#meadows in Pakistan

[kumrattourism]

🌟 Join Us in Jahaz Banda, Dir Upper KPK, Pakistan

Ready for an adventure of a lifetime? Jahaz Banda, located in Dir Upper KPK, Pakistan, is a stunning alpine meadow that offers an escape into nature’s beauty like no other. With its lush green fields, majestic mountain views, and vibrant wildflowers, this enchanting landscape is perfect for travelers looking to experience the thrill of trekking, camping, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of…

[wiirocku]

Bishai Meadows in Swat Kalam, Pakistan

[yearningforit]

🎥 Insta@ flyinthesky_irk

[hsmagazine254]

Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan - The Jewel Of Pakistan

Exploring the Jewel of Pakistan – Gilgit Baltistan Gilgit Baltistan, often referred to as the Jewel of Pakistan, unfolds its natural beauty and cultural richness to travellers. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this region is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Join us on a journey to discover the unparalleled charm of Gilgit Baltistan and explore the top 10 must-do…

[adventureseekersclub]

Stepping into the land of enchantment, I embarked on a transformative journey through the northern areas of Pakistan. With a heart brimming with anticipation and a mind ready to be captivated, I set foot in this magical region known for its breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks, and warm hospitality. Little did I know that the next few weeks would be a life-altering experience, immersing me in the beauty and culture of Pakistan's northern gems.

Hunza Valley: My adventure began in the fabled Hunza Valley, a place straight out of a fairytale. Surrounded by towering peaks, I found myself in awe of the majestic Rakaposhi and Ultar peaks that seemed to touch the sky. As I wandered through the terraced fields and apricot orchards, the warm smiles of the local people embraced me. Exploring the ancient Baltit Fort, I delved into the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

Skardu: Journeying further, I arrived in Skardu, a gateway to heavenly landscapes. The turquoise waters of Satpara Lake reflected the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a postcard-perfect view. The thrilling ride to the world's highest cold desert, the Katpana Desert, left me speechless as I stood amidst the golden sands, marveling at nature's artistry. Skardu became my base for embarking on treks and adventures, each step leading me closer to discovering my inner strength.

Naltar Valley: In the tranquil embrace of Naltar Valley, I reveled in nature's kaleidoscope. The vibrant meadows painted a picture of serenity, while the snow-crowned peaks whispered tales of ancient glory. Skiing down the slopes during the winter season was an exhilarating experience, leaving an indelible mark on my soul.

Fairy Meadows: Nestled beneath the watchful gaze of Nanga Parbat, Fairy Meadows cast a spell on me. The emerald green meadows stretched endlessly, as if inviting me to leave the ordinary behind. Camping amidst the tranquility of nature, I witnessed the sun painting the mighty peak in shades of gold, a sight that etched its beauty into the depths of my being.

Khunjerab Pass: Crossing the highest paved international border, Khunjerab Pass took my breath away. The vastness of the Khunjerab National Park unfolded before me, with snow-capped peaks standing as guardians of the wild. Observing the rich biodiversity and catching a glimpse of the elusive Himalayan brown bear filled me with a profound sense of wonder and reverence for our natural world.

As my journey through the northern areas of Pakistan drew to a close, I carried a piece of this paradise within me. The splendor of Hunza Valley, the awe-inspiring landscapes of Skardu, the tranquility of Naltar Valley, the enchantment of Fairy Meadows, and the majestic beauty of Khunjerab Pass all left an indelible mark on my soul. Beyond the picturesque vistas, it was the warmth and kindness of the local people that made this journey truly unforgettable. I left with a renewed appreciation for nature's wonders and a deeper understanding of the diverse cultures that call this region home. The northern areas of Pakistan had opened my eyes, expanded my horizons, and gifted me memories that will forever reside in my heart.

[e2etravelandtour]

The streams of heaven that flows in a place called Fairy Meadows Fairy Meadows, Gilgit Baltistan 🇵🇰 Plan Your Trips With 𝐄𝟐𝐄 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫 (E2ETT).

[birdstudies]

January 25, 2024 - Great Rosefinch (Carpodacus rubicilla) Found in parts of Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Georgia, these finches live in open habitats with sparse vegetation including boulder fields, alpine meadows, and the edges of glaciers. They eat seeds, buds, shoots, and flowers, along with some berries and small insects, foraging in pairs and flocks on the ground and in low vegetation. Females build nests from twigs, plant stalks, root fibers, grass, moss, hair, wool, and feathers in rock crevices or bushes on cliffs and incubate clutches of four or five eggs. They feed and care for the chicks with some assistance from males.

[soleilnewspaper]

James Fleamont Potter 𐂂 °⋆.

A collection of headcannons about Bambi :)

 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴:

"Summer Night City - ABBA" 

01:27 ━━●──────  03:34

            ◁ㅤ ❚❚ ㅤ▷ ㅤㅤ↻    

Dividers: @the scandalorian

Remus version

Background 𖤓°⋆

His mother Euphemia, affectionately known as Effie came from a large wizarding family in Pakistan, born the youngest daughter of seven. During her later years at Hogwarts, she began working under the matron as an apprentice which aided her in securing a job as a healer of the Janus Thickey Ward at St. Mungo's after Hogwarts.

His father, Fleamont was born into a wealthy yet small wizarding family, growing up as an only child. Fleamont achieved excellent grades for his O.W.LS giving him the opportunity to many career options however he decided to explore his love for potions. Using his family heritage, Fleamont brought a shop in Diagon Alley and began his potions business straight out of Hogwarts.

The two both attended Hogwarts but didn’t meet until after they had both graduated due to their age gap. Fleamont had accidently injured himself while trying out one of his new potion recipes and Euphemia, a newly employed healer had taken the night shift. He fell in love with the way she carried herself and waited patiently until her shift was over to take her out for a coffee.

Fleamont and Effie despite both originating from pureblood wizarding families they actively stood up for both muggle born and muggle rights in the Wizarding World. Alongside this they further took on activism by advocating for the well treatment of magical creatures.

Both of Jame’s parents shared aspirations for having multiple children. Euphemia having come from a large family combined with Fleamont's own wishes for siblings as an only child, lead them to want multiple children. However, the couple struggled for years to finally fall pregnant in Effie’s 50s and Fleamont’s 60s. They had assumed they were unable to have children but then they were given a miracle. His birth was difficult and left Euphemia barren and had an extended recovering period.

Despite this James was still their miracle so they decided to pour all their love into him and spoiled him rotten.

James was raised to treat everyone with kindness and respect. His mother taught him how to be a gentleman which made her often scold him when she heard about his patronising of Lily in his early Hogwarts Years.  

His love of Quidditch comes from his mother as she played on the Gryffindor team throughout her Hogwarts Years. From a young age, his mother had him on a broom soaring through the sky.

James would play in the meadow near his house during the spring and bring flowers for his mother which she liked to press and would often make bookmarks with her dried flowers. Euphemia kept every gift that James had made her. James didn’t learn this until after his parents had died and he was cleaning up their house with the marauders.

Fleamont used to take James to his potions store when he was younger because James loved watching his father work.

James is a mama’s boy through and through. 

Even in his teen years if James has a nightmare while at home he will cry into mother’s shoulder. She will comfort him the same way she did when he was a little boy.

James grew up as a bilingual child speaking both Urdu and English in his household. Due to this, like many bilingual children, his speech was delayed. Both his parents cried when he said his first word because they had been worried about his delayed communication milestones. As a toddler he would mix up the two languages confusing his father and Euphemia had to translate for him.

However, after starting Hogwarts he was surrounded by English, majority British, so he spoke less of his mother’s tongue resulting in him forgetting some of it. Every few summers he tells himself he’ll learn urdu properly, and every few summers, he forgets about this resolution entirely. After Euphemia died he relearned the language in time for her funeral.

Bollywood movies and dvds were a staple in the Potter house.

Fleamont liked to watch old dvds for nostalgia’s sake, and as a result, James grew up watching them as well.

Physical Appearance 𖤓°⋆

His big growth spurt in maturity happened after winter break of 5th year.

Sirius and him are practically the same height, with only an inch or two difference.

His skin takes on a wheatish tone, his skin almost like the sun radiates. Manifesting the colour tone from yellow to light brown with warm undertones.

James’s eyes are the type of eyes which make you feel safe and warm inside.

Possesses comforting brown iries like the colour of aged roots alongside the green of the springtime bubs make his eyes resemble a hazel tree. The hues of green in his eyes remind him of his time spent in his childhood running on the forest floor among gentle flowers.

He has a prominent Adam’s apple.

Curls adorn his face in a shade of black with hues of brown adding a natural highlight to his hair.

According to cannon

“James was a tall, thin man who wore glasses, with hazel eyes and untidy black hair that stuck up at the back.” 

Personality 𖤓°⋆

Constantly ruffing or running his hands through his hair.

This leads to the neglecting of making sure he was keeping his glasses on securely while flying, and they'd fall off.

James can and will sleep through almost anything.

Much to the annoyance of the maunders, James is a very loud snorer.

More often than most you will find Prongs happily eating leaves and grass on full moons.

James was so in love with Lily he never bothered to plan what to do if she ever accepted his offer. So, when she did, he became a stuttering mess.

He was incredibly smart but at the same time the token dumbass

Something changed in James when his beaten and bruised brother walked into his home on that rainy Christmas Eve.

When he returned to school the following term everyone thought he was trying to impress Lily after she called him ‘an arrogant wanker’. In truth he had changed for Sirius’s sake.

Nothing comes before his friends

This man is the most loving one you will ever meet

Not only that but he loved hard and deeply, more so than anyone

James is very much a mother-hen. The marauders cannot avoid his fussing, making sure they’re alright well-fed and watered. Almost like they’re his houseplants.

Fleamont drilled tidy habits into Jame’s mind leaving him somewhat of a neat freak. Every month he’s doing deep cleaning because of the dirtiness of sharing a room with three other teenage boys.

Personal space does not exist, he is extremely touchy. It's his love language.

On the surface he likes to pretend everything comes easy to him but secretly he still must work hard to get good grades even if it’s at the last minute. He thinks it makes him cooler if he keeps a certain level of nonchalance but 50% of the time, he’s faking it till he makes it. 

 He feels everything deeply. When he loves, it’s like a tidal wave of emotion, he feels like he would go to the moon for the person. 

Notes and Trivia 𖤓°⋆

His boggart is each of his friends crying alone, his biggest fear was not being able to help the people he loves when they need him most 

Before Sirius and Remus start dating, James would carry Remus to the hospital wing after particularly rough full moons

All snuggles are initiated by him

He holds Remus’s hand after a rough moon

He’s the matchmaker of Hogwarts

Jumped at the chance to spend time with Lily when she asked him to help her get Dorcas and Marlene together

Tried to call Sirius snuffles before they came up with padfoot 

He knows Lily’s cycle better than she does

So, when that time of the month comes, he’s the most dotting boyfriend you ever did see

Surprise hugs are his speciality

He is the best transfiguration student that McGonagall ever taught 

He ruffles his friend’s hair,

kisses them on the check, and holds their hands to make them smile or when they’re upset

His father gifted him a calligraphy set for his fourteenth birthday which was the start of his love for writing letters

James always has his camera with him and has collections dedicated to all his friends

He is also a mother-hen with the younger Gryffindor students especially when he’s head boy.

He felt lonely growing up as an only child, but his wish was fulfilled when his parents practically adopted Sirius.

@h3arts4strs This is for you babes >3

[kumrattourism]

Fairy Meadows – A Fairytale Escape in the Heart of Pakistan

Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Fairy Meadows Nestled at the base of Nanga Parbat, the world’s ninth-highest peak, Fairy Meadows is a magical destination known for its breathtaking views and serene landscapes. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and lush meadows, this picturesque spot offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventurers alike. With its unmatched scenery,…

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

Michael de Adder :: @deAdder :: Nov 1 :: The Toronto Star

* * * *

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

November 3, 2023

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

NOV 4, 2023

Today, Representative Ryan Zinke (R-MT), who was former president Trump’s Interior Secretary until he left under accusations of misconduct, introduced a bill to ban Palestinians from the United States and to revoke any visas issued to Palestinians since October 1 of this year. Although the U.S. has resettled only about 2,000 Palestinians in the last 20 years, ten other far-right members of the House signed onto Zinke’s bill, which draws no distinction between Hamas and Palestinian civilians.

This blanket attack on a vulnerable population echoes Trump’s travel ban of January 27, 2017, just a week after he took office. Executive Order 13769 stopped travel from primarily Muslim countries—Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen—for ninety days. The list of countries appeared random—Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, countries from which terrorists have sometimes come directly to the U.S., weren’t on the list—and appeared to fulfill a campaign promise and assert a new view of executive power.

Insisting that immigrants endanger the country is a key tactic of authoritarians. Excluding them is a central principle of those eager to tear down democracy: they insist that immigration destroys a nation’s traditions and undermines native-born Americans. With tensions in the nation mounting over the crisis in the Middle East, this measure, introduced now with inflammatory language, seems designed to whip up violence. 

Representative Greg Landsman (D-OH) called out his Republican colleagues on social media. “Un-American and definitely NOT in the Bible, [Speaker Johnson],” he wrote. “You going to tell them to pull this bill?”

But, far from trying to work across the aisle, Johnson has been throwing red meat to his base. In the last two days, for example, the House has voted to slash 39% of the budget of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and 13% of the budget of the National Park Service. It voted to require the Biden administration to advance oil drilling off the Alaska coast. It has voted on reducing the salary of the EPA administrator, the director of the Bureau of Land Management, and the Secretary of the Interior to $1 each.

Yesterday, Johnson told reporters he considers extremists Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY) close friends and said “I don’t disagree with them on many issues and principles.”

To direct his communications team, Johnson has tapped Raj Shah, a former executive from the Fox News Corporation, who was a key player in promoting the lie that Trump won the 2020 presidential election. As the head of the “Brand Protection Unit,” Shah demanded that the Fox News Channel continue to lie to viewers who would leave the station if it told the truth. Johnson has hired Shah to be his deputy chief of staff for communications and, according to Alex Isenstadt of Politico, “help run messaging for House Republicans.” 

The extremists are doubling down on Trump and his election lies even as his allies are admitting in court that they are, indeed, lies. Trump’s former chief of staff Mark Meadows is in trouble with the publisher of his memoir after admitting that under oath that the election had been fair. The publisher is suing him for millions in damages for basing his book on the idea that the election had been stolen and representing that “all statements contained in the Work are true.” 

The publisher says it has pulled the book off the market. 

House extremists continue to back Trump even as he is openly calling for an authoritarian second term. In September, former chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley had to take “appropriate measures” for his own security after Trump accused him of disloyalty to him, personally, and suggested that in the past, such “treason” would have been punished with death. 

On Wednesday, Jonathan Swan, Charlie Savage, and Maggie Haberman of the New York Times reported that Trump was frustrated in his first term by lawyers who refused to go along with his wishes, trying to stay within the law, so Trump's allies are making lists of lawyers they believe would be “more aggressive” on issues of immigration, taking over the Department of Justice, and overturning elections. 

They are looking, they say, for “a different type of lawyer” than those supported by the right-wing Federalist Society, one “willing to endure the personal and professional risks of association with Mr. Trump” and “to use theories that more establishment lawyers would reject to advance his cause.” 

John Mitnick, who served in Trump’s first term, told the reporters that “no qualified attorneys with integrity will have any desire to serve as political appointees” in a second Trump term. Instead, the lawyers in a second term would be “opportunists who will rubber-stamp whatever Trump and his senior White House staff want to do.” 

Trump has also made it clear he and his allies want to gut the nonpartisan civil service and fill tens of thousands of government positions with his own loyalists. Led by Russell Vought, who served as Trump’s director of the Office of Management and Budget, Trump’s allies believe that agencies like the Federal Communications Commission, the Federal Trade Commission, and the Securities and Exchange Commission should not be independent but should push the president’s agenda. 

This week, Trump vowed to take over higher education too. In a campaign video, he promised to tax private universities with large endowments to fund a new institution called “American Academy.” The school, which would be online only, would award free degrees and funnel students into jobs with the U.S. government and federal contractors.

“We spend more money on higher education than any other country, and yet they’re turning our students into communists and terrorists and sympathizers of many, many different dimensions,” Trump said. “We can’t let this happen.” In his university, “wokeness or jihadism” would not be allowed, he said.

In admirable understatement, Politico’s Meridith McGraw and Michael Stratford noted: “Using the federal government to create an entirely new educational institution aimed at competing with the thousands of existing schools would drastically reshape American higher education.”

Trump has made no secret of his future plans for the United States of America. 

Meanwhile, Republicans appear determined to push their agenda over the wishes of voters. In Ohio, where voters on Tuesday will decide whether to amend the state constitution to make it a constitutional right to “make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions,” Republicans first tried to make it harder to amend the state constitution, and then, when voters rejected that attempt, the Republican-dominated state senate began to use an official government website to spread narratives about the constitutional amendment that legal and medical experts called false or misleading. 

Adding reproductive health protections to the state constitution is popular, but In an unusual move, the Republican secretary of state, Frank LaRose, quietly purged more than 26,000 voters from the rolls in late September. LaRose is a staunch opponent of the constitutional amendment and is himself running for a seat in the U.S. Senate. 

In Virginia, where Republicans are hoping to take control of the state legislature to pass new abortion restrictions as well as the rest of Republican governor Glenn Youngkin’s agenda, a study by the Democratic Party of Virginia shows that officials are flagging the mail-in ballots of non-white voters for rejection much more frequently than those of white voters. As of today, 4.82% of ballots cast by Black voters have gotten flagged, while only 2.79% of the ballots of white voters have been flagged.

In Richmond, The Guardian’s Sam Levine reported, city officials flagged more than 11% of ballots returned by Black voters but only about 5.5% of ballots cast by white voters. After the ballots are fixed, or cured, the rate of rejection for Black voters remains more than twice as high as that of white voters. 

Virginia officials also reported last week that they had accidentally removed more than 3,400 eligible voters from the rolls.

—

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[ticktockaura]

RATTI GALI LAKE, PAKISTAN

Ratti Gali Lake ; Neelam Valley, Azad Kashmir · 34°49′49″N 74°03′41″E / 34.8302°N 74.0613°E / 34.8302; 74.0613 · Alpine/Glacial lake · Pakistan.

Discover the Hidden Beauty of Ratti Gali Lake, Azad Kashmir

If you’re looking for an untouched paradise, nestled amidst towering peaks and surrounded by lush greenery, then Ratti Gali Lake in Azad Kashmir is the destination for you. This spectacular alpine lake, often referred to as the “Crown Jewel” of Neelum Valley, offers breathtaking scenery, pristine waters, and an adventure like no other. Whether you're an avid trekker or a nature lover seeking peace and solitude, Ratti Gali Lake promises an unforgettable experience.

Why Ratti Gali Lake Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

Ratti Gali Lake sits at an elevation of 12,130 feet (3,700 meters) above sea level, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you make your way to this magical destination, you’ll journey through some of the most stunning landscapes Pakistan has to offer—crystal-clear streams, vibrant meadows, and rugged mountain ranges. But the true reward awaits you at the lake, where the glacier-fed waters reflect the snow-capped peaks, creating a scene so perfect it feels like a dream.

1. The Unmatched Beauty of Ratti Gali Lake

The beauty of Ratti Gali Lake is truly unmatched. Its deep blue waters are fed by the melting glaciers of the surrounding mountains, and in the summer months, the surrounding meadows burst into life with vibrant wildflowers. The reflection of the mountains on the glassy surface of the lake creates a mirror-like effect, making it one of the most picturesque spots in Pakistan.

2. A Perfect Adventure for Nature Lovers

For adventure enthusiasts, the journey to Ratti Gali is a treat. The trek to the lake from Dowarian—a small village at the base of the valley—offers a moderate yet thrilling challenge. As you ascend through the lush forests and rocky paths, you’ll be greeted by waterfalls and sweeping vistas of the valley below. Every step of the journey is filled with breathtaking sights, but the culmination of your efforts at the lake’s serene shore is nothing short of magical.

3. Tranquility and Solitude

If you're looking to disconnect from the chaos of city life, Ratti Gali Lake offers the perfect sanctuary. The tranquility of the lake, coupled with the surrounding beauty, gives visitors a chance to relax, reflect, and rejuvenate. Far from the usual crowded tourist spots, Ratti Gali offers an intimate connection with nature, allowing you to soak in its beauty in peace.

How to Get to Ratti Gali Lake

Reaching Ratti Gali Lake is an adventure in itself. Here’s how you can plan your trip:

Starting Point: Your journey begins at Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir. From there, you will travel to Dowarian, a small town situated around 120 kilometers away. Dowarian is the starting point for the trek to the lake.

4x4 Jeep Ride: From Dowarian, a thrilling 4x4 jeep ride takes you further into the mountains, passing through rugged terrain and scenic landscapes. The jeep drops you at a point from where the real trek begins.

The Trek: The final part of your journey is a 2-3 hour trek through lush meadows and rocky paths. The trek is moderately challenging but rewarding, with stunning views at every turn.

Best Time to Visit Ratti Gali Lake

The ideal time to visit Ratti Gali Lake is between July and September. During these months, the weather is mild, and the snow has melted, allowing full access to the lake and surrounding meadows. The lake is at its most vibrant during this time, with the wildflowers in bloom and the weather perfect for trekking.

Things to Do at Ratti Gali Lake

Camping: Spend a night under the stars beside the lake. Many travelers opt to camp near the lake, as the experience of waking up to such majestic views is nothing short of magical.

Photography: Ratti Gali Lake offers countless photography opportunities. Whether it’s the sunrise casting a golden glow on the mountains or the crystal-clear reflection of the peaks in the water, you’ll be sure to capture some incredible shots.

Boating: If you’re lucky, you may find locals offering small boat rides on the lake, which gives you an even closer look at its pristine waters.

Trekking and Exploring: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the surrounding area, which includes smaller lakes and glacial streams. Each trek offers new and exciting views of the mountains and valleys.

Tips for Traveling to Ratti Gali Lake

Pack Light: Since you’ll be trekking, it’s essential to carry only the necessary items. A good backpack, sturdy shoes, and warm clothing are essential, as the temperatures near the lake can be quite chilly, even in summer.

Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water and snacks for the trek, as there are limited facilities along the way.

Respect Nature: Ratti Gali Lake is a pristine natural environment. Make sure to carry your trash with you and leave no trace behind to keep this beautiful destination clean for future travelers.

[growthbacklinks]

Kumrat Valley: A Hidden Gem of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Kumrat Valley, often referred to as a paradise on earth, is one of Pakistan's most beautiful and lesser-explored destinations. Located in the Upper Dir district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this lush green valley, with its snow-capped mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers, offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about Kumrat Valley, from how to get there to accommodation options and other essential travel details.

How to Reach Kumrat Valley

Reaching Kumrat Valley requires a bit of an adventurous spirit, but the journey is well worth it for the breathtaking beauty that awaits.

By Road

From Islamabad: The most common route starts from Islamabad. You’ll drive to Timergara, which is about 5-6 hours (280 km) away. From there, you'll head toward Dir, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive.

From Peshawar: From Peshawar, it takes around 6 hours (350 km) to reach Dir.

From Dir to Kumrat: Once in Dir, you’ll need to switch to a 4x4 vehicle as the road conditions become rough. The journey from Dir to Thall (the last major town before Kumrat) takes around 3 hours. From Thall, Kumrat Valley is an additional 2-3 hours away, depending on the condition of the roads and the weather.

Nearest Airport

Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is the closest major airport, and from there, you can either rent a car or hire a local driver to take you to Kumrat. It is best to plan an early morning start to avoid delays during the mountainous drive.

Best Time to Visit Kumrat Valley

Kumrat Valley is at its most vibrant during the summer months, from May to September. The temperatures during these months range between 15°C and 25°C, making it ideal for trekking, camping, and sightseeing. However, for those who love snow and want to experience winter in the valley, a trip between December and February is also possible, but road accessibility can be limited due to snow.

Accommodation in Kumrat Valley

Kumrat Valley offers a range of accommodations, from basic camping setups to modest hotels and guesthouses.

Top Hotels in Kumrat Valley

Kumrat Continental Hotel: One of the better options available, offering clean rooms and basic facilities. It is located near the entry point of the valley.

Green Hills Hotel: Known for its proximity to beautiful spots in the valley, this hotel provides comfortable rooms with scenic views.

Kumrat Palace Guesthouse: A simple guesthouse with affordable rates and friendly service, perfect for travelers looking for budget-friendly options.

PTDC Thall: While this hotel is not in Kumrat itself, PTDC Thall is a convenient stayover option before entering the valley.

Camping Options: Many visitors prefer to camp under the stars, and there are several designated camping spots where you can rent gear or bring your own. Popular sites include the area near the Panjkora River and Jahaz Banda.

Things to Do in Kumrat Valley

Kumrat Valley is rich in natural beauty and adventure, offering numerous activities for visitors:

1. Trekking and Hiking

The valley is a trekker’s paradise, with routes that pass through dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and green meadows. Popular trails include the one leading to Jahaz Banda and Katora Lake.

2. Camping by the Panjkora River

The Panjkora River flows through Kumrat, offering excellent spots for riverside camping. The peaceful sounds of the flowing river and the cool breeze from the surrounding mountains make it a perfect camping experience.

3. Exploring Jahaz Banda

Jahaz Banda, a stunning plateau surrounded by snow-capped peaks, is a must-visit in Kumrat Valley. It’s about a 5-6 hour hike from Kumrat Valley. Visitors are rewarded with panoramic views of lush meadows and sparkling streams.

4. Waterfalls

Kumrat Valley is home to several beautiful waterfalls, with the Do Kala Chashma Waterfall being the most famous. Surrounded by pine trees, this waterfall offers a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy nature.

5. Boating and Fishing

The river and small lakes in the valley provide opportunities for boating and fishing. Local guides often offer boat rentals and fishing gear to enhance your experience.

Essential Travel Tips

4x4 Vehicle: The roads leading to Kumrat can be rough, and a 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended.

Local Guide: Hiring a local guide can help you navigate the valley and ensure you don’t miss out on the key attractions.

Weather: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly. Even in summer, nights can get chilly, so warm clothes are essential.

Food Supplies: While there are basic food stalls and restaurants in Thall and the valley, it’s wise to bring some snacks or dry food with you, especially if you plan on camping.

Cash: There are no ATMs in Kumrat Valley, so make sure to carry enough cash for the duration of your trip.

Conclusion

Kumrat Valley is a true hidden gem, offering a unique combination of adventure and serenity. Whether you are an avid trekker, a nature lover, or someone seeking peace in the lap of nature, Kumrat has something to offer for everyone. Be sure to plan ahead, pack wisely, and immerse yourself in the beauty of this untouched paradise.

[ebelal56-blog]

Discover Swat Valley: The Switzerland of the East!

Explore the beauty of Swat Valley, known as the Switzerland of the East! From stunning landscapes to rich culture, this video will take you on a virtual tour of this hidden gem in Pakistan. #SwitzerlandoftheEast #SwatValley #PakistanTravel Swat Valley is a picturesque region located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Known for its lush green landscapes, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful rivers, it is often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East." Swat has a rich history, including its role as a major center of early Buddhist civilization, with ancient monasteries and stupas scattered throughout the valley. Swat Valley is also a popular tourist destination, especially for adventure seekers, offering activities such as trekking, hiking, skiing, and trout fishing. Some of the most famous spots in the region include: Malam Jabba: A popular ski resort in the winter and a scenic spot for hiking in summer. Mingora and Saidu Sharif: The main urban centers, home to the Swat Museum and historical sites. Kalam: A beautiful town known for its meadows, waterfalls, and forests. Mahodand Lake: A stunning alpine lake surrounded by mountains and pine forests. Despite past conflicts, the region has been rehabilitated and is now safe for visitors. The valley’s natural beauty, combined with its cultural heritage, makes it one of Pakistan's most attractive travel destinations.

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“Exploring the Enchanting Northern Areas of Pakistan: A Paradise for Adventure and Nature Lovers”

Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush ranges lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered - the Northern Areas of Pakistan. This region, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offers a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan boast some of the most awe-inspiring scenery in the world. From the verdant valleys of Swat and Hunza to the snow-capped peaks of Nanga Parbat and K2, every corner of this region is a photographer's paradise. The crystal-clear lakes, including the iconic Attabad Lake with its mesmerizing turquoise waters, add to the ethereal beauty of the landscape.

For adrenaline junkies, the Northern Areas offer a plethora of thrilling activities. Trekking in the Karakoram Range, including the famous trek to Fairy Meadows at the base of Nanga Parbat, is an experience like no other. Rock climbing, paragliding, and white-water rafting on the Indus River are also popular among adventure enthusiasts.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are steeped in history and culture. The ancient Silk Road passes through this region, leaving behind traces of diverse cultural influences. Explore the historic Baltit Fort in Hunza, witness the traditional festivals of Kalash Valley, or immerse yourself in the centuries-old customs of the Shandur Polo Festival.

One of the most endearing aspects of visiting the Northern Areas is the warm hospitality of the locals. Whether you're staying in a traditional guesthouse in Skardu or camping under the stars in Fairy Meadows, you'll be welcomed with open arms and treated to the renowned Pakistani hospitality.

No visit to the Northern Areas is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Indulge in hearty servings of chapli kebabs, freshly baked naan bread, and aromatic biryanis. Don't miss out on tasting the famed Hunza apricots and dried fruits, a local specialty.

As you explore the Northern Areas, remember to tread lightly and respect the environment and local communities. Try to opt for eco-friendly accommodations, support local businesses, and follow responsible trekking practices to ensure the preservation of this natural paradise for future generations.

The Northern Areas of Pakistan are a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or cultural immersion, this region offers a truly unforgettable travel experience. So pack your bags, embark on a journey of discovery, and let the wonders of the Northern Areas captivate your soul.

Asia Rahman Khan Lodhi [Consul Press at the Consulate General of Pakistan, Hong Kong (SAR) & Macau (SAR)]