Kaghan Valley — Local services in Balakot Tehsil

Kaghan valley is considered to be a jewel amongst the beautiful valleys of the Mansehra district in Pakistan. The valley is approximately 160 kilometers long and is a popular summer holiday resort for tourists from both within the country and abroad. Kaghan Valley (وادی کاغان ‎) is an alpine valley in Mansehra District of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan, attracting tourists from throughout Pakistan. The valley extends 155 kilometres (96 mi) across northern Pakistan, rising from an elevation of 2,134 feet (650 m) to its highest point, the Babusar Pass, at 13,690 feet (4,170 m). Landslides triggered by the devastating 2005 Kashmir earthquake destroyed many passes leading into the valley, though roads have since been largely rebuilt. Jared Valley Near the Kaghan Valley. 👉 Location in Pakistan Coordinates: 34°50′N 73°31′E Country Pakistan Province Khyber Pakhtunkhwa District Mansehra District Elevation 2,500 m (8,200 ft) Time zone UTC+5 (PST) Kaghan Valley is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the north of Pakistan, bordering the territories of Gilgit-Baltistan to the north and Azad Jammu and Kashmir to the southeast. The 155-kilometer valley is enveloped by the Lower Himalaya range, resulting in an alpine climate and the prevalence of pine forests and alpine meadows. Alongside the flow of the Kunhar River, the valley features glaciers, crystal-like clear lakes, waterfalls and frosty mountains streams. Kaghan is famous for its scenic beauty and landscapes, resulting in its popularity as a summer resort. The Kaghan Valley can be reached by road via the towns of Balakot, Abbottabad and Mansehra. In Balakot, buses and other transports can be used to travel to Kaghan. It can also be reached from the capital, Islamabad, and Peshawar by renting a car to Abbottabad. Tourists can then order a taxi or ride other public transports to go to the valley. Kaghan Valley is always accessible during the summer season (May to September) and closed to visitors during winter. This is because the glaciers block the roads leading to Kaghan Valley during winter, causing the roads to close. These glaciers would melt from February to April. From May to the end of September, the roads and Babusar Pass remain open. In May, the temperature can reach up to 11 °C (52 °F) and stoop as low as 3 °C (37 °F). Following are the salient features of Kaghan valley. Kunhar river – the main feature of the valley Gujar nomads with their cattle Honey sellers Potato farms Trout fish The popular languages spoken in the valley are Hindko and Gojri while the national language Urdu is also widely understood. Kaghan valley is situated at an approximate distance of 250 kilometers from the capital, Islamabad. The road that leads to the valley passes through different towns and cities, notably Taxila, Abbotabad, Mansehra and Balakot. The last city/town that comes before the start of Kaghan valley is Balakot. Balakot was the place of an important historical battle between the Sikhs and Muslims in the early 19th century and is also home to the grave of Syed Ahmed Shaheed, an important Muslim leader. Tourists coming from far flung areas usually prefer to stay at Balakot for the night before officially venturing into the scenic valleys of Kaghan. Kawai: After entering into Kaghan, the first town that comes our way is Kawai. Kawai is situated at a distance of 24 kilometers (15 miles) from Balakot and is home to a small number of people. The track that passes through Kawai winds through thick forests of pine and can be extremely prone to landslides in wet weather. Shogran: After crossing Kawai, visitors find themselves in Shogran, a heavenly place with beautiful views. Shogran is situated at an altitude of 2400 (7500 feet) meters above sea level. At this altitude it stands well above the valley. Shogran has a number of guest houses that can be used as an abode for the night. Most well-known is the forestry department rest and guest house. Shogran offers magnificent views to three beautiful snowcapped peaks, namely:

Musa ka Musalla Makra Malika...

Nestled amidst the majestic peaks of the Hindu Kush mountains, Kaghan Valley in Pakistan is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. With its pristine lakes, lush meadows, and towering snow-capped mountains, Kaghan offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and exhilarating experiences.

Breathtaking Landscapes:

Kaghan Valley is renowned for its stunning scenery, boasting a mesmerizing array of alpine landscapes. The emerald waters of Saiful Muluk Lake, the verdant meadows of Shogran, and the towering peaks of Malika Parbat are just a few of the valley's many natural wonders.

Serene Lakes:

The valley is home to several serene lakes, each offering a unique charm. Saiful Muluk Lake, nestled at an altitude of 3,448 meters, is a popular destination for its crystal-clear waters and the enchanting legend associated with it. Lulusar Lake, surrounded by lush greenery, exudes an air of tranquillity, while the turquoise waters of Naran Lake provide a refreshing escape.

Adventure Activities:

Kaghan Valley is an adventurer's dream, offering a plethora of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Trekking, hiking, camping, and paragliding are just a few of the many ways to explore the valley's rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas.

Cultural Delights:

The valley's rich cultural heritage is evident in the traditional villages, colourful handicrafts, and warm hospitality of the locals. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by visiting traditional bazaars, savouring local delicacies, and engaging with friendly inhabitants.

A Haven for Nature Lovers:

Kaghan Valley is a haven for nature lovers, with its diverse flora and fauna. The valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including the elusive snow leopard, the common langur, and the Himalayan marmot. Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of bird species, including the golden eagle, the Himalayan monal, and the chukar partridge.

Tips for Visiting Kaghan Valley:

The best time to visit Kaghan Valley is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the roads are accessible. However, if you prefer fewer crowds and cooler...

1 visited this valley from 14 to 26 June 2024. It was my 3rd visit but after many years gap

One can not forget the memories. It was peak season and extremely crowded due to short period 1 month only and then Ramazan was beginning. I faced series problem in finding place to live. No room in any hotel was available. Fortunately, a local took me to his home, it was not of much comfort but full of peace touching the the river Kunhar.

Excellent Excellent and Excellent. From shogran to Makrra we two friends hiked together, spend a full day starting early in the morning until Sun set. It took 9 hours continuous walking and breath taking views welcome us everywhere which we could easily miss if we took it by jeep car. We met several groups i specially remember cadets from Hasan Abdal and a big big group of young school boys from Quetta. I found the second group in bad condition, tired, hungry and almost near to drop the hiking. They were short of water and food. We gave everything to them what we had but they were so many.

We took another hike started from Naran - Saif ul Malook - Ansu Lake. We unfortunately dropped this hiking after 8 hrs as we took wrong river bankside and after many hours try, we failed to cross it and took the right track. Time passed so fast and in the evening weather begin to disturbed. Rain or healing were about to come. It made me so ill and at one time, at the height of 12,000 feet i faced serious problem in breathing and pain finally i fall down on a glacier. My friend managed to climb down on horses which were fortunately sent by Allah I think.

The same night my friend decided to end this trip because I was near to die if horses were not available. I was not accepting his arguments because the same night Doctors declared me fit for continuing the trip but not my friend. We had some clash on this but finally reach to the decision on dismiss the tour and come next time.

I would personally recommend everybody to go there.

One advise Sunblock is essential as warm clothes for this visit. I would like to say good words for my driver and his polite and...