City

Balakot Mansehra

Balakot, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Overview

Situated thirty eight kilometers north of Mansehra city along the roaring Kunhar River at an elevation of 980 meters above sea level Balakot is a historic mountain town and the historic entry gateway to Kaghan Valley in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Known historically as the site of the famous 1831 battle involving Syed Ahmad Shaheed and Shah Ismail Shaheed whose revered shrines sit along the riverbanks Balakot serves as the main commercial and transport junction connecting mainland Pakistan to Naran Kaghan and Babusar Pass. Rebuilt following the major 2005 earthquake Balakot features bustling roadside bazaars trout fish eateries suspension bridges and scenic riverside viewpoints serving as an essential transit stopover for travelers venturing into the high alpine regions of Hazara.

Highlights

  • Historic entry gateway town to Kaghan Naran Valley sitting along the Kunhar River
  • Home to the historic shrines of martyrs Syed Ahmad Shaheed and Shah Ismail Shaheed
  • Major commercial transit hub connecting Mansehra to Naran and Babusar Pass
  • Famous for fresh river trout fish eateries built along the rushing waters of Kunhar River
  • Scenic valley town surrounded by green Hazara pine hills and terraced agricultural plots

Things To Do

  • Visit the revered historic shrines of Syed Ahmad Shaheed and Shah Ismail Shaheed
  • Enjoy fresh fried river trout fish at open air restaurants along the Kunhar River
  • Cross scenic suspension footbridges over the roaring Kunhar River for valley photography
  • Shop for local Hazara dried fruits honey travel gear and handicrafts in main bazaar
  • Relax at riverside parks and teahouses before starting the mountain drive to Naran

Local Transportation

Easily accessible via the smooth paved N85 / N15 Karakoram National Highway network 38 km from Mansehra using personal cars public coasters passenger vans or local taxis.

Accommodation

Numerous roadside hotels and guest houses available including Pine Track Hotel Balakot, Gateway Hotel, River View Hotel Balakot, and local family inns.

Food & Cuisine

Famous for fresh river trout fish, chicken karahi, chapli kabab, fresh tandoori flatbreads, sugarcane juice, and green Kahwa tea.

Safety Information

Highly safe, well populated, and family friendly gateway town with active local police checkpoints, petrol pumps, mechanic shops, and medical centers.

Travel Tips

Balakot is the best spot to withdraw ATM cash, fill vehicle fuel tanks, and buy basic medicines before driving further into Kaghan Valley.

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