The Chitta Katha Lake Trek is an expedition through the pure nature of Azad Kashmir, an awe-inspiring journey through the heart of the region. On the way to the remote Chitta Katha Lake, this tour reveals the region’s unmatched splendor.

Engage with the locals’ customs, take in the gorgeous environment, and use your camera to capture the soul of the place.

Join us as we travel this undiscovered jewel, a journey that promises breathtaking views and a close encounter with the natural world.

Exploring Chitta Katha Lake: A Frozen Wonderland in Azad Kashmir

Discover the Chitta Katha Lake Route

Take a beautiful journey from Islamabad to Muzaffarabad, then on to Kel. The trip takes a public van or bus for four hours from Islamabad to Muzaffarabad and then a bus for ten hours from Muzaffarabad to Kel.

Public buses run until 9:00 PM, although vans are available until lunchtime for Athmuqam, where you can hire private jeeps to get to Kel.

You can rent a private vehicle to take you from Kel to Upper Domel, also known as “Utli Domel,” where you can find the gorgeous frozen lake known as Chitta Katha Lake, which is tucked away in the Shounter valley of Azad Kashmir.

The 4 to 8-hour walk from Upper Domel to the lake is strenuous and offers breathtaking scenery all along the way. A 4-5 hour jeep trip from Kel in the Neelum Valley or from the Astore Valley will get you to Upper Domel, a secluded settlement in the Shounter Valley.

Because there are few possibilities for camping in Upper Domel, careful planning is necessary. In the end, the ascent to the lake, which is encircled by gorgeous snow-capped hills, is revealed after negotiating narrow passageways covered in snow and crossing a canyon.

The locals call the lake “Chitta Katha,” which translates to “White Water Stream,” in reference to how the lake’s crystal-clear water reflects the white snow-capped peaks. Don’t pass up the chance to take in the splendor of this remote lake and its surroundings.

Key Guidelines

1. Always keep your National Identity Card (NIC) with you when you are in Kashmir, particularly in Neelum Valley.

2. Due to the boundary between Jammu and Kashmir, thorough border inspections are carried out in many locations.

3. Exercise caution because it is forbidden to take photos at army camps, checkpoints, and bridges in Neelum Valley.

4. These prohibited zones do not permit the use of cameras.

5. Before taking any photos in any of these prohibited regions, permission from locals and army commanders is required.

A Medley of Fun and Exploration at Chitta Katha Lake

Trekking

To reach the lovely Chitta Katha Lake, surrounded by breathtaking landscape, set out on a challenging 4–8-hour journey.

Explore Local Culture

Engage with the populace, acquaint yourself with their way of life, and discover the distinctive customs and practices of the secluded Upper Domel village.

Photography

Photographers will love Chitta Katha Lake’s sparkling clarity and picturesque surroundings, including its snow-capped peaks.

Camping

Set up a tent beside the lake and spend the night outside beneath the stars in this wonderful and tranquil environment.

Birdwatching

The area is perfect for birdwatchers because of the abundance of birds that can be seen there.

Enjoy the Scenic Views

As you travel to Chitta Katha Lake, take in the grandeur of the valley, the lush ridges, and the various waterfalls.

Fishing

In the crystal-clear waters of the Chitta Katha Lake, try your luck at catching the elusive Mahseer fish.

Hiking

Explore the varied flora and animals that surround the lake and settlement by going on short treks in the area.

Boating

Depending on the time of year, take a leisurely boat ride on the Chitta Katha Lake and take in the serenity and quiet of the landscape.

Picnicking

Set up a picnic by the lake and take in the tranquility and scenic splendor of the Chitta Katha Lake region.

Conclusion

To wrap it up, the journey to Chitta Katha Lake provides an opportunity to access Azad Kashmir’s pristine natural beauty.

A realistic picture of Kashmir’s elegance is created by the walk, which is full of scenic delights and cultural contacts.

Every explorer hoping to experience nature’s raw grandeur must embark on a journey to this hidden gem.