Nestled in the heart of the stunning Kaghan Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Jalkhand is a mesmerizing yet lesser-known travel destination in Pakistan. With its pristine rivers, lush meadows, towering mountains, and tranquil atmosphere, Jalkhand offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers, families, and thrill-seeking adventurers alike. Whether you’re exploring on your own or with a guided group like PakJourney, this hidden gem has much to offer.
In this article, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about Jalkhand, including its location and route, ideal time to visit, things to do, nearby attractions, and jeep tracks for off-road lovers.
📍 Where is Jalkhand?
Jalkhand is a small scenic valley town located along the Kaghan Valley road, about 38 kilometers from Naran and approximately 137 kilometers from Mansehra. It lies on the main route that connects Naran to Babusar Top, the famous mountain pass that links Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with Gilgit-Baltistan.
Perched at an elevation of over 10,000 feet (3,000 meters) above sea level, Jalkhand serves as a stopover for travelers en route to Babusar Top or Lake Lulusar but deserves much more attention than just a roadside break.
🗺️ Route to Jalkhand – How to Get There?
🚗 From Islamabad:
- Route: Islamabad → Abbottabad → Mansehra → Balakot → Kawai → Naran → Jalkhand
- Total Distance: Approx. 310 km
- Travel Time: 8-10 hours (depending on stops and road conditions)
After reaching Naran, the journey continues on the Naran–Babusar Road (also known as the N-15 highway). Jalkhand lies a short drive from Batakundi, which is the last settlement before the road starts ascending steeply toward Lulusar Lake and Babusar Top.
The road beyond Naran is seasonal and usually opens from June to October, depending on snow conditions.
🗓️ Best Time to Visit Jalkhand
Jalkhand is a seasonal destination due to heavy snowfall during winters. The best time to visit is between late May and early October.
- June to August: The valley is in full bloom, the rivers are gushing, and the landscape is lush green—perfect for photography and sightseeing.
- September to Early October: The autumn begins to paint the valley in warm golden hues. Fewer crowds make it ideal for peaceful retreats.
- Avoid: Late October to early May, as the route to Jalkhand is closed due to snow.
🌄 Things to Do in Jalkhand – Top Activities
Despite being a small village, Jalkhand offers a wide variety of nature-based and adventure activities for tourists:
1. Sightseeing & Nature Walks
Jalkhand is a photographer’s paradise. Its serene valleys, icy blue river, and snow-covered peaks provide breathtaking vistas for casual tourists and professional photographers alike. You can enjoy peaceful walks along the riverbanks or short treks into surrounding meadows.
2. Camping and Bonfire Nights
With wide open spaces and limited urban development, Jalkhand is perfect for camping under the stars. Many local guides or tour companies like PakJourney can arrange camping gear, meals, and bonfires for a complete wilderness experience.
3. River Fishing & Picnic
The Kunhar River, which flows past Jalkhand, is rich in trout fish. While fishing requires a permit, it is a popular activity for those who want to relax by the riverside. Many families also enjoy picnics near the water with scenic backdrops.
4. Photography and Drone Shoots
Whether you’re a travel vlogger or a hobbyist photographer, Jalkhand offers dramatic landscapes ideal for photography, including mountain reflections in clear streams and golden sunlight spilling over the peaks.
5. Bird Watching and Wildlife
Nature lovers can spot golden eagles, snowcocks, and even marmots in nearby cliffs and forests. Early mornings are best for spotting wildlife and bird watching.
🌟 Top Tourist Attractions Near Jalkhand
Jalkhand is a gateway to some of Kaghan Valley’s most iconic attractions. Here’s what you can explore nearby:
1. Lulusar Lake (Approx. 12 km)
One of the most stunning alpine lakes in Pakistan, Lulusar Lake is a short drive from Jalkhand. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, it is known for its crystal-clear water and peaceful surroundings.
2. Babusar Top (Approx. 25 km)
Babusar Pass, at an altitude of 13,690 ft, offers panoramic views of the entire valley. From here, travelers can see the convergence of valleys and snow peaks stretching into Gilgit-Baltistan.
3. Batakundi (Approx. 6 km)
A small town before Jalkhand, Batakundi is famous for its waterfalls, tea spots, and scenic stopovers. It also offers a few guesthouses for those who prefer to stay closer to the start of the Babusar climb.
4. Besal (Approx. 8 km)
A small checkpoint village that also serves as the starting point for the Dudipatsar Lake trek, one of the most beautiful but challenging hikes in the region. Trekking to Dudipatsar is highly recommended for adventure seekers.
🚙 Jeep Tracks Near Jalkhand – Off-Road Adventures
For off-road lovers, the region around Jalkhand offers exciting 4×4 jeep tracks through alpine meadows, riverbeds, and mountain passes. Some popular jeep routes include:
1. Jalkhand to Lulusar Lake
Though accessible by car, a 4×4 jeep offers a more thrilling ride, especially during the monsoon season when the terrain can become slippery and challenging.
2. Besal to Dudipatsar Base
The jeep ride to Mula Ki Basti, the basecamp for Dudipatsar Lake, is rough and only recommended with a guide and experienced driver. From there, you must trek on foot for around 6–8 hours to reach the lake.
3. Jalkhand to Babusar Top
This drive climbs sharply through steep mountain roads, glacier-fed streams, and sharp curves, offering dramatic views at every turn. Jeeps are recommended over cars for safety.
4. Sharan Forest via Paras (From Nearby Towns)
Though not directly from Jalkhand, the famous Sharan Forest jeep track is accessible through the same valley, starting from Paras village. This adventure takes you into thick pine forests, lush clearings, and hidden waterfalls.
🏕️ Accommodation Options
Jalkhand itself has limited hotels, but a few local guesthouses and tents are available during peak season. Many tourists prefer to stay overnight in Naran or Batakundi, where more lodging options are available.
If you’re traveling with PakJourney, custom camping arrangements in Jalkhand can be made with meals, tents, guides, and even traditional music nights.
🍲 What to Eat in Jalkhand?
Expect simple, freshly made food such as:
- Daal chawal (lentils with rice)
- Chapati with vegetables
- Pakistani-style trout fish (on advance order)
- Tea with biscuits
Most food is sourced locally and prepared by locals. Visitors are advised to carry some snacks or essentials, especially if camping.
💡 Travel Tips for Jalkhand
- Weather: Nights are cold even in summer—carry warm clothes.
- Fuel: No fuel station in Jalkhand; top up at Naran.
- Connectivity: Mobile signals may be weak; Telenor or SCOM may work in spots.
- Health: Carry basic medication and a small first aid kit.
- Permits: No major permit required, but check with local authorities if going to protected areas.
🏞️ Why Jalkhand Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway from crowded tourist spots, Jalkhand offers untouched nature, thrilling jeep rides, crystal-clear rivers, and nearby high-altitude lakes. It’s the perfect blend of scenic beauty and adventure, away from commercial tourism. For trekkers, photographers, families, and off-roaders alike, Jalkhand has something unique to offer.
So next time you plan your Kaghan Valley trip, don’t just pass by Jalkhand—make it a part of your journey. With experienced travel planners like PakJourney, you can explore Jalkhand in a safe, organized, and unforgettable way.
📞 Plan Your Trip with PakJourney
At PakJourney, we offer guided tours, custom camping trips, family tours, and group adventures to Jalkhand and nearby destinations like Lulusar Lake, Babusar Top, and Dudipatsar Lake. Our experienced guides, clean transportation, and personalized service ensure your journey into the north is as beautiful as the destination itself.
👉 Contact us today to book your Jalkhand tour!