One of the best ways to explore the awesome beauty of Azad Jammu & Kashmir is by a 5 day travel tour to Arang Kel, Taobat and the Ratti Gali Lake. This tour goes through the clear rivers, green valleys, alpine meadows, thick woods and one of the most beautiful glacial lakes in Pakistan.
It is perfect for couples, families, solo travellers and groups who want a blend of sightseeing, adventure, hiking and relaxing.
Travel Tour to Arang Kel, Taobat & Ratti Gali Lake
| Tour Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 5 Days / 4 Nights |
| Departure | Islamabad or Lahore |
| Destinations | Muzaffarabad, Keran, Sharda, Kel, Arang Kel, Taobat & Ratti Gali Lake |
| Tour Type | Family, Friends & Couples |
| Best Time | June to September |
| Difficulty Level | Easy to Moderate |
Day 1 – Islamabad/Lahore to Keran
Begin your journey early in the morning.
Travel Route
From Lahore
Lahore → Islamabad → Murree Expressway → Kohala → Muzaffarabad → Keran
From Islamabad
Islamabad → Murree Expressway → Kohala → Muzaffarabad → Keran
Visit Places
- Kohala Bridge
- Muzaffarabad
- Domel View Point
- Neelum River
- Keran Riverside
Enjoy the evening with a riverside walk and overnight stay in Keran.
Night Stay: Keran
Day 2 – Sharda, Kel & Arang Kel
After breakfast, continue towards Sharda and Kel.
After arriving at Kel take the chair lift (or bridge if conditions are suitable) over the river and head on foot for the beautiful mountain village of Arang Kel, one of Pakistan most beautiful villages.
Vist to Places
- Upper Neelum
- Athmuqam
- Sharda
- Kel
- Arang Kel
- Chairlift Ride
- Alpine Meadows
Spend time exploring the village before returning to Kel.
Night Stay: Kel
Day 3 – Explore Taobat
Take an early breakfast then head further into Upper Neelum Valley towards Taobat, the final major tourist village near the Line of Control.
Visit to Place
- Taobat Village
- Neelum River Source Region
- Wooden Houses
- Pine Forests
- Green Meadows
- Scenic Photography
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before returning to Sharda.
Night Stay: Sharda
Day 4 – Ratti Gali Lake Adventure
Today journey takes you to one of Pakistan most famous alpine lakes.
Drive to Dowarian, then hire a local 4×4 jeep to reach the Ratti Gali base camp. From there, enjoy a moderate hike (or horse ride) to the lake.
Activities
- Jeep Adventure
- Mountain Trek
- Ratti Gali Lake Photography
- Picnic
- Nature Walk
- Explore Wildflowers
Return to Keran or Muzaffarabad in the evening.
Night Stay: Muzaffarabad
Day 5 – Return to Islamabad or Lahore
After breakfast, begin your return journey.
Optional stops include:
- Dhani Waterfall
- Local handicraft shops
- Kohala View Point
- Murree Expressway
Reach Islamabad in the afternoon or Lahore by evening.
Estimated Budget (Per Person)
| Expense | Estimated Cost |
| Transport | Rs. 12,000–22,000 |
| Hotel (4 Nights) | Rs. 12,000–25,000 |
| Jeep for Ratti Gali | Rs. 3,000–6,000 |
| Meals | Rs. 5,000–8,000 |
| Local Transport | Rs. 2,000–4,000 |
| Miscellaneous | Rs. 2,000 |
| Estimated Total | Rs. 36,000–67,000 |
The actual cost depends on the season, hotel category, transportation, and group size.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
| June – September | Ideal weather, open roads, green valleys |
| October | Beautiful autumn scenery |
| November – May | Snowfall may restrict access to Taobat and Ratti Gali Lake |
Hotels You Can Consider to stay
Keran
- Keran Resort
- Neelum Elites Hotel
- Wadi Resort
Sharda
- Sharda Highland Hotel
- Neelum View Hotel
- Shangrila Sharda
Muzaffarabad
- Pearl Continental Muzaffarabad
- Muzaffarabad Continental Hotel
- Kashmir Lodges
What to Pack for this Tour
Carry the following essentials:
- Original CNIC
- Warm jacket
- Comfortable trekking shoes
- Raincoat
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Power bank
- Personal medicines
- Water bottle
- Cash for remote areas
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ratti Gali Lake suitable for families?
Yes. The Ratti Gali Lake is open for families in the summer. The walk is of moderate difficulty but horses are on hand for those who require support.
Can I visit Arang Kel and Taobat in the same trip?
Yes. With 5 day tour, you can explore both places along with Ratti Gali Lake in a comfortable way.
What is the best month for this tour?
The seasons from June to September are ideal. There are pleasant weather conditions and the roads are open.
Do I need a 4×4 vehicle?
A 4×4 jeep is recommended for the final stretch to Ratti Gali Lake. It is possible for regular cars to access Kel and Taobat during the open season, but all times check the current road conditions before travelling.
