Routine work can be quite robotic, boring, and dull. Right? It is when you start feeling tired and blank, you take a break from the routine and escape to the picturesque, serene, and calm surroundings of nature. While tourism is essential to lighten up the burden of tensions and responsibilities, Pakistan’s tourism potential is also garnering significant attention. With this increasing awareness and attention, hidden gems of natural beauty, full of potential for tourism activities are also being discovered and brought to the spotlight.
One such spot is the Sharan forest. Recently discovered, this landmark is situated at a distance of 30km from Balakot. 13,370km high Musa ka Mussalla is also situated at a distance of a few kilometers from the Sharan Forest. Besides that, the association of the Darshi folklore to the region also adds to its charm and attraction.
If you are planning to explore this hidden gem, you need to have the following insights for better development.
1. Location and Accessibility
The Sharan Forest is located in the Kaghan Valley, a mesmerizing region in the Mansehra District of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. To reach this hidden jewel, you can take a scenic road trip from Islamabad, which is approximately 260 kilometers away. The journey itself is an adventure, as you’ll wind through picturesque valleys, lush green meadows, and charming villages.
Alternative approaches you can adopt include:
- Take a bus from Mansehra or Balakot
- Go with some tour company such as Abroad 21
- Utilize private transportation
No matter what route you take, you will end up being at Paras Road from where you will have to take a 16×16 jeep unless you are traveling in an off-roader.
2. Breathtaking Natural Beauty
Sharan Forest is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful surroundings. A thick carpet of pine trees that stretches as far as the eye can see will greet you as you reach the woodland. The dense layer of moss that covers the woodland floor adds to its dreamy appeal. A wide and spacious meadow right at the center of the forest multiplies its charm manifolds by providing a ready-made ground for camping. Besides that, Sharaan waterfall mesmerizes the visitors with its glamor and symphonies while the mountains and their tops such as the Manshi top add to the grandeur of the forest.
3. Wildlife Encounters
For wildlife enthusiasts, Sharan Forest is a treasure trove. The forest houses a diversity of fauna including the leopards and bears. Nature and animal lovers can amuse themselves with the sweet symphonies of the chirping birds and chittering insects. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the diverse avian species that inhabit the area.
While people can get to spend time in closeness to nature, it’s necessary to be careful while camping as dangerous animals can be harmful and dangerous.
5. Trekking and Hiking
Adventure seekers will find plenty to do in Sharan Forest. There are several trekking and hiking trails that take you deeper into the forest and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The trek to the Siri Paye Meadows is a popular choice, allowing you to witness the beauty of Sharan from a different perspective.
6. Local Culture and Hospitality
The local people of Kaghan Valley are known for their warm hospitality. While visiting Sharan Forest, take the opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their culture and way of life. You can also savor delicious local cuisine and experience the traditional hospitality that is a hallmark of this region.
7. Conservation Efforts
Preserving the natural beauty of Sharan Forest is of utmost importance. On one hand, commercialization adversely affects natural landscapes such as that of the Sharan forest, and on the other hand, the tourists do not dispose of their waste properly. This leads to the devastation of the beauty of such landscapes. However, as the Sharaan forest is not as much commercialized yet, efforts should be put in to preserve its serenity and hence the tourism potential.
8. Places to Visit in Sharan Valley:
Sharan is much more than only a forest. It houses a variety of wildlife animals including leopards and bears. Well-known Manshi Top is also located near to it. While being in Sharaan, you can visit the following spaces.
- Manshi Top
- Upper Kaghan
- Manor Valley
- Sharan Waterfall
- Mussa ka Mussalla
9. Recent Developments:
Upon the sudden exploration of this gem, the KPK government installed 11 pods in the vicinity of Sharan Forest to facilitate the tourists. However, as it has been recently discovered, it is less commercialized than other tourist attractions and hence, offers a closer connection to the unbleached environment of natural scenery.
Enjoy a customized trip to Sharaan Valley at the best rates in town with Abroad 21.