A Day in Sharan Forest: A Journey to Remember

Hello, I’m Arslan Rafiq, a passionate traveler who has explored numerous enchanting locations in Pakistan, including Islamabad, Taxila Museum, Rohtas Fort, Murree, Tolipeer, Panjpeer, Thandiani, Mabali Island, Pir Chinasi, Mangla Dam, and Mukeshpuri Peak. Today, I am excited to share my recent adventure to the serene Sharan Forest.

We set out from Islamabad at 6 am, embarking on our journey via the Hazara Motorway.

The Scenic Hazara Motorway and Abbottabad Tunnels

The M-15 Motorway, more commonly known as the Hazara Motorway, stretches 180 kilometers, linking Burhan Interchange near Hasan Abdal in Punjab to various towns in the Hazara Division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The motorway is divided into seven sections. The initial four segments were completed by the end of 2019, while the remaining parts were finished by mid-2020. The section from Hasan Abdal to Havelian was funded by the Asian Development Bank, with additional support from the UK, while the rest was financed under the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor.

A Quick Stop at a Hotel

After traversing the scenic Hazara Motorway and passing through the Abbottabad tunnels, we made a quick stop at a hotel One of the prominent PC hotels, to freshen up and stretch our legs. The break provided a moment of relaxation and a chance to appreciate the beautiful surroundings before continuing our journey.

Discovering Balakot

Our first significant stop was in Balakot, a town in the Mansehra district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, situated on the right bank of the Kunhar River. Despite being heavily damaged in the 2005 Kashmir earthquake, Balakot has been rebuilt and now serves as a beautiful gateway to the Kaghan Valley.

A Hearty Breakfast in Balakot

We enjoyed a traditional breakfast of omelette, chickpeas (chana), paratha, and tea (chai) before continuing our journey towards Sharan Forest.

My First Jeep Adventure

For the next leg of our journey, we switched to a 4x4 jeep, which was an adventure in itself. This was my first time riding in a jeep through such rugged terrain. The narrow, winding roads flanked by towering pine trees and lush greenery made the experience both exhilarating and slightly nerve-wracking. The bumpy ride added an element of thrill, making it a memorable part of our journey to Sharan Forest.

Enchanting Sharan Forest

For those looking to escape the daily grind and reconnect with nature, Sharan Forest is an ideal destination. Nestled in Kaghan Valley at an altitude of 2425 meters, this hidden gem is 16 kilometers from Paras and 30 kilometers from Balakot. To reach Sharan Forest, we took a 4x4 jeep along a rugged 16-kilometer track surrounded by dense pine trees and lush greenery.

The KPK government's development of wooden huts and camping pods has made Sharan Forest more accessible to tourists. Despite this, it remains less commercialized than other tourist spots, preserving its serene and pristine environment. Nearby, the Mosa ka Mussalla peak, standing at 13,370 feet, offers a challenging trek for hiking enthusiasts. Due to the presence of wildlife like leopards and black bears, it's advisable to have a local guide for this trek.

Mesmerizing Sharan Waterfall

We hiked towards the Sharan Waterfall, which was a sight to behold. The experience of exploring the waterfall amidst the forest's beauty was unforgettable.

A Thrilling Horseback Ride

On our way back to the jeeps, we decided to ride horses, adding an extra layer of excitement to our trip. Although I have hiked in many places, this was my first time riding a horse. It was a delightful experience, allowing me to enjoy the scenery in a new way. However, I nearly lost my balance and fell, but our guide, Mr. Muhammad Mukhtar, heroically saved me from the accident. His bravery and quick thinking were truly commendable, and I am deeply grateful for his assistance.

Dinner in Balakot

We stopped in Balakot for dinner on our return journey. We enjoyed a delicious meal of chicken karahi, roti, salad, and cold drinks. We finally arrived home at 2 am, concluding a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.

Reflections on the Journey

My trip to Sharan Forest was an extraordinary experience, offering stunning landscapes, thrilling adventures, and warm hospitality. If you’re looking for a serene getaway, I highly recommend visiting Sharan Forest. It’s a place where you can truly connect with nature and create lasting memories.