sharan forest | A Complete Travel Guide

 

Sharan forest | A Complete Travel Guide: Sharan Forest, nestled in the enchanting Kaghan Valley, stands out as a sought-after summer retreat for both locals and international visitors, thanks to its meticulously preserved natural beauty. This destination provides an unspoiled, verdant haven free from excessive commercialization. The lush expanse of Sharan's forest extends a warm greeting with each visit, accompanied by the melodic tunes of chirping birds, delightful weather, and invigorating breezes, making it a perfect haven for nature aficionados.

For a tranquil and serene encounter with nature, consider being a guest at this destination at least once in your lifetime (or more, especially if you're a passionate traveler). Renowned among the travel community, this place is famous for its Sharan Forest Winter survival trips and Sharan Forest Camping expeditions. Adequate preparation and full equipment are essential for such adventures.

Places to Visit and Attractions Around Sharan Forest

Sharan Waterfall

Embarking on a downhill trek of 45 minutes to 1 hour from Sharan Camping Pods brings you to the enchanting Sharan Waterfall, gracefully descending into the Kunhar River. The trail, characterized by mud and steepness, lacks proper paving, emphasizing the recommendation to have a local guide accompany you, particularly if it's your initial visit. 

Manshi Top

Manshi Top sits on the border of Allai Valley and Kaghan Valley, standing proudly at an elevation of 9000 ft. The journey to this majestic destination involves a 2-3 hour-long, steep hike through the dense Sharan Forest, and the difficulty varies with one's pace. For those venturing here for the first time, it is recommended to enlist the assistance of a local guide, as it is a trek suitable for beginners.

Manshi Top comprises two points, Manshi 1 and Manshi 2. While many consider Manshi 1 as the top, the true destination is Manshi 2. At the summit, a small hut provides basic facilities for overnight stays, and a locally-managed tuck shop offers snacks and tea.

The pinnacle of Manshi Top reveals expansive grassy lands and a small water pond. Its uniqueness lies in the breathtaking panoramic view it offers. On clear days, the vista includes Allai Valley to the north, Makra Peak, Siri Paye, and Shogran to the south, Malika-e-Parbat with Saif-ul-Malook Lake downhill and Manoor Valley to the east, and Musa Ka Musalla Ka Musallah to the west.

Night Stay Options at Sharan Forest / Hotels in Sharan Forest

Sharan Forest Camping Pods Resort:

The highlight of Sharan Forest is the set of Camping Pods established by the KPK Government to foster eco-tourism endeavors in the region. With approximately 11 pods, the facilities include a handful of toilets, a Kitchen tent, and a dining tent for visitors. These pods come in varying occupancies, accommodating either two or four beds, and supplementary mattresses, pillows, and blankets are available upon request. Operating solely on solar electricity, the pods offer a minimal voltage in the sockets, rendering them unsuitable for charging electronic devices. Hence, it is advisable to bring along your power banks.

Additionally, there is a designated camping area and a small playground for children. For convenient Sharan Camping Pods reservations, you can utilize the official website of KP Tourism.

Sharan Youth Hostel

The Sharan Forest Youth Hostel stands just a short distance from the Sharan Camping Pods, featuring two large halls that were originally British Era Youth Hostel buildings. These structures have been refurbished and are under the care of the Pakistan Youth Hostels Association. Available for rent, the halls can be booked as a whole or on a per-bed basis, making them an ideal choice for backpackers.

For adventure enthusiasts or those on a budget, the hostel offers a camping setup. Additionally, wooden pods have been constructed specifically for families. The facility includes a dedicated kitchen camp and a dining camp for visitors, providing the option to cook your own meals.

For reservations, you may utilize the official website of the Pakistan Youth Hostels Association.

Sharan Forest Resort

Sharan Forest Glamps/Resort offers a luxurious and cozy choice in Sharan. With several glamps of varying capacities, the facility can host approximately 20 to 25 people simultaneously. In addition to the glamps, they provide a compact camping arrangement for those who enjoy adventure. Guests can conveniently order their meals from the on-site kitchen.

One notable feature of Sharan Glamps is the breathtaking view it provides.

Chinar Resort Sharan

Chinar Resorts Sharan presents an opulent choice for visitors in Sharan, providing deluxe and standard category rooms, a picturesque lawn, and an awe-inspiring view. The facility includes a spacious dining area and a restaurant serving high-quality cuisine.

Navigating to Sharan Forest / Preferred Route to Reach Sharan Forest

When journeying from Lahore, follow the M2 Lahore-Islamabad Motorway, then proceed towards M15 Hazara Motorway to reach Balakot, and continue to Kiwai or Paras. Accessible by any type of vehicle, one can reach Paras or Kiwai. From there, a 4×4 jeep track leads to Sharan Forest, starting in Paras, a small town on the Kaghan-Babusar Road.

Renting jeeps is an option from Kiwai and Paras, with costs ranging from 8000-12000 PKR per jeep, depending on whether you plan to stay overnight or return the same day.

Sharan Forest Road / Sharan Forest Jeep Trail

The journey to Sharan Forest from Paras unfolds along a 16 km long jeep track. This narrow and steep route is exclusively suitable for 4×4 vehicles operated by skilled professionals. Along the way, travelers are treated to a sweeping panoramic vista of Kaghan-Babusar road, Shogran, Siri Paye, and the snow-clad mountains of Kaghan Valley. The track also winds through the dense and verdant greenery of Sharan's forest, offering a captivating experience.

Sharan Forest Distance

Sharan Forest is located 624 km away from Lahore, 250 km from Islamabad, and a mere 16 km from Paras.

Food Quality and Options In Sharan Forest

Sharan Camping Pods and Sharan Youth Hostel offer small kitchen camps where you have the option to either cook your own food or request the managers to prepare it for you, though the latter is subject to the available ration. To streamline the process, it is recommended to either bring your own ration or communicate with the management during the booking process.

On the other hand, Chinar Resort Sharan and Sharan Glamps provide food services upon order directly from their menu.

Sharan Forest Weather

The onset of the Summer Season in Sharan occurs around April/May and extends until July or mid-August. Throughout this period, daytime weather is generally pleasant, featuring intermittent rain showers, occasional warmth, and sunny spells, as well as frequent cloudiness and fog. However, nights in Sharan become notably cold.

The Monsoon Season in Sharan Forest spans from July to late September/October, characterized by substantial rainfall and thunderstorms. During the monsoons, the forest is often enveloped in clouds and fog.

As for the Winter Season in Sharan Forest, heavy snowfall is prevalent, leading to temperatures dropping to around 3-4 degrees Celsius, with occasional dips into negative values.

The Top 10 Attractions in the Hunza Valley

1. Baltit Fort

Initially, the Mirs of Hunza resided within its walls.

2. Attabad Lake

Moreover, Attabad Lake provides access to several upscale hotels, with Luxus Hunza serving as a luxurious glamping destination in Attabad. Families can easily visit this lake and enjoy a comfortable environment.

3. Rakaposhi View Point

Experience awe-inspiring panoramas of Rakaposhi Mountain from this vantage point on Karimabad Hill. 

4. Passu Cones

Situated in close proximity to Passu Village, these majestic cones are the result of glaciers sculpting over centuries into their current remarkable form. The vista from this location is truly breathtaking!

Evident in the background behind Hussaini Bridge, the Passu Cones contribute to an almost dreamlike ambiance for those crossing the bridge. Offering excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking, the Passu Cones are an absolute must-see.

5. Hussaini Suspension Bridge

The Hussaini Bridge spans 400 steps from end to end. Despite being robust and secure, it can be quite daunting for some individuals.

 A must-try at the little juice outlet is the fresh cherry juice. Additionally, the community has set up small stalls offering locally grown dry fruits for sale.

6. Altit Fort

Situated in the Hunza Valley, this 900-year-old fort is a compelling attraction that shouldn't be missed. Meticulously restored to retain its original features and architecture, the fort exudes an ancient ambiance.

Renowned for its royal gardens and neighboring settlements, Altit Fort transcends being merely a site; it is a living legacy in perpetual evolution. The views from Altit Fort are both stunning and mesmerizing.

7. Gulmit Village

Situated along the Hunza River, Gulmit is renowned for its ancient mosques, traditional bazaars, and captivating views from Passu Bridge. Don't forget to explore the Hunza Cultural Museum and the Hunza Arts Council.

Gulmit offers a comprehensive experience for tourists, featuring towering peaks, historical landmarks, pleasant temperatures, and delightful weather. Serving as the gateway to five distinct valleys, it stands as the valley with the highest visitor influx.

10. Hunza River

A pivotal feature of Hunza is the majestic Hunza River, winding its way through the entire valley. Venture on a boat ride to uncover the myriad gorges, animated rapids, and charming streams of Hunza.

Ensure you explore these top ten places when you immerse yourself in the wonders of Hunza!

Eat with a View: Hunza's Must-See Cafes and Restaurants

 If your travels lead you to Hunza, savor these culinary treasures, ensuring a delightful fusion of flavors amid breathtaking views.

Cafe de Hunza

Established in 1994, Café de Hunza is a delightful three-story café with a unique charm. One of their specialties is the walnut cake, crafted by the owner using entirely organic and natural ingredients such as honey and butter. As you ascend the stairs, the enchanting background music adds to the experience. The café boasts a diverse range of freshly served sweet dishes, complemented by an excellent price board that allows you to choose your food and relish self-service coffee, renowned for its delicious flavor. The ambiance of the café evokes memories of the best places you've ever visited, where music and flavor harmonize perfectly. For enthusiasts of chicken cheese sandwiches, Café de Hunza serves a delectable rendition.

Notably clean and offering very reasonable prices considering the gratifying taste of the food, the café provides a splendid view of the Baltit Fort to enjoy while dining. No visitor departs without savoring the truly exceptional walnut cake.

Fortina Garden’s Cafe

Notable items on the menu include Chap Shoro, Hoilo Garma, Giyalin, Mulida, Brush Shapik, Cherry Juice, Apricot Juice, Herbal Lemonade, Sandwich, and Chili Dry. The café provides a sweeping and captivating view of Karimabad, with the magnificent Baltit Fort on the opposite side—a popular destination for many tourists. The café's staff is exceptional, displaying genuine care for their customers.

To reach the café, ascend from the lower area to the upper side, commencing your journey from Karimabad Bazaar towards Baltit Fort. At the culmination of the ascent, a road on the right side will guide you to the café's location.

Mountain Cup Cafe

When exploring the Hunza Valley, ensure you include a visit to the Mountain Cup Café—an absolute must-see destination offering a breathtaking view to help you unwind. The café presents a diverse range of food and drink options, featuring coffee, cakes, juices, and more available for purchase. Particularly popular are the refreshing iced lattes, enhancing the overall peaceful atmosphere of the surroundings. Indulge in the delightful experience of savoring fish and chips while relishing the astonishing romantic view.

From the café, you'll also be treated to a splendid view of the Baltit Fort, precisely as expected. To add to the vibrancy of your visit, the café hosts lively musical nights on Saturdays, ensuring entertainment and enjoyment. Renowned for its exceptional coffee and cakes, customers consistently express positive feedback about their experience.

In addition to the delightful cakes and beverages, the café offers traditional Paratha, tea, and other scrumptious food options. Located at Fort Chowk, Karimabad, the Mountain Cup Café is a place where you can immerse yourself in the region's charm and indulge in the flavors of traditional cuisine.

Cafe Culture Hunza

Café Culture Hunza, operated by a family, specializes in serving authentic Central Hunza cuisine, catering to both locals and travelers. The café promises a complete experience of flavors and traditions, allowing patrons to immerse themselves in the genuine taste of Central Hunza cuisine.

For those with an appetite, the café's renowned rose dumplings, mami, and almond chapati are a must-try. These delectable dishes pair exceptionally well with a cup of tea. The menu at Café Culture Hunza is a reflection of the natural beauty in the surrounding area. Delight in the flavors of a traditional soup called Poppy Relaxing Soup or savor the unique Burus Shapik, which features crepes made from barley flour. Experience the warmth of Hoi lo Garma, a stewed meat dish, or relish the delightful combination of Xamik Xe Berikutz and barley crepes served with Fenugreek stew. Conclude your culinary journey with the café's delicious poppy seed soup and refreshing mojitos.

Prioritizing a farm-to-fork experience, Café Culture Hunza ensures both taste and nutritional value.