Abbottabad:
Abbottabad (Urdu: ایبٹ آباد) is a city located in the Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa of Pakistan and is the third-largest city in the province after Peshawar and Mardan. 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 well-known throughout Pakistan for its pleasant weather, high standard educational institutions and military establishments. It remains a major hub for tourism of the Northern Areas in the summer.
Places of interest
* Khanka Mahboobabad Shareef Havelian
* Ilyasi Masjid
* Thandiyani
* Harnounee
* Shimla hill
* Galyaat
* Havelian Railway Station
Bakote Circle
Bakote Circle or proposed Tehsil is a cluster of Union Councils in the eastern part of Abbottabad District. Bakote Circle is located on the upper and west bank of the Jhelum River at Kohalla Bridge. The region is somewhere between 65 kilometres and 90 kilometres northwest of Islamabad. "Bakote" means the "land of forts". The Kanhar and Jehlum rivers are the two main rivers in Circle Bakote. Famous hill stations in the area are Miran Jani, Mukeshpuri, Thandiani, Pather Gali, Ayubia, Khanas Pur and Nathia Gali. There are an emerging tourist point at near New Kohala Bridge on Karair Pull.
Ayubia Chair Lifts
Ayubia is 38 km east of Abbottabad. A cluster of four small hill stations of Khanspur, Khairagali, Changlagali and Ghora Dhaka, is called Ayubia and was named after former President Ayub Khan. The complex is spread over an area of 26 km. The central place has chair lifts.
Dungagali
Dungagali is a small resort situated on the slopes of the Mukshpuri hill (2,376 m). It commands a view of a series of wooded spurs projecting towards the river Jhelum on the western side. From Dungagali one can climb the 2,813 metres peak of Mukhshpuri, which is the highest point in the range. Natural springs abound on the slopes. It is 34 km from Abbottabad.
Nathiagali
Nathiagali is clad in pine, walnut, oak and maple trees. It can be approached both from Murree and Abbottabad. It is 32 km from Abbottabad as well as from Murree. Nathiagali is 2493 meter above sea level and is surrounded by mountains.
Thandiani
Thandiani (literally meaning 'Very Cold') is a hill station in the Galyat area of Pakistan.
Thandiani is located in the south of Abbottabad District at 34°13'60N 73°22'0E and is about 31 kilometres from Abbottabad city at the foothills of the Himalayas.The hills of Thandiani are about 9,000 feet (2,750 m) above sea level.The drive takes more or less 80 minutes from Abbottabad with lovely views on both sides of the road. The road rises more than 1,219 metres above Abbottabad. En route from Abbottabad (23 km), the main settlement is the village of Kalapani. "Hullah" is about 2 km east of Thandiani where you can view a part of Muzaffarabad, Pattan Kalan, Chamiali, Bandi, Battangi, and Kukmang and other adjioning area. Very beautiful place to visit in the summer time. Thandiani in on the way between Abbottabad and Pattn Kalan. The view of Pattan Kalan and other adjioning area can be seen from "Hullah" and part of Thandiani.
Thandiani was established as a Sanatorium during British rule, for the convenience of officers stationed at the neighbouring cantonment of Abbottabad, it contained some European houses and a small bazaar, which were occupied only during the summer months.
Most of the people of residing here belonge to Sarara( Qureshi), Gujjars, and Sardars (Karlals). The nearest villages are Inderseri, Chattri, and Sialkot.
Marhes
Marhes is located some 14 kilometres from Thandiani, a mountain place from where Abbottabad, Mansehra and Muzaffarabad can be seen. Marhes is located in Boi, the border between Muzaffarabad and Abbottabad. The drive takes more than 2 hours from Abbottabad. This is forested area, with some wildlife near the bank of River Kunhar from Balakot to Boi and the 6 kilometres of mountainous areas.
Mansehra:
Mansehra is a gate way to the tourism. And has played and still playing a vital role in the development of tourism. Mansehra itself is a little city but lies in the heart of the region that is very important.
Mansehra is a beautiful area and has very famous areas around itself which are always pleasing to eyes and are the best example of the natural beauty. I was always keen to let people know that how important it is to have a special arrangement to coming to this area. So here we go!
Mansehra city is located at 34°20′N 73°12′ECoordinates: 34°20′N 73°12′E in Mansehra District, North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan. It is very near
to Abbottabad city. It is a major stop for tourists on the Karakoram Highway which leads to China. It is also a major transit point to the northern areas and locations such as the Kaghan Valley, Naran, Shogran, Lake Saiful Mulook and Babusar Top.
First of all I want to give a little bit of summary of what to see here. Very west of the city Mansehra, there lies an area named as TANAWAL which is such big area that contains 84 villages in itself. This area is very good and attractive and is full of Pine trees. Unfortunately this area is never given importance that’s the reason it doesn't have any special arrangements for the tourists to stay. So if one is interested to come to TANAWAL then he must go early in the morning and must be back before the sun set. The most visting area are as below:
1. BALAKOT
Moving almost 30 KMs away from Mansehra City, there's the first special place to see and enjoy and to take the 1st stay of the tour. This is very beautiful area. The river named as KUNHAR and plays the most important role in the beauty of this area. This area is full of pine trees. When traveling to BALAKOT you will find a lot of beautiful things to see, very attractive things to enjoy. You can also go to the place named as BATRASSI, which is in way of BALKOT but you will have to change your way a little to get there.
2. SHOWGRAN
Shogran is a village situated on a green plateau in the Naran Valley, northern Pakistan at a height of 2,362 meters above sea level.It is only 10 km from Kiwai village and 4 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.
Shogran is a serene resort in the Kaghan Valley. Unlike Naran, Shogran has less hotels and a much smaller bazaar. However, this is where its appeal lies. Around Shogran the area is heavily forested and you can see across the valley. Shogran is a haven for wildlife sadly much of it rare now such as leopard, lack bear, wolf, wild cats, musk deer, goral, pheasants, eagles and many smaller birds belonging to the thrush, warbler, tit, woodpecker families too.
when you get to Showgran you will not find anything much interesting except hotels and restaurants, but the real beauty is up there on SIRREE PAYE. You will have to get a jeep on rent to get there. At the top of SIRREE, there are a lot of things to enjoy the main attrecting thing is a little lake at the top.Which is naturally made with the water of rain and snow. In the end, this plce needs a visit.
3. KAGHAN
This area is also an example of what the natural beauty is. It is at the drive of 5 to 6 hours from Showgran. But you don’t get bore while driving to Kaghan because there are a lot of things to enjoy in the way. The river Kunhar moves along side the road, as you will be moving up it will be going down. When reached Kaghan, you will find a lot of attractive things. This area has special arrangements for the tourists at the cheap rates, Hotels and Restaurants are available. One thing you will obviously enjoy is the TROUT FISH, which is also available in Balakot and Naran. Well this place is also as so very much attractive that needs a visit.
The Kaghan Valley is a valley in the north-east of Mansehra District. It attracts many tourists from around the country.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 (650 m) to its highest point, the Babusar Pass, at 13,690 feet (4,170 m). Popular languages are Hindko and Gojri, while Urdu, Pakistan's national language is also familiar among the locals. The region is Alpine in geography and climate, with forests and meadows dominating the landscape below peaks that reach over 17,000 feet.
Its mountains, dales, lakes, water-falls, streams and glaciers are still in a pristine state. Kaghan is at its best during summer (from May to September). In May the temperature ranges between a maximum of 11 °C (52 °F) and a minimum of 3 °C (37 °F). From the middle of July up to the end of September the road beyond Naran is open right up to Babusar Pass. Movement is restricted during the monsoon and winter seasons. The Kaghan area can reached by road via the towns of Balakot, Abbottabad and Mansehra. In Balakot, one may find buses and other transports to reach Kaghan or Naran.
The road from Balakot ascends along the Kunhar River through lovely forests and the villages of Paras, Shinu, Jared and Mahandri. The valley is somewhat narrow along this stretch and the views are limited but as you ascend, the surrounding peaks come into view. One spot that is quite famous for its spectacular view and scenery is 'Shogran'. This village, surrounded by peaks and forests, is east of the main Kunhar River. It hosts the famous Siri Payee Lake mountain with breathtaking views at its top.
Kaghan Valley is home to many a tourist attractions, especially its lakes. There are more than a dozen big and small lakes in the valley, but three are more popular among the tourists: Saiful Muluk Lake, Dudipatsar Lake and Lulusar Lake.
Fishing is the chief sport in Kaghan. Brown Trout and Mahasher are stocked in pure silvery waters in the upper parts of the valley. The Kunhar river trout is considered to be the best throughout the sub-continent. Fishing licenses are issued by the 'Fisheries Department at Naran' or by the 'Trout Hatchery' at Shinu. Apart from this there are some other private trout fish farms at Kawai (also spelled as Kiwai) and Kahania, these are owned by pine park hotels, a well known hotel chain in Kaghan valley.
Onwards a 3 hour drive away from Shogran is Naran. It is a small tourist village open only during the tourist season of May to September. The rest of the time it is covered with snow. All visitors come to Naran to pay a visit to the Saiful Muluk Lake (10,500 feet) 6 miles east of town. If the road is open transportation by jeep can be arranged. If the road is closed, it is an easy, gradual three-hour walk, and the lake is a lovely spot for a picnic.
If you are walking directly up-valley from Naran to Babusar "Top" the loveliest spots to camp on this trail is at "Lulusar Lake". Located just before the final grade to Babusar Top and surrounded by tall peaks, Lulusar is just one many high elevation lakes that sit along the crest of the ridge.
4. NARAN
About 86 km from Balakot lies Naran, the main attraction of the Kaghan valley. This town is situated on the banks of Kunhar river at an altitude of 2498 m at a point where the valley widens. The river is wider and quieter here. There is a very good view downstream, with some tree-covered islands in the foreground. It is a starting point for lake Salful Muluk, Battakundi, Lalazar Plateau, lake Lulusar and Babusar Pass.
5. Jared
Jared is a very beautiful village with having special attraction for tourists,In this village there is one small industry of wood working which is point of attention for visitors.The peoples of this village are mostly Hindko speakers and mostly belonged to Swati caste.This village is about 80 km from Mansehra city and almost 40 km from Naran.
Saiful Muluk
Saiful Muluk, named in a folktale—the Qissa Saiful Muluk—about a romance between a Persia prince and a fairy princess. In the folktale. The lake is mentioned as the meeting site of the lovers in the folktale. lake Saiful Muluk is 10,578 feet (3,224 m) above the sea level, it is one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. The water of this over a mile in diameter oval shaped lake is spectacularly clear with a slight green tone..
It is accessible by a motor-able road during the summer months or can be reached by tracking from the nearest village Naran, some 10 kilometers away in four to five hours. The clarity of the water comes from the multiple glaciers all around the high basin feeding the lake.
Lulusar Lake
Lulusar Lakeis the largest lake in Kaghan Valley and the source of Kunhar River.it is approximately 48 kilometers away from Naran and has an altitude of 10,910 feet (3,330 m). Surrounded by wildflowers in almost all colors imaginable, this lake is the main source for the Kunhar River. Lake Lulusar is said to be one of the most tranquil spots on the Kaghan Valley, the lake is fenced by snow capped mountains whose image is reflected on the standstill blue-green waters of this approximately three kilometers long "L" shaped lake.
Dudipatsar Lake
Dudipat Lake is enclosed with high peaks. It is one of the hardest places to reach in the valley, requiring a tough hike lasting four to seven hours. The hike is rewarding, as tourists are greeted with green pastures and the lake's blue-green waters.
Seral Lake
Seral Lake is located in a perfect bowl at the border between Kaghan Valley and Azad Kashmir. The lake actually lies in Kashmir but often approached from Kaghan, near Dudipatsar Lake. From here, you still have to walk for 3 hours to reach there.
Abbottabad (Urdu: ایبٹ آباد) is a city located in the Khyber Pukhtoonkhwa of Pakistan and is the third-largest city in the province after Peshawar and Mardan. 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 well-known throughout Pakistan for its pleasant weather, high standard educational institutions and military establishments. It remains a major hub for tourism of the Northern Areas in the summer.
Places of interest
* Khanka Mahboobabad Shareef Havelian
* Ilyasi Masjid
* Thandiyani
* Harnounee
* Shimla hill
* Galyaat
* Havelian Railway Station
Bakote Circle
Bakote Circle or proposed Tehsil is a cluster of Union Councils in the eastern part of Abbottabad District. Bakote Circle is located on the upper and west bank of the Jhelum River at Kohalla Bridge. The region is somewhere between 65 kilometres and 90 kilometres northwest of Islamabad. "Bakote" means the "land of forts". The Kanhar and Jehlum rivers are the two main rivers in Circle Bakote. Famous hill stations in the area are Miran Jani, Mukeshpuri, Thandiani, Pather Gali, Ayubia, Khanas Pur and Nathia Gali. There are an emerging tourist point at near New Kohala Bridge on Karair Pull.
Ayubia Chair Lifts
Ayubia is 38 km east of Abbottabad. A cluster of four small hill stations of Khanspur, Khairagali, Changlagali and Ghora Dhaka, is called Ayubia and was named after former President Ayub Khan. The complex is spread over an area of 26 km. The central place has chair lifts.
Dungagali
Dungagali is a small resort situated on the slopes of the Mukshpuri hill (2,376 m). It commands a view of a series of wooded spurs projecting towards the river Jhelum on the western side. From Dungagali one can climb the 2,813 metres peak of Mukhshpuri, which is the highest point in the range. Natural springs abound on the slopes. It is 34 km from Abbottabad.
Nathiagali
Nathiagali is clad in pine, walnut, oak and maple trees. It can be approached both from Murree and Abbottabad. It is 32 km from Abbottabad as well as from Murree. Nathiagali is 2493 meter above sea level and is surrounded by mountains.
Thandiani
Thandiani (literally meaning 'Very Cold') is a hill station in the Galyat area of Pakistan.
Thandiani is located in the south of Abbottabad District at 34°13'60N 73°22'0E and is about 31 kilometres from Abbottabad city at the foothills of the Himalayas.The hills of Thandiani are about 9,000 feet (2,750 m) above sea level.The drive takes more or less 80 minutes from Abbottabad with lovely views on both sides of the road. The road rises more than 1,219 metres above Abbottabad. En route from Abbottabad (23 km), the main settlement is the village of Kalapani. "Hullah" is about 2 km east of Thandiani where you can view a part of Muzaffarabad, Pattan Kalan, Chamiali, Bandi, Battangi, and Kukmang and other adjioning area. Very beautiful place to visit in the summer time. Thandiani in on the way between Abbottabad and Pattn Kalan. The view of Pattan Kalan and other adjioning area can be seen from "Hullah" and part of Thandiani.
Thandiani was established as a Sanatorium during British rule, for the convenience of officers stationed at the neighbouring cantonment of Abbottabad, it contained some European houses and a small bazaar, which were occupied only during the summer months.
Most of the people of residing here belonge to Sarara( Qureshi), Gujjars, and Sardars (Karlals). The nearest villages are Inderseri, Chattri, and Sialkot.
Marhes
Marhes is located some 14 kilometres from Thandiani, a mountain place from where Abbottabad, Mansehra and Muzaffarabad can be seen. Marhes is located in Boi, the border between Muzaffarabad and Abbottabad. The drive takes more than 2 hours from Abbottabad. This is forested area, with some wildlife near the bank of River Kunhar from Balakot to Boi and the 6 kilometres of mountainous areas.
Mansehra:
Mansehra is a gate way to the tourism. And has played and still playing a vital role in the development of tourism. Mansehra itself is a little city but lies in the heart of the region that is very important.
Mansehra is a beautiful area and has very famous areas around itself which are always pleasing to eyes and are the best example of the natural beauty. I was always keen to let people know that how important it is to have a special arrangement to coming to this area. So here we go!
Mansehra city is located at 34°20′N 73°12′ECoordinates: 34°20′N 73°12′E in Mansehra District, North-West Frontier Province, Pakistan. It is very near
to Abbottabad city. It is a major stop for tourists on the Karakoram Highway which leads to China. It is also a major transit point to the northern areas and locations such as the Kaghan Valley, Naran, Shogran, Lake Saiful Mulook and Babusar Top.
First of all I want to give a little bit of summary of what to see here. Very west of the city Mansehra, there lies an area named as TANAWAL which is such big area that contains 84 villages in itself. This area is very good and attractive and is full of Pine trees. Unfortunately this area is never given importance that’s the reason it doesn't have any special arrangements for the tourists to stay. So if one is interested to come to TANAWAL then he must go early in the morning and must be back before the sun set. The most visting area are as below:
1. BALAKOT
Moving almost 30 KMs away from Mansehra City, there's the first special place to see and enjoy and to take the 1st stay of the tour. This is very beautiful area. The river named as KUNHAR and plays the most important role in the beauty of this area. This area is full of pine trees. When traveling to BALAKOT you will find a lot of beautiful things to see, very attractive things to enjoy. You can also go to the place named as BATRASSI, which is in way of BALKOT but you will have to change your way a little to get there.
2. SHOWGRAN
Shogran is a village situated on a green plateau in the Naran Valley, northern Pakistan at a height of 2,362 meters above sea level.It is only 10 km from Kiwai village and 4 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.
Shogran is a serene resort in the Kaghan Valley. Unlike Naran, Shogran has less hotels and a much smaller bazaar. However, this is where its appeal lies. Around Shogran the area is heavily forested and you can see across the valley. Shogran is a haven for wildlife sadly much of it rare now such as leopard, lack bear, wolf, wild cats, musk deer, goral, pheasants, eagles and many smaller birds belonging to the thrush, warbler, tit, woodpecker families too.
when you get to Showgran you will not find anything much interesting except hotels and restaurants, but the real beauty is up there on SIRREE PAYE. You will have to get a jeep on rent to get there. At the top of SIRREE, there are a lot of things to enjoy the main attrecting thing is a little lake at the top.Which is naturally made with the water of rain and snow. In the end, this plce needs a visit.
3. KAGHAN
This area is also an example of what the natural beauty is. It is at the drive of 5 to 6 hours from Showgran. But you don’t get bore while driving to Kaghan because there are a lot of things to enjoy in the way. The river Kunhar moves along side the road, as you will be moving up it will be going down. When reached Kaghan, you will find a lot of attractive things. This area has special arrangements for the tourists at the cheap rates, Hotels and Restaurants are available. One thing you will obviously enjoy is the TROUT FISH, which is also available in Balakot and Naran. Well this place is also as so very much attractive that needs a visit.
The Kaghan Valley is a valley in the north-east of Mansehra District. It attracts many tourists from around the country.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 (650 m) to its highest point, the Babusar Pass, at 13,690 feet (4,170 m). Popular languages are Hindko and Gojri, while Urdu, Pakistan's national language is also familiar among the locals. The region is Alpine in geography and climate, with forests and meadows dominating the landscape below peaks that reach over 17,000 feet.
Its mountains, dales, lakes, water-falls, streams and glaciers are still in a pristine state. Kaghan is at its best during summer (from May to September). In May the temperature ranges between a maximum of 11 °C (52 °F) and a minimum of 3 °C (37 °F). From the middle of July up to the end of September the road beyond Naran is open right up to Babusar Pass. Movement is restricted during the monsoon and winter seasons. The Kaghan area can reached by road via the towns of Balakot, Abbottabad and Mansehra. In Balakot, one may find buses and other transports to reach Kaghan or Naran.
The road from Balakot ascends along the Kunhar River through lovely forests and the villages of Paras, Shinu, Jared and Mahandri. The valley is somewhat narrow along this stretch and the views are limited but as you ascend, the surrounding peaks come into view. One spot that is quite famous for its spectacular view and scenery is 'Shogran'. This village, surrounded by peaks and forests, is east of the main Kunhar River. It hosts the famous Siri Payee Lake mountain with breathtaking views at its top.
Kaghan Valley is home to many a tourist attractions, especially its lakes. There are more than a dozen big and small lakes in the valley, but three are more popular among the tourists: Saiful Muluk Lake, Dudipatsar Lake and Lulusar Lake.
Fishing is the chief sport in Kaghan. Brown Trout and Mahasher are stocked in pure silvery waters in the upper parts of the valley. The Kunhar river trout is considered to be the best throughout the sub-continent. Fishing licenses are issued by the 'Fisheries Department at Naran' or by the 'Trout Hatchery' at Shinu. Apart from this there are some other private trout fish farms at Kawai (also spelled as Kiwai) and Kahania, these are owned by pine park hotels, a well known hotel chain in Kaghan valley.
Onwards a 3 hour drive away from Shogran is Naran. It is a small tourist village open only during the tourist season of May to September. The rest of the time it is covered with snow. All visitors come to Naran to pay a visit to the Saiful Muluk Lake (10,500 feet) 6 miles east of town. If the road is open transportation by jeep can be arranged. If the road is closed, it is an easy, gradual three-hour walk, and the lake is a lovely spot for a picnic.
If you are walking directly up-valley from Naran to Babusar "Top" the loveliest spots to camp on this trail is at "Lulusar Lake". Located just before the final grade to Babusar Top and surrounded by tall peaks, Lulusar is just one many high elevation lakes that sit along the crest of the ridge.
4. NARAN
About 86 km from Balakot lies Naran, the main attraction of the Kaghan valley. This town is situated on the banks of Kunhar river at an altitude of 2498 m at a point where the valley widens. The river is wider and quieter here. There is a very good view downstream, with some tree-covered islands in the foreground. It is a starting point for lake Salful Muluk, Battakundi, Lalazar Plateau, lake Lulusar and Babusar Pass.
5. Jared
Jared is a very beautiful village with having special attraction for tourists,In this village there is one small industry of wood working which is point of attention for visitors.The peoples of this village are mostly Hindko speakers and mostly belonged to Swati caste.This village is about 80 km from Mansehra city and almost 40 km from Naran.
Saiful Muluk
Saiful Muluk, named in a folktale—the Qissa Saiful Muluk—about a romance between a Persia prince and a fairy princess. In the folktale. The lake is mentioned as the meeting site of the lovers in the folktale. lake Saiful Muluk is 10,578 feet (3,224 m) above the sea level, it is one of the highest and most beautiful lakes in Pakistan. The water of this over a mile in diameter oval shaped lake is spectacularly clear with a slight green tone..
It is accessible by a motor-able road during the summer months or can be reached by tracking from the nearest village Naran, some 10 kilometers away in four to five hours. The clarity of the water comes from the multiple glaciers all around the high basin feeding the lake.
Lulusar Lake
Lulusar Lakeis the largest lake in Kaghan Valley and the source of Kunhar River.it is approximately 48 kilometers away from Naran and has an altitude of 10,910 feet (3,330 m). Surrounded by wildflowers in almost all colors imaginable, this lake is the main source for the Kunhar River. Lake Lulusar is said to be one of the most tranquil spots on the Kaghan Valley, the lake is fenced by snow capped mountains whose image is reflected on the standstill blue-green waters of this approximately three kilometers long "L" shaped lake.
Dudipatsar Lake
Dudipat Lake is enclosed with high peaks. It is one of the hardest places to reach in the valley, requiring a tough hike lasting four to seven hours. The hike is rewarding, as tourists are greeted with green pastures and the lake's blue-green waters.
Seral Lake
Seral Lake is located in a perfect bowl at the border between Kaghan Valley and Azad Kashmir. The lake actually lies in Kashmir but often approached from Kaghan, near Dudipatsar Lake. From here, you still have to walk for 3 hours to reach there.
