Ratti Gali Lake Travel Guide.

The Ratti Gali Lake is a Razi mountain lake in Pakistan, in northern Azad Kashmir. It is encircled by snowy mountains, green meadows and glaciers. It is a secret place of nature, trekkers and photographers.

The lake is also renowned by its transparent blue water revealing the peaks in the surrounding. It is tranquil and serene, a nice place to unwind after the urban living. This guide will assist you in planning your visit, locating activities as well as having fun at the lake.

Whereabouts and How to Access Ratti Gali Lake.

Ratti Gali Lake is located in Neelum Valley, Azaraj Kashmir. You can arrive there by car and by foot.

By Road

Muzaffarabad which is the capital of Azad Kashmir is the closest large town.

It is 120km, Kel, which is a drive away in Muzaffarabad.

The highway passes alongside pleasant valleys and rivers.

Trekking to the Lake

The lake is reachable by foot at a distance of 8km near Dehnar village.

The walk is moderate to strenuous, based on weather conditions and fitness.

Carry good trekking shoes, warm clothes and water.

The Beauty of Ratti Gali Lake

Ratti Gali Lake is a mountain lake that is glacial at approximately 12,130 feet (3,700 m) above the sea level. The transparent turquoise water is encircled by:

Snowy mountains

Summer time wildflowers in color.

Streams and waterfalls

The lake becomes most beautiful during summer, when the snow melts leaving behind green fields and flowers.

Activities in Ratti Gali Lake.

Trekking and Hiking

The expedition to Ratti Gali Lake is adventure. The path traverses green fields, pure brook and wildflowers. It is fabulous to hikers who are fond of nature and mountains.

Photography

Ratti Gali Lake is an excellent location among photographers. Good landscape pictures are made at the mountain that is reflected in the turquoise water with green and snow-white on it. Sunset and sunrise provide pleasant lights.

Camping

In case you wish to have a nature experience, you can camp along the lake. The fresh air and the clear sky coupled with silent environment makes the camping memorable.

Wildlife Spotting

There is wildlife around the lake such as ibex, Himalayan snowcocks among other birds. The trip is more exciting when one watches animals.

Picnicking

Citizens spend time having picnics along the lake. It is a tranquil place to take the family on vacation or where one can rest in the nature.

Ratti Gali Lake is best visited during the best time.

Trekking and sightseeing are only done during June to September, when the lake is open.

Summer (June to August): It is a good time of year, trails are open. There are wild flowers blooming and this is beautiful.

Late Summer (September): It is also less humid, less expensive and clear, which is good to capture photos.

Winter is not nice, heavy snow may block trails and make it difficult to access.

Ratti Gali Lake Accommodation.

The places to stay near the lake are minimal and most of the individuals stay around the adjacent towns such as Kel or Sharda.

Options include:

Guesthouses in Kel: Good, affordable, near the beginning of the trek.

Local homestay: Tradition Kashmir and hospitality.

Camping around the lake: This is an activity that can be enjoyed by those who are adventurous in their travels.

It is best to book in advance when it is peak summer, as there are numerous tourists.

Visiting Ratti Gali Lake Travel tips.

Proper trekking shoes: The path may be rocky and sharp.

Bring warm clothes: Even in high seasons, high altitude may be cold.

Carry sunscreen and sun glasses: it is hot up there at high altitudes.

Get a local guide (as necessary): Hire a local guide.

Bring snacks and water: The trail does not have many facilities.

Take care of the environment: Littering and environmental conservation.

Nearby Attractions

Neelum Valley

Neelum valley possesses beautiful rivers, forests, and mountains. Going to the Ratti Gali Lake will allow you to explore the valley.

Shounter Lake

There is also another stunning lake in the region which is the Neelum Valley, Shounter Lake which is a beautiful mountain lake that can be visited as part of a further trek and sightseeing in the Neelum Valley.

Keran Village

A village surrounded by rivers and Kashmiri hospitality. It is also an ideal destination to visitors of northern Azar Kashmir.

The Specialty of Ratti Gali Lake.

Ratti Gali Lake is the real natural treasure in Pakistan. Its snowy mountains and mountain meadows as well as its turquoise water make it a very scenic place.

The lake is also a unique one, since it is nearly untouched providing a peaceful escape against the busy world. The hiking trip to the lake will help you get in touch with the nature and experience the serenity of the north of Pakistan.

Final Thoughts

It is a remarkable experience to visit the Ratti Gali Lake. It is an ideal destination to the adventure seekers and nature lovers because of the exciting trip via Neelum Valley, the hike to the lake and the mountains that surround it.

Ratti Gali Lake will present something to everyone traveling there whether it be hiking or photography, camping or simply sitting by the waterfall. This is one of the best secretive attractions in Pakistan because of its unadulterated loveliness, peaceful atmosphere and herbal beauty.

The visit to the Ratti Gali Lake is not an ordinary trip, it is a journey to the very heart of nature, which provides peace, adventure and beautiful landscape at the same time.