. There is a road being built around the lake which will link the Naran/Basel to Chilas The same road also leads to Babusar Pass

From Naran, Lulusar lake can be reached at in about four and a half hours. Jeeps leave Naran in the morning so that tourists can reach the lake at afternoon and spend about an hour at lake before returning so that the return journey is completed in daylight
Lulusar lake has very enchanting beauty and its view remains in the mind of tourist for a long time. 48 kilometers away from Naran, on Naran-Babusar road, wreathed in blue and gold wild flowers, it is the main source of river Kunhar;. 3,353m.Lulusar Lake out of which river Kunhar This lake is much bigger in size as compared to other lakes around the valley. It is surrounded by snowcapped hills whose purple and white forms are reflected in the green-blue waters of the silent lake, making it one of the most beautiful spots in the valley. Lake Lalusar offers a splendid opportunity for fishing in dark blue waters surrounded by high mountains. The serene beauty and peace.
DUDIPATSAR LAKE
Dudipatsar Lake is one of the well known lakes in this Naran Valley. Travelers can come to this lake to un wind their mind from the humdrum life of the city and spend some calm moments in this location.The literal meaning of the Dudipatsar Lake is the "white lake Nestled between the snow capped mountains the lake is located at an altitude of nearly 4000 m.It is accessible by means of mules,ponies or foot only during the extreme summer months of July to September.he trick leads to ‘Jalkhad pass’ that hosts a remote view of ‘Nanga Parbat’ on a clear sunny day.It continues all the way to ‘Noori Nar’ top, ‘Dawarian pass’ and ‘Ratti Galli’.If you are looking for a week long heavenly excursion.The breathtaking views of lovely valleys and a number of lakes are captivating to say the least.

ANSOO LAKE

Ansoo Lake is a high altitude lake (elevation 16,490 feet or 5,027 metres) in the Kaghan Valley(Mansehra District)of the North West Frontier Province of Pakistan.It is near Malika Parbat in the Himalayan range.It can be reached by a difficult track from Saiful Mulook Lake.If one chooses to walk it takes more than 8 hours for both going and coming back to the lake Saif ul Muluk.
Personally i like saif ul malook lake too but here we only talk about saif ul malook.Horses can also be hired from the Lake Saif ul Muluk along with a guide person who will take you to the Ansoo Lake.Another track to reach Ansoo Lake is from Mahandri(city)which is 40 km far Naran but this is a short and comfortable route.The name "Ansoo" comes from its tear like shape (the Urdu word Ansoo means teardrop). The lake is said to have been discovered in 1993 by Pakistan Air Force pilots who were flying low above the area. Earlier, the lake was not even known to the locals.

LAKE SAIF UL MALOK

Malka Parbat can be best approached by hiking or driving 10 KM from Naran to the legendary Saiful Maluk nesting in the shadows of The Malka Parbat. On a clear day, you can behold the majesty of the Malka Parbat'speaks reflected in the lake's deep blue icy waters.Saif ul Muluk is the must see activity in naran. It takes around about 3 hours on foot to travel to the lake. You can also
hire jeeps or horses if you dont feel like walking to it. you have to cross a glacier on the way to the lake.The
whole path is very beautiful and its recommended that you walk to it. In this way you will get to appreciate the captivating beauty on the way Lake Saif-ul-Maluk is situated at 3000+m, about 40 minutes jeep ride from Naran. Best time to visit is early in the morning when the air is cool, resulting in a picture perfect reflection on the lake. Camping facilities are also avaialbe, but you will have to check with the hotel that you will stay at. Nice view of Malaka Parbat.
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( JAL KHAD LAKE)

WELL COME NARAN VLLEY

2009-05-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

NARAN VALLEY
IF anyone has visited kaghan and naran after the earth -quake 2009.how are the road conditions?are there enough good hotels for stay with a family?please share your experiences as we want to go there by car during summer vacations.how is the weather there in june and july?your suggetions will be very helpful for us i hope so.
At NARAN, 23 KM. From KAGAN you reach the half-way point. NARAN also serves as the base for the whole valley. From here you can ride a jeep or horse or hike in excursions to several picturesque lakes, valleys and peaks. Naran is the middle point of Kaghan Valley and it is a place where you defiantly want to spend few days of your leisure. This is the place of out-door pleasure. Here you'll depart from the river Kunhar and on both sides of road there are vast fields. Don't look here and there the melody you are hearing is provided by the river Kunhar who is with you on same level. If you like climbing this is a place for you because there are mountains all around you. You can explore the scenic and pictorials landscape and valleys by climbing up hiking. If you like fishing get your fishing license we have trout and mahasheer for you fishing here for tourist is must.

NARAN VALLEY is in the Pakistan northern areas and is the best base for treks and walking in the valley. It is an unspoiled paradise. It is best visited between May and September. Normally the temperature in May is maximum 11C and minimum 3C
Naran Valley is in the Pakistan northern areas and is the best base for treks and walking in the valley. It is an unspoiled paradise. It is best visited between May and September. Normally the temperature in May is maximum 11C and minimum 3C

LALAZAR VILLAGE

Lalazar Village,
situated at a distance of 21 km from Naran via Battakundi It is at an altitude of 3200 m (10,200 ft) It is the most beautiful hill station in Kaghan Valley with its meadows and pine thickets. Its accessible by a muddy narrow jeep track. The views are breathtakingly beautiful at sunrise. You can find a couple of small resturants there for breakfast & refreshments. The native people & their lives are very simple. Its an excellent place to visit and stay for a couple of days when you get sick of the routine life.
Lalazar Village situated at a distance of 21 km from Naran via Battakundi It is at an altitude of 3200 m (10200 ft) It is the most beautiful hill station in Kaghan Valley with its meadows and pine thickets.
NARAN IS GOOD PLACE BUT KAGHAN IS VERY GOOD PLACE TOO.I VISIT THIS PLACE MANY TIMES BUT I AM NOT BORE ANY TIME .I HOPE YOU GET TOURED THIS PLACE SOON I PRAY FOR YOUR SAFE JOURNEY.ALL THE HOTELS OF NARAN ARE VERY GOOD AND LUXURY.SEE IN BELOW THE LIST OF HOTEL

There are all sorts of hotels in Naran. Naran is a hamlet in Pakistan and is one of the favorite holiday destinations of the world. Tourists from across the world come to Naran to witness its undulating terrains that are dotted with crags and massifs as well as pristine lakes. It is for this reason that several hotels in Naran have cropped up over the last few years. These hotels in Naran are of various types and range from luxury hotels and boutique hotels to budget hotels. All the hotels in Naran provide high-quality accommodation to their guests irrespective of whether they are luxury orbudget hotels.

The hotel is along the banks of the River Kunhar. All visitors to Naran should pay a visit to the Saif-ul Muluk Lake (10,500 feet) 6 miles east of town. Transportation by jeep can be arranged, If the road is open we will travel by jeep if the road is closed, it is an easy, gradual three-hour walk and the lake is a beautiful stop for a picnic. Whilst boating on the lake you will hear the local legend about Prince Saif-ul Muluk who fell in love with a fairy.

NARAN HOTELS
Pine Park Naran is one of the best hotels in the area. Its located on the way to Saif ul Malok lake a bit away from main bazaar around 5 minutes drive. Hotel has neat well maintained rooms with decent facilities to make your stay comfortable.

This hotel is a bit expensive as room would cost you . per night with no discount offered. Iif you want to stay at some really nice and
This hotel has lovely interior nice rooms, beautiful and well maintained lawns and all the necessary facilities that you may need.
PTDC-
PTDC motel is Naran is very popular and its really huge area on bank of Kunhar river. Its not so well established and modern that you might be thinking. It is very expensive place to stay. Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation has a large network of motels and hotels all over Pakistan. PTDC Motel Naran is on bank of River Kunhar, well known for its delicious trout fish. The motel is spread over 20-acre area having standard rooms and huts, .
costing do not even have toilets.Only two beds are provided in room there is no carpeting or even tube light in rooms. and at night there is not adequate light arrangements if you want to move outside your room.
Some of the facilities provided are a restaurant serving three times meals TV lounge, children park, fishing, horse riding,
RIVER HOTELS
River View Hotel

The hotel we stay was good enough so tranquil overlooking the magnificent view of glacier mountain and the river, inhabited by only farmers. The view was nice but some villagers are somehow weird probably they couldn't understand the outside world. Anyway, this hote cost of a room with 3 beds cost less than 250 .RS per night.

THE KAGHAN VALLEY

2009-05-27T06:09:00.000-07:00

The Kaghan Valley is a valley in the northeast of Mansehra District of the NorthWest Frontier Province of Pakistan.It attracts many tourists from around the country.The inhabitants were affected by the earthquake disaster on 8 October 2005.
The Kaghan valley is named after the town of Kaghan rather than for the Kunhar River which flows through the length of the valley. The valley extends 155 km, rising from an elevation of 2,134 feet to its highest point the Babusar Pass at 13,690 feet. Popular languages in these areas are Hindko and Gojri while Urdu(national language of Pakistan).The region is Alpine in geography and climate with forests and meadows dominating the landscape below peaks that reach over 17,000 feet.
THE KUNHAR RIVER
The Kunhar River is located in Northwest Frontier Province

Pakistan

. A main source of the river is Lulusar lake nearly 48km from Naran valley. Glaciers of Malka parbat and Makra Peak and the waters of Saif ul maloklake feed the river. The Kunhar flows through the entire Kaghan valley through Jalkhand.Jared,Paras and Balakot, and joins the Jhelum River.The Kunhar river trout is considered to be the best throughout the sub continent.

BABUSAR PAS

Babusar Pass(elevation.4173 m)is a mountain pass at the north of the 150 km long Kaghan Valley connecting it via the Thak Nala with the Indus Valley.It is the highest point in Kaghan valley.The Kaghan Valley is at its best during summer.In May the maximum temperature is 11 C and the minimum temperature is 3 C.From the middle of July up to the end of September the road beyond Naran is open right up to Babusar Pass. However movement is restricted during the monsoon and winter seasons.The Kaghan area can reached by road via the towns of Abbottabad city.

SHOGRAN(SRI PAYA)

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Shogran Shogran village is situated on a green plateau in northern Pakistan at a height of 2,362 meters above sea level. It is only 10 km from village Kiwai or 34 km from Balakot.The road from Islamabad to Kiwai is metalled and measures 212 km From Shogran, you can ride a jeep or horse or hike to several picturesque places like Siri Paye and Makra Peak.Hotels and motels are easily available at affordable costs.The local people are friendly and helpful.
SRI PAYA

Seri Paya is a plateua above the hill station of Shogran.The views are breathaking. On one side are the Black Mountains of Kaghan Valley, and the other side gives you a view of Mt. Makra. One can also hike all the way to Mt. Makra.
At Paya there is a very small lake, and further up at Seri is the plateau.
Meaning
Seri = head
Paya = leg
This visit is possible from Shogran. Best time to visit is early in the morning, as during peak tourist season, the place will become jam packed with visitors.

ABBOTTBAD CITY(PAKISTAN)

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Abbottabad is a city located in the province of NWFP Pakistan and is the second largest city in the province after.The city is situated in the Orash Valley 150 km north of Islamabad and 200 km east of Peshawar at an altitude of 4,120 feet (1,260 m).The city is known for its pleasant weather educational institutes and military establishments.It remains a major hub for tourism in the summer.

BEAUTIFULL VEHICLES OF PAKISTAN

In this post we are discussing wondorous truck and bus decoration of art of Pakistan. This extraordinary tradition has it’s routes in the days of the Raj when craftsmen made glorious horse draw carriages for the gentry. In 1960 the Kohistan bus company asked the local Michaelangelo a master craftsmen to decorate their buses to attract passengers.Buksh employed a community of artists from the Punjab town of Chiniot, who’s ancestors had worked on many great palaces and temples dating back to the Mughal Empire.
It was not long before truck owners followed suite with their own designs.Through the years the materials used have developed from wood and paint to metal tinsel plastic and reflective tape.Within the last few years trucks and buses have been further embellished with full lighting systems.