The Enchanting Ratti Gali Lake

Discover the pristine beauty of Ratti Gali Lake in Pakistan's Azad Kashmir, a hidden alpine gem surrounded by lush meadows and towering peaks.

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Ratti Gali Lake

Nestled in the heart of Pakistan's Azad Kashmir region, Ratti Gali Lake is a hidden gem that mesmerizes with its pristine beauty. This alpine glacial lake is surrounded by lush meadows, towering peaks, and cascading waterfalls. The crystal-clear waters of the lake reflect the snowy mountains, creating a breathtaking panorama that feels like a painting come to life. The journey to Ratti Gali Lake is an adventure in itself. Accessible only by a jeep ride from Dowarian followed by a trek, the path takes travelers through dense forests, vibrant wildflowers, and charming local villages. The trek, though challenging, rewards visitors with stunning vistas and an unparalleled sense of tranquility. Ratti Gali Lake is not just a feast for the eyes but also a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The area is rich in wildlife, including rare bird species and colorful butterflies. The serene environment makes it an ideal spot for camping, fishing, and simply unwinding away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Local tips in Ratti Gali Lake

Visit between July and September to experience the lake in its full glory when the snow has melted and the wildflowers are in bloom.
Wear sturdy trekking shoes and be prepared for a challenging hike. The trek is not suitable for beginners or those with mobility issues.
Carry warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
Hire a local guide for the trek to ensure safety and to enhance your experience with local knowledge and insights.
Bring your own food and camping gear as there are limited facilities near the lake.

File:First glimpse of Gattian Lake.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Milky way as seen from Ratti Gali base camp.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Mini Ratti-Gali lake.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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File:Ratti Gali Lake Falls.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Ratti Gali Lake?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Ratti Gali Barkatia Lake

Discover the breathtaking Ratti Gali Lake in Jammu and Kashmir, a serene oasis surrounded by majestic mountains and lush landscapes, ideal for nature lovers.

Patlian Lake

Discover the serene beauty of Patlian Lake in Neelum Valley, where nature's tranquility meets breathtaking alpine views.

Unmissable attractions to see

Kundal Shahi Waterfall

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kundal Shahi Waterfall in Neelum Valley, where nature's tranquility meets stunning landscapes.

Neelum Valley

Explore Neelum Valley, Pakistan's stunning destination of lush landscapes, serene lakes, and vibrant culture, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Neelum Valley Kashmir

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Neelum Valley, Kashmir - a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Kel Waterfall

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kel Waterfall in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, a perfect blend of nature and adventure for all travelers.

Patlian Lake

Experience the serene beauty of Patlian Lake in Neelum Valley, where nature meets tranquility in a breathtaking landscape.

Gattian Lake

Experience the tranquil beauty and adventure at Gattian Lake, a serene public beach surrounded by stunning landscapes in Pakistan.

Noori Top

Explore the breathtaking vistas of Noori Top in Sharda, Pakistan, where nature's beauty meets adventure in a serene mountain setting.

Ghamot National Park Neelum Valley

Explore the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Ghamot National Park in Neelum Valley, a hidden gem in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Mendi valley

Explore the serene beauty of Mendi Valley, a hidden treasure in Pakistan filled with breathtaking landscapes and warm local culture.

Face Mountain (Couple face mountain, Adam & Eve)

Explore the breathtaking Face Mountain in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, a stunning natural wonder resembling a couple's face amidst picturesque landscapes.

Place to visit in neelum valley

Explore the breathtaking Neelum Valley Wildlife Park, a serene escape into nature's wonders, showcasing rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

Essential places to dine

Pakistani Restaurant

Experience authentic Pakistani cuisine in Chikkar's inviting atmosphere with delicious dishes that will leave you craving more.

Cafe Kashmir - A project by Tandoori

Experience authentic Kashmiri flavors at Cafe Kashmir in Muzaffarabad - where tradition meets modern dining.

Ratti Gali Resort Dawarian - Khuwaja Shabbir

Discover tranquility at Ratti Gali Resort in Neelum Valley - your gateway to breathtaking landscapes and serene escapes in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Mian Ji Guest House & Resturant Patikka Muzaffarabad Azad Kashmir-Pakistan (المعروف گوجرانوالہ والے)

Experience family-friendly dining at Mian Ji Guest House & Restaurant in beautiful Azad Kashmir, where delicious cuisine meets stunning natural views.

Laal Surkh Baythak

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Pakistan Hotel and Fiaz Restaurant

Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Pakistan Hotel and Fiaz Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Graduate Aalo

Experience authentic Pakistani cuisine at Graduate Aalo in Muzaffarabad - where flavors meet tradition in a welcoming atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Ratti Gali Lake

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Ratti Gali Lake, a stunning alpine gem in the Himalayas known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking landscapes.

Ratti Gali Barkatia Lake

Explore the stunning beauty of Ratti Gali Barkatia Lake, a tranquil alpine oasis in Jammu and Kashmir, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Outdoor Adventures Camp

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Dubai Shoes House neelum AJK

Explore Dubai Shoes House in Athmuqam, the ultimate shoe store for quality footwear in the heart of Neelum AJK.

Khawaja General Store Dosut

Explore the vibrant local flavors and essential goods at Khawaja General Store Dosut, a charming stop in Neelum Valley for every traveler.

Danyal mobile zone

Explore Danyal Mobile Zone in Dowarian for the latest mobile gadgets and accessories, ensuring you stay connected in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Zahir kiryana store

Discover the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Zahir Kiryana Store, a unique grocery shopping experience in the heart of the community.

Insaf store

Discover local charm at Insaf Store in Sharda, your go-to destination for essentials and unique souvenirs in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Local fruit shop

Experience the vibrant flavors of Azad Jammu and Kashmir at the Local Fruit Shop, where fresh produce meets breathtaking natural beauty.

Star shop سٹار شاپ

Explore the charming Star Shop in Neelum Valley, where local goods meet stunning natural beauty in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Zain & Shahzaib Store

Discover the charm of local shopping at Zain & Shahzaib Store in Athmuqam, offering a variety of essentials and traditional crafts.

Moon garments

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Mir Kiryana Store

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Noor ul Islaam karyana Store

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GUJJAR GENERAL STORE

Discover the authentic flavors of the region at Gujjar General Store, a charming bakery on Jalkhad-Sharda Rd, offering freshly baked delights.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Ratti Gali Barkatia Lake

Experience the serene beauty of Ratti Gali Barkatia Lake, a hidden gem in Jammu and Kashmir, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Big Dreams Inn hotel

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Dera Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant

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First Food Restaurant & World Best Resort

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Benazir Palace Tourist inn

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Sharda Heights

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Himalya Guest house

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Barakah Restro & Juice Bar

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Ali Restaurant

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Elysium Hills restaurants

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New Butt Karahi - Green Valley tent Village

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Waseem Mobile and sports

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Pak Kashmir Hotel

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Tahir Ahmad Wani

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Tahir Ahmad Wani Bar in Handwara, Jammu and Kashmir, where locals and tourists connect over refreshing drinks.

Arshad house

Discover the unique charm of Arshad House, a cozy bar in Ghorikot, Gilgit-Baltistan, perfect for unwinding with local beverages and stunning views.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Ratti Gali Lake

Discover Ratti Gali Lake with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Ratti Gali Lake

- Helloآداب
  [Adaab]
- Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [Khuda Hafiz]
- Yesہاں
  [Haan]
- Noنہیں
  [Nahi]
- Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم
  [Barah-e-Karam]
- Thank youشکریہ
  [Shukriya]
- Excuse me/Sorryمعذرت خواہ ہوں
  [Mazrat khawah hoon]
- How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [Aap kaise hain?]
- Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں۔ آپ؟
  [Theek hoon. Aap?]
- Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
- I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آیا
  [Mujhe samajh nahi aya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دکھانا
  [Barah-e-Karam menu dikhana]
- I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [Main gosht nahi khata]
- Cheers!خوش رہو!
  [Khush raho!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادا کرنا ہے
  [Barah-e-Karam ada karna hai]
- Help!مدد!
  [Madad!]
- Go away!دور ہو جاؤ!
  [Door ho jao!]
- Call the Police!پولیس کو بلاؤ!
  [Police ko bulao!]
- Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلاؤ!
  [Doctor ko bulao!]
- I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
  [Main gum ho gaya hoon]
- I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [Main beemar hoon]
- I'd like to buy...میں خریدنا چاہتا ہوں
  [Main khareedna chahta hoon]
- I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھنا ہوں
  [Main sirf dekhna hoon]
- How much is it?یہ کتنا ہے؟
  [Ye kitna hai?]
- That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [Ye bohat mehnga hai]
- Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کر سکتے ہیں؟
  [Kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]
- What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
  [Waqt kya hua hai?]
- It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [Ek baje hain]
- Half past (10)دس بج کر نصف
  [Das baj kar nisf]
- Morningصبح
  [Subah]
- Afternoonدوپہر
  [Dopahar]
- Eveningشام
  [Shaam]
- Yesterdayگزشتہ روز
  [Guzishta roz]
- Todayآج
  [Aaj]
- Tomorrowکل
  [Kal]
- 1ایک
  [Ek]
- 2دو
  [Do]
- 3تین
  [Teen]
- 4چار
  [Char]
- 5پانچ
  [Paanch]
- 6چھے
  [Chhe]
- 7سات
  [Saath]
- 8آٹھ
  [Aath]
- 9نو
  [Nau]
- 10دس
  [Das]
- Where's a/the...?یہاں کہاں ہے ...؟
  [Yahan kahan hai ...?]
- What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [Pata kya hai?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں (نقشہ پر)؟
  [Kya aap mujhe dikhha sakte hain (naqsha par)?]
- When's the next (bus)?اگلا (بس) کب ہے؟
  [Agla (bus) kab hai?]
- A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (سے ...)
  [Ek ticket (se ...)]

History of Ratti Gali Lake

Ratti Gali Lake, nestled in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, is believed to have been formed during the last Ice Age. The glacial activity in the region carved this stunning alpine lake, leaving behind a pristine body of water that reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The lake's name is derived from the Urdu word 'Ratti,' which means 'red,' possibly alluding to the reddish hue of the surrounding alpine flora during certain seasons.
The Neelum Valley, home to Ratti Gali Lake, has been inhabited for centuries. Early settlers in the region were primarily nomadic tribes who relied on the valley's lush meadows and abundant water sources for grazing their livestock. These tribes lived in harmony with nature, respecting the sacredness of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
During the medieval period, the Neelum Valley, including Ratti Gali Lake, became part of various regional kingdoms and empires. The region saw influences from the Kashmiri, Mughal, and Sikh empires, each leaving a mark on the local culture. The Mughals, in particular, were known for their love of nature and may have frequented the lake, appreciating its serene beauty and the tranquility it offered.
In the 19th century, the British Empire expanded its reach into the Indian subcontinent, including the region around Ratti Gali Lake. British explorers and cartographers documented the lake and its surroundings, bringing it to the attention of the wider world. The colonial period also saw the introduction of new flora and fauna to the region, some of which can still be found around the lake today.
After the partition of British India in 1947, Ratti Gali Lake became part of Pakistan. The region saw a renewed interest in its natural beauty, attracting local tourists, trekkers, and nature enthusiasts. The Pakistani government and local communities have since worked to preserve the pristine environment of the lake while promoting sustainable tourism.
In recent years, Ratti Gali Lake has become a popular destination for both domestic and international travelers. The lake's crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush green meadows and towering peaks, offer a breathtaking sight. Modern infrastructure developments, such as improved roads and accommodations, have made the lake more accessible while efforts continue to ensure that tourism does not harm the delicate ecosystem.

Ratti Gali Lake Essentials

Ratti Gali Lake is situated in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. The nearest major city is Muzaffarabad, which is approximately 120 kilometers away. To reach Ratti Gali Lake, you can take a domestic flight to Islamabad International Airport and then travel by road. From Islamabad, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to Muzaffarabad. From Muzaffarabad, a 4x4 vehicle is recommended to navigate the rugged terrain to reach the lake. The journey from Muzaffarabad to the base camp at Dowarian takes around 4-5 hours, followed by a 2-3 hour trek to the lake.
Local transportation options include 4x4 jeeps and private taxis, which can be hired from Muzaffarabad or Dowarian to the Ratti Gali Lake base camp. Public transport is limited, and it is advisable to arrange for a private vehicle. The terrain is challenging, and a 4x4 vehicle is necessary for the final stretch of the journey. For the trek from the base camp to the lake, ensure you have appropriate hiking gear and possibly hire a local guide.
The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit cards are accepted in major cities and some hotels, but in remote areas like Neelum Valley, cash is essential. ATMs are available in Muzaffarabad, but it is advisable to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote areas. Local vendors and transport services generally prefer cash payments.
Ratti Gali Lake and the surrounding areas are generally safe for tourists. However, it is wise to take standard precautions such as not venturing out alone at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Avoid isolated areas and always stay on marked trails during treks. Be cautious of weather conditions as the terrain can become hazardous during rain or snow. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant.
In case of an emergency, dial 1122 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Muzaffarabad, which is several hours away from Ratti Gali Lake. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Carry a basic first aid kit and familiarize yourself with the local emergency contacts. For minor issues, local pharmacies in Muzaffarabad can provide over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering mosques and other religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. In rural areas, a slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Ratti Gali Lake like a local, engage with the local guides and porters who can share stories about the region's history and culture. Visit the nearby villages to buy traditional handicrafts and local produce. The best time to visit the lake is during the summer months (June to September) when the weather is pleasant and the trekking routes are accessible. Don't miss the opportunity to camp by the lake for a truly immersive experience.

The Enchanting Ratti Gali Lake

Local tips in Ratti Gali Lake