Banjosa Lake
Banjosa, Azad Kashmir
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Lake
Location
Banjosa, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Banjosa Lake is an artificial lake near Rawalakot city in Azad Kashmir. It is surrounded by thick pine forests and green mountains, especially beautiful in summer and autumn. The lake is a popular spot for local visitors looking for a peaceful getaway. You can see boats on the water and small shops nearby.
What To Do
- Enjoy the calm views of the lake and surrounding forest.
- Go for a simple boat ride on the lake.
- Have a picnic with family and friends at the lakeside.
- Take photos of the beautiful scenery.
- Walk around the lake on the available pathways.
What To Buy
- Kashmiri Shawls: Warm shawls made from local wool. You can find these in Rawalakot Bazaar. Get Directions
- Local Honey: Pure honey collected from the nearby hills. Available in small shops around Rawalakot. Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Almonds, walnuts, and dried apricots. Look for these at stores in Rawalakot. Get Directions
- Traditional Handicrafts: Small wooden items and local decorations. Found in markets of Rawalakot. Get Directions
- Herbal Teas: Locally sourced herbal teas and spices. Ask at general stores in Rawalakot. Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Please do not litter; use trash bins to keep the area clean.
- Respect the local culture and dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages.
- Photography is allowed, but be respectful when taking pictures of local people.
- Avoid making loud noises to maintain the peaceful atmosphere.
Health & Safety
- Carry enough drinking water and snacks, as facilities are basic.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven ground.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, especially for rain or snow.
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially near the lake's edge.
- If traveling in winter, bring warm clothing as temperatures drop significantly.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is cool and pleasant (March to May). Flowers bloom, making the area very green and fresh.
Summer: Mild and comfortable (June to August). It's a great escape from the heat of lower areas, perfect for outdoor activities.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Wet with occasional heavy rain (July to September). The landscape becomes very lush, but roads can be slippery.
Autumn: Cool and dry (October to November). The trees change color to golden and red, offering beautiful views.
Winter: Very cold, with snowfall possible (December to February). The lake may partially freeze, creating a unique snowy landscape.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 150 km from Banjosa Lake, taking roughly 4 to 5 hours by car.
- By Road: Banjosa Lake is easily reachable by road. You can drive from Islamabad or Rawalpindi via Rawalakot. The roads are generally in good condition.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). It is around 140 km from Banjosa, requiring another 4 to 5 hours of road travel.
- By Public Transport: From Rawalakot, you can find local vans, taxis, or shared jeeps that go directly to Banjosa Lake. Rawalakot itself is connected by buses and vans from major cities like Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Banjosa Lake View Restaurant: Banjosa Lake Road, Banjosa. Contact: +92 3XX XXXXXXX (Contact numbers can vary, check locally). Get Directions
- Pearl Continental Hotel Rawalakot Restaurant: Main Rawalakot Road, Rawalakot. Contact: +92 5873 440404. Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- Banjosa Lake Guest House: Banjosa Lake, Azad Kashmir. Contact: +92 3XX XXXXXXX (often managed by local tourism department, numbers vary). Website: N/A. Get Directions
- Hotel Hilltop: Main Bazar Road, Rawalakot. Contact: +92 5873 440188. Website: N/A. Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- District Headquarters Hospital (DHQ) Rawalakot, Main Road, Rawalakot. Phone: +92 5873 920023. Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Emergency service for Pakistan).
- Police Station: Police Station Rawalakot, Main Road, Rawalakot. Phone: +92 5873 920202. Get Directions