Islamabad to Ratti Gali Distance, Routes & Travel Duration

 

Travel Options from Islamabad to Ratti Gali

By Road

Distance: Approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles)

Route:

1. Start from Islamabad and head north on the Murree Road (N-75) towards Murree.
2. From Murree, continue on the N-75 towards Kohala.
3. At Kohala, cross the Jhelum River and enter Azad Kashmir.
4. Continue on the Neelum Valley Road (N-45) passing through Muzaffarabad, Athmuqam, and Keran.
5. From Keran, travel northeast towards Ratti Gali Lake.

Travel Duration: Approximately 6-8 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. The journey includes winding mountain roads and may require stops for rest and refreshments.

By Train

Currently, there is no direct train service from Islamabad to Ratti Gali as the region is not connected by rail. The nearest major railway station is in Rawalpindi.

By Plane

There are no commercial flights directly to Ratti Gali as it does not have an airport. The nearest airports are:

1. Islamabad International Airport (ISB):

   • Distance to Ratti Gali: Approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles)
   • Travel Options: After landing in Islamabad, travelers can opt for road transport to continue towards Ratti Gali as described above.

2. Muzaffarabad Airport (MFG):

   • Distance to Ratti Gali: Approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles)
   • Travel Options: From Muzaffarabad, travelers can continue by road towards Ratti Gali via Athmuqam and Keran.

Road Trip Details

The road journey from Islamabad to Ratti Gali offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills and valleys. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the route and essential travel information:

Route Description

1. Islamabad to Murree:

   • Distance: Approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles)
   • Route: Take the Murree Road (N-75) northwards from Islamabad. Enjoy the scenic drive through the Margalla Hills National Park before reaching Murree, a popular hill station.

2. Murree to Kohala:

   • Distance: Approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles)
   • Route: Continue on the N-75 towards Kohala. This stretch offers panoramic views of the Jhelum River and surrounding hills.

3. Kohala to Muzaffarabad:

   • Distance: Approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles)
   • Route: Cross the Jhelum River at Kohala and enter Azad Kashmir. Follow the Neelum Valley Road (N-45) southwards to Muzaffarabad, the capital city.

4. Muzaffarabad to Keran:

   • Distance: Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles)
   • Route: From Muzaffarabad, continue northeast on the N-45 towards Athmuqam. Pass through picturesque villages and lush green valleys before reaching Keran.

5. Keran to Ratti Gali:

   • Distance: Approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles)
   • Route: From Keran, head northeast towards the Ratti Gali Pass. The road might be narrow and unpaved in parts, requiring careful driving.

Travel Tips

• Road Conditions: While the roads are generally well-maintained, some sections may be narrow and winding, particularly as you approach Ratti Gali. It’s advisable to drive during daylight hours and check weather conditions beforehand.

• Accommodation: Limited accommodation options are available near Ratti Gali. Consider booking in advance or preparing for camping if planning to stay overnight.

• Local Guidance: Engage with local guides or tour operators for insights into the best times to visit and any safety considerations.

Conclusion

Traveling from Islamabad to Ratti Gali offers a scenic journey through the picturesque landscapes of Azad Kashmir and the Neelum Valley. Whether by road from Islamabad or via nearby airports, visitors can experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Ratti Gali Lake and its surroundings. Plan your trip accordingly, ensuring to enjoy the journey as much as the destination itself.