Title:
Banjosa Lake Azad Kashmir – Location, Weather, Hotels & Travel Guide
Description:
Discover Banjosa Lake in Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir – a stunning tourist spot surrounded by pine forests. Explore its location, weather, hotels, attractions, and best travel tips.
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Article:
Banjosa Lake – A Hidden Gem in Azad Kashmir
Banjosa Lake is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, located just 20 kilometers from Rawalakot. Nestled at an altitude of 1,981 meters (6,499 feet), this man-made yet naturally stunning lake is surrounded by lush green pine forests, mountains, and valleys. Its crystal-clear waters and peaceful environment make it a top destination for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
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Location of Banjosa Lake
Banjosa Lake is situated in Rawalakot, Poonch District of Azad Kashmir. The lake is easily accessible by road from:
Islamabad to Banjosa Lake – Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours drive (160 km)
Rawalakot to Banjosa Lake – Just 20 minutes drive (18 km)
The scenic drive to the lake passes through breathtaking valleys, dense pine trees, and charming Kashmiri villages.
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Best Time to Visit Banjosa Lake
The weather of Banjosa Lake is pleasant in summer and chilly in winter, offering visitors a unique experience in every season:
Summer (May – September): Ideal for boating, picnics, and photography. Temperatures range between 16°C to 25°C.
Winter (December – February): The lake freezes, and the area is covered in snow, attracting snow lovers and adventure tourists.
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Attractions at Banjosa Lake
Apart from the mesmerizing lake, tourists can explore several nearby attractions:
Rawalakot City – Known as the “Pearl Valley of Kashmir.”
Toli Pir – A famous hilltop and hiking destination near Rawalakot.
Poonch River & Valley – A must-visit spot for adventure seekers.
Chikar and Sudhan Gali – Scenic hill stations with panoramic views.
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Things to Do at Banjosa Lake
Tourists can enjoy multiple activities including:
Boating and Canoeing on the lake
Horse riding along the lakeside
Hiking and trekking in nearby trails
Photography and camping in the pine forest surroundings
Picnics and family gatherings with breathtaking views
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Hotels and Resorts at Banjosa Lake
Visitors can find comfortable hotels, guest houses, and resorts near Banjosa Lake, including:
PTDC Motel Banjosa – A government-run guest house offering a peaceful stay.
Local Guest Houses – Affordable and cozy accommodations in Rawalakot.
Luxury Resorts in Rawalakot – For families and honeymoon couples.
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How to Reach Banjosa Lake
From Islamabad/Rawalpindi, tourists can take the Murree–Kahuta road towards Rawalakot.
Public transport and private cars are available.
Roads are generally accessible, but in winter 4×4 vehicles are recommended due to snowfall.
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Travel Tips for Banjosa Lake Visitors
Carry warm clothes if visiting in winter.
Book hotels in advance during peak tourist season.
Keep basic medicines and food items for convenience.
Respect the local culture and keep the lake surroundings clean.
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Conclusion
Banjosa Lake is truly a paradise in Azad Kashmir, offering breathtaking natural beauty, adventurous activities, and a relaxing environment. Whether you are planning a family trip, honeymoon, or solo travel, Banjosa Lake should be on your Pakistan travel bucket list.
Poetric views
Poem on Banjosa Lake 🌊🌲
Banjosa Lake, Azad Kashmir’s delight,
Shining in Rawalakot, calm and bright.
Wrapped in pine forests, mountains embrace,
A mirror of heaven, a tranquil place.
From Islamabad to Banjosa Lake’s shore,
A scenic drive through valleys you explore.
Just 20 km from Rawalakot’s heart,
Nature and beauty in harmony start.
In summer, cool breezes whisper and play,
Boating and picnics fill up the day.
In winter, the lake wears a blanket of snow,
Frozen reflections in moonlight glow.
Hotels at Banjosa Lake stand near,
PTDC motels, guest houses appear.
Families, travelers, couples in love,
Find peace below skies of blue above.
Attractions around – Toli Pir’s crown,
Pearl Valley of Kashmir wears her gown.
Poonch River flows with songs so free,
Sudhan Gali whispers its mystery.
Things to do at Banjosa Lake’s side –
Horse rides, photography, trails to stride.
Camping, canoeing, adventure untold,
Stories in sunsets, memories unfold.
So carry your spirit, and softly awake,
To the beauty of Banjosa Lake.
A jewel in Kashmir, serene and grand,
A timeless wonder of Pakistan’s land.