Rawalakot is a beautiful town located in the Poonch district of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. It is surrounded by lush green mountains and valleys, making it an ideal scenic spot for tourists. Despite its breathtaking beauty, Rawalakot remains one of the lesser-known travel destinations in Pakistan. However, with its rich history, diverse culture, stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and comfortable accommodations, Rawalakot has the potential to become a top travel destination in the region.
History of Rawalakot
Rawalakot has a rich history that dates back to the 16th century when the area was ruled by the Rajput rulers. Later on, the area came under the rule of the Mughal Empire and then the Sikh Empire. During the British Raj, Rawalakot became an important military base due to its strategic location. The town played a significant role in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947 and the Kargil War in 1999. The area has also been affected by earthquakes, with a devastating earthquake in 2005 causing widespread damage.
Culture and Traditions
Rawalakot is a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The town is home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, including Kashmiris, Punjabis, Paharis, and Gujjars. As a result, the town has a unique blend of customs, festivals, and celebrations. Some of the major festivals celebrated in Rawalakot include Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Basant Festival, and Shab-e-Barat. The town is also known for its traditional handicrafts, such as shawls, carpets, and pottery.
Natural Beauty of Rawalakot
Rawalakot is a nature lover’s paradise. The town is surrounded by majestic mountains, forests, and rivers. The Banjosa Lake is a popular tourist spot in Rawalakot, offering serene views and boating opportunities. The Tatta Pani hot springs are also a popular attraction, with healing properties that are said to cure skin diseases and joint pain. Other notable natural wonders in Rawalakot include the Toli Pir mountain, the Sudhan Gali hill station, and the Khoi Ratta waterfall.
Cuisine of Rawalakot
Rawalakot is known for its unique and delicious cuisine, which is influenced by Kashmiri, Punjabi, and Pahari cooking styles. Some of the local delicacies include Roghan Josh, Kahwah Tea, Chicken Karahi, and Dum Aloo. The town is also famous for its fresh fruits, such as apples, apricots, and cherries. Visitors can find a variety of restaurants and street food vendors offering traditional dishes as well as international cuisine.
Accommodations in Rawalakot
Rawalakot offers a range of comfortable accommodations, including hotels, guest houses, and resorts. Some of the popular hotels in Rawalakot include Pearl Continental Hotel, Pine Park Hotel, and Banjosa Valley Guest House. Visitors can also find affordable lodging options in nearby towns such as Sudhan Gali and Toli Pir.
Getting to Rawalakot
Rawalakot is easily accessible by road from major cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. Visitors can also take a flight to Islamabad and then travel by road to Rawalakot. The journey by road takes approximately 3-4 hours from Islamabad. It is recommended to hire a local guide or driver for the journey, as the roads can be difficult for first-time visitors.
Discovering Rawalakot: A Pakistani Gem
Rawalakot is truly a hidden gem in Pakistan, offering a unique blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and delicious cuisine. With comfortable accommodations, easy accessibility, and a welcoming local community, Rawalakot is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of Pakistan. We encourage visitors to discover the wonders of Rawalakot and experience the magic of this Pakistani gem.
