Chitta Katha Lake Tour (6 Days / 5 Nights)

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Overview

  • Duration:4 days 3 nights
  • Travelers:1 - 12 guests
  • Tour Type:Daily tour, Group tour, Package tour
  • Language:English, French, German, Italian
✨ This is not just a trip β€” it’s a complete adventure through the alpine heart of Neelum Valley. From the cultural charm of Sharda, the untouched beauty of Shounter Valley, and the alpine trek to Chitta Katha Lake (13,500 ft) β€” every day brings something new. With bonfire nights, riverside stays, and camping under the stars, this journey promises memories that last a lifetime.
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πŸ—“οΈ Day-by-Day Itinerary
🚐 Day 0 – Sunday Night: Departure
β€’ Gather at the pickup point in Lahore (10:00 PM) or Islamabad (midnight).
β€’ Meet & greet with the tour team, brief introduction about the trip.
β€’ Begin overnight road journey through scenic routes of Murree & Muzaffarabad, entering the lush Neelum Valley by morning.
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πŸŒ„ Day 1 – Monday: Arrival in Sharda
β€’ Breakfast on route.
β€’ Reach Sharda, one of the most historic and beautiful towns in Neelum Valley.
β€’ Hotel check-in, freshen up & rest after travel.
β€’ Guided walk to Sharda Peeth ruins, riverside wooden bridges, and local bazaar.
β€’ Evening tea by the river with mountain views.
β€’ 🍽️ Dinner & overnight stay in hotel (Sharda).
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🌲 Day 2 – Tuesday: Sharda β†’ Shounter Valley
β€’ Breakfast at hotel.
β€’ πŸš™ Thrilling jeep ride through winding tracks towards Shounter Valley (approx. 6–7 hours).
β€’ Arrive in Shounter β€” surrounded by alpine meadows, tall pines, and glaciers.
β€’ Free time to explore the valley, riverside, and waterfalls.
β€’ Camping setup in Shounter with evening relaxation.
β€’ 🍽️ Dinner & overnight stay in Shounter (camping).
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πŸ”₯ Day 3 – Wednesday: Shounter β†’ Chitta Katha Basecamp
β€’ Breakfast in Shounter.
β€’ trekking to reach Chitta Katha Basecamp.
β€’ Short hikes around the camp to acclimatize.
β€’ Evening bonfire under the stars, group activities, and storytelling.
β€’ 🍽️ Dinner & overnight stay at Basecamp (camping).
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πŸ”οΈ Day 4 – Thursday: Chitta Katha Lake Trek
β€’ Early morning breakfast for trekking day.
β€’ Start trek (1–1/2 hours round trip) to Chitta Katha Lake (13,500 ft) β€” one of the highest and most stunning alpine lakes in Pakistan.
β€’ Enjoy 360Β° views of snow-clad peaks reflecting in crystal-clear waters.
β€’ Packed lunch/snacks at the lake.
β€’ Trek back to basecamp, descend to Shounter Valley.
β€’ 🍽️ Dinner & overnight stay in Shounter (camping).
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🌿 Day 5 – Friday: Shounter β†’ Sharda/Kel
β€’ Breakfast at camp.
β€’ Jeep ride back down towards Sharda or Kel.
β€’ Relaxing riverside day with optional short hikes, photography, or bazaar visit.
β€’ Evening tea by the Neelum River.
β€’ 🍽️ Dinner & overnight stay in hotel (Sharda/Kel).
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🚐 Day 6 – Saturday: Return Journey
β€’ Breakfast at hotel.
β€’ Check out and begin return journey via Muzaffarabad.
β€’ Tea break with scenic views on the way.
β€’ Arrival in Islamabad (evening) and Lahore (late night).
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Highlights

  • 🌟 Tour Highlights
  • ✨ Explore the historic charm of Sharda with riverside views and ancient ruins.
  • πŸš™ Thrilling 4Γ—4 jeep rides through alpine tracks of Shounter Valley.
  • β›Ί Camp under the stars in Shounter & Basecamp with breathtaking scenery.
  • πŸ”₯ Enjoy a magical bonfire night at Chitta Katha Basecamp.
  • πŸ₯Ύ Trek to the mesmerizing Chitta Katha Lake (13,500 ft) surrounded by snow-clad peaks.
  • 🌿 Relax by the Neelum River in Sharda/Kel before returning home.
  • πŸ“Έ Endless opportunities for photography & adventure memories.

Includes/Excludes

  • βœ… What’s Included
  • 🚌 Comfortable Coaster/AC Transport (Lahore – Islamabad – Sharda round trip)
  • πŸš™ 4Γ—4 Jeeps for Shounter Valley
  • 🏨 Accommodation – Hotels (Sharda/Kel) + Camps (Shounter & Basecamp)
  • 🍳 Daily Breakfast & 🍽️ Delicious Dinners throughout the trip
  • πŸ‘¨β€πŸ’Ό Professional Tour Guide & Team Lead
  • πŸ”₯ Bonfire Night at Basecamp (with group activities)
  • 🍲 Lunch & personal snacks
  • 🎟️ Entry tickets (if any)
  • 🐎 Porter / horse charges at Ratti Gali
  • πŸ›οΈ Shopping & personal expenses
  • πŸ›οΈ Room service, heater charges, or anything not mentioned in β€œIncluded"

Cancellation policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.

Frequently asked questions

πŸŽ’ What to Bring – Essentials

βœ… Mandatory Items:
β€’ Original CNIC (Compulsory for all)

πŸ‘• Clothing:
β€’ Warm jacket (nights can be chilly, even in summer)
β€’ Hoodies/sweaters (especially for Arang Kel & Taubat)
β€’ Comfortable jeans/trousers
β€’ Light raincoat or windbreaker (weather can change quickly)
β€’ Extra socks & undergarments
β€’ Sleepwear
β€’ Sunhat or cap
πŸ‘Ÿ Footwear:
β€’ Comfortable joggers or hiking shoes (for Arang Kel hike)
β€’ Flip-flops or sandals (for camp use)
🧳 Travel Essentials:
β€’ Backpack or small travel bag (easy to carry during hikes)
β€’ Power bank & charging cable
β€’ Water bottle (stay hydrated!)
β€’ Sunglasses & sunscreen
β€’ Personal snacks (nuts, energy bars, etc.)
β€’ Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
β€’ Towel & face wipes
🧻 Health & Safety:
β€’ Basic first aid kit (band-aids, painkillers, motion sickness tablets)
β€’ Any personal medication
β€’ Insect repellent (for evenings & wooded areas)
β€’ Hand sanitizer & tissues
🌌 Optional (but nice to have):
β€’ Torch/headlamp (great for cabins or night walks)
β€’ Camera (scenic photography spots everywhere!)
β€’ Small blanket or shawl (for extra warmth)
β€’ Travel pillow (for long drives)

❌ Not Allowed / Restricted Items

To ensure a safe, respectful, and smooth travel experience for everyone, the following items are strictly not allowed during the tour:

🚫 Drones / Flying Cameras
Strictly prohibited in LOC (Line of Control) areas – banned by local authorities.

πŸ”« Firearms / Pocket Knives / Weapons
Zero tolerance for any kind of weapon.

🚷 Illegal Substances / Alcohol
Absolutely prohibited. Violation may lead to legal action.

🚩 Political Flags / Banners
Avoid political messaging or group identity displays.

πŸ”Š Speakers / Loud Music Equipment
Respect the peace of the valley, local culture, and fellow travelers.

πŸ› Plastic Bags
Help keep Neelum Valley clean – bring reusable alternatives.

🐾 Pets
Not allowed due to transportation, accommodation, and local wildlife restrictions.

πŸ“Œ Know Before You Go

Before you pack your bags, here are some important things to know that will help you stay safe, comfortable, and fully enjoy your adventure:
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πŸͺͺ Identification & Permits
β€’ Original CNIC is mandatory (no digital copies).
β€’ Foreign nationals must carry their passport & valid visa.
β€’ Security checkposts are common in the region β€” keep ID handy.
β€’ No ID = no access beyond Muzaffarabad.
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🧳 Luggage & Packing Tips
β€’ Travel light β€” pack only the essentials.
β€’ Use a backpack or duffel bag, not heavy suitcases.
β€’ Keep a small daypack for hikes and daily items.
β€’ Pack for cold nights even in summer.
βœ… See full β€œπŸŽ’ What to Bring – Essentials” in FAQs.
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🏞 Terrain & Weather
β€’ The region is mountainous β€” expect winding roads and bumpy jeep rides.
β€’ Weather can change quickly: carry layers & a light rain jacket.
β€’ Hiking shoes are strongly recommended for Arang Kel.
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πŸ“΅ Network & Connectivity
β€’ Mobile signals are limited after Muzaffarabad.
β€’ Telenor works best in Neelum Valley.
β€’ Expect no Wi-Fi in remote villages like Arang Kel or Taubat.
β€’ Let your family know about limited connectivity in advance.
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πŸ’° Cash & Payments
β€’ ATMs are unreliable or unavailable beyond Muzaffarabad.
β€’ Bring enough cash in small denominations for personal expenses, snacks, or tips.
β€’ Most small shops and locals do not accept cards.
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πŸ™ Local Culture & Etiquette
β€’ Dress modestly and respectfully, especially in village areas.
β€’ Respect local traditions and avoid loud behavior.
β€’ Always ask permission before photographing locals.
β€’ Avoid discussing politics or border-related issues.
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πŸ—‘ Eco-Friendly Travel
β€’ Neelum Valley is a fragile ecosystem β€” do not litter.
β€’ Carry a reusable water bottle & avoid plastic.
β€’ Leave no trace β€” take your trash back with you.
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🚫 Prohibited Items
β€’ Drones, alcohol, drugs, weapons, political flags, and pets are strictly prohibited.
βœ… See full β€œβŒ Not Allowed / Restricted Items” in FAQs.
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πŸ›‘ Health & Safety
β€’ Keep personal medication with you at all times.
β€’ Inform the guide of any health conditions beforehand.
β€’ Motion sickness? Bring travel sickness tablets (the roads are winding!).
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πŸ•° Time & Punctuality
β€’ Tour runs on a fixed schedule β€” be on time at all pick-up and stop points.
β€’ Delays affect the whole group, especially in remote areas with limited daylight.
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πŸŽ‰ Be Ready to Unplug & Recharge (Yourself!)
β€’ It’s not just a trip β€” it’s a reset.
β€’ Embrace the quiet, the stars, the river sounds, and the warmth of bonfire nights.

βŒπŸ’Έ Cancellations & Refunds Policy

πŸ“… Cancellation & Refunds Timeline:
β€’ Cancellation requests must be made in writing (email or WhatsApp).
β€’ Refund policy:
o βœ…15+ days before departure: 70% refund
o πŸ” 7–14 days before departure: 40% refund
o ❌Less than 7 days: No refund
β€’ No refunds for unused services during the trip (e.g., missed tours, meals, etc.).

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πŸ’³ Other Refund Conditions:
β€’ ❗ No-shows or late arrivals are non-refundable
β€’ πŸ” Trip cancellation due to natural disasters, road closures, or political unrest:
o Partial refund or transfer to future tour (based on situation)
β€’ 🌧 Weather-related delays:
o No refund for itinerary changes caused by uncontrollable weather conditions
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πŸ”„ Transfer Option:
β€’ You may transfer your seat to another person (with CNIC info) up to 24 hours before departure
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πŸ“ Note:
Refunds are processed within 5–7 business days to the original payment method.
Service/transaction fees are non-refundable.

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