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Ratti Gali Lake is one of those places in Azad Kashmir that makes you forget how long the journey was the moment you see the lake for the first time. The turquoise water, green alpine meadows, surrounding mountains and patches of snow create a view that feels completely different from the usual tourist spots in Pakistan.
Many people search for how to reach Ratti Gali Lake because the lake is not directly accessible by a normal car. The journey involves a road trip through Neelum Valley, a local jeep ride from Dowarian and finally a trek toward the lake. Knowing these steps before leaving home can make the trip much easier.
Ratti Gali Lake is located in the upper part of Neelum Valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The lake is situated at an altitude of around 3,700 meters above sea level. Because of its high altitude and mountain location, reaching the lake requires some planning.
In this guide, I will explain how to reach Ratti Gali Lake step by step, including the route from Islamabad, the road to Dowarian, the jeep ride, the final trek, transport options, expected travel time, important safety tips and things you should know before starting the journey.
Where Is Ratti Gali Lake Located?
Ratti Gali Lake is located in Neelum Valley, Neelum District, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It is a high altitude alpine lake surrounded by mountains and open meadows.
The main access point for Ratti Gali Lake is Dowarian, a small settlement located along the main Neelum Valley road. From Dowarian, the normal road journey ends and the mountain track toward Ratti Gali begins.
This is an important point for first time visitors. You cannot simply follow a normal paved road directly to the lake. You have to reach Dowarian first, arrange a local 4×4 jeep and then continue toward the Ratti Gali base area. From the base area, the remaining distance is covered on foot or sometimes by horse.
The exact distance and travel time can vary because mountain roads change according to weather, construction and local conditions. Recent travel sources describe the jeep section as roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, while the final walk can take around 45 to 90 minutes when using the upper jeep track.
How to Reach Ratti Gali Lake
The easiest way to understand the journey is to divide it into three parts.
First, you travel by road to Dowarian.
Second, you take a local jeep from Dowarian toward the Ratti Gali base area.
Third, you walk from the jeep drop off point toward Ratti Gali Lake.
The general route is:
Islamabad → Murree → Kohala → Muzaffarabad → Athmuqam → Keran → Sharda area → Dowarian → Ratti Gali Jeep Track → Base Area → Ratti Gali Lake
The exact driving time depends heavily on traffic, road conditions, weather and how many stops you make. Mountain travel is very different from motorway travel, so it is better to plan according to time rather than only distance.
How to Reach Ratti Gali Lake From Islamabad
For travelers coming from Islamabad, the most common route starts by heading toward Murree and then continuing toward Muzaffarabad.
From Islamabad, you travel through the Murree and Kohala side before reaching Muzaffarabad. After Muzaffarabad, you continue into Neelum Valley. The road follows the valley and passes several towns and tourist areas before you eventually reach Dowarian.
The complete journey from Islamabad is long. Depending on the source and the exact starting point, published estimates vary considerably, so I would not recommend planning your trip around one exact kilometer figure. Mountain road conditions and stops can make a significant difference.
A much better approach is to divide your journey into stages.
Islamabad to Muzaffarabad
The first major part of the journey is from Islamabad toward Muzaffarabad.
This section is relatively straightforward compared with the mountain roads that come later. You can leave Islamabad early in the morning and make Muzaffarabad your first major stop.
If you are traveling with family, I recommend taking enough breaks. There is no advantage in rushing the first part of the trip because you still have a long journey ahead.
Muzaffarabad to Neelum Valley
From Muzaffarabad, you enter the Neelum Valley route.
This is where the scenery starts becoming more interesting. The road follows the Neelum River and passes through mountain settlements, forests and valleys.
You will notice that the driving style and speed change as the road becomes more winding. Some sections are narrow and require extra attention.
Do not expect the same travel speed that you get on a highway.
Neelum Valley to Dowarian
After continuing through Neelum Valley, you eventually reach Dowarian.
Dowarian is the important point for anyone asking how to reach Ratti Gali Lake because this is where you arrange the local jeep for the next part of the journey.
Before reaching Dowarian, make sure you have enough cash with you. Mobile signals and facilities can become limited as you move deeper into the mountains.
Why Dowarian Is Important
Dowarian is basically the gateway to Ratti Gali Lake.
The main Neelum Valley road and the Ratti Gali access route are different types of roads. The main valley road can be used by ordinary cars in normal conditions, while the upper Ratti Gali track is a rough mountain route where a local 4×4 jeep is the practical option.
At Dowarian, you can ask local jeep drivers about the current track condition and arrange transportation.
The advantage of hiring a local driver is that they know the road and understand the conditions much better than someone visiting for the first time.
The Ratti Gali jeep track has steep sections, rough surfaces, water crossings and narrow areas. Recent travel guides describe the route as a rough 4×4 track that normally takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on conditions.
Can You Take Your Own Car to Ratti Gali Lake?
This is one of the most common questions.
My advice is simple: do not depend on your normal car for the Ratti Gali jeep track.
You can drive your own vehicle to Dowarian and leave it there or at an appropriate local parking area. After that, arrange a local jeep.
The upper track is not like an ordinary tourist road. It is rough, narrow and affected by weather. Even some 4×4 vehicles may find certain sections difficult after rain or snowfall.
A local jeep driver has experience with the route and knows where the difficult sections are.
If you are traveling with a sedan, hatchback or ordinary family car, do not try to force it onto the mountain track simply to save money.
A small saving can turn into a major problem if the vehicle gets damaged or stuck.
The Jeep Ride From Dowarian
Once you reach Dowarian, the next stage is the jeep ride.
The jeep journey is actually one of the most memorable parts of the Ratti Gali trip. The road climbs higher into the mountains and the scenery changes quickly.
At first you may still see trees and village areas. As you gain elevation, the landscape becomes more open. You start seeing green mountain slopes, streams, rocky sections and eventually alpine meadows.
The ride can be uncomfortable because the road is rough. If you are not used to mountain jeep rides, do not expect a smooth journey.
The exact duration depends on road conditions. A recent guide estimates approximately 1.5 to 2 hours from Dowarian to the base area.
Another important point is that jeep fares can change significantly depending on season, weather and local demand. Some online guides report very different prices, so I recommend confirming the current local rate at Dowarian rather than relying on an old article.
How to Hire a Jeep
Hiring a jeep is usually straightforward during the tourist season.
When you reach Dowarian, ask local drivers about the Ratti Gali route. Before paying, clearly confirm what is included in the fare.
Ask these questions:
Is the price for one person or the whole jeep?
Is the fare one way or return?
How long will the driver wait?
Does the jeep go to the current upper track endpoint?
What happens if the road is blocked?
Will the driver return at an agreed time?
These questions can prevent misunderstandings later.
The jeep is generally priced per vehicle rather than per passenger, according to recent travel information. That means traveling with a small group can make the cost much more reasonable because everyone can share the vehicle expense.
How Many People Can Share a Jeep?
This depends on the local jeep and the driver’s arrangement.
If you are traveling with friends, sharing one jeep can reduce the individual cost. However, do not overload the vehicle.
Mountain roads are already difficult, and overloading makes the journey less comfortable and potentially less safe.
It is better to ask the driver about the recommended passenger capacity and follow it.
What Is the Ratti Gali Jeep Track Like?
The Ratti Gali jeep track is not a normal road.
It is a mountain track with rough sections and steep climbs. Conditions can change after rain, landslides or snowfall.
There may be loose stones, muddy areas and water crossings. Some sections can feel uncomfortable if you are not used to mountain travel.
This is also why the journey takes longer than the distance might suggest.
When looking at a map, you might think the lake is close. But the terrain is what makes the journey difficult.
Mountain travel should always be measured by road conditions and elevation rather than distance alone.
Reaching the Ratti Gali Base Area
After the jeep ride, you reach the upper area where the final journey to the lake begins.
The exact drop off point can change depending on road conditions. In good conditions, jeeps may reach higher on the track. After rain, snow or other problems, the jeep may stop earlier.
This is another reason not to plan your trip around a fixed walking distance.
Recent guides describe the final walk from the upper jeep area as approximately 45 to 90 minutes for visitors using the higher access point.
Some other sources describe a much longer trek when starting lower on the route. That difference happens because the jeep can cover part of the route.
So when someone says the Ratti Gali trek is three hours or someone else says it is one hour, both statements can sometimes make sense depending on where the trek starts.
The Final Trek to Ratti Gali Lake
This is the part of the journey where you finally leave the jeep behind.
The trail takes you through high altitude mountain scenery. The air becomes colder and thinner, and the surrounding landscape feels much more remote.
If you are reasonably fit, the final section can be manageable, but do not underestimate it.
The altitude of Ratti Gali Lake is around 3,700 meters. At this height, even people who are comfortable walking at lower elevations can become tired more quickly.
Walk slowly.
There is no prize for reaching the lake ten minutes earlier.
Take small breaks when needed and drink water regularly.
Can You Reach Ratti Gali Lake Without Hiking?
You can reduce the walking distance by taking the jeep as far as the current road conditions allow.
Horses or ponies may also be available in the area during the tourist season. Recent travel information reports that ponies are commonly available near the base area.
However, I would still recommend walking if you are physically able to do so.
The final trail is one of the most beautiful parts of the journey. Walking gives you time to enjoy the meadows, mountains and changing landscape.
If someone has difficulty walking, using a horse can be an alternative, but the availability and price should be confirmed locally.
Is the Ratti Gali Trek Difficult?
I would describe the normal final trek as moderate, but the difficulty depends on the starting point and weather.
If the jeep takes you close to the upper area, the final walk may be relatively short.
If the jeep cannot travel far because of road conditions, you may have to walk considerably farther.
The biggest challenge is not simply the distance. It is the combination of steep terrain, altitude, cold weather and changing trail conditions.
Someone who regularly hikes will probably find the journey easier than someone who rarely walks.
Best Time to Reach Ratti Gali Lake
Timing is extremely important.
Ratti Gali Lake is a high altitude destination and the access route can be affected by snow.
The commonly recommended visiting period is roughly July to September, although exact opening and closing conditions can change every year. Some sources mention June to October as a broader possible season, while other current guides recommend July through September because the upper route is more reliable then.
If your main goal is to see the lake with easier access, summer is normally the better choice.
Ratti Gali Lake in June
June can be beautiful, but snow may still be present.
The road and trail conditions can change quickly.
If you plan to travel in June, check local conditions immediately before leaving.
Do not assume that because it is summer in Islamabad, the upper mountain route will also be completely clear.
Ratti Gali Lake in July
July is generally one of the better months.
The weather is more suitable for the journey, the meadows become greener and the lake area starts looking like the classic Ratti Gali pictures people see online.
However, rain can still affect the jeep track.
Ratti Gali Lake in August
August is a very popular time for visiting.
The surrounding meadows can be full of flowers and the lake can look extremely beautiful under clear skies.
The disadvantage is that the area can become busy during peak tourist periods.
If you want a quieter experience, try traveling on a weekday rather than a busy weekend.
Ratti Gali Lake in September
September can also be an excellent month.
There may be fewer tourists compared with the peak summer period, while the weather can still be suitable.
However, conditions become less predictable as autumn approaches, so check the local road situation before leaving.
Is Ratti Gali Lake Open in Winter?
You should not plan a normal tourist trip to Ratti Gali Lake during heavy winter conditions.
The high altitude means the area can receive significant snowfall, and the access route may not be practical.
Recent local travel information describes the normal visitor season as approximately July to September, with the upper route affected by snow outside the main summer period.
If you are interested in visiting outside the usual season, you need current local information and appropriate mountain experience.
How Many Days Are Needed for Ratti Gali Lake?
If you are coming from Islamabad, I strongly recommend making it a two day trip rather than trying to complete everything in one day.
The reason is simple.
The road journey to Neelum Valley takes several hours. Then you still have the jeep ride and trek.
Trying to drive from Islamabad, reach Dowarian, take a jeep, hike to the lake, return and drive back on the same day would be exhausting.
A two day plan is much more comfortable.
Recommended Two Day Plan
On Day 1, leave Islamabad early and drive toward Neelum Valley.
Continue through Muzaffarabad and onward toward the upper valley.
Stay overnight around Dowarian or another suitable nearby location depending on your plan.
On Day 2, wake up early.
Arrange the jeep from Dowarian.
Take the jeep to the upper access point.
Complete the final trek to Ratti Gali Lake.
Spend some time at the lake.
Return to the jeep.
Come back to Dowarian.
You can then either stay another night or begin your return journey depending on your energy and road conditions.
Should You Stay in Dowarian or Sharda?
Both can work, but the best option depends on your travel style.
Dowarian is more convenient because you are closer to the Ratti Gali starting point.
Sharda offers more tourist facilities and is a popular base for exploring other parts of Neelum Valley.
If your main purpose is Ratti Gali Lake, staying closer to Dowarian can save travel time on the morning of your jeep ride.
If you want to combine Ratti Gali with other Neelum Valley attractions, Sharda can be a useful base.
Ratti Gali Lake From Muzaffarabad
Travelers coming from Muzaffarabad continue along the Neelum Valley road toward Dowarian.
Published travel estimates for this route vary because road conditions, stops and exact starting points differ. Some current guides estimate roughly four to five hours to reach the Dowarian area from Muzaffarabad.
After reaching Dowarian, the jeep and trek stages begin.
If you are starting in Muzaffarabad, I would still recommend an early departure.
The earlier you reach Dowarian, the more time you have for the jeep journey and the lake visit.
Ratti Gali Lake From Lahore
If you are traveling from Lahore, your journey is considerably longer.
You first need to reach Islamabad or Rawalpindi and then continue toward Muzaffarabad and Neelum Valley.
Because of the long distance, I would not recommend trying to travel from Lahore directly to Ratti Gali Lake in one day.
A better plan is to reach Islamabad or another suitable overnight location first and then continue toward Neelum Valley.
Ratti Gali Lake From Rawalpindi
The route from Rawalpindi is almost the same as the Islamabad route.
You travel toward Murree, continue toward Kohala and Muzaffarabad, and then enter Neelum Valley.
From there you continue toward Dowarian.
If you are traveling with your own car, this is where you should plan to park the vehicle and arrange a local jeep.
Ratti Gali Lake From Naran
Some travelers also want to combine Ratti Gali Lake with Naran or Kaghan Valley.
This can be possible as part of a larger northern Pakistan trip, but you should not assume that the two destinations are connected by an easy tourist road.
The practical route depends on the current mountain road conditions and the route you are using.
For a first visit to Ratti Gali, I would keep the trip focused on Neelum Valley rather than trying to combine too many destinations into one rushed schedule.
Public Transport to Ratti Gali Lake
If you do not have your own car, you can still reach the area by using public transport for the main road sections.
You can travel toward Muzaffarabad and then continue into Neelum Valley using available local transport.
However, public transport becomes less convenient when you reach the Ratti Gali access point.
You still need to arrange a local jeep for the upper track.
For this reason, a private car, rented vehicle or organized group tour can be easier for first time visitors.
Is Ratti Gali Lake Suitable for Families?
Families can visit Ratti Gali Lake, but you should consider the age and fitness of everyone in your group.
The jeep ride can be rough.
The final walk is at high altitude.
The weather can change quickly.
Young children, older travelers and anyone who struggles with steep walking may find the journey tiring.
If you are traveling with family, do not make the itinerary too tight.
Give everyone enough time to rest.
What Should You Carry?
Packing correctly can make a big difference.
You do not need to carry your entire house with you, but there are some things I would consider essential.
Take warm clothes even if you are traveling in July or August.
A light jacket is useful during the day, and warmer layers are important because temperatures can drop quickly at high altitude.
Good walking shoes are also important.
Avoid wearing smooth casual shoes on a mountain trail.
Carry enough drinking water.
Take some snacks because food options become limited as you move higher into the mountains.
A power bank is also useful because charging facilities may not be available during the mountain portion of the trip.
Carry basic personal medicines and any medication you normally need.
A small first aid kit is also a good idea.
Sunglasses and sunscreen are useful because high altitude sunlight can feel stronger than expected.
What Clothes Should You Wear?
Layering is the best approach.
You may feel warm during the road journey, especially when leaving the lower areas.
As you gain elevation, the temperature drops.
Instead of wearing one extremely heavy jacket from the beginning, carry multiple layers.
A comfortable shirt, warm sweater or fleece and waterproof outer layer can work well.
If rain is expected, carry proper rain protection.
Remember that the weather at Ratti Gali can be completely different from the weather in Islamabad.
Food and Water
Eat a proper breakfast before starting the jeep journey.
Do not depend entirely on finding food near the lake.
The higher you go, the fewer facilities you will find.
Carry simple snacks such as nuts, biscuits, fruit or energy bars.
Water is especially important because you are hiking at high altitude.
Drink regularly, but do not force yourself to drink excessive amounts.
Altitude at Ratti Gali Lake
Ratti Gali Lake sits at approximately 3,700 meters above sea level.
That is considerably higher than Islamabad.
Some people may feel tired, dizzy or develop a headache at this altitude.
The best thing you can do is avoid rushing.
Walk slowly.
Rest when necessary.
Stay hydrated.
If you develop severe symptoms or feel seriously unwell, descend and seek medical help rather than trying to continue simply because you are close to the lake.
People with existing medical conditions that could be affected by high altitude should discuss the trip with a qualified medical professional before traveling.
Is a Guide Necessary?
For the standard route, many visitors travel with a local driver and follow the established trail.
However, if you are visiting for the first time and conditions are unclear, having a knowledgeable local person with you can be useful.
This becomes even more important if you plan to explore beyond the normal tourist route or travel in uncertain weather.
The mountain environment can look simple from photographs but becomes more complicated when visibility changes.
What If It Rains?
Rain can make the jeep track difficult.
Mud and water can affect road conditions, and the driver may need to stop at certain sections.
If heavy rain is forecast, do not treat the trip like a fixed appointment.
The lake is not going anywhere.
It is better to delay the trip than to put yourself in unnecessary danger on a mountain track.
What If the Jeep Track Is Closed?
This is possible.
Weather, snowfall, landslides or road damage can temporarily affect access.
If the local drivers tell you that the track is unsafe, listen to them.
Do not assume that because someone reached the lake yesterday, you can definitely reach it today.
Mountain roads change quickly.
Always ask about the current condition on the same day you travel.
Is Ratti Gali Lake Worth the Journey?
In my opinion, yes.
The journey is not easy, but that is part of what makes Ratti Gali special.
You pass through Neelum Valley, travel deeper into the mountains, ride a jeep on a rough track and then walk through alpine scenery before reaching the lake.
When you finally see the blue water surrounded by mountains, the difficult parts of the journey start to feel worth it.
Ratti Gali is not the kind of destination where the road ends directly beside a parking area.
You have to earn the view.
Ratti Gali Lake Route Summary
If you want the shortest possible answer to how to reach Ratti Gali Lake, remember these steps.
Start from Islamabad or your home city.
Travel toward Muzaffarabad.
Enter Neelum Valley.
Continue toward Dowarian.
Reach Dowarian and arrange a local 4×4 jeep.
Take the jeep along the Ratti Gali mountain track.
Reach the upper jeep drop off or base area.
Walk toward Ratti Gali Lake.
Spend time at the lake.
Return along the same route.
This is the basic journey.
Common Mistakes Tourists Make
One mistake is leaving Islamabad too late.
If you start late, you may reach Dowarian when jeep availability is limited or when there is not enough daylight left for the journey.
Another mistake is assuming that Google Maps travel time is always accurate in the mountains.
Mountain roads are slower than normal roads.
A third mistake is wearing unsuitable shoes.
The final trail can be wet, rocky and slippery.
Another common mistake is not carrying cash.
Remote mountain areas may not have reliable digital payment facilities.
People also sometimes underestimate the cold.
The weather at the lake can feel very different from the weather in lower areas.
Finally, some visitors try to save money by using unsuitable vehicles on the jeep track.
I would not recommend doing that.
My Recommended Ratti Gali Lake Plan
If I were planning the trip for the first time, I would keep it simple.
I would leave Islamabad early in the morning.
I would travel through Muzaffarabad and continue into Neelum Valley.
Instead of trying to reach the lake on the same day, I would stay overnight near Dowarian or another convenient location.
The next morning, I would arrange the jeep as early as possible.
I would confirm the return arrangement before leaving.
Then I would take the jeep to the highest practical point.
After that, I would walk slowly toward the lake.
I would spend enough time at Ratti Gali to enjoy the scenery rather than immediately rushing back.
Then I would return to the jeep and come back down.
This plan gives you more flexibility and reduces unnecessary stress.
Ratti Gali Lake Travel Tips
Always check the weather before leaving.
Ask local people about the jeep track condition.
Confirm jeep charges before starting.
Do not overload the jeep.
Carry warm clothing.
Wear proper walking shoes.
Carry enough water and snacks.
Keep some cash with you.
Start early.
Avoid rushing on the trail.
Do not throw plastic or other waste in the mountains.
Respect local communities.
Do not disturb wildlife.
Do not leave the established trail unnecessarily.
If weather conditions become dangerous, turn back.
These simple things can make your trip much better.
Responsible Tourism at Ratti Gali Lake
Ratti Gali Lake is beautiful partly because of its natural environment.
That environment needs to be protected.
When you visit, take your waste back with you.
Do not throw bottles, wrappers or food packaging around the lake.
Avoid damaging plants.
Do not make unnecessary noise.
If you camp, leave the camping area clean.
The mountains belong to everyone, including the people who will visit after us.
Responsible tourism is not difficult.
It simply means leaving the place as beautiful as you found it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to reach Ratti Gali Lake?
The normal route starts from Dowarian in Neelum Valley. From Dowarian, visitors take a local 4×4 jeep along the mountain track toward the Ratti Gali base area. From the upper jeep drop off, the final section is completed on foot or sometimes by horse.
Can I reach Ratti Gali Lake by car?
You can drive a normal vehicle to Dowarian, but the upper Ratti Gali track is a rough mountain route. A local 4×4 jeep is the practical option for this section.
How long does the jeep ride take?
The jeep ride from Dowarian to the upper base area commonly takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, although the exact time depends on weather and road conditions.
How long is the final trek?
If the jeep reaches the upper access point, the final walk can take around 45 to 90 minutes. If the jeep cannot travel as far, the walking distance can be much longer.
What is the height of Ratti Gali Lake?
Ratti Gali Lake is approximately 3,700 meters above sea level.
What is the best month to visit Ratti Gali Lake?
July, August and September are generally considered the most suitable months. August is particularly popular because the lake and surrounding meadows are usually accessible during the summer season. However, conditions can change every year.
Can I visit Ratti Gali Lake in June?
You may be able to visit in June, but snow and road conditions can still affect access. Always check the current local situation before traveling.
Is Ratti Gali Lake difficult to reach?
It is more difficult to reach than many ordinary tourist destinations because the journey includes a rough jeep track and a high altitude walk.
Is Ratti Gali Lake safe for beginners?
A beginner can visit if they are physically prepared and travel during suitable weather. The important thing is not to rush and to follow local advice regarding road and trail conditions.
Can families visit Ratti Gali Lake?
Yes, families can visit, but the jeep ride and final hike may be tiring for young children and older travelers. Plan enough time and consider the fitness level of everyone in the group.
Do I need a jeep for Ratti Gali Lake?
For the standard tourist route, a local jeep is the easiest way to cover the rough mountain section from Dowarian toward the upper base area.
Can I walk all the way from Dowarian?
It is possible to find trekking routes starting lower down, but this creates a much longer and more demanding journey. Most ordinary visitors use the jeep to reduce the walking distance.
Should I book a jeep in advance?
During busy periods, it can be useful to arrange your transport through a trusted local contact or tour operator. Otherwise, jeeps are commonly arranged at Dowarian during the tourist season. Always confirm the current price and return arrangement.
Final Thoughts
If you were searching for how to reach Ratti Gali Lake, the most important thing to remember is that the journey has three main stages.
First, reach Dowarian through Neelum Valley.
Second, take a local 4×4 jeep from Dowarian toward the Ratti Gali base area.
Third, complete the final trek to the lake.
The road journey can be long, the jeep track can be rough and the final walk can be tiring, but the experience is completely worth it when the landscape opens up and you see Ratti Gali Lake surrounded by mountains.
I would personally recommend treating Ratti Gali as a proper mountain trip rather than a quick sightseeing stop. Start early, stay flexible, check the weather, listen to local drivers and give yourself enough time.
The most important thing is not to rush.
Ratti Gali Lake is a destination where the journey is almost as memorable as the destination itself. From the roads of Neelum Valley to the rough jeep track from Dowarian and finally the alpine trail, every part of the route gives you a different view of Kashmir.
If you plan the trip properly, carry the right things and respect the mountain environment, reaching Ratti Gali Lake can become one of the most memorable travel experiences you have in Pakistan.
