Ratti Galli Lake

Ratti Galli Lake, also known as Red Lake, is a breathtakingly beautiful alpine lake located in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in Pakistan.

It is situated at an altitude of 12,130 feet (3,700 meters) above sea level and is surrounded by stunning snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and dense forests.

The lake is fed by the melting snow of the surrounding mountains and remains frozen for most of the year.

The journey to Ratti Galli Lake is an adventure in itself. It is accessible by a jeep track from the town of Dowarian, which is about a 2-hour drive from the city of Muzaffarabad.

The jeep track is bumpy and rough, and only experienced drivers can navigate it. The road passes through dense forests, steep hills, and narrow paths, which adds to the thrill and excitement of the journey.

As you approach the lake, you are greeted with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, which are covered in snow for most of the year. The lake is nestled in a valley, surrounded by green meadows and pine trees, and the crystal-clear water of the lake reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a mirror-like image of the mountains.

The area around the lake is a popular camping spot for tourists, and many people prefer to spend the night there to enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the starry sky.

The lake is surrounded by several small streams, and the sound of water flowing adds to the serene atmosphere of the place.

One of the main attractions of Ratti Galli Lake is its red-colored water, which is caused by the presence of minerals in the water. The red color of the water gives the lake a unique and mystical appearance, and many people believe that the lake has spiritual and healing properties.

There are several legends associated with Ratti Galli Lake. One of the most popular legends is that the lake is home to fairies and spirits who guard the lake and protect it from evil forces. According to the legend, if someone tries to harm the lake or its surroundings, they will be punished by the spirits.

Another legend associated with the lake is that a prince once fell in love with a fairy who lived in the lake. The fairy agreed to marry the prince on the condition that he would never reveal her true identity to anyone.

However, the prince broke his promise and revealed the fairy's identity to his friends, and as a result, the fairy disappeared, leaving the prince heartbroken.

Ratti Galli Lake is not just a beautiful tourist spot, but it also has significant ecological and environmental value. The lake and its surroundings are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.

The area is also an important watershed, and the lake serves as a source of water for several nearby villages.

However, despite its ecological and environmental value, Ratti Galli Lake is facing several challenges, including deforestation, pollution, and overfishing.

The local government and several non-governmental organizations are working to address these issues and protect the lake and its surroundings.

In conclusion, Ratti Galli Lake is a hidden gem in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. It is a place of unparalleled beauty, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, lush green meadows, and dense forests.

The lake's red-colored water, mystical legends, and spiritual significance make it a unique and intriguing destination for tourists. However, it is important to remember that the lake and its surroundings are not just a tourist attraction, but they also have significant ecological and environmental value, and it is our responsibility to protect and preserve them for future generations to enjoy.