Weather of District Poonch, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan

 Exploring the Enchanting Weather of District Poonch, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan

Weather throughout the year in District Poonch, Azad Kashmir

Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Azad Kashmir region, District Poonch boasts a unique and captivating climate, with all its natural beauty, forest, tall pine and eucalyptus trees, with freshness of the air,  making it a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This breathtaking locale not only offers an array of weather patterns throughout the year but also presents a rich tapestry of local produce, greenery, corp fields, flowers, cultural traditions, and scenic wonders. In this blog post, we will delve into the weather in District Poonch, Pakistan, month by month, offering insights into the local lifestyle, must-visit places, and tips for tourists planning a visit. We all want is to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the cities and go in a calm place with natural beauty at its peak, Poonch , Azad Kashmir, is one of the best choice.

January - A Chilly Start to the Year:

• Temperature: January: still winter in Poonch,  average temperatures range between 1°C to 9°C.
• Weather: Expect crisp, cool, and chilly breezes and occasional snowfall in the higher elevations. The valley floors tend to be frosty, covered with a blanket of snow in most of the places. 

The air is icy cold, and if you come outside your home at night, it feels like the cold breeze has pierced through your body. 

People love to enjoy oranges in cold weather. If they are at home, at times they dip to orange in a hot water pot and then peel and eat it. Apples, apricots, and plum trees have abundant fruit in season, local people preserve many fruits during summer by sun drying them and also dry a few vegetables from the previous harvest. People prepare for the cold by cutting down wood, you will see heaps of wood and pine leaves heaps near houses almost everywhere along the roads, people also wear layers of warm clothing and sip on hot, comforting drinks and teas. Corn soap is a famous hot soup during winter. The corn is cooked on coals and dried and sun then preserved for winter. All day long the pot with water and corn is on fire, when all the family is back home in the evening, families drink this soup and also cook softened corn and enjoy. 

Tourists planning to visit in January: should pack plenty of winter gear, including insulated clothing, blankets, gloves, caps, and sturdy boots.

Popular places to explore are Toli Pir, Banjosa Lake, and Rawalakot.

February - A Winter Wonderland:

• Temperature: Similar to January, February experiences chilly weather, with temperatures ranging from 2°C to 11°C.

February in Poonch offers stunning snow-covered landscapes, making it ideal for travelers looking for winter sports. The pine trees look amazing when they are covered with snow. The whole landscape feels like a fairy wonderland. Local markets feature dried fruits and nuts, which are popular snacks to keep warm. You will see people listing fire in small oil tins everywhere and many will be sitting around the fire in markets and other places, enjoying chit chat mostly discussing politics of the area and Pakistan as the business is mostly quiet during winter. Most people prefer to buy essentials and winter clothes. 

Tourists planning a visit in February: should pack snow gear and consider joining skiing or snowshoeing adventures. Besides the previously mentioned places, don't miss the scenic beauty of Banjosa Lake under a white blanket.

March - A Transition to Spring:

• Temperature: The temperature starts to rise a little in March, ranging from 4°C to 14°C. But still, it can rain or snow anytime during the week. 

As the weather warms up, you'll notice the vibrant hues of blooming trees. Locals begin preparing their fields for the upcoming agricultural season, and fresh produce starts appearing in the markets. The fields are prepared to cultivate crops or vegetables. If someone is not selling, they grow for their homes, people mostly grow their own vegetables and prefer eating organic homegrown vegetables. 

For tourists coming in March: pack layers to adapt to changing weather and explore the region's natural beauty. Plan visits to Tatta Pani hot springs, Banjosa Lake, and the Ramkot Fort.

April - Spring in Full Bloom:

• Temperature: April witnesses a pleasant climate, with a bit better temperatures ranging from 9°C to 19°C.

April is the time for fruit trees to blossom. The area is covered with booming flowers everywhere, trees wearing different flowers, it feels like you are in a magical land full of colors and beauty. Fresh cherries and apricots become readily available, and the markets are filled with vibrant colors of different fruits and people also like to wear spring colors. The businesses are also in bloom as ladies do a lot of shopping for the spring, they visit markets to buy new prints and patterns of clothes. 

Travelers visiting in April: should pack light layers and comfortable walking shoes to explore places like Banjosa Lake, Poonch River, and Toli Pir Top.

May - Mild Spring Bliss:

• Temperature: May ushers in even warmer weather, the temperature at this time of the year is much better and ranges from 13°C to 24°C.

The sky is partly cloudy but so clear. You just look at the lush green valleys and a breeze of peace and joy fills you. May is the perfect time for nature enthusiasts to visit Poonch. Cherries and apricots are still in season, and the fragrant air is filled with the scent of flowers in full bloom.

Travelers can enjoy pleasant hikes in Poonch's lush landscapes. Be sure to visit Banjosa Lake and enjoy a boat ride or explore the Kotli area for a cultural experience.

June to September - The Monsoon Season:

• Temperature: The monsoon season brings rain and cooler temperatures, ranging from 16°C to 28°C. You can sit and wait for the rain to stop to go outside as when the rain pours, it feels like, everything will go with it, it is so strong with heavy wind storms. People prefer staying inside as the land outside is slippery,  the streets are mostly full of muddy water a streams are full of a flood. There are also many landslides. Nowadays the temperature moves little higher at times around 32°C also.
  

These months offer an abundance of locally grown vegetables and fruits like melons, peaches, and plums. Local cuisine flourishes with fresh ingredients.

Tourists should pack rain gear and umbrellas. Take great care while driving uphill from Azad Patan Bridge towards Poonch districts as the road is full of landslides, when a stone or rock falls, or mud starts pouring on roads, you never know. But there is an abundance of water in all streams, Poonch River, and waterfalls everywhere. Plan visits to the scenic areas around the Poonch River and experience the region's lush greenery.

October - The Start of Autumn:

• Temperature: October marks the transition to autumn, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 25°C. Nowadays the temperature also moves up till 32- 36°C

As the weather cools, autumn fruits like apples and pomegranates become available. This is an excellent time for trekking and exploring the outdoors.

Tourists should pack layers and comfortable walking shoes to enjoy the mild weather. Don't miss the vibrant autumn foliage in places like Banjosa Lake and Toli Pir.

 

November and December - Welcoming Winter:

• Temperature: The year ends with temperatures ranging from 4°C to 15°C.

As winter sets in, the focus turns to preserving local produce and enjoying hot beverages. Locals start preparing for snowfall. It snows every year in Rawalakot and its surrounding, when you come out of your home, the cold air double-edged daggers pierce through your heart. Its so cold every winter. It's October now when I am writing this post and already winter has started in Poonch. It's cold in evening and people have already started using sweaters, jackets and lit fire to protect them from cold.

Tourists visiting in November and December should pack winter gear, including warm clothing and gloves. Explore the beauty of snow-covered landscapes at Toli Pir and Banjosa Lake.

Banjosa is a serene and attractive destination located close to Rawalakot city. I love semicircular small hill and Banjosa rest house in the middle of this semi circle. Who ever choose this spot for rest house , did an amazing job. Once I have seen Banjosa Lake (Jheel in Urdu) on an Arabic TV News channel. It was quite surprising for me. I feel , we the locals have may be underrated the beauty. The things are changing now, people are coming from all over the world, at times there are foreign delegations as well. Many schools take kids for picnic there , also becoming a trend for families too. Last time my family visited there in Aug 2023. No one was well prepared and it started pouring like cats and dogs, all kids were wet and many got sick as well, so if you are traveling with kids, be careful. Nestled amidst lush green hills and surrounded by a pristine lake, Banjosa offers a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and travelers seeking tranquility. The Banjosa Lake, the centerpiece of the area, is an ideal spot for boating and picnics, while the surrounding forests provide excellent hiking opportunities. You can find boats in the lake and many swings for kids on reasonable rates. The Banjosa region is also home to comfortable guesthouses and resorts, making it a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Azad Kashmir region. To be honest with you, it was much quiet before, there are many families visiting now, but there is a lot of space around you can move uphill to find some me time away from the Lake. A bit more honesty: the Lake is not managed properly by  the authorities , it has a lot of grass grown inside and the water on the corners is smelly and muddy. If taken well care of , the lake is amazing but you know , no one is ready to invest and make it better again. Though it is, in current situation attracting a lot of tourists. This is also a good spot for local people to earn for their family by selling small items in shops. You can find a lot of stuff for consuming but the prices are so high, so if you can bring something that you feel like water, you will consume a lot, buy it from any market place before reaching Banjosa Lake.

Toli Peer, situated in the same Azad Kashmir region, District Poonch, is a lesser-known gem that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Perched at an altitude of over 8,800 feet, Toli Peer is often covered in snow during the winter months, making it a popular destination for snow sports and winter enthusiasts. People are coming from all directions now to this place, otherwise before they were going towards Banjosa Lake only. The journey to Toli Peer is an adventure in itself, as it involves navigating narrow mountain roads with scenic vistas. The area is adorned with vibrant alpine meadows during the summer, providing an excellent location for camping and trekking. Toli Peer offers an opportunity to connect with nature and revel in the stunning vistas that only this remote, high-altitude destination can provide. The Lush green mountain gives a feel like you are standing on a fairy tale area. The place is suitable for photographs offering a lot of scenic beauty.  

Rawalakot if you get a chance have a circular round around the city, you can clearly feel that the city is like a bowl, with mountains around and a valley in the middle. I lot of drone footages of the city with pink high roofed houses are available online, you can search and feel the magic this enchanted land offers. All of its surrounding areas offer a delightful mix of natural beauty and a rich cultural experience that's sure to leave any traveler in awe. Its not just the lush green valley, the cool breeze that hit you, once you enter from Islamabad Rawalakot road, the freshness, the smiley faces, the bright eyes, everything welcomes you. People are so hospitable. If you will be just looking outside window while coming towards the city, you will see a blend of culture and modernization. The houses are beautiful and also you can see traditional houses with sloped roofs to throw down the snow from roof. The whole city has much to offer. This city is also an education hub of Azad Kashmir(AK) with many schools, colleges and Universities both in Public and Private sector. 

• When it comes to finding a cozy place to spend the night, you're spoiled for choice. In Rawalakot itself, the Sangam Hotel is a welcoming retreat with comfortable rooms and a charming ambiance. 
• For those who prefer to be closer to nature, the Banjosa Lake Resort, just a short drive away, is perfect for lakeside accommodation. 
• To explore further, head over to Toli Peer, where the Pine Valley Hotel offers breathtaking mountain views. 
• Lastly, if you're feeling adventurous, venture into the enchanting Banjosa Valley and stay at the Toli Pir Guest House, where you'll be surrounded by lush meadows and a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you choose the heart of Rawalakot or its mesmerizing outskirts, you're in for an unforgettable experience in this hidden gem of Pakistan.

 These are just few choices to mention, the city and its surroundings has much more to offer.

 Just to reiterate: Must-Visit Places in District Poonch:

1. Banjosa Lake: A serene, man-made lake ideal for boating and picnics.
2. Toli Pir: A high-altitude meadow offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
3. Rawalakot: Known as the "Pearl of Kashmir" or "City of Lakes," it's famous for its lush greenery and scenic beauty.
4. Poonch River: Perfect for those seeking a peaceful natural escape.
5. Ramkot Fort: A historical fort with a panoramic view of the Mangla Dam.

Whether you're a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or a culture seeker, District Poonch in Azad Kashmir has something to offer in every season. The weather and local produce create a unique experience, and the picturesque landscapes are sure to leave you in awe. Plan your visit according to your preferences, and be prepared for an enchanting journey through this less-explored part of Pakistan.

In case, ever you are stuck and can not fix the problem, just knock any nearby door, you will experience the hospitality from every door. 

You can also check about Treks in Kashmir

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You can check few beautiful pictures here: Danish Khan Page

Trekking in Azad Kashmir- Importance of Walking

 The Importance of Walking: A Step Towards Sustainable Living

Trekking in Azad Kashmir

Trekking in Kashmir

Trekking in Northern Areas of Pakistan

In today's fast-paced world, cars and vehicles have already dominated our roads, it's easy to overlook the significance of a simple act - walking. But when you take a moment to step outside and observe the streets, if you are out on any road, look around and you will realize something peculiar: there are often more cars and vehicles around you on the road than the people. In this blog post, I'll try to highlight the importance of walking and how it can lead to a more sustainable and healthy lifestyle. 

Walking early in the morning can be beneficial for both your body and mind. From your busy life, you have to schedule a few minutes, if as little as 20 minutes brisk walk every day, this will positively change in overall well-being and you will be convinced and habitual of walking by yourself. 

Breathe in the air, its freshness is totally different than the air you breathe all day. You will hear birds chirping, a feeling of peace and serenity around you. When you realize how the morning walk brings positivity, and how you feel fresh all day, you will continue walking. If you visit any nearby walking trek in the morning, you can see mostly old people walking there. Start today to live a healthy tomorrow. If a morning walk is not possible for you, this is not the excuse, not to walk, you can schedule any time, evening or morning. Even if you go to your office or school by bus or train, walk a few steps to get on your bus. If one wants then there is always a way to do things. Make up your mind to walk. Read about the importance of walking and health benefits, hopefully, you will strive to change.

The Importance of Walking

1. Promotes Physical Health: Precaution is always better than the cure. Ask any Dr. and listen to how he will highlight the importance of a low-impact exercise like walking,  for at least 20 minutes every day to save you from many heart, joint, etc. diseases. This exercise is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels. It helps maintain a healthy weight in your body, burns extra fats, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves your overall cardiovascular health.

2. Mental Well-being: When you go out of your house to walk, you are totally in a new world, for some time, at least, you forget your life pressures, and forget about what your boss told you to do, you try to concentrate on a new world around you. We become curious to know about and experience a new world that we are in now while walking. Walking has a positive impact on mental health. It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, and provides an opportunity to clear your mind and soul and connect with nature around you. Take that time to appreciate the beauty that the Creator has created for you.
   

3. Eco-Friendly Commuting: Our Earth's atmosphere is full of pollution, and the situation in many places is already alarming. If we want to think about our future generations then we must utilize alternating ways to reach our destination. If something is around the corner of the street then why not walk or take a bicycle and then go on the car? Walking is one of the most eco-friendly modes of transportation. By choosing to walk instead of driving, you reduce your carbon footprint, decrease air pollution, and ease traffic congestion, this will not only bring a sense of peace in your life and change your overall mood but also you are helping others.

4. Cost-Effective: Walking is a budget-friendly way to get from point one point to the other. You don't need to spend money on gas, parking, or public transportation. You can just walk, and enjoy the scenes around you.
   

5. Community Building: While walking you can better connect with the people on the road, and also know about the situation people are living in that you never realized before. You can know the world around you in a better way. This will make you more human as a human is a social animal and likes to connect with the world and people around. Walking encourages community interaction in a better way. Though we feel that we have advanced communication technology, and can make calls to people who are thousands of miles away this advancement has also pushed us towards isolation, isolation from the world around us. We are already in a dream or virtual world with the least contact with, where are living. When you walk, you're more likely to stop and chat with neighbors, fostering a sense of belonging. This will help you to more people, talk with them, and get new ideas, you may find help and you can also provide help by knowing the world around you. Dive into a new world that is around you.

6. Independence: You may always start alone and this brings confidence. On the way, you may find like-minded people and continue walking with them. Start interacting with them, this will help build or find new ideas and it polishes communication skills and confidence. Walking promotes self-reliance and independence. It's a mode of transportation that doesn't rely on external resources. Trust your legs and start today.
   

7. Exploration: Walking allows you to explore your surroundings more intimately. You are deeply connected with people and surroundings. You can discover hidden gems in your own neighborhood, and meet new communities, that you might miss while driving.

I am not a Physician but everything I am writing I have also learned from doctors as I had high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure during Corona time and Dr. advised me to walk and change my lifestyle, telling me to move towards a simple lifestyle, in living, habits, and food will always bring a positive impact on our bodies. I tried and I was successful. I started walking for half an hour every morning, apart from that I changed my food, started preparing food more often at home, and used less oils, and less red meat. This all helped me to be Cholesterol free. But the whole activity took almost a year to change and bring my life back on track. I am living a much simpler and healthier life now. 

Now that we've already talked about the importance of walking, let's shift our focus to the breathtaking treks of Azad Kashmir. If you are living in Azad Kashmir or Kashmir or any city with scenic beauty and you are not taking time to get out of your homes, you are missing a lot. Kashmir is a full package of beauty, you can see nature in its full bloom, wherever you go. If you are not living in Kashmir I would suggest visiting. This will be a lifetime experience for you.

Trekking in Azad Kashmir

Let us dig into this" Paradise on Earth" 

Area of Azad Kashmir: 13, 297 square kilometers 

Largest city/ Capital of Azad Kashmir: Muzzaffrabad

Distance of Muzzaffrabad from the Capital of Pakistan Islamabad: 135 kilometers. 2 hours 30 minutes

Azad Kashmir is nestled in the magnificent Himalayas, If you go to any city of Azad Kashmir and look around you, you will realize that the city is like a bowl, with high mountains on the sides and valleys at the bottom. Azad Kashmir offers some of the most spectacular trekking experiences. If you love to trek this can be a memorable addition to your bucket list. 

If you ever plan to visit no matter whether it's a summer season, keep a few winter clothes and light blankets with you. You never know, when it's gonna rain.  Keep a few minty candies with you as the vehicle will start going round and round uphill you will feel dizzy. Try to enjoy the scenery out of the window rather than to think about how the vehicle is moving towards its destination, this will reduce any chances of throwing up that normally happens with kids and ladies visiting for the first time. 

You can always visit https://www.tripadvisor.com/ or any other site than this to have a look at the beautiful pictures of all areas of Azad Kashmir, that many photographers have shared. I am listing here some of the must-visit trekking destinations in this picturesque region:

1. Neelum Valley Treks: The Neelum Valley is a place where natural paradise breathes fresh, whole area is densely surrounded by forests and majestic high-caped mountains. The elevation of the valley varies from around 4,000 feet to 7,500 feet, and those towering peaks on either side of the road can reach an impressive 17,000 feet. This valley stretches over a distance of 144 kilometers (that's about 89 miles), making it a truly spectacular and extensive natural wonder. If you want to come from Islamabad then it will take 7 hr 12 min (234.8 km) to reach here. The Neelum Valley is famous for its Lush green grasslands, woody Pine and Deodar Trees dense forests, delightful clement weather, and fresh enchanting waters of streams, springs, waterfalls, and rivers. Let's not overlook the breathtaking high, snow-capped mountains, proudly standing as a majestic backdrop to the lush green valleys' scenery. Neelum Valley boasts lush green valleys, crystal-clear water in its rivers, and mesmerizing landscapes. Treks in this area take you through pristine wilderness and lead to captivating locations. Neelum District is considered to be the poorest area in Azad Kashmir. 

2. 
   
   Shounter Lake Trek: Shounter Lake is a hidden gem of Azad Kashmir, and the trek to this turquoise gem is an experience that will be saved in your memories forever. Shounter Lake is a picturesque waterbody nestled in Shounter Valley, which is a sub-valley Neelam Valley, Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. This captivating lake sits at an altitude of 3,100 meters (approximately 10,200 feet) above sea level. Nestled within the captivating natural scenery, Shounter Lake is a breathtaking spectacle that will truly mesmerize you. Shounter Pass which you will use to reach the lake is a mountainous pass with an elevation of 4,420 meters (14,501ft) above sea level.

3. Ratti Gali Trek: The name Ratti Gali came from the red shades of the adjacent slopes of the mountains and plateaus ('ratta' means 'red' in the Punjabi Language). Ratti also means red in the local Pahari language of Azad Kashmir Rattli Gali is also famous for its lake: Dowarian Lake, which is an alpine glacial lake. The lake is 12,083 ft. from the sea level.  The distance from the capital Islamabad is 155 Km and it will take 4 and a half hours to get here. The best time to visit the lake is in Monsoun as it is full at the time but it may be challenging, so put on proper shoes so you avoid slipping. Its area and its delightful landscape are referred to as the 'jewel of Neelum Valley'. It is best not to drive yourself if you are not familiar with the rough driving of Azad Kashmir. You can easily find jeeps that locals drive, they know the area and its roads well. The jeeps cost approx. Rs. 5,500, if you want to return on the same-day return and it will cost you  Rs. 7,500-10,000 if you want to return the next day. The local jeep drivers hurtle around the corners of the roads at a high speed and drive close to the sharp cliff edges of the cut rocks due to the rough terrain, do not get scared. If you do, you can take the horse ride. Enjoy your ride and scenery around and forget about the fear. These all are treks of Azad Kashmir so one has to choose wisely the time of visit. The best time to visit the Ratti Gali trek and Ratti Gali lake is from June to September as it will get colder and the trek will be slippery and muddy. It will become challenging for the visitors from outside the area. This trek is renowned for its alpine lakes and enchanting meadows. The journey is a true adventure, with jaw-dropping vistas awaiting those who complete it. Check the scenery of this beautiful valley on facebook reel: https://www.facebook.com/reel/438505458299331

   

4. Leepa Valley Treks: Leepa Valley is situated in Hattian Bala District, Azad Kashmir, at a height
   of 10,000 feet equal to 3000m above sea level. Its elevation is 6,302 feet. Its population is about 75000 in 2023 and people are farming, working in offices, rearing cattle, and doing business to earn their livelihood. Its distance from the Captial Muzzaffrabad, Azad Kashmir is 83 km. Known for its apple orchards going along with you everywhere and its serene ambiance. Leepa Valley offers treks that allow you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Azad Kashmir. Why not explore this marvel any time soon? What are you waiting for?

5. Ganga Choti Trek: Ganga Choti, located in District Bagh of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, is a high peak ascending to an elevation of 3,045 meters. You have to travel the 166.2km distance from Islamabad to read here which will take around 5 hours and 15 minutes, remember you can never cover 1km per minute on the roads of Kashmir.  But getting to Ganga Choti was never easier before after the newly built access road. You can visit this magical place any time of the year as the weather is mostly nice in Bagh District. You can plan an overnight stay in an immense enchanted land and the height of Ganga Choti. Reach the new highest of your trekking history.  It stands tall at its breathtaking height. Not like any other nearby height. This is the highest point of the District Bagh, Azad Kashmir. The astounding views of the valley that the Ganga Choti offers to make it an incredible point to visit, a sight to behold. Canga Choti geographical marvel is a constituent of the Pir Panjal Range within the Lower Himalayas. It is located between the Union Council of Birpani and the charming Sudhan Gali village. Ganga Choti is a fantastic vantage point that offers panoramic views of the Neelum Valley. The trek to this peak is a must for any adventure enthusiast. What are you waiting for, just pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable,  captivating journey of Ganga Choti. The word Choti means peak in the local language. 

6. Rawalakot Trekking: Situated at the height of 1638m from sea level it is the "Pearl of Kashmir," the beautiful Rawalakot, the regional title it shares is "Heaven on Earth." The beauty of this enchanting pearl of natural beauty is unparalleled. Rawalkot and its surroundings are covered with lush green landscapes. The roads go to almost every house in Rawalkaot there is a vast network of roads, reaching almost every home. This area takes center stage due to many tourism opportunities, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Though the culture is not so rich, Rawalakot's fame lies primarily in the exquisite allure of its natural surroundings and its thriving tourism industry. People are highly educated, and they can easily understand English, the official language is Urdu but local people speak Pahari. Mesmerising Rawalakot is the Capital of District Poonch, one of the oldest, 3rd most populous cities, and richest,  districts of Azad Kashmir. This beautiful valley is located in the Pir Punjal Mountain Range. If you are coming from Islamabad then it will take  3 hr 12 min (116.9 km) via Rawalakot Rd. The average temperature throughout the year normally varies from 25°F to 84°F and is rarely below 20°F or above 90°F. Rawalakot, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of Pakistan," offers a variety of treks that wind through dense forests, making it a haven for nature lovers. You can find many hotels, rest houses, and restaurants in Rawalakot city and its surroundings easily. If you visit Rawalkot then it is best to also visit Banosa Lake. People grow a lot of vegetables, you will see apple orchards, plum trees, and vegetable vines hanging almost from every house wall.  The average yearly rainfall is 508 mm. You can check more details at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rawalakot

7. Toli Pir Trek: Toli Pir is situated in District Poonch, it is a Tehsil of Rawalakot. a spiritual and natural marvel. This hilltop is located at a height of 9000ft from the sea level. It takes only a 45-minute drive from Rawalkot City. The trek is not only refreshing but also provides a chance to explore local culture and traditions. If you have heard about Toli Pir National Park and thinking about what kind of animals can you find in is park then I have the answer for you. Well, you can find different types of plants and animals life in this natural park. You can come across some incredible creatures, a few endangered species like the Himalayan black bear, leopards, and even the elusive snow leopard. This park is nestled in the western Himalayan mountains, ranging from about 1,500 to a whopping 7,000 meters from the sea level. This all makes it a real natural hotspot for biodiversity!

8. Arang Kel Trek: Arang Khel is the Pearl of Neelum Valley, it is situated at the height of 8379 feet from sea level. Summer is the best season to visit Arang Kel. The grasslands become lush green with the sight of grazing goats, horses, and cattle. Nestled amidst lush green surroundings, the Arang Kel trek is a journey to a charming, secluded village that offers tranquility and unspoiled beauty. Arriving in Khel, a village with a bumpy yet accessible road from Upper Neelum, is easy with all types of vehicles, you can stay at a cozy hotel right across from the Pakistan Tourism Hotel. Keep an eye on your booking and always book hotels before arriving here as at times it becomes hard to find available accommodation in ArrangKhel. After a night's stay, you can take a cable lift to the Arrangkhel mountains at a reasonable 250 rupees per person. The scenic one-hour hike to the summit had a few slippery spots, so a walking stick will be handy, especially for elderly hikers. Local tour guides near Pakistan Tourism hotels can show you an easier, less steep route. Always ask them before you embark on your adventure. So, keep these tips in mind for a smooth and enjoyable adventure when you visit. Check the picture of this beautiful valley here: https://pakistantravelplaces.com/

In this post, you have got not only information on the Treks of Azad Kashmir but also some information about the area in general. There is so much more to share, that will be the story of another day. Explore these treks in Azad Kashmir, and you'll understand why they are considered some of the most alluring destinations for outdoor enthusiasts in the world. Embracing the importance of walking and trekking not only leads to personal well-being but also connects you with the breathtaking beauty of this region, promoting sustainable tourism and appreciation of nature's wonders. So, why not take that first step and embark on your walking adventure today?

 3388 Words

Thank you so much for most of the pictures Sayyaf:  https://www.facebook.com/sayyaf.khan.50

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Teachers & Importance of Education

When

I reached my office today, one of my colleague, wished me Teacher’s Day. I was happy to know about this important day and I wished her back. I have written a post about International Teachers Day, you can check that here.

Many days are celebrated internationally each day and there was the time when, I used to think that, it is useless to celebrate such day. But slowly  I came to realize if teacher’s day is important for me, rest will be important for many others, even if not me. Then I started admiring all the celebrated day expect those that contradict with the teachings of  my religion like Valentine’s Day.

I believe that celebration of any particular day internationally reminds us to acknowledge and admire the importance and efforts of any person and event in our lives like; Mother’s day, Father’s Day, Women’s Day, Children’s Day etc.

Coming back to the point, I believe after our parents the person, who is most important in our lives is our teacher.

If parents feed our body then teachers feed our soul and mind. We are pretty sure that how much important is the development of our mind and thoughts with our body.

Islam has special importance for teachers and it can be noted by the fact that Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) described him as a teacher to humanity.

A lot of emphasis is on the respect and importance of education in Islam. When first revelation was sent to Prophet Muhammad ( P.B.U.H) it was about reading;

“ Read, Read with the name of your Lord who has created you. “

* I am thankful to Almighty Allah that He has given me a chance to see the city of my beloved Prophet Muhammad(P.B.U.H) Madinah Manawarah .

In a Hadith it is said,

” Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.”

In another Hadith it is stated;

“ Acquire knowledge, even if, you have to travel to China.”

1400 years ago, traveling to China was a big challenge, so this example was given to emphasize the importance and need of education and to overcome any hardship in the way of the education.

I feel myself to be blessed as many wonderful teachers, teach me throughout my life. They gave me motivation to move on and move forward. Who teach me to face challenges. Who teach me to become what I am today. I am happy with the fact that I got some amazing teachers in my life. After I saw their kindness and passion to take the profession of Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H), I decided to join this profession as well.

I strongly believe that teaching is a sacred profession and profession of prophets. It is not just about giving bookish knowledge to students but giving them a way of life. It is about telling to students about the importance of life and teaching them how they can be beneficial to the society and humanity.

Education opens our mind and help us to see the things in a broader prospective. It teach us to work hard to bring positive change in the world.

Here, we cannot deny the fact that there are some teachers who have made this sacred profession as business and do not care much about rest but their heavy pocket. There are black sheep everywhere. But we cannot deny the importance of education and a good teacher and few cannot make us forget about the sacrifices of many because of whose efforts we are living in a life eased with technology.

I want to take this opportunity to thank all wonderful teachers all around the world and specially amazing teachers that I have met with.

Thank you! Thank you for your efforts, honesty, devotion, dedication and hard work. Thank you for everything!