Khuiratta – An Outlook of Wadi e Bnah
Khuiratta is a tehsil in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It is located in the Kotli district and borders the districts of Mirpur, Bhimber, and Neelum. Khuiratta Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, is a beautiful area with lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and many attractive natural landscapes. The main attractions are its stunning Wadi e Bnah (waterfall), the beauty of Khoi Ratta (mountain range), and the serene riverbanks.
Azad Kashmir is known for its hospitality, and the people are incredibly welcoming. Pakistan is a natural paradise and an ideal destination for those looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Some activities that can be enjoyed include trekking, hiking, and camping. There are also numerous opportunities for fishing, boating, and bird-watching.
About Wadi e Bnah
Wadi e Bnah is a beautiful valley located in the Khuiratta region of Azad Kashmir. It is 160 km from Islamabad and is surrounded by the Kala Chitta and Khoi Ratta mountain ranges. It is surrounded by lush green hills and offers breathtaking views of the majestic mountain ranges.
The valley is home to various flora and fauna, including rare birds and animals. Visitors can also enjoy spectacular sunsets and starry night skies while exploring this remarkable area. Many visitors have described it as a “Heaven on Earth.” Wadi e Bnah is also known for its spectacular festivals, such as the Khuiratta Mela. The festival includes various cultural performances and activities, including camel and horse races, traditional dances and music, and local delicacies.
It is 2570 ft above sea level, and the climate is cool and pleasant throughout the year at such an elevation.
Khuiratta Weather
Azad Kashmir is known for its pleasant weather, and Khuiratta is no exception. The summers are warm but bright and sunny, with temperatures rarely exceeding 28°C. Winters bring a mild chill that can be felt in the mornings and evenings, but temperatures rarely fall below 10°C.
The weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and one can enjoy trekking and nature walks without fearing extreme temperatures. In such a pleasant environment, it is no surprise that many flocks take in the beauty of nature.
People of Khuiratta
Khuiratta is a cosmopolitan town, with people from all walks of life coming together and calling it home. People here are friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to visit. With over 8,000 people, it is a bustling town full of culture and life.
Once you get to Khuiratta, you will find that it is full of exciting tourist attractions. And the people are more than happy to help you explore the town and its surroundings.
They will offer you tips on the best places to visit or even take you around themselves. Also, the locals are said to have great hospitality, which is why tourists continue to flock here all year round.
Tourist Attractions in Khuiratta
There are many attractions here that are worth visiting. Azad Kashmir is known for its natural beauty, and this place is no different.
The main attractions of the area include:
1. Mai Totti Sahiba
This is an old shrine that is located at the foothills of the Wadi e Bnah. It was built in memory of a saintly woman, Mai Totti Sahiba.
It attracts many pilgrims from all over the region and is a place of great cultural significance to the locals. The shrine is located in a lush green valley surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a beautiful site to visit.
As a part of the local culture, there are festivals held at this shrine every year. Also, a fair is held every Eid so that people from all over the region can come together and enjoy themselves.
Shrines are an essential part of local culture, and this is one of the most beautiful in the area. Azad Kashmir has many religious sites. The people are very devout and take great pride in their faith.
2. Hazrat Baba Ali Lashkar at Khuiratta
Hazrat Baba Ali Lashkar is one of the most famous religious sites in Khuiratta and is visited by thousands of people every year. The shrine is believed to be the resting place of a saint from centuries ago, whose miracles are still told today.
This is an excellent place for locals and tourists alike to learn about the spiritual history of the area, as well as to experience the serenity of the holy site. Kashmiris come here to offer prayers and pay their respects. Also, a unique festival is held annually to celebrate this holy site.
3. Manjwal Village
Manjwal is a small village located in the hills outside of Khuiratta. This village is known for its traditional culture, customs, and stunning natural beauty. Manjwal is home to several small shops, restaurants, and beautiful trekking routes. Tourists can enjoy the scenery of lush green hillsides, snow-capped mountains, and clear rivers.
4. Bhayyal Village
Bhayyal is a small village located close to the city. Although it is a small village, it has become a popular tourist spot. This village is known for its traditional folk music, dance styles, and colorful festivals. Tourists can enjoy cultural activities such as folk music performances, local cuisines, and traditional handicrafts.
5. Phalni at Khuiratta
Phalni is a small settlement in India near Khuriatta, a popular tourist destination. It has ancient temples and monuments, which are great attractions for visitors. Moreover, the local cuisine is also quite popular. The people of Phalni are known for their hospitality and friendly nature.
Khuiratta Mela (Famous Festival)
The most famous festival is the Khuiratta Mela, celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm by the locals.
This festival marks the harvest season’s end and symbolizes joy and celebration for the people living there. The event includes:
1. Music
Traditional music is played during the festival. Local musicians perform various folk songs and dances in full traditional dress. It adds to the festive atmosphere and makes it an exciting place to visit.
2. Food at Khuiratta
Delicious local delicacies are prepared at this time of year, including a range of sweet dishes such as Jalebi and Kheer. Other popular dishes include Mash ki Daal, Kheeray Koftey, and Nihari.
3. Games
Various types of games are played during this festival. These include volleyball and cricket matches and traditional sports such as dandia and kabaddi. People also enjoy playing card games like ludo and snakes & ladders.
4. Shopping at Khuiratta
The Mela is a great place to shop, with vendors selling various products, from clothes to jewelry and handicrafts. It is an ideal opportunity for tourists to pick up souvenirs or gifts for friends back home. The atmosphere at the Mela is full of life and merriment, with colorful decorations and lively music adding to the festive atmosphere.
Facilities in Wadi e Bnah
To know more about Khuiratta, let’s find out about its facilities. Wadi e Bnah is a popular tourist destination with several attractions, such as Mai Totti Sahiba and Hazrat Baba Ali Lashkar.
The area also has several quaint villages, such as Manjwal and Bhayyal, known for their scenic beauty and traditional lifestyle.
The significant facilities in Wadi e Bnah:
1. Infrastructure
It is well connected with the rest of Pakistan through roads and highways. Although the roads are not of the highest quality, they provide good connectivity to the area. It is very close to LOC, almost 8km away. Thus, making it safer and also having a better chance of development.
2. Accommodation
Khuiratta has several accommodations available, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Most of the accommodation options are located in Manjwal and Bhayyal, known for their scenic beauty and traditional lifestyle. The hotels in these areas offer good services and provide a comfortable stay for visitors.
3. Eating Out
It is home to some great restaurants serving various cuisines, including local Kashmiri cuisines. Some food outlets are located near the roads leading to Khuiratta, which offer delightful snacks. Eat outs also serve delicious dishes like the famous Kashmiri Pulao, Goshtaba, and Modur Pulav.
4. Shopping
The town has several shops selling various items such as clothes, jewelry, and handicrafts. These stores are usually located in the markets of Manjwal village or around the Wadi-e-Bnah. With the fantastic range of items available, visitors can find unique souvenirs and gifts to take back home.
What to Pack for Khuiratta
When visiting Khuiratta, visitors should have some essentials. Let’s find out some of the things to carry:
1. Clothing
It has fantastic weather throughout the year. It is recommended to pack light and comfortable clothing, such as jackets, sweaters, scarves, and hats. And with the chilly evenings, ensure you have a woolen cap and gloves to keep you warm.
2. Footwear
Since it is a rural area, several roads and pathways may not be well-maintained. It is advisable to pack suitable quality footwear that can provide traction on various surfaces. You can go for comfortable sandals, flip-flops, or hiking boots.
3. Torch Light
The area is rural, and you may experience partial or complete power outages. So, make sure to carry a good quality torch light that can provide you with enough illumination at night. Other items you remember to pack while heading to the place include sunscreen and insect repellent.
4. First-Aid Kit
It’s always best to carry a first-aid kit wherever you go, as medical care in rural areas can be challenging. You can also carry over-the-counter medicines like paracetamol and antacids. With these items, you can ensure that you are adequately prepared for any medical difficulties.
5. Food
Carrying a few snacks and some energy bars will come in handy during your journey. Packing some food items like chapatti, paranthas, and salad will also help you from having to buy food on the way. Depending on the season, food may also be available at local restaurants in Khuiratta.
6. Water
Make sure to carry enough drinking water to last you through the journey. You should also bring a water purification system, which can be helpful if you come across a water source on the way.
At such elevation, the temperature can reach an extreme low during the winter months, so carrying a few warm clothes and blankets is necessary.
How to Reach Khuiratta?
Khuiratta is located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, about 160 kilometers from Islamabad. The easiest way to reach it is by road. You can take the M2 motorway from Islamabad and drive straight to Khuiratta. It takes about 4-5 hours to reach here from Islamabad.
Alternatively, you can take a bus to Muzaffarabad and proceed by road. Muzaffarabad is about 40 kilometers from here. You can also take a flight to Muzaffarabad and then take a taxi or local transport to Khuiratta. Once you reach the town, you can experience the beauty of the lush green valleys, impressive gorges, and majestic mountains.
How Long Does it Take to Reach Khuiratta from Islamabad?
The drive from Islamabad to Khuiratta takes approximately 4-5 hours. Since the road is well-maintained, the journey can be completed in a short amount of time. Although the journey is long, the scenic beauty of the surroundings makes it worthwhile.
Where is Khuiratta Located?
Khuiratta is located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. It is a small town surrounded by lush green hills, gorges, and valleys.
The town is situated at an altitude of 2570 feet above sea level. This area is famous for its natural beauty, and people from all over the country visit this spot to enjoy their holidays. Some major tourist attractions include Wadi e Bnah, Mai Totti Sahiba, Hazrat Baba Ali Lashkar, Manjwal village, Bhayyal village, and Phalni.
It is a scenic town located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. It is known for its natural beauty, tourist attractions, and the famous Khuriatta Mela festival.
The town is easily accessible by road from Islamabad and other country cities. So, if you want a place to spend quality time in pristine nature’s lap, It is an ideal choice!
So, plan a visit and enjoy its captivating beauty while indulging in all its fun activities!