Overview
Rawalakot is the capital of Poonch District in Azad Kashmir, sitting in a saucer-shaped valley at 1,615 metres (5,300 ft) elevation. Known as the Pearl Valley, it offers lush green mountains, dense pine forests, and access to attractions like Banjosa Lake, hot springs, and mountain viewpoints.
Mountains · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Activities
Rock climbing, mountaineering, trekking, and camping are popular. Banjosa Lake and Tatta Pani hot springs are main attractions.
Money
Currency is Pakistani Rupee (PKR). Credit cards rarely accepted outside major hotels. Cash-based economy in town.
Transport
Rawalakot is 120 km from Islamabad. Bus takes 5 hours, wagon about 3.5 hours. Guoien Nalla road is the main route. A local airport is closed.
Weather
Best visited April to August. Winter brings snow and -5°C temperatures at higher elevations. Summer is pleasant in mountains, hot in valleys.