Rawalakot City Poonch
Rawalakot, Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Overview
Known affectionately as the Pearl Valley due to its saucer shaped highland landscape Rawalakot is the bustling district capital of Poonch in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Situated at an elevation of 1615 meters 5300 feet above sea level the city is nestled in a lush alpine bowl surrounded by pine forested mountain hills terraced corn fields and vibrant local bazaars. Located just one hundred and twenty kilometers from Islamabad Rawalakot enjoys a cool temperate climate making it a popular hill station getaway. Serving as the cultural educational and economic hub of Poonch District Rawalakot is globally celebrated as the main urban basecamp leading toward premier tourist attractions like Banjosa Lake Toli Peer and Goyain Nala. The city offers travelers a rich blend of Pahari Kashmiri heritage fresh mountain produce pine tree trails and central transit accessibility.
Highlights
- Scenic high plateau city known as the Pearl Valley sitting at 1615 meters elevation
- Principal urban center and administrative capital of Poonch District in Azad Kashmir
- Surrounded by dense pine forested hills rolling green terraces and cool mountain streams
- Primary tourist basecamp connecting to iconic sites like Banjosa Lake and Toli Peer
- Highly accessible highland resort destination located just 120 km from Islamabad
Things To Do
- Explore the vibrant local bazaars for traditional Kashmiri shawls handicrafts and local honey
- Drive up to the surrounding pine covered hill viewpoints for panoramic city sunset views
- Take short day trips to nearby natural attractions like Banjosa Lake and Toli Peer
- Walk through peaceful pine forest trails and agricultural terraces surrounding the valley
- Enjoy hot Kashmiri Kahwa tea fresh baked goods and traditional karahi at city restaurants