Ratti Gali & Shounter Lake Trek (AJK)
The Hidden Alpine Jewels of Azad Kashmir
From
¥1,248
5 Days
Duration
3,700m
Max Elevation
2–20 pax
Group Size
Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir (AJK)
Region
Overview
Azad Kashmir's Neelum Valley is often overshadowed by the more famous northern areas, but it holds some of Pakistan's most beautiful alpine scenery. Ratti Gali Lake at 3,700m is a pristine mountain lake set in a bowl of green meadows and snow-capped peaks — often called "the Switzerland of AJK." The surrounding area is rich in wildflowers, ibex, and mountain birds. The trek combines the Ratti Gali Lake approach with the equally beautiful Shounter Valley and its glacial lake. The region is culturally distinct — traditional Kashmiri villages, unique wooden architecture, and hospitality that sets AJK apart from the Karakoram. A perfect trek for those who want alpine beauty without the remoteness and high cost of the northern areas.
Trip Highlights
Ratti Gali Lake (3,700m) — Pakistan's hidden alpine gem, crystalline and pristine
Shounter Lake — remote glacial lake ringed by ibex country
Lush green meadows and wildflowers — unlike any scenery in the Karakoram
Traditional Kashmiri villages — unique architecture and culture
Ibex, musk deer, and diverse mountain birdlife
Accessible from Islamabad in one day — no flight required
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1Islamabad → Muzaffarabad → Kel (2,200m)
🏠 Guesthouse Kel🍽️ Dinner
Islamabad → Muzaffarabad → Kel (2,200m)
Drive 7hrs via Muzaffarabad along the spectacular Neelum Valley. Arrive Kel — beautiful village on the Neelum River.
2Kel → Ratti Gali Base → Ratti Gali Lake (3,700m)
🏠 Camp Ratti Gali🍽️ All meals📏 15km⛰️ 3,700m
Kel → Ratti Gali Base → Ratti Gali Lake (3,700m)
Trek 4–5hrs through meadows to the lake. Crystal clear, surrounded by snow. Camp or return to base.
3Ratti Gali → Shounter Valley Approach
🏠 Camp Shounter🍽️ All meals📏 12km
Ratti Gali → Shounter Valley Approach
Descend and drive/trek to Shounter Valley. Wild and pristine.
4Shounter Lake Trek
🏠 Camp Shounter🍽️ All meals📏 14km⛰️ 3,400m
Shounter Lake Trek
Trek to Shounter Lake — remote, glacial, surrounded by wildlife. Return to camp.
5Return to Islamabad
🏠 Hotel Islamabad🍽️ Breakfast, Lunch
Return to Islamabad
Drive back through Neelum Valley. Arrive Islamabad evening.
What's Included
- All transport Islamabad–Muzaffarabad–Kel–return
- Licensed guide
- Hotel and guesthouse accommodation
- All meals
- Entry fees (Neelum Valley National Park)
Not Included
- International airfares
- Pakistan visa
- Personal gear
- Travel insurance
⚠️ Requirements & Prerequisites
- •Moderate fitness
- •AJK permit required for foreign nationals (we arrange)
- •No technical skills
Best Season
Frequently Asked Questions
Do foreign tourists need a special permit for AJK?
Yes — foreign nationals need an AJK permit (No Objection Certificate) from the AJK government. We arrange this for all our international clients — it takes 3–5 working days and requires a copy of your passport.
10 people booked this trip this month
Price Calculator
$171 USD · 4–5 persons
Toyota Hiace / Coaster. Comfortable, most popular.
3-star hotels & clean guesthouses. En-suite bathrooms.
Includes guide, all meals, permits & accommodation.
Custom quote → info@wonderland-tours.com
Payment Methods
30% deposit to confirm. Balance due 30 days before departure.
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