Ratti Gali
Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Lake
Location
Neelum Valley, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day to Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Standard Tourist Visa for Pakistan. Foreigners might need to register with local police upon arrival in Neelum Valley.
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Ratti Gali Lake is a high-altitude lake in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. It is known for its clear water and green mountains around it. The lake is fed by melting snow and rain. To reach it, visitors take a jeep ride and then a hike. The area is peaceful and offers views of nature. It is a popular spot for outdoor activities during warmer months.
What To Do
- Walk around the lake and enjoy the views.
- Take photos of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Have a picnic near the lake.
- Hike on the trails leading to the lake from Domail.
- Observe local wildlife and different kinds of flowers during summer.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Handmade items like woolen shawls and caps can be found in bazaars in Athmuqam or Sharda. Get Directions Bazaar Neelum Valley
- Dry Fruits: Various dry fruits are sold in local shops. Get Directions Bazaar Neelum Valley
- Herbal Products: Some shops offer local herbal medicines and teas. Get Directions Bazaar Neelum Valley
- Souvenirs: Small trinkets and local mementos are available in larger towns. Get Directions Bazaar Neelum Valley
- Honey: Pure local honey is often sold by residents in various villages. Get Directions Neelum Valley
Policies & Info
- Respect local customs; modest dressing is advised.
- Do not litter; carry your trash back with you.
- Photography is generally allowed.
- Local guides are recommended for the trek, especially if you are not familiar with the route.
Health & Safety
- The trek to Ratti Gali Lake is steep and uneven; wear sturdy hiking shoes.
- Carry enough water, snacks, and warm clothing, as weather can change quickly.
- Acclimatize properly, as the high altitude can cause breathing problems for some.
- Inform your hotel or a local contact about your travel plans.
- Travel in groups for safety.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is cool, around 5°C to 15°C. Snow starts to melt, and green plants begin to appear. Good for seeing new life.
Summer: Best time to visit, usually 10°C to 20°C. The lake is fully open, and mountains are green with flowers. Perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Rains from July to September. Weather is wet, roads can be slippery or blocked by landslides. Not ideal for travel due to safety risks.
Autumn: Weather is cold, 0°C to 10°C. Trees turn yellow and red beforeWinter: . Fewer people visit, good for quiet trips.
Winter: Very cold, below 0°C. Heavy snowfall blocks roads, making the lake hard to reach. Only for very experienced winter travelers with proper gear.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 170 km from Muzaffarabad (the start of Neelum Valley) and takes 4-5 hours by car to reach Muzaffarabad. From there, it's a longer road journey to Ratti Gali.
- By Road: From Islamabad or Rawalpindi, drive to Muzaffarabad. Then take the Neelum Valley Road to Kel or Dawarian. From Dawarian, hire a local jeep to Domail, the last point for vehicles. A hike from Domail leads to the lake.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station. From Rawalpindi, you will need to travel by road to Muzaffarabad and then further into Neelum Valley.
- By Public Transport: Regular buses and vans run from Muzaffarabad to Athmuqam, Keran, Sharda, and Kel. From Kel or Dawarian, you can find shared jeeps to Domail. From Domail, you must trek to the lake.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Local Restaurants in Kel Bazaar: Serves simple Pakistani food. Location: Kel Bazaar, Neelum Valley. Contact Number: N/A (Local dhabas usually don't have public numbers). Get Directions Bazaar Neelum Valley
- Dhabas in Sharda Bazaar: Offers local dishes and tea. Location: Sharda Bazaar, Neelum Valley. Contact Number: N/A. Get Directions Bazaar Neelum Valley
- Where to Stay:
- State Guest House Kel: A government-run guesthouse with basic facilities. Location: Kel, Neelum Valley. Contact Number: +92 5821 920000 (General Neelum Valley Tourist Info). Website: N/A. Get Directions Guest House Kel Neelum Valley
- Green Village Resort Sharda: Offers rooms and cottages. Location: Sharda, Neelum Valley. Contact Number: +92 300 5510499. Website: N/A. Get Directions Village Resort Sharda Neelum Valley
Emergency Contacts
- District Headquarter Hospital Athmuqam. Phone Number: +92 5821 920234. Get Directions Hospital Athmuqam Neelum Valley
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122 - Official emergency service of Pakistan).
- Police Station: Police Station Athmuqam. Phone Number: +92 5821 920202. Get Directions Station Athmuqam Neelum Valley