Ratti Gali Lake Neelum
Ratti Gali Lake is an iconic glacial alpine jewel sitting at 3700 meters in Upper Neelum famous for its turquoise waters wildflower pastures and red mountain cliffs.
ExploreChitta Katha Lake Neelum
Neelum Shounter, Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Overview
Situated at a soaring elevation of 3962 meters 13500 feet above sea level Chitta Katha Lake is one of the most magnificent and challenging high altitude glacial alpine lakes in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Located in the upper reaches of Shounter Valley in Neelum District the lake is fed by pure glacial ice melt dropping from the surrounding snowcapped ridges of Hari Parbat peak. Named Chitta Katha meaning White Stream in the local language the lake derives its title from the milky white glacial melt streams that feed its deep turquoise and icy white basin. Revered for its untouched wilderness serene natural tranquility and sacred local mountain legends Chitta Katha Lake is accessible via an off road 4x4 jeep ride from Kel to Deck Upper Domel followed by a steep demanding alpine wilderness trek through pine forests streams and rocky glacial moraines.
Highlights
- High altitude glacial alpine lake sitting at a soaring elevation of 3962 meters
- Fed by pure glacial meltwater originating from the snowfields of Hari Parbat peak
- Named Chitta Katha White Stream after its milky white glacial torrents and streams
- Located in the remote high alpine wilderness of upper Shounter Valley Neelum
- Premier bucket list destination for experienced high wilderness mountain trekkers
Things To Do
- Take an adventurous 4x4 jeep ride from Kel through Shounter Valley to Deck basecamp
- Trek through alpine pine forests mountain streams and boulder fields up to the lake basin
- Photograph the striking white glacial streams flowing into the deep alpine lake waters
- Camp under brilliant starry night skies at the Upper Domel or Deck mountain basecamp
- Marvel at the towering snowcapped mountain ridges surrounding the Hari Parbat peak basin
Local Transportation
Accessible via an adventurous 2 to 2.5 hour 4x4 jeep drive 24 km from Kel to Deck Upper Domel in Shounter Valley, followed by a steep 4 to 6 hour hike.
Accommodation
Wilderness camping in personal or rented alpine tents at Deck Upper Domel basecamp or lake basin, or hotel stays down in Kel bazaar.
Food & Cuisine
Travel energy snacks, dried fruits, canned meals, hot tea, and basic mountain meals cooked at basecamp tent setups.
Safety Information
Demanding high altitude trek above 3900 meters. Hiring a local guide from Kel or Upper Domel is essential. Ensure proper physical fitness, warm windproof clothing, and waterproof boots.
Travel Tips
Start the trek from Deck basecamp before dawn at 4 AM to reach the lake basin early, avoid afternoon fog, and descend safely before dusk.