Introduction:

  • Neelum Valley, is the most beautiful, fertile, and green valley in Azad Kashmir. The name Neelum Valey comes from the Neelum River, which flows through the valley. It is situated on the eastern side of AJK and borders with Indian Administrated Kashmir and Gilgit Baltistan. Neelum Valley is famous for its lush green forests, amazing landscapes, stunning streams and waterfalls, and super peaceful and adorable lakes at the foot of the high hills of the Himalayas and Karakoram.
  • The Tourmaline Lake, is one of many such stunning lakes situated in Neelum Valley AJK. Situated on the very top of sea level, this lake offers everything to its visitors and fulfills their dreams of seeing heaven with open eyes on the earth in this life.

Location:

  • The Tourmaline Lake is situated on the top of Gurez Valley, which is another must-visit place in eastern Neelum Valley alongside the LOC. It is almost 10 km away from the nearest village Janwai, which is the central village of Gurez Valley. The track has many ups and downs alongside but as a true nature lover, you will be stunned by its hidden beauty, undiscovered surroundings, and unmatched flowers, greenery, and meadows.
  • The Gurez Valley is blessed with many beautiful sites and attractions but this one is most special because it is more challenging for tourists and nature lovers. It has a rough track but the surroundings are the most satisfying aspect of this journey. You won’t hesitate while hiking and climbing green mountains while passing through many eye-catching streams, waterfalls, and diverse forests.

Name and History:

  • The official Name of the Lake is “The Tourmaline Lake”. The word tourmaline is the name of a very popular and expensive mineral “Tourmaline”, which is used to make different kinds of jewelry and other related products. Tourmaline has many colors and shapes.
  • Since the whole mountain area is blessed with many fascinating poetic views, it is always a pleasure to hike alongside such beautiful landscapes and streams.

Distance:

  • Tourmaline Lake is approximately 10km away from Markazi Village Janwai which includes a 6 km steady path and 4 km tough hiking and sloppy path.
  • Visitors can carry their light luggage to First Base Camp (Pichli Basti) from where the 04 km hiking path starts.

Specialty:

  • The Lake is surrounded by three mountains and has its unique shape and look. It freezes in winter months October to April, and comes back to its normal bluish colour in summer.
  • The Lake is very deep and huge in its diameter. It has a very eye-catching bluish color, stunning mountainous surroundings, and a very comfortable area for camping and having fun in front of the lake at the bank of its awesomeness.

Difficulties and Challenges:

  • The path is very tricky and, in some places, very difficult as well. Being very above sea level, it is also hard to breathe for those who have breathing problems.
  • The weather conditions are also unpredictable and unwanted sometimes. It has its mood swings so if you enjoy such hurdles and can survive such tricky weather, you are most welcome.
  • Despite all such ups and downs, if the weather is fair and the sun is in its full swing, there won’t be any doubt that you are seeing heaven with your open eyes.

Fun Facts:

  • Tourmaline Lake is almost 14000 ft above sea level.
  • The Tourmaline Lake is also called “Sarr Jheel” in the local language.
  • Its size and depth are not defined but old age locals say that this is very deep and cold.

Conclusion:

  • Overall, the Tourmaline Lake is a complete package of craziness, freshness, and awesomeness.
  • This is must must-visit place and I promise you will feel on the top of world while returning from this lake.
  • On behalf of all of Neelum Valley, I warmly welcome you to this lake.

An Article by AB Awan

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