Trekking to Ratti Gali Lake is one of those experiences that stays with you long after the hike is over. But as breathtaking as the lake is, getting there can be a bit of a challenge, like most beautiful places in Pakistan. From the unpredictable weather to the tricky trail, there’s a lot to consider before setting off. Having done the trek myself, I’ll share what I wish I’d known ahead of time—so you can be fully prepared for this incredible journey.
So, What’s the Big Deal About Ratti Gali?
Ratti Gali was my first-ever trek in Pakistan—yeah, I know, a bit late for someone born and raised here. But that just made it more special. I was part of an adventure society in college, and honestly, your first trek is like your first love. Sure, there are grander hikes, but this one? It left a mark.
Objectively, though, Ratti Gali lake is stunning. Imagine standing at the edge of a lake that shifts between emerald green and turquoise, surrounded by glacier-capped mountains. It’s the kind of view that makes you blink twice to believe it’s real.
The best part? It’s way more accessible than some of the other stunning treks in Pakistan. Whether you’re coming from Lahore or Islamabad, if you can’t carve out the time for a trip to Gilgit-Baltistan, this trek is the perfect alternative. Sitting at an altitude of around 12,140 feet (3,700 meters), it’s one of the highest alpine lakes in the country and is fed by glacial melt. So, yeah, it’s kind of a big deal.
Quick Look
Elevation Gain: 12,140 ft (3,700 m)
When to Go: June to September
Difficulty: Moderate (Easy if you take a horse)
Distance: 18 km from Dowarian
Location: Neelum Valley
How to Get There: Lahore to Ratti Gali
Lahore to Muzaffarabad
So, the journey to Ratti Gali starts long before your feet hit the trail. For me, it was a road trip from Lahore with my friends, heading towards the picturesque valleys of Azad Kashmir. The landscape starts to change pretty quickly once you cross Islamabad—urban chaos gives way to towering mountains and winding roads.
By the time we reached Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir, we were all buzzing with excitement.
From Muzaffarabad, it’s another few hours to Dowarian, the nearest village to the lake in Neelum Valley where the trek begins. The drive is absolutely stunning, with mountains towering on both sides and the Neelum River winding below. It’s the perfect teaser for what’s to come.
Jeep to the Base Camp
Now, this is where things get a little more rugged. We had to switch to a 4×4 jeep to reach the base camp. The track itself has been hit by floods in recent years, making the ride even bumpier than it used to be. Picture this: you’re hanging on for dear life, bouncing along the washed-out road, with nothing but sheer drops on one side and towering peaks on the other. It’s thrilling, but definitely not for the faint of heart.
The jeep ride through the rugged terrain takes about two hours and costs around 1,500 PKR per person—it’s a bumpy adventure! You can hire the whole jeep for around 11,000-12,000 PKR if you’re with a group.
Once you finally reach the Ratti Gali base camp, you’ll need to rest up and fuel your body for the actual trek ahead. There are basic camping facilities available, and the views are already breathtaking—snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and a hint of the adventure waiting for you at the top. The trek from the base camp to Ratti Gali Lake is about 18 kilometers and can take anywhere between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. But honestly, with views like these, you’ll want to take your time.
Trek Overview: Dowarian to Ratti Gali
Start at Dowarian
The trek begins in the village of Dowarian, which sits at an elevation of around 1,700 meters. From here, you have the option to either hike the entire 18 km route to Ratti Gali or take a jeep up to the base camp.
Back when I first did this trek, the jeep track didn’t exist, so we hiked it all the way from Dowarian. Now, you have the option to save some energy and let the jeep do part of the work.
Jeep Track
The jeep ride will take you roughly 15 km up to the base camp, which is situated at around 3,000 meters in Domail. However, recent floods have damaged sections of the track, so you may need to hike some portions if the jeep can’t get through.
From Base Camp to the Lake
Once at the base camp, the final stretch to the lake awaits—around 1-2 hours. It’s a moderate climb with about 300 meters of elevation gain. Horses are available if you’d rather ride, but for those who want to fully experience the trail, hiking is the way to go.
As you ascend, the air gets cooler, and the scenery becomes more dramatic. You’ll pass through streams, narrow wooden bridges, and meadows filled with wildflowers.
If you’re planning a trip, keep in mind that heavy snowfall makes the lake inaccessible during the winter, so stick to the June-September window.
The Final Stretch
You’ll know you’re close when the air gets crisper and the towering peaks loom larger. The last 5 km or so is the perfect warm-up for the jaw-dropping view waiting for you. As you approach, you’ll catch glimpses of the turquoise water shimmering in the sunlight, and then—boom—Ratti Gali Lake in all its glory.
It’s hard to put the feeling into words. After hours of trekking, you’re greeted by this glacial lake, perfectly reflecting the towering glaciers and rocky cliffs surrounding it. You can’t help but stand there, taking it all in, feeling both small and incredibly lucky to witness something so beautiful.
Spending the Night by the Lake (Yep, We Camped!)
There’s something magical about camping by Ratti Gali Lake. Setting up our tent by the water, surrounded by the quiet of the mountains, felt like stepping into a postcard. The silence is overwhelming in the best way—just the sound of wind and distant waterfalls. Camping here is basic, so make sure to bring your own gear and enough supplies. It gets cold at night, so layering up is key. But trust me, waking up to the sunrise over the lake is worth every chilly moment.
Where to Stay Before and After
If you’re looking for accommodation before or after the trek, Keran is a great option. Located about 45 minutes from Dowarian, it offers a range of places to stay, including Keran Resort where we stayed. It’s a great spot to rest up before the adventure or to relax afterward. With peaceful surroundings and more amenities than you’ll find at base camp, it’s perfect for unwinding after a few days in the mountains.
A Few Things You Should Know Before You Go
First off, porters aren’t essential, but if you’re carrying a lot of gear or planning to camp, it’s not a bad idea to hire one. It lightens the load and helps support the local economy.
Safety Tips You’ll Be Glad You Knew
The trail is mostly straightforward, but it’s always a good idea to stay on the marked paths. The weather can change quickly at higher altitudes, so keep an eye out for clouds rolling in. A map or GPS can help, but locals are usually the best guides.
What to Pack (and What I Forgot!)
Pack layers, a good windproof jacket, and sturdy hiking boots. I forgot a power bank, which was a mistake! You’ll also want sunscreen, water purification tablets, and enough food and water for the journey—there’s not much once you leave base camp.
Let’s Keep Ratti Gali Beautiful: How You Can Help
It breaks my heart to see beautiful places like Ratti Gali lose their charm because of litter. Please, pack out whatever you bring in—trash, plastic, everything. If you can’t respect the environment, maybe hiking and camping aren’t for you. Keeping the lake pristine is a small responsibility, but it makes a huge difference. Let’s all do our part to preserve this gem for future adventurers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the estimated cost for a jeep ride to Ratti Gali Base Camp?
The estimated cost for a jeep ride to Ratti Gali Base Camp is around 1,500 PKR per person. If you're traveling in a group, you can hire the entire jeep for approximately 11,000 to 12,000 PKR. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season and demand.
Is it safe to hike to Ratti Gali Lake alone?
I wouldn’t recommend hiking to Ratti Gali Lake alone. While the trail itself is generally safe, safety in Pakistan can sometimes be unpredictable, and it’s always better to hike with a group or hire a guide to ensure a safer, smoother experience.
Is the Ratti Gali Trek difficult?
The Ratti Gali Trek is considered moderately difficult. The trail has a steady incline, and the terrain can be a bit rugged in places. If you’re reasonably fit and take your time, it’s manageable, but you can also hire a horse for the more challenging sections.
Is Ratti Gali Lake open?
Ratti Gali Lake is open year-round, but it’s important to note that heavy snowfall in the winter can make the trek much more challenging. While the lake is accessible during all seasons, the best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is milder and the jeep track is more likely to be open.
