Lahore to Gwadar on Bike – A Travel guide to explore South Pakistan

After exploring Northern areas (KPK and Gilgit Baltistan) of Pakistan on my motorbike in 2020, i decided to explore South of Pakistan in 2021. This Travel series was shoot during my Travel from Lahore to Gwadar (up to Iran border) on Bike from 12-Feb-2021 to 5-March-2021.

ROUTE OF THE TOUR:

Below are the cities and route that i visited during my Journey.

Lahore – Sahiwal – Harappa – Multan – Cholistan Desert (Derawar Fort) – Sadiqabad – Daharki – Sukkur – Khairpur – Mohenjo Daro – Gorakh hill – Sehwan – Hyderabad – Thatta – Karachi – Kund malir – Ormara – Pasni – Gwadar – Jiwani – Iran Border

PREPARATIONS FOR BIKE

You can read my separate blog on how i prepare my bike before leaving on the tour

My motorbike riding gears are sponsored by WALIMALL.PK

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS:

Dates of trip: 12-Feb-2021 to 05-March-2021

Total Days = 22

Total Kilometer traveled = 4000 km on Bike and 1300 km by train

Total Expense of Fuel + Oil = 10,555 Rs

Train expense from Karachi to Lahore: 3700 Rs (self ticket) + 1470 Rs (Bike cargo from KHI to LHE)

Accommodation = 2000 Rs*

Food = 3990 Rs*

Miscellaneous = 580 Rs

*NOTE: I mostly stayed with locals during my trip thats why accommodation and food expense are relatively less

Day-1: Lahore to Multan

Day-2: Multan to Cholistan Desert (Derawar Fort)

Day-3: Cholistan to Sadiqabad

Day-4: Sadiqabad to Raharki

Day-5: Daharki Engro colony

Spent full day in engro colony to meetup with all of my friends and colleagues working at Engro plant site

Day-6: Daharki to Sukkur

Day-7: Sukkur to Khairpur

Day-8: Khairpur to Larkana > Mohenjodaro and Dadu

Day-9: Dadu to Gorakh hill

Day-10: Gorakh Hill to Sehwan

Day-11: Sehwan to Hyderabad

Day-12: Hyederabad to Karachi

Day-13: A day in Karachi

Day-14: Karachi to Kund Malir beach

Day-15: Kund Malir > Buzi Pass > Princess of Hope > Ormara beach > Pasni

Day-16: Explored Pasni

Day-17: Pasni to Gwadar

Day-18: Gwadar > Pishukan > Ganz > Jiwani (Iran border) and back to Pasni

Day-19: Pasni to Kund Malir

Day-20: Kund Malir to Karachi

Day-21: Booked bike in Train and left from Karachi

Day-22: Reached Lahore and received my bike

(This blog is under process and will be updated with the release of every episode of this journey on my Youtube channel – BEING A TRAVELER

GUIDE | Trekking to Jahaz Banda, Katora Lake and Kund Banda

HIGHLIGHTS OF JAHAZ BANDA TRIP

WHEN TO VISIT JAHAZ BANDA

Jahaz banda is a beautiful meadows in upper DIR district of KPK province in Pakistan. It remains covered with snow from October end till May. So the best time to visit Jahaz Banda is between JUNE to SEPTEMBER.

However before leaving, always take weather, route and distance updates from from Accuweather.com and Google maps

LOCATIONS ON GOOGLE MAPS

CAN FAMILIES VISIT THESE PLACES?

This is subjective. Every family should take decision according to the age group of their members. You can see the trekking paths in my videos (below) and should take decision accordingly. I have seen many families trekking these valleys from age group of 12 years to 60 years but not everyone can do this.

You should ask following questions from your family, friends (and yourself too) before coming to this place:

Have you done hikings and trekkings before?
Do you have stamina for this?
Can you hike for 6 to 10 hrs in a single day without having proper meals?
Can you bear wild places and sleeping in a camp on an un-even surface?
Can you use uncleaned and smelly toilets with no soap and small amount of water?
Can you eat un-hygienic and not a proper cooked food?
Do you have some members who always have complaining nature and have high demands of having facilities?
Do you have members whose habit is to always curse the Government on not providing facilities in every remote location of Pakistan?

The main purpose of visiting this place should be to enjoy the Wild nature away from hustle and bustle of populated city life. Your focus should not be on getting facilities but to enjoy few nights in a forest/valley

TRANSPORT

There are 4 ways to reach Jahaz Banda

Join a group tour on facebook (around 12,000 Rs per person for 3 Nights trip)
Drive your car upto THAL and then hire a jeep to reach Takki Banda
Take public transport to reach THAL and then reach Takki Banda on jeep
Drive your motor bike and you can even take it up to TAKKI BANDA (and there is proper parking area for bikers at tuckshop)

I traveled to Kumrat Valley and Jahaz Banda on Public Transport. Although my route was:

Lahore > Dir > Thal > Takki Banda > Jahaz Banda

but i recommend to travel through other route because its a hassle to get a public transport from Dir > Thal. So i recommend the below route:

Lahore > Mardan > Thal > Takki Banda > Jahaz Banda

There is another route recently being used by tourist:

Lahore > Swat > Kalam > Utror > Badgoi pass > Thal

CONTACT NUMBERS TO BOOK A SEAT IN PUBLIC BUS/ VAN:

SADAAT BUS: Lahore to Dir or Mardan : 0300-5697625 or 0306-4066634
VAN from Mardan to Thal (and vice versa): 0347-3075783

They have fix timings of departure so better take all timings from them by calling and then plan your journey accordingly.

ACCOMMODATION FACILITY IN JAHAZ BANDA

You should always keep this thing in mind that you are going on an adventure journey and going to stay in a remote area where no facilities are present. These places are for only those who love hiking, trekking and want to spend some time in wild nature. You should never expect good facilities and hospitality like Naran, Shogran, Murree and Nathiagali which are proper developed places for more than 50 years.

I visited first time Jahaz Banda in July 2019. At that time there were only camping facility available by locals. A 2-person tent is given at 500~1000 Rs and a four person camp is given at 1000 ~ 2000 Rs.

The rates are depending upon the number of tourist visiting this place. However i visited Jahaz Banda again in July 2020 and now 5 to 6 proper wooden hotels have been built with attach bathroom. They charge 1500 ~ 2000 Rs for a room which can accommodate 3 to 4 people.

FOOD AVAILABILITY

Although there are local tuck shops and kitchen huts available but you should keep this thing in mind that Jahaz Banda (or Kumrat) is a place of adventure and camping so you should not expect high quality facilities and food options at this place. Locals try their best to serve you chicken, daal, rice etc and you should thank them instead of complaining them for taste and hygiene conditions.

I always suggest people not to eat Roti, Naan and bread during your trekking trips because you have to do Katora Lake trekking next day which will take around 9 hrs (both ways) and there will be no bathroom in the way. So better eat some snacks or take along Noodles, Dry fruits and snacks with you.

ELECTRICITY AND CHARGING FACILITY

There is no proper electricity at Jahaz Banda top. People have installed Solar panels at their huts which are only sufficient for LED bulbs for lighting however do not expect that you would be able to charge your mobiles or Drone batteries. So better take Power banks and extra batteries with you.

MOBILE SIGNALS AT JAHAZ BANDA AND KATORA LAKE

As of now, there are currently Telenor and Jazz mobile signals available at Jahaz Banda top. You would hardly able to use internet but can easily make calls.

There are no mobile signals at Katora Lake (and also not at KUMRAT VALLEY)

SAFETY/ SECURITY/ LAW AND ORDER

The upper DIR region is very hospitable and i have found no issue of security during my 2 separate visits of Kumrat valley and Jahaz Banda. You can see my video of Katora Lake trekking where i left my big Backpack in my tent at Jahaz Banda and nothing was stolen. People are genuinely helping and offer you free things as a good gesture.

From camping point of view, there are no wild animals in this area. So you can sleep without worry.

⛔JEEP DRIVERS SCAM⛔

I am writing these lines with heavy heart and It is very unfortunate that Jeep owners at THAL are very unprofessional and not reliable. The are new in this tourism industry and thus lack professional ethics. Be very cautious while dealing with them and i highly recommend to record your conversation on mobile while you are finalizing the Jeep fare and the drop-off point or any other terms and conditions. For example; You guys negotiated with jeep owner that in 2500 Rs he will drop you at Takki banda. So what they do, either they will drop you 2 km before Takki banda point OR if they drop you at exact point, they will demand some other price (say 4000 Rs which they asked you initially while negotiations)

It has happened to me 3 times and i have heard many such scam stories from my friends and tour operator companies. I personally reported these scams to local police and also hope that local people will learn professional business ethics with the passage of time.

Average jeep fare are:

Thal to Takki Banda: 2500 ~ 4000 Rs (one way)

Thal to Kumrat Valley: 2500 ~ 3500 Rs (one way)

Kumrat to Takki Banda (vice versa): 3500 ~ 4500 Rs

Take phone number of 5 to 6 separate Jeep owners with you so that you can call them when you want to return from Takki Banda/Jahaz Banda to Thal.

PREPARATION FOR LEAVING ON CAMPING/ TREKKING TRIP TO KUMRAT

In order to see how to pack your bags, read my separate blog on Preparation Checklist

RESOURCES TO BUY TREKKING/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT IN PAKISTAN

Since many of you have asked to share resources where one can purchase camping/trekking gears so here is the list:

Dominance.pk (5% discount code: BBT05)
Hazari.com.pk
Acsender.pk
TheSportStore.pk
Higher.com.pk
Camps.pk
Gearup.asia
WALI MALL (for Bikers and campers)
DARAZ.pk (open market for all kind of equipment)
OLX.pk (Pick from the seller directly and save the shipping fees)

EXPENSES AND JOURNEY DETAILS OF MY PERSONAL VISIT TO JAHAZ BANDA

Jahaz banda is getting much popularity these days and it is always filled with lot of group tours and tourists from all over Pakistan. So in order to avoid heavy rush, i decided to travel this place just 5 days before Eid-ul-adha. This is the time when no one travels to north and every one is busy at their home in buying Goat and cows for the sacrifice. So here is chronological details of my journey:

DAY-1 | 26-JULY-2020

– Took Sadaat Bus from Lorry Adda Lahore @ 1400 Rs

DAY-2 | 27-JULY-2020 | TREKKING TO JAHAZ BANDA

– Left from Lahore @ 06:00 PM and Reached DIR bus stop at 0400 hrs

– Left from DIR in Jeep at 500 Rs @ 0730 hrs

– Reched THAL bazar @ 1030 hrs

– Hired a personal jeep @ 1500 Rs from THAL to Drop me till Takki Banda

NOTE: In normal days, average one-way jeep fare is 2500 ~ 4000 Rs depending upon season. Since i went there just 4 days before Eid-Ul-Adha so there was not a single tourist in Thal. Thats why i got a good price of 1500 Rs

– Left from THAL @ 1100 hrs and Reached at TAKKI TOP at 1230 hrs

– Trekking from Takki top to Jahaz Banda normally takes 3 ~ 4 hrs (depending upon your fitness and number of stops you take during the trip)

– I was shooting my videos with different angles and flying drone so it took my around 7 hours to reach at my camping site.

– Although lot of huts and camps are available at Jahaz Banda (between 500 to 1000 Rs per nite) but i setup my own tent. Had a rest and slept early at 9:00 PM

DAY-3 | 28-JUL-2020 | TREKKING TO KATORA LAKE

Trekking time from Jahaz Banda to Katora Lake one-way is 3 ~ 4 hrs . I woke up at Fajar time and left at 0600 hrs. Since i was alone and took the wrong path so i took around 7 hours to reach Katora Lake. However, on return i took the right path and reached back to Jahaz Banda in 3 hours only. Below are the details of trekking from Jahaz Banda to Katora Lake path:

It is highly recommended that if you are visiting first time then either travel with a group of people or hire a local tour guide for this track.

TREKKING TO KUND BANDA AND JAHAZ BANDA WATERFALL

– After coming back from Katora Lake at 1700 hrs, i took some rest and then packed my tent from Jahaz Banda and left for trekking towards Kund Banda which starts at backside of TAJ DIN HUT. This trekking is 45 min down hill and very steep. This place is one of peaceful spot and my favorite place in this region. I setup my tent and slept alone in that valley as there was not a single tourist there.

Locals have also setup tents and huts to offer you a sleeping place at 500Rs per person. If you do not have your own tent, then you cn easily get space there along with mattress, pillow and blanket.

Watch details of Kund Banda trekking in below video:

DAY-4 | 29-JUL-2020 | KUND BANDA TO THAL

– Woke up early morning and left from Kund Banda towards Takki Banda at 0700 hrs

– Reached at Takki Banda at 1200 hrs

– Had a long wait at Takki Banda to get some jeep because no tourist was coming from THAL (because of upcoming Eid) and hence no jeep was available which could take me to THAL

– Finally after a wait of around 3.5 hrs, there were few people going back on their personal HILUX, i took a lift from them @ 03:30 PM and they dropped at THAL at 04:30 PM

– From THAL, took a local van seat @ 700 Rs for Mardan. The van started at 08:30 PM from Thal

DAY-5 | 30-Jul-2020 | MARDAN TO LAHORE

– Van dropped me at Mardan Bus stop at 0400 hrs

– From Bus stop, went to Malakand Chowk (on rickshaw) which is around 1km and Booked a seat for Rawalpindi at 300 Rs on HIACE van

– Van started at 0515 hrs from Mardan and Dropped me at Pindi Peshawar mor at 0645 hrs

– From Pindi, took a YUTONG bus @ 800 Rs at the spot at 0800 hrs and reached Lahore at 1200 hrs

– 31-Jul-2020: Had a full time rest and got our Goats for Qurbani

– 1st-Aug-2020: Celebrated Bakra Eid and started editing of videos 🙂

BEING A TRAVELER – T-SHIRTS COLLECTION:

How to visit Kumrat Valley and Jahaz banda on public transport

VISIT KUMRAT VALLEY AND JAHAZ BANDA | KOHISTAN | KPK | PAKISTAN

First thing first, Kumrat Valley is not a Family Vacation spot (currently in 2020). Its an adventurer place where there are small camp-style-hotels with basic necessities only. Its a place for camping and trekking and requires lot of pre-planning.

Since the place has starting getting popularity after Imran Khan visit in 2017, so after seeing lot of people’s interest, KPK Govt has launched Tourism police there and now going to start road construction in early 2020.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KUMRAT VALLEY

Kumrat Valley is not accessible for full year. Because of heavy snow, you can not visit this place in winters. The snow starts melting in April till end may when it becomes accessible for locals however after June, the greenery start appearing in the valley and finally the valley gets started to welcome the visitors.

Hence the best time to visit Kumrat Valley is from Mid of June to Mid of October.

The videos you are seeing in this blog were made in 1st week of July 2019

CAMPING SITES

There are several camping sites along the river of Kumrat and locals have provided wooden huts and tents for tourists. If you want to put your own tent then it is allowed however locals will ask you to pay 500 Rs per nite if you peg your tent near Waterfall area. If you go further in a little no-mans land, then you can camp free-of-cost. You can get a camp of 2, 3 persons from locals at 500 ~ 1000 Rs per nite (as per availability)

ELECTRICITY AND CHARGING FACILITY

There is no proper electricity at in Kumrat Valley. People have installed Solar panels at their huts which are only sufficient for LED bulbs for lighting however do not expect that you would be able to charge your mobiles or Drone batteries. So better take Power banks and extra batteries with you.

MOBILE SIGNALS AT JAHAZ BANDA AND KATORA LAKE

As of now, there are currently mobile signas at THAL bazar only. There are no mobile signals at Kumrat Valley camping site. I had to make some emergency calls and for that i hired a motorbike who braught me to Thal bazar so that i could call at home and then i went back to camping site

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR PACKING

1. Always pack your bags light

2. Prefer foldable things, to utilize maximum space

3. Prepare for the emergency, not for leisure

4. Never rely on your friend, bring your own things

PREPARATION FOR LEAVING ON CAMPING/ TREKKING TRIP TO KUMRAT

In order to see how to pack your bags, watch the below video. Also you can see the

Preparation Checklist

RESOURCES TO BUY TREKKING/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT IN PAKISTAN

Since many of you have asked to share resources where one can purchase camping/trekking gears so here is the list:

Dominance.pk (5% discount code: BBT05)
Hazari.com.pk
Acsender.pk
The Sport Store
Higher.com.pk
Camps.pk
Gearup.asia
WALI E-MALL (for Biker and riding gadgets)
DARAZ.pk (open market for all kind of equipment)
OLX.pk (Pick from the seller directly and save the shipping fees)

TRANSPORT

There are 3 ways to reach Kumrat Valley

Join a group tour on facebook (around 12,000 Rs per person for 3 Nights trip)
Drive your car upto THAL and then hire a jeep to reach Kumrat Valley
Take public transport to reach THAL and then reach Kumrat Valley on jeep

I traveled to Kumrat Valley on Public Transport. Although my route was:

Lahore > Dir > Thal > Kumrat Valley

but i recommend to travel through other route because its a hassle to get a public transport from Dir to Thal. So i recommend the below route:

Lahore > Mardan > Thal > Kumrat Valley

EXPENSES AND JOURNEY DETAILS OF VISITING AND STAYING IN KUMRAT VALLEY

===============
1. LAHORE TO DIR (KPK):
===============
– Take bus from LAHORE-to-DIR at Larri Adda near Minar-e-Pakistan ( Bus Fare = 1400 Rs)
– You can book your seat by calling SADAAT BUS SERVICE at 0306-4066634 or 0313-5747238
– Bus leaves from Lahore at 1800 hrs and drops at DIR early morning 0430 hrs

=============
2. DIR TO THALL
=============

– From DIR bus terminal, you can either take a seat in local van to KUMRAT or THALL but they start operation at 0830 hrs. (Fare = 500 ~ 600 Rs/person)
– So if you are 5~6 people, you can hire a personal car that will drop you at THAL BAZAR in 3 hours.
– Private Car fare: 2000 ~ 2300 Rs (for all 5~6 persons)

=================

3. THALL TO KUMRAT

=================
– If you are solo and have small bag, you can hire a local motor bike who will drop you at Kumrat Valley within 1.5 hr in 500 ~ 700 Rs
– Or you can hire a 4×4 Jeep in 2500 Rs (can take upto 7 persons) that will drop you at Kumrat Valley in 2 ~ 2.5 hrs
– You should do camping near Waterfall point (Kumrat Aabshaar)
– A 3 to 4 person camp can be rented out at 500 ~ 1000 Rs depending upon the season

====================

3a. FIRST DAY CAMPING IN KUMRAT

====================

==================================
4. KUMRAT TO KALA (PATHAR) CHASHMA
==================================
– Trekking time = 1 hour (if starting from Kumrat Waterfall point)
– Path is very wide and worthy for 4×4 Jeeps and Motorbikes
– There are few camping facilities (4 to 5 camps only) at Kala Chashma point.
– You should stay a night there only if you want further trekking to Shahzor Lake or Kundal Lake
– There is one Tuck Shop and restaurant at Kala Chashma who can serve Pakora, Daal, Chicken Karahi, Cold drinks etc.
– Camp of 4 to 5 people @ 500 Rs/nite

============================
5. KALA CHASHMA TO SHAHZOR LAKE (15 hours trekking)
============================
– Trekking from Kala Chashma to DOJAGGA is almost straight path and takes around 3 hours (with breaks)
– From DOJAGGA (also called DOJANGA in Kohistani language) to Shahzor Lake, the trekking path is slightly UP-HILL and takes around 6 hours (with multiple breaks for rest and re-energize)
– On return, it takes only 03 hours from Shahzor lake to DoJagga point, however from Do-Jagga to Kala Chashma, trekking time is same i.e 03 hours.

– So total time of Uphill (towards Shahzor Lake) = 9 hrs and Down-hill (towards Kala chashma) = 6 hrs

(We started our trekking at 0800 hrs and came back 2300 hrs. Dont forget to take food and Head-lamps with you)

========================
6. THALL TO JAHAZ BANDA
========================
– Jeep track is steep, it takes you from Thal and drops at Takki Top (Taki Banda)
– Jeep fare = 3000 Rs
– Time from Thal to Takki Top = 2 ~ 2.5 hrs
– You can not take Jeep or Bikes further from Takki Top
– Trekking time from Takki Top to Jahaz Banda = 03 hours
– Camping facility at Jahaz Banda = 500 rs per camp (for 2 or 3 people)
====================
7. JAHAZ BANDA WATER FALL
====================

– Just 15 min down-hill trekking from camping point, you will witness beautiful waterfall and lush blue zig-zag water flowing between lush green ground.
– You can also do camping at this so-peaceful place.
=========================
8. KATORA LAKE TREKKING
=========================
– Must start your trekking at 0600 hrs from Jahaz Banda
– Trekking time one-side = 03 hrs approx
– Must take rain coats with you as you will witness rain on the way 2 or 3 times and even heavy hail storm.

I COULD NOT UPLOAD REMAINING 04 EPISODES OF KUMRAT VALLEY TRIP BECAUSE I LOST MY ALL DATA WHEN I WAS TOURING IN USA AND SOMEONE STOLE MY LAPTOP AND ALL HARD DRIVES BY BREAKING INTO MY CAR.

Anyways, i went again Jahaz Banda in 2020 and filmed separate Vlog series

READ: Solo trip to Jahaz Banda, Katora Lake and Kund Banda

Watch my other VLOGS of Exploring the beauty of Pakistan

—————————————————————————————–
1. Androon Lahori Nashta: https://bit.ly/2XacxXt
2. Camping in SHARAN Forest: https://bit.ly/2FbE2Fy
3. Visiting TAOBUTT Kashmir: https://bit.ly/2XhbRzf
4. Rati Galli Lake: https://bit.ly/31LKexY
5. Toli Peer Hike Kashmir: https://bit.ly/2Xgg86m
6. Swat Kalam Malam Jabba: https://bit.ly/2IkoIZd
7. Saji Kot Waterfall: https://bit.ly/2WNfe1I
8. Road trip to HUNZA Valley: https://bit.ly/2Rgw3vZ
9. Mushkpuri Top hiking: https://bit.ly/2WJxELN
10. Neela Wahan (Blue Ponds): https://bit.ly/2ZtWwsU
11. Neelam Valley Kashmir: https://youtu.be/dcg4xauI2Pg
12. Haneef Siri Paye | Ambala Lassi: https://bit.ly/2Ko77ll
13. How to visit KUMRAT VALLEY & JAHAZ BANDA: https://youtu.be/FpMOvAiaPHQ
———————————
BACKPACKING IN INDONESIA:
———————————
▶️ Episode-1: Preparing for my longest trip| https://bit.ly/2JrCX02
▶️ Episode-2: Met my humshakal in Bangkok to Bali | https://bit.ly/2Ee40aX
▶️ Episode-3: Day trip to Nusa Penida Klingking Beach | https://bit.ly/2JrDzTo
▶️ Episode-4: visiting Gate-of-Heaven (Lempuyang Temple) | https://bit.ly/2LSlu2W
▶️ Episode-5: Tukad Cepung Waterfall | Bali | https://bit.ly/2QdoDZD
▶️ Episode-6: TANAH LOT TEMPLE: https://bit.ly/2wcN4x7
Episode-7: A Day in UBUD |Bali Swing | Monkey Forest | https://bit.ly/2VC8DBv
▶️ Episode-8: Going BALI to JAKARTA | https://youtu.be/zTTTkIUFQSI
▶️ Episode-9: I met president of Indonesi | https://youtu.be/TISH0mEtTyU

FOLLOW MY TRAVELS ON:

https://www.INSTAGRAM.COM/beingatraveler

Trekking and Camping preparation checklist

This is my personal packing list for camping and trekking. You may find few things extra and can use this list to take help for your packing. You can watch the whole video about my packing at the end of this blog.

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR BACKPACKING TRIP

1. Always pack light things

2. Prefer fold-able things, to utilize maximum space of your bag

3. Prepare for the emergency, not for leisure

4. Never rely on your partner, bring your own things

RESOURCES TO BUY TREKKING/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT IN PAKISTAN

Since many of you have asked to share resources where one can purchase camping/trekking gears so here is the list:

Dominance.pk (5% discount code: BBT05)
Hazari.com.pk
Acsender.pk
TheSportStore.pk
Higher.com.pk
Camps.pk
Gearup.asia
WALI E-MALL (for Bikers and campers)
DARAZ.pk (open market for all kind of equipment)
OLX.pk (Pick from the seller directly and save the shipping fees)

BAGS AND DOCUMENTS

60 – 80 Lit backpack
Rain cover for bag
Day bag (30-40 Lit) to keep daily essentials like food water, wind breaker
Waist bag
Dry bag
Multiple organizer bags
Laundry bags
National ID card (and its photocopies)
Driving License
Your employee/business card
Credit/Debit cards
Ball point
Wallet

WEARABLES

Trouser
Jeans
Shorts
T-shirt
Trekking Joggers/shoes
Flipflop/ sleeper
Neck cover
Round Hat
P- Cap
Winter Cap
Arm covers-sleeves (to avoid sun contact)
Small personal Towel
Sun Shades/Glasses
Thermals (For winters)
Zipper (Wind breaker)

TOILETRIES

Tooth brush
Small paste
Mouth freshener (paper mint)
Shampoo sachet
Small soap
Paper soap
Razor
Shaving cream small
Nail cutter
Scissor
Small comb
Oil
Small cutter
Sewing pin + thread
Tissue pack
Deodorant

MEDICAL/ EMERGENCY KIT

Disprine / Panadol for mild headaches and pain
Pain killers for severe pains
Stomach upset Medicines (Emodium)
Anti Vomit medicines
Sun Block cream
Lip balm
Sunny plast (for minor cuts)
Medical doctor tape
Safety pins
Nimcol / ORS
Bandage
Balm/ Iodex
Knee braces

TREKKING/ CAMPING GADGETS

Camp with water sheets/cover
Sleeping bag
Sleeping mat
Trekking poles
Anti slip rubber grips (for mud and snow)
Torch light
Head light
Water bottle hooks
D-shape hooks
Rain coat
Emergency blanket
Small Umbrella
Small lighter (use it for cooking breakfast and other meals or bonfire)
Whistle for emergency
Small strings to ties camping sheets etc
Anti cut gloves
Air Pillow
Foldable Water bottles
Water bag with pipe
Dust mask
Foldable glass
Rubber bands to tie something
All mobile network Sim cards (to catch signals in mountains)

FOOD AND TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Travel neck pillow
Eye mask
Ear plugs
Book/Novel
Coffee (3 in 1) sachet
Noodles
Dry fruits
Ready to eat food (FRESHMATE)
Snacks & Chocolates
Chewing gum

ELECTRONIC GADGETS

Camera and batteries
Power banks (solar is better)
Blue tooth speakers
Mobile and Chargers
Travel sockets
Old mobile with long battery life
Water covers for mobile and DSLR
Dry bag (rafting bag)
Wrist watch/band
Handsfree
Empty USBs
Car charger
AUX cable (to connect mobile with car/jeep audio tape)

MY PERSONAL VLOGGING EQUIPMENT

DSLR camera (Canon 6D and SONY A7iii)
Drone (DJI MAVIC PRO and DJI MAVIC Air-2)
360 deg Camera (samsung)
Action Cameras (Hero4, Hero7, SJ4000)
Microphone during Travel (BOYA shotgun mic)
Microphone for Voiceover recording (ZOOM H6 Black)
Extra batteries of all cameras
Tripods (big n small)
Gimbal (Zhiyun Weebill-S)
Head mount for GoPro camera
Timelapse revolving mount
Selfie Stick
Extra memory cards
OTG device (to connect USB with mobile)
Charging extension board

VIDEO OF PREPARATION FOR CAMPING AND TREKKING TRIP TO KUMRAT VALLEY

You can also refer TRAVEL CHECKLIST for packing your bag for an INTERNATIONAL TRIP

How to plan your visit to Neelam Valley Kashmir | Pakistan

Neelam valley is situated in Pakistan’s part of Kashmir. I had a chance to visit this valley first time in May 2017 with a group tour company “Trekkers Club” Pakistan.

ABOUT KASHMIR

Kashmir is a disputed region between Pakistan and India. After India-Pakistan partition in 1947, half of the Kashmir was held by India and half of the Kashmir was held by Pakistan.

Whether it is Indian side or Pakistani, the land of Kashmir is called the “Paradise on Earth”. The Neelam River stream acts as a border between India and Pakistan and no one is allowed to cross the river with proper visa. In the below Blog “Kashmir” will be meaning as “Pakistani Kashmir”.

GOVERNMENT OF KASHMIR:

Kashmir has their independent Governance system. It is not controlled under Federal Law of Pakistan. They have their own National Assembly, Prime Minister and Laws. However its security is controlled by Pakistani Army.

ABOUT KASHMIRI PEOPLE:

People living in Pakistan’s part of Kashmir have their relatives in Indian side of Kashmir. One of local Kashmiri Khawaja Shabir (which later became my friend) told that if they have to visit their relatives in Indian side of Kashmir, they submit their papers to Indian Army and it takes normally 12 months for verification and then are allowed to cross the River.

neela kashmir beingatraveler.com bilal azam — A Local Kashmiri Guy cutting wood

PRE-PLANNING A TOUR TO NEELAM VALLEY – KASHMIR

Safety First! Before you are planning to visit Neelam Valley, make sure that border security situation is normal as round the year there have happened many firing incidents from Indian side to Pakistan side depending upon the political situation between the two countries. You don’t need this info for security purpose only but also because road to many beautiful parts of Kashmir gets closed during this tense period.

ROADS IN KASHMIR

While driving towards Neelam Valley some of the roads are in very good shape. However after passing 3 hours from Muzaffarabad many roads are single track having a giant mountain at your one side and Neelam River on the other side. If you will be driving in a sunny weather, make sure to install a uv protection in your car’s windows.

visit neelam valley kashmir roads — Kashmiri Girls taking woods to their home – Road in Neelam valley

At some places these roads are bumpy and rough with stones while at some places it has clean carpet road with sharp hair pin turns.

Roads neelam valley — Road to KEL – Neelam Valley

SHOULD YOU GO BY DRIVING YOUR OWN CAR?

Well ! Its a trade off between independence and risk of your car degradation. If you have Sedan shape cars (Like Toyota Corolla, Honda City etc) then you would end up with loss of shocks performance at the end of your trip, plus as these cars are meant to be driven on straight carpeted roads, so you should expect hitting of lot of stones at the bottom of your car.

how to visit neelam valley — Coasters on their way – Neelam Valley

The recommended drive is through Hiace Van, Coasters (through group tour companies) or SUVs (Vigo, Land Cruiser, Pajero, Fortuner etc) which have good road clearance and great shocks absorption capacity.

IS KASHMIR SUITABLE FOR FAMILY TRIP PLACE?

Lot of people takes Kashmir similar to other Northern Areas of Pakistan like Murree, Nathia Galli, Naran, Swat etc but traveling to Kashmir is little different. There are no such good facilities of Hotels, Food etc as found in other places. There is no such central Place in Neelam Valley like Mall Road in Murree, Bazaar in Naran and Swat valley. Locals have identified beautiful spots at different parts of Neelam Valley and have built accommodations on their own. So where ever you will stay it will be you and few other travelers and tourists with limited resources of food around you. The reason of these limited resources is probably because no Pakistani is allowed to buy a land in Kashmir. You have to be a local Kashmiri to invest in Kashmir. If Pakistanis are allowed to invest directly in Kashmir regions then situation could be better.

visit neelam valley kashmir kutton — Balcony of a local Guest House in Kutton – Neelam Valley kashmir

So there is lot of hectic traveling involved to visit all places in Neelam Valley and if you are traveling with family having kids and elders then visiting this valley can put you in trouble. The journey includes restless travel, bumpy and single roads with sharp turns. And even when you reach any point then it will always involve little hiking (ascending or descending) on a rough track. Also there will be no Bazaar and shopping areas where ladies could spend there time. It will be only You and the Landscape. In short, “Kashmir is not a Family Picnic Spot”

kashmir neelam — A breakfast point at the bank of River Neelam

WHAT TYPE OF PEOPLE SHOULD TRAVEL TO NEELAM VALLEY – KASHMIR

Adventure Lovers ! Explorers ! Nature Lovers !

Yes, Kashmir is a place for those who love adventure. Who love to spend restless hours and hours to see a Landscape with a flowing stream of Neelam River, mountains around you just like you are sitting in bowl and experiencing a sunrise at the backside of the mountain. Kashmir is a place for Individuals, friends group, adventurous Honeymoon couples and adventure loving families.

arang kel kashmir neelam valley beingatraveler — Crossing Waterfall stream – Arang Kel Neelam Valley

I am referring the word “Adventure” again and again because you never know when there could be land sliding in the middle of the road and you have to wait hours to get the road clear. You never know that upon arrival, all accommodations are already full and you have to spend a night in a camp.

hike visit neelam valley kashmir beingatraveler — A tree fell on Hiking Trail to Arang Kel – Neelam Valley

It should be kept in mind that you are not visiting Kashmir to relax and chill, you are visiting Kashmir to explore the Nature and during exploration, there could be any unforeseen situation. Although I would not recommend newlywed couples to travel Kashmir for honeymoon but if you both are adventurous then its a must-to-go. You should spend at least 7 to 8 “effective days” excluding travel days.

COMMUNICATION IN KASHMIR

You must be knowing that Kashmir is not a Pakistan’s Province and hence due to security reasons no Pakistani mobile company works beyond Muzaffarabad. They have their own mobile network named SCOM which is controlled by Pakistan Army. You have to buy SCOM 4G-SIM from the only one franchise in Muzaffarbad city.

scom sim used in kashmir neelam valley muzaffarabad — Franchise of SCOM – 4G SIM | Muzaffarabad

Now you can also buy SCOM sim in Lahore. There is a Kashmir PCO in Lohari gate. Below mentioned his contact detail to get SCOM sim before departing for Kashmir Trip

Contact # of Rizwan – Kashmir PCO: 0355-7115003

SECURITY IN KASHMIR

All security in Kashmir is under Pakistan Army and there are multiple Check Posts where you have to show ID cards of your travel members. It takes a lot of time to stop the car, collect the ID cards and submit them to Army, who then write details of each traveler on a register. In order to avoid time wastage, it is recommended to write below details of all your travel members on a single page and take atleast 20 photocopies with you.

Name
National ID Card Number
Address mentioned on ID Card
Mobile number

You will have to submit this page at all the security checkposts and the process will be much quicker.

PLACES TO VISIT IN KASHMIR

kashmir neelam valley — A View of Sharda | Neelam Valley Kashmir

Neelam Valley has scattered destination points where you can find “Hotels with a View”. You can spend minimum 3 days to visit famous Places however if you want to get a thorough experience of Kashmir Valley then you should plan atleast 7 days.

1. MUZAFFARABAD CITY

Muzaffarabad is the Capitol City of Kashmir. It is 120 Km from Islamabad which will take around 4.5 hrs of travel on car. You can find normal grocery shops, hotels, and everything you need take along further in your travel. In setting up these enterprises, blogs such as the zenbusiness review could have been quite helpful.

Moreover don’t forget to buy the SCOM 4G-SIM from Muzafarabad because you mobile network will not work beyond here.

2. DHANI WATERFALL

While going towards Kuttan, this is a beautiful stopover which is almost 1.5 hrs from Muzafarabad. I would suggest to take a long break here instead of Muzafarabad.

Dhani Water Fall - Neelam Valley — A closer look of Dhani Water Fall – Neelam Valley

Watch Dhani Waterfall video here:

https://www.facebook.com/beingatraveler/videos/2045016195725243/

Just in front of the waterfall, there is a Tuckshop, Tea bar and Toilet Facility aswel. And yes don’t forget to Enjoy Fresh mouthwatering Pakoray while sitting on Chaarpai (Traditional Bed) and benches with your feet dipped in flowing water stream

Traditional Sitting at Dhani Waterfall stream

3. KUTTON WATERFALL

After 1.5 hrs straight travel from Dhani Water fall, you will reach a point called KUNDAL SHAI. From this point, you would take left road which will take you towards Kuttan. On the way you will pass through Kutton Waterfall which is also called Mini Niagra Fall.

Source

4. KUTTON VALLEY

Kutton valley 20 min from Kundal Shai and almost 2 hours from Dhani Water Fall. The best place to stay in Kuttan with family is Jagran Resort or Trekker Valley. On the other hand if you want to stay in a budget hotel then you can find cheaper options at a walking distance after crossing the metal bridge. You can stay 1 or 2 nites here.

4. KERAN

Keran is 1 hour from Kutton and have beautiful sights with 4 to 5 good accommodation facilities around. Keran is a place where Indian occupied Kashmir is just in front of you and there is only a river stream between Pakistan and India

5. SHARDA

Sharda is one of the best point in Neelam Valley. It is 2.5 hrs further from KERAN. Although there are number of hotels in Sharda but you must select the one which is adjacent to the river.

Sharda Neelam Valley — Sharda | Neelam Valley

Sharda has a small Bazaar and a 9^th century Hindu temple called SHARDA TEMPLE or SHARDA UNIVERSITY.

6. KEL

1.5 hour long drive on Sharda to Kel is rough, bumpy and adventurous. It is recommended to hire a jeep from Sharda and visit Kel. Although mostly people come to Kel to visit Arang Kel but this is a peaceful valley and you can consider one night stay in Kel.

7. ARANG KEL

Arang Kel is a beautiful plateau where you can go by hiking. At the top there are tuck shops, few accommodations and camping options. There are two options to reach Arang Kel from Kel:

OPTION-1: 10 min Hike + Electrical Lift + 30 min hike (one side)

If you are not a good hiker then you should choose this option however you have to stand in a long queue of Electrical lift because it has only one mini Gandola (called Dolly) which can take 5 persons only at time. This option is not hectic but on the other hand you will miss beautiful views and spots which will come in Option-2

OPTION-2: Full time hike from Kel to Arang Kel :

It will take around 2.5 hours (one side) without using lift to reach at the top of Arang Kel. The hike is very hectic and you must come fully prepared for it. On the way you will pass through a beautiful bridge and two water falls

Things to take along on hike:

A Day Backpack
2 water bottles
Hiking Joggers (must not be flast because surface is quite slippery)
Hiking Stick
Chewing Gum/ Choclate Bars (for energy boostup)
And obviously a Camera

8. TAOBUT and RATI GALLI

Taobut is almost last point in the valley where people usually go and stay in Kashmir. Rati gali is a 6 hours hike from Dawarian. Due to my short 3 days trip, i could not cover these places in my first visit, however i went again next year to explore Rati Gali and Tao Butt on Public transport. Read beow its separate blog:

HIGHLIGHTS OF MY 3 DAYS TRIP TO NEELAM VALLEY

How to Plan your first visit to Turkey – An Ultimate Guide

How to plan your first visit to Turkey – An Ultimate Guide

Planning to visit turkey and not sure how many days are enough? And what is must to see and good to see? Let me make it easy for you.

How to get Turkish Visa

Getting Turkish tourist visa was never easy before. If you are resident of USA, UK, Schengen States or Ireland (or even you have a valid visa of these countries on your passports) then you can get 6-Months Tourist visa through ONLINE system. Just fill the form and pay the fees 60USD and you will receive the PDF copy of visa on your email within a minute. I personally had a USA visa on my Pakistani passport and got the online Turkish visa very easily.

(For Pakistani Citizens): In case you guys don’t have valid visa’s of USA, UK, Schengen or Ireland then you have to apply to Turkish Embassy through GERRY’s Pakistan drop box visa service. You must apply for visa atleast 2 ~ 3 weeks before your actual travel to turkey. Gerry’s takes 2500 Rs other than Visa fee to provide their services.

Purchasing the Air ticket

Although the best and cheapest option is to travel through Turkish Airline however before booking your tickets through a Travel Agent, you must check cheapest flight to Turkey using online Flight search engines like SKYSCANNER.COM or KAYAK.COM

TRAVELING AROUND TURKEY

ISTANBUL !! The only city in the world where you can visit ASIA and EUROPE at the same time.

Where to Stay:

If you want to experience the deep culture of Istanbul then your Hotel must be in SULTAN AHMET area. However if you want modern touch then you can get your hotel around ISTIKLAL STREET. I personally recommend Sultan Ahmet area because you would love roaming around streets of Istanbul and meeting local Turkish people and eating in local food restaurants

Istanbul Sultan Ahmet by beingatraveler — A street in Sultan Ahmet – Istanbul

You can book your Hotel/ Hostel through booking.com or agoda.com. I am personally using booking.com from last 6 years because they dont charge from your credit card before arrival and also their help in case of wrong charging or any dispute with Hotel is remarkable.

What Transport to be used:

Istanbul has a very well established Metro Trains and Bus system. Just buy ISTANBUL KART (Istanbul Metro card) and you can visit around Istanbul from Europe to Asian sides of Istanbul using this card. Never use Private Taxis as these are 10 times expensive. In case you are with family you should use APP Taxis like CAREEM which are much cheaper.

Istanbul Metro beingatraveler.com — Tram passing through a street in Sultan Ahmet

Day-1 | I S T A N B U L

Morning: Start exploring Turkey from the most iconic Sultan Ahmet Mosque which is also called Blue Mosque. I am not writing any history here. Just Go ! and Explore yourself 🙂

sultan ahmet istanbul bilalazam beingatraveler.com

sultan ahmet istanbul beingatraveler.com

sultan ahmet istanbul beingatraveler.com

Afternoon: Topkapi Palace/ Hagia Sofia

For Muslims, Topkapi palace is one of the best History Museum in the world. You would have a chance to see lot personal things of many Prophets and companions of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) such as

Hair of Prophet Muhammad PBUH
Foot print of Prophet Muhammad PBUH
Sword of Prophet Muhammad PBUH (Azab)
Miraculous Stick of Prophet Musa (A.S)
Turban of Prophet Yousaf (A.S)
Dresses of Hazrat Imam Hussain R.A and Hazrat Fatima R.A

Don’t forget to visit the backside of Topkapi where you would see amazing scenic view of River Marmara

Topkapi palace turkey istanbul beingatraveler.com bilalazam

Topkapi palace turkey istanbul beingatraveler.com bilalazam

Useful Info

Topkapi Palace Timings: 9:00 AM to 04:30 PM

Topkapi Entrance: 40 TL (Turkish Lira)

Hagia Sofia (Aya Sofia) Entrance: 40 TL

Evening should be spent in Istiklal Street/ Taksim Square , one of the most happening and lively street in the world. You would love walking, shopping, eating and specially THE ISTIKLAL TRAM. I would always love to spend evening in Istiklal street.

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Day-2 | I S T A N B U L

Morning: Grand Bazaar

Grand Bazaar (constructed in 1455 AD) in Istanbul is one of the largest covered markets in the world with 04 Gates, 60 streets and 5,000 shops. In Turkish it is named as Kapalıçarşı, meaning ‘Covered Market’

Useful Info

Opening Times: Monday to Saturday 9:00 – 19:00 hrs

The Grand Bazaar is around 15 minutes walk from the Aya Sofya/Blue Mosque area.

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Afternoon: Spice Bazaar

I could not visit Spice bazar during my first visit to Istanbul. However lot of people recommend it and I would definitely visit spice bazar during my next visit.

Evening: Bosphorus Cruise and Dance Dinner

This is must to experience! You can book this tour through any tour operator in Istanbul however if you want it cheap, directly go to KABATASH PIER and book your tour from ticket window. It includes dinner, Turkish girls dance, Sufi Dance at bottom deck and then Turkish Belly dance at the Top Deck of cruise.

Useful Info

Timing: 7.30 PM to 10.30 PM

Dinner Cruise Ticket: 120 TL (You will get expensive rates if you book it through tour agents)

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Day-3 | I S T A N B U L

Morning: Buyuk Ada – Prince’s Island

Lets relax today and have a visit to famous Prince’s Island. You can take the Ferry from KABATASH PIER that will drop you at Buyuk Ada island. Don’t forget to taste delicious 5-Scoops ice cream there. You must know that no fuel car/ motorbike is allowed in Buyuk Ada. You can only roam around beautiful streets either renting a Horse Carriage or Riding on a bicycle. If you are young and have enough time then Cycling is recommended.

Useful Info

Ferry Fare (one side) = 7.5 TL

Bicycle Rent = 10 TL for one hour and 20 TL for full day

Buyukada turkey beingatraveler.com

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Buyukada turkey beingatraveler.com

Late Afternoon: Asian side of Istanbul

Take the Marmara Metro Train (which travel under the sea) from EMINONU station and travel from Europe to Asian side of Istanbul. You would love walking along Marmara and beautiful view of Bosphorus Bridge that is connecting Europe and Asia in air.

(Standing at Asian side, lookiking towards Europian side)

IMPORTANT! Everything related to your Kapadokya tour should be “pre-booked” from Istanbul. Otherwise you will waste your time in managing things after arrival.

Travelling to Kapadokya

BY AIR: If you have less time in turkey (and also you can afford it) then you should take flight from Istanbul to NEVSEHIR or KAYSERIA Airports (as Kapadokya has no airport). From there your hotel van will pick you and take you to Goreme town in Kapadokya
BY BUS: If you are on budget travel then you should take a night bus from Istanbul main Bus station. As i was traveling solo so i chose this option.

Useful Info

Bus Starte at: 9:00 PM and reach at: 07:45 AM (Nevsehir Main Bus station)

Then further 1 hour travel to your hotel in Goreme Caves Valley

Bus Fare: 65 TL

Where to stay in Kapadokya

Kapadokya is a valley of Fairy chimney having caves. Make sure you experience your stay in a Cave Hotel. However you should always pre-book your hotel before leaving for Kapadokya because you need their pickup service at Airport or Bus station which is 1 hour away from Goreme Valley of Kapadokya.

Day-4 | K A P A D O K Y A

Red Tour: After your arrival, you would be taken to Red tour which includes visiting ancient times Cave City. The reason of calling this tour “Red” because chimney rocks gives reddish shades.

Useful Info

Tour Avg Booking Price: 100 ~ 120 TL

Tour Timings: 9.30 AM to 04:00 PM

Kapadoky Capaducia turkey beingatraveler

Kapadoky Capaducia turkey beingatraveler

Day-5 | K A P A D O K Y A

Hot Air Baloon: Next day you will be picked early morning before sunrise and will taken for amazing Hot Air Baloon ride.

Useful Info

Balloon ride cost = 75 ~ 100 Euro

Pickup time from Hotel: 04:00 AM

Flight time: 1 hour (5:00 AM to 6:00 AM)

Drop off back to Hotel: 07:00 am

hot air baloon turkey capaducia kapadokya beingatraveler bilal azam

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hot air baloon turkey capaducia kapadokya beingatraveler bilal azam

Green Tour: After coming back from Hot Air balloon , you will be taken to Green Tour at 0930 hrs. This includes visiting under ground city and Ihlara Valley and Selime Cathedrale. This tour is called “Green” because you would see more greenery and trees in this tour as compared to Red Tour

Useful Info

Green Tour Cost = 100 ~ 120 TL

Timing: 09:30 AM to 06:30 PM

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NOTE: Red and Green are the most famous tours in Kapadokya however it has another tour named as BLUE TOUR. If you are staying another day in Goreme valley then you must take this tour aswel

Day-6 | F E T H I Y E

Getting there: You can travel from Kapadokya to Fethiye using Night Bus. These buses starts in the evening at center of Goreme Valley nearby all hotels and arrives at Fethiye in the early morning.

Useful Info

Bus Fare = 70 TL

Bus starts from Kapadokya : 07:00 PM and arrives Fethiye next day at 06:30 AM

Paragliding: Although Fethiye is a beach city but I recommend visiting this place to experience adventurous Para-gliding flight over an amazing landscape. You can book it from your Hotel reception. The tour includes Pick/ drop , Paragliding jump, official Pictures and Videos (they do not allow to take your personal camera)

fethiye paragliding turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

fethiye paragliding turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

Useful Info

Price = 250 ~ 340 TL (depends on season to season)

Pickup time from Hotel: 04:30 PM

Arrival at Jump location: 05:45 PM

Total Para-gliding time: 30 ~ 40 min

Drop off back to your hotel: 07:30 PM

OPTIONAL Day: Visiting Saklikent Gorge

If you have an extra day or time other than para-gliding then you must visit this place. You have to walk through knee high cold rushing water stream and then you walk along the gorge.

Useful Info

Getting there: Using local van from Fethiye bus stop to Saklikent

Van fare: 11 TL (one side)

Travel time: 1 hour (one side)

Entrance ticket for Saklikent = 6 TL

Day-7 | P A M U K K A L E

Getting There: Take evening bus from Fethiye at 1800 hours and you will arrive Pamukkale at 10:30 PM in 55 TL. Make sure your next day tour is already booked which should cover visiting Hierapolis and Thermal Pools

Morning: Visit Hierapolis

Hierapolis (Holy City in Greek) ruins are UNESCO World Heritage site, adjacent to Pamukkale Thermal pools. You must read its details HERE before visiting.

hierapolis pamukkale turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

hierapolis pamukkale turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

Afternoon: Visit Thermal Pools

Pamukkale, meaning “cotton castle” in Turkish, is a natural site having hot springs (natural hot water due to underground volcanic activity) and terraces of white colored carbonate minerals left by the flowing water. There are 17 hot water springs in which the temperature ranges from 35 °C (95 °F) to 100 °C (212 °F)

pamukkale turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

pamukkale turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

Useful Info

Tour Cost = 100 TL (Includes Pick and Drop + Hierapolis and Thermal Pools entry tickets and a Guide)

Tour timing : 0930 AM to 4:00 PM

Shoes are not allowed while entering in Thermal Pools

(You can go to both places on your own too however it will waste lot of your time in managing transport etc)

Getting There: You should book your travel from Pamukkale to Izmir through tour agent (within 40 ~ 50 TL). The van will pick you in the evening and will drop at your Izmir hotel in the night. Izmir is 4 hours away from Pamukkale.

Visiting Ephesus

Ephesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ancient Greek city built in the 10th century BC, three kilometers southwest of present-day Selçuk in Izmir.

izmir ephesus turkey beingatraveler bilal azam

izmir ephesus turkey beingatraveler bilal azam

Useful Info

Ephesus Tour cost = 100 ~ 120 TL

Tour Timing: 09:30 AM to 0:30 PM

OPTIONAL CITIES

You can always customise your tour and can include cities/places like Antalya, Konya, Bodrum etc

Turkey Travel Video Highlights

Plan your Tour with Ibrahim

If you want your customize tour then do contact my friend Ibrahim in Istanbul. He provides Travel, Tours and accommodation services throughout Turkey.

Ibrahim rocktown travel turkey beingatraveler bilalazam

Ibrahim Whatsapp: +905316548393

Email: sarikuzuibrahim@gmail.com

Note: Do not forget to mention my reference while contacting him so that he can give you special discount

Disclaimer: All images used in this blog are my personal and subject to copyright

WHY AIRBNB IS BETTER THAN STAYING IN HOTEL

7 REASONS WHY AIRBNB IS BETTER THAN STAYING IN HOTEL

While traveling abroad, one usually find Hotels with leisure facilities along with as cheap as possible rent but unfortunately both can’t go hand in hand. On the other hand there is a new way of staying abroad during your vacations or business trip i.e

“Staying at Local people own Homes”

Airbnb is a short name of “Air-bed and breakfast”. It is an online marketplace that enables people to list their personal homes/ apartments or Rooms on this website so that guests can find and rent vacation homes for a processing fee. The website has over 1,500,000 listings in 34,000 cities and 192 countries

I used to stay in Hotels during my earlier travels, but since when one of my friend introduced AIRBNB, I would always prefer to book my stay through AIRBNB instead of staying in Hotels.

Click here to get Free 20$ for your first stay through AIRBNB.

Here are the 7 reasons why i feel that AIRBNB is better than staying in Hotel

1. Feeling of a HOME

One of the best thing while staying through AIRBNB is that you get HOME feeling while staying away from home. The architecture, map and all the amenities gives you the relax and casual experience of a home. Be assure that you won’t get any housekeeping services like a hotel

My Airbnb in Las Vegas

2. Free Extra facilities

You would get extra facilities while staying in someone’s home like if your Airbnb has Kitchen then you can make your own daily breakfast and meals which will be otherwise very costly if you eat from a Hotel or c café. Also if you are on a budget tour and traveling with minimum clothes then you must select an Airbnb home which have Laundry facility so you can wash your clothes as required.

While i was Preparing Breakfast in my Airbnb

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3. You get inside culture of the city

Although with the success of Airbnb, people have also rent out their Hotel rooms, Hostels on Airbnb but I always prefer to live in someone house because it always situated away from touristy places. When you live in housing colonies of different cities then only you can get the closure look of their culture, how they live and how differently they live as compared with you.

4. You Make new friends abroad

This is my favorite one ! Right from booking your Airbnb space on internet you start making new friend and after arriving you develop a new relationships and new friends during your stay.

5. Locals can guide you better than tour operators

I booked through Airbnb for my parents 1^st Holiday trip in Singapore. The Host was so helping that he not only helped to use local transport but also guided how they can see famous attractions by spending less. Sometimes locals also help you in buying cheap tickets because many attractions worldwide offer cheap rates for Locals and expensive for foreigners.

6. Incredible and unique rentals

This is something that you can experience only through Airbnb. People with creative mind and having love with art have made some unique houses all over the world like Tree Houses, Abandoned Ship house, Boat House and you can find budget options like a camp on a roof

7. Meet other nationalities at Multi rooms AirBNB

Some hosts rent all of their rooms of house on Airbnb and thus running a full time business like a Hostel. So when after check-in, you get a warm welcome from other fellows of different countries. You make a group of friends and then explore the city along with them.

HOW TO SPEND 5 DAYS IN DUBAI AND VISIT MAXIMUM PLACES – A GUIDE

HOW TO SPEND 5 DAYS IN DUBAI

AND VISIT MAXIMUM PLACES

– A GUIDE –

Dubai is famous for its attractions. Lot of flights offer very cheap promotional rates to Dubai as its economy does not depend on Oil export comparing to other Arabic countries and hence tourism is the main income source of Dubai. That’s the reason they do everything to attract tourists to their city.

I call Dubai as: CAPITAL CITY OF THE WORLD

First thing First- Planning

There is no doubt that Dubai is an Expensive city but you can optimize your trip by following three tips: Planning, Planning and Planning 🙂 such as where to stay, when to choose Taxi or Metro, and where you should buy the leisure tickets etc.

How many days are enough for Dubai?

Some people underestimate Dubai and think that it is just a small city and 2 or 3 days are enough to cover its attractions but believe you me, it can take your atleast 10 days to visit its all major attractions. I have visited Dubai twice and have also planned several Dubai tours for my family and friends. What I recommend is if someone planning to visit Dubai first time, must spend atleast 5 days to cover maximum possible attractions.

Things to arrange before departure

Booking your flight:

Although almost every airline in the world has Dubai in its destination list. However it would be cheaper if you book Dubai’s own world class Emirates airline or its sister budget airline i.e; FlyDubai (recommended). Booking any of these 2 airlines will also help in getting Dubai visa quickly (within 3 days)

Booking budget hotel:

No doubt Dubai is an expensive city and staying here is not as cheap as you find in most of South East Asian countries. The only places in Dubai where you can book budget hotels are Bur-Dubai and Deira-Dubai ranging from 40$ to 60$/nite for 2 persons. Make sure that your Hotel should be at walking distance from any Metro Train station.

Also you can use AIR BNB to stay in someone own house in Dubai and pay less than a hotel. Click here to get Free 20$ for your first stay through AIRBNB.

READ RELATED ARTICLE: 7-Reasons why Airbnb is better than staying in Hotel

Buy-1-Get-1-Free Coupons – Dubai Entertainer Book:

If you are not a solo traveler then purchasing Dubai’s most famous Buy-1-Get-1-free coupons book is a must thing to do. This will save lot of your money if you are traveling with a partner or family. It has more than 2000 Buy-1-Get-1-free coupons such as Desert Safari, Water parks, Fast food, Cafes, Ski Dubai, Ferrari world, Desert Safari, 4 star hotel night stay etc. You can purchase this book online (recommended) or in any Superstore of Dubai after arrival. More saving tips at The Children’s ISA.

You can place your Dubai Entertainer Book order here. It will be delivered at your address within 10 days. Want to see the list of coupons before purchase? here is the list.

Burj Khalifa Top Ticket:

Going first time to Dubai? Your trip will be incomplete without going to the top of World’s tallest building on earth. You must purchase its TO-THE-TOP tickets online before departing on your trip because of the two reasons:

i) You can select your visit timing according to your choice

ii) If you would purchase tickets after arrival then it is most likely that no slot will be available for next 3 to 4 days and you will miss the chance

Get your Dubai Sim:

Its advisable to purchase your personal Sim card after arrival in Dubai to use it for booking and to use internet, google maps etc

Desert Safari Booking:

If you have purchased Dubai-Entertainer Voucher book, you will get dozens of Buy-1-get-1 free vouchers for Desert Safari. You must book your Day with them by call or email mentioned on their coupon before leaving for Dubai. The rates vary from 70 to 100 darham/person. You can also find number of websites on Google to book your Desert Safari with them.

Travel checklist:

Want to prepare your bag for the trip and don’t know what to pack . Here is a list of things that i take during my trip. You can select according to your requirement for your travel.

1st Day: Arrival + Dubai Mall + Burj Khalifa top

Ok, now you have landed to Dubai airport. You can go to your hotel via Taxi or Metro train. After getting refreshed, lets go to visit World’s Tallest building (so far) and World’s biggest mall. You can go there via Metro train and get off at its Dubai Mall station, there is an overhead tube passage (almost 20 min walk) that takes you from Metro station to Dubai Mall entrance.
Dubai Mall is huge and you can’t see it in a whole day, but you must not miss some famous attractions and Snap points like Dubai Waterfall, Dubai Aquarium, The Dinosaur Skeleton, Ice Skating and Kids Section at the top etc

You must reach to Burj Khalifa bottom point (that is within Dubai Mall) atleast 45 min before your printed time on ticket. The whole experience from entrance, going TO-THE-TOP, and viewing from the top is so amazing that you will start loving the advancement and Arabic culture of Dubai.

https://www.facebook.com/pg/beingatraveler/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1880042322222632

In the Evening you must enjoy famous Dubai Fountain Show just outside Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Thousands of people gather after every hour from 6 pm to 11 pm to get amazed from this 10 min show.

2^nd Day: Aqua venture Water Park + Dubai Marina Dhow cruise

Dubai has two thrilling water parks which are not to be missed i.e; Wild Wadi Park (at Burj ul Arab) and Aqua Venture Park (at Atlantis-Palm Jumeirah). I have visited both but recommend Aqua Venture Park because its has almost all Wild Wadi rides plus 5 to 7 additional under water attractions.

You must go on Taxi to Atlantis hotel at 10AM as no Metro station directly links with it, The driver will drop you at the entrance gate of Aquaventure Water Park.

After enjoying all the rides and slides you will get free almost at 5 PM. Now you should spend your evening at Dubai Marina where you can walk along huge skyscrapers and have Dhow cruise round along Dubai marina

TIP: Take taxi from Aquaventure to Dubai Marina which is just 10 min away. You can use Dubai Entertainer Buy-1-Get-1 Vouchers for Dhow cruise round at Dubai Marina

Cost: Aquaventure = 260 dh, Dhow Cruise 2hrs round = 60 dh (without dinner)

3^rd Day: Ferrari World-Abu Dhabi

Ferrari world is literally a world of Ferrari and one must not miss this world largest indoor theme park. It has the fastest roller coaster in the world with actual speed of Formula-1 Ferrari.

If you are staying in Dubai, you have to go to Abu Dhabi (Yas Island) by Intercity Bus ( Al-Ghubaiba Bus station) and if you want to avoid long queues and don’t want to miss opening show of Ferrari World at 10 AM then you must take the Bus from Dubai that leaves at 0700 AM.

OR you can reach Abu Dhabi one night before your visit to Ferrari World. If you will enter late then you are gonna find 2 hrs ques on every ride. Here is Abu Dhabi Bus terminal where you will arrive

After Reaching Abu Dhabi Bus station, you can either take a local Bus#195 by crossing an over head bridge and going to the other side of the road. The bus would take around 30 min and will drop you outside Ferrari World. If you are traveling in a group then you can go by a Taxi to Ferrari world (but it would be costlyl)

You must always have the Ferrari world map in your hand and must tick mark the rides so that you do not miss any ride. I did this mistake during my first visit to Ferrari world and I missed 30% rides just because I did not follow the map. Then I had to go to 2^nd time next year just to take those rides which I had missed. Here is my list of favorites:

Formula Roso (obviously at no. 1)
Flight Simulation
Speed of magic
GT challenge

FERRARI WORLD – WORLD`S LARGEST INDOOR THEME PARKPosted by Being A Traveler on Saturday, 9 July 2016

Tip:

If you have to come back to Dubai on same day then you should leave from Ferrari World at 1730 hrs maximum.

You can use Buy-1-Get-1 coupon for Ferrari world from Dubai-Entertainer voucher book

Cost:

Bus from Dubai (Al Ghubaiba station) to Abu Dhabi (Main Bus terminal) = 25 AED one side
Local Bus# 195 from Abu-Dhabi Main Bus terminal to Ferrari World = 10 AED one side
Ferrari World full day pass = 250 AED

4^th Day: Deira Dubai Bazar + Museum + Desert Safari

Since pickup time for Desert Safari tour is normally between 2.30 PM to 3.30 PM so you have ample time to walk around Old Dubai city AKA Deira Dubai and Bur Dubai. In order to go to Deira Bazar, you must cross the Dubai Creek on a local boat. The boat starts at Bur Dubai near this beautiful bazaar which gives you a theme of Aladdin movie 🙂

DEIRA DUBAI – Rich in Arabic CulturePosted by Being A Traveler on Saturday, July 9, 2016

Dubai Museum

Dubai Museum – BUR DUBAIPosted by Being A Traveler on Saturday, July 9, 2016

IMPORTANT: Make Sure you have booked your Desert safari tour in advance with any one company mentioned on your Dubai Entertainer vouchers book or online. Otherwise you can search it on Google where you will find number of tour operators.

The pickup point for Desert Safari tour is 1430 to 1500 hrs, so you have some spare time in the morning. You can spend this time by visiting Dubai Museum in Deira Dubai.

After that 4-Wheeler cars will pick you from your hotel or some pre-defined location (You must have Dubai SIM so that driver can contact you for pickup)

The whole desert safari experience starts from 1500 hrs and will end tll 2100 hrs, and includes:

Dune Bashing
BBQ Dinner (Vegetarian & Non Vegetarian)
Free Camel ride
Free Unlimited Shisha
Photography during sunset
Unlimited Soft Drinks, Water, Coffee and Tea
Free Sand Boarding
Belly Dance Show
Tanoura Show
Puppet Show
Free Henna
Toilet facilities
Free Arabic Dress Photography

DESERT SAFARI – DUBAIPosted by Being A Traveler on Saturday, July 9, 2016

5^th Day: Miracle Garden + Global Village

Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the most visited place by the tourist due to its colourful attractions made from millions of beautiful flowers. It is situated near Dubai Cricket Stadium and you have no Metro Train option to go there. So you have to take a Taxi to go there.

TIP: Since Dubai weather is always hot round the year so best time to visit Miracle Garden is at 4 PM and gets closed at sunset.

Cost: A taxi would take approx 30 dh one side . Entrance tiket = 35 dh

MIRACLE GARDEN – DUBAIPosted by Being A Traveler on Saturday, July 9, 2016

Global Village

GLOBAL VILLAGE – DUBAIPosted by Being A Traveler on Sunday, July 10, 2016

Normally Global village remains open from November to March so if you are going Dubai other than these months then you won’t be able to visit Global Village. For that you have a similar place IBN-E-BATUTA MALL that is also designed on Global village theme. The entrance of the Mall is in Egyptian style and then several lobbies in the mall are designed in Chinese, Indian, European and Arabic Culture.

TIP: There is Metro Station just in front of Ibne Batuta Mall, so no need to take expensive taxi

Feel Free to comment and ask anything below…

PHUKET ATTRACTIONS – TOP 10 MUST TO DO THINGS IN PHUKET

Phuket Attractions

Top 10 Must to do things in Phuket

From beautiful white sand beaches to adventures to Water sports to Evening shows to lively Bangla Road and the list goes on…., Phuket is an amazing spot to spend your vacations.

I first visited Phuket back in 2012 and had my crush on it <3 So I went there again after two years in 2014 and still want to go again 🙂 Yea I know people get bored by visiting same places but here i always say about Phuket:

Visit Phuket Once, I bet you will go there again !

So what is so important in Phuket ? …. Hmmm actually there is a long long list but for those who are going to Phuket first time, should visit atleast these Top 10 attraction (as per my list). So there you go….

1. Para-sailing at Patong Beach

Phuket has many beaches (Patong, Kata, Karon, Kamalia etc). If you want to stay in a lively surrounding then you must book your stay around Patong beach.

The first thing you will notice after stepping into beach sand at Patong would be colorful Parasails in the air. Stop thinking, just go and get it..

You will wear a harness and they will tie that harness to a rope and then to the end of a speed boat. Don’t forget to take a mini camera (water proof) along with you. You are ready to take a flight and going to see whole Patong Beach from a bird eye.

TIP: If you are not a good swimmer, you must ask an assistant to sail with you in the air. Hey don’t worry !! its not that scary

2. Scuba Dive at Raya Island

Phuket has lot of clear and steady water beaches points where you can have a deep sea dive but if you want both Cheap and Quality dive, then Raya island is most recommended.

Normally you are not allowed to have a Scuba dive without a license but don’t worry, Phuket management has allowed Scuba dive for non-licensors (like me) to enjoy a deep sea dive with an Assisstant, called “Discover Scuba Dive”.

The assistant will teach you some lessons, some practical demonstration and then will take you along with him under the deep blue sea.

3. Snorkeling at Phi Phi Island

Those who can not manage to dive in the deep blue sea must experience snorkeling at different sites of Phi Phi island. These are one of the famous snorkeling points in Phuket. The points I loved most were Maya Bay and Monkey Island.

Tip#1: You must have some bread or other food in hand before snorkeling. You will love the scene when you put some food in water around you and multicolor fish will rush towards you. That’s the moment to capture from your Go-Pro camera.

Tip#2: Do not book your Phi Phi tour on a cruise boat otherwise you will miss some beautiful spots where that big boat is unable to reach. Speed boat is recommended for Snorkeling

4. Canoeing under Limestone rocks at James Bond Island

People go to James Bond island to capture that Iconic Rock but I liked something more than taking photos with the rock.

Once you have taken pics with that boring rock, its time to start the real adventure. You have to get off boarded from the big boat to small canoeing boats.

This is a Muslim village where all little boys with Muslims names will take you through the caves of Lime stone mountains. You will feel amazed after experiencing those echos in the Sea caves and having coconut water on the go.

7. Phuket Fantasea Show

As soon as you land at Phuket airport, you will see everywhere lot of Pink + Purple color brochures and tour booking desks. Yes! these are of Phuket Fantasea Show colors and this show has become 2^nd identity of Phuket. I have heard many thai locals to say:

If you haven’t seen Phuket Fantasea Show, it means you haven’t visited Phuket.

This show has every thing for an old man to a little kid. Lavish buffet dinner, Open air shows, White tigers and above all the 1hour Theatrical show of Thai culture, elephants and magic makes all the audience spell bound.

8. Simon Cabaret show

Simon Cabaret is a multi-cultural dance show. You will see lot of huge sets changed within seconds in front of your eyes. Whole of the show is full of fun for approx 1.5 hour.

The most amazing part of this show is that those beautiful dancing girls are not girls 😉 and you remain in shock throughout the show.

At the end you also get a chance to take pictures with all the Show characters by giving them whatever tip. Overall it’s a fun filled refreshing show and one must see it after return from Island day tours.

10. Phuket Zoo/ Tiger Kingdom/ Big Budha

Last but not the least, in case you just want to change the taste of your travel in Phuket, just leave the islands and adventures behind and spend a day towards city side.

Take the scooty on rent, go round and round on ribbon like roads and visit some places in the outskirts like Phuket Zoo, Tiger kingdom where you will get a chance to sit and pose with wild animals and take memorable photos. You can also visit to famous Big Budha

Cost: 500 Baht (zoo)

ISTANBUL – Arrival, Moving Around and Night Life!! – by Ali Sani

ISTANBUL

Arrival, Moving around and Night Life!!

Turkey, a beautiful place rich in culture & history and with equally amazing & friendly people, has always attracted me and fortunately I got a chance to visit Istanbul from Feb 22^nd to Feb 26^th, 2015 to attend a conference.

Getting Onboard

I travelled through Turkish Airlines and landed at Istanbul Atatürk Airport where a pretty lady from the airport staff greeted me: “Merhaba (Hello)”, “hoşgeldin (Welcome)” ;-). I already started falling in love with Turkey

(Lavish Turkish meal during the flight)

(Note: Istanbul has two Airports; “Istanbul Atatürk Airport” and “Sabiha Gökçen International Airport”. I preferred landing at Atatürk Airport since it is near to the main city attractions (~21 km from Taksim Square) as compared to “Sabiha Gökçen International Airport” (~44 km from Taksim Square)).

Arriving in hotel

My hotel was at Osmanbey which is ~3 km from Taksim. Havataş bus service is available which travels between Atatürk Airport and Taksim Square. I took Havataş and it dropped me at Taksim in around half an hour, moreover it only costed 11 TL per head which was a pretty good deal 🙂 The bus was also very cozy and comfortable. I took a cab from Taksim to reach my hotel.

The sun was about to set and the outside view

from my penthouse was simply jaw dropping!!

Local Transport

Metro, tram, funicular and ferry are the four ways of moving around Istanbul. These are undoubtedly the most efficient and cheap means of transportation if you are travelling alone. All you need to do is get an “Istabulkart” (Istanbul Card) from outside of any metro station and just follow the maps. It’s a prepaid card which you can recharge anytime. It costs around 11 TL for the card initially and 1.5 TL for hopping into Metro, tram or funicular each time.

The metro stations themselves are constructed beautifully with Ottoman history displayed on tiles and amazing live music by local musicians to make your wait for metro worth it 🙂 The metro, trams and funicular are quite punctual too.

Communicating with Locals

One might face difficulty in communicating with locals as most of them are not very good with English language. As always “Google Translate” remained my savior whenever I wanted to ask for directions or just to interact with the locals 🙂

(Caution: Don’t rely completely on google translate and limit the length of a sentence to a minimum as Google Translate’s Turkish to English module is still under development and not very accurate. There were a few instances where I almost thought of running away looking at the facial expressions of the people as google translated something that they found offensive while I only had asked for directions 😀

Taksim Square, Istiklal Avenue, and the NIGHT LIFE

The night life of Istanbul is simply awesome. It starts right after the sun sets and continues till 6 in the morning 😀 The best place to party all night long is undoubtedly Taksim and İstiklal Avenue, visited by nearly 3 million people each day 🙂 The avenue contains many clubs and restaurants. It is also home to a vast range of local and international clothing brands. The street music is something that will keep you indulged in the magic of İstiklal Avenue 😉

Turkish Food

Turkey is heaven for meat lovers, especially lamb. Apart from meat, do try the famous Kumpir (baked potato) and the mussels. You can always have Turkish Tea (çay) any time you want. But if you feel adventurous, do try the Turkish Coffee, which is served with a glass of water 😀

Cruise at Bosphorus River

The cruise dinner at Bosporus River is a must to have. You can enjoy it both at night and at day time with beautiful scenes along the coastline. The cruise offers delicious dinner along with traditional and cultural activities to keep you entertained throughout the three hours long journey 🙂

You can either book a cruise dinner before or you can directly go to Eminönü from where the cruise starts. It costed me around 45 TL.

Turkish Street Animals

One of the many things that I liked about Istanbul is the well fed street animals. The street animals are really taken good care of by the local Turkish people J The cat in the picture below, lost in thoughts, seems to have only one thing in mind: “Why do they feed me so much?? I am lazy and I know it !! “ 😛

Moving around Istanbul Is always fun even when you are just walking on random streets. The more you explore it, the more you fall in love with it. I will write in detail about the main tourist attractions of Istanbul in my next blog so stay tuned !! 🙂

About The Author:

Ali Sani is a Chemical Engineer by profession and a travel enthusiast. Through his blogs, he wants to encourage people to travel, discover new things and live all the beautiful experiences while traveling. He keeps keen interest in landscape photography

HIGHLIGHTS OF JAHAZ BANDA TRIP

WHEN TO VISIT JAHAZ BANDA

LOCATIONS ON GOOGLE MAPS

CAN FAMILIES VISIT THESE PLACES?

TRANSPORT

CONTACT NUMBERS TO BOOK A SEAT IN PUBLIC BUS/ VAN:

ACCOMMODATION FACILITY IN JAHAZ BANDA

FOOD AVAILABILITY

ELECTRICITY AND CHARGING FACILITY

MOBILE SIGNALS AT JAHAZ BANDA AND KATORA LAKE

SAFETY/ SECURITY/ LAW AND ORDER

⛔JEEP DRIVERS SCAM⛔

PREPARATION FOR LEAVING ON CAMPING/ TREKKING TRIP TO KUMRAT

RESOURCES TO BUY TREKKING/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT IN PAKISTAN

EXPENSES AND JOURNEY DETAILS OF MY PERSONAL VISIT TO JAHAZ BANDA

DAY-1 | 26-JULY-2020

DAY-2 | 27-JULY-2020 | TREKKING TO JAHAZ BANDA

DAY-3 | 28-JUL-2020 | TREKKING TO KATORA LAKE

TREKKING TO KUND BANDA AND JAHAZ BANDA WATERFALL

DAY-4 | 29-JUL-2020 | KUND BANDA TO THAL

DAY-5 | 30-Jul-2020 | MARDAN TO LAHORE

ALSO READ: How To Visit Kumrat Valley On Public Transport

VISIT KUMRAT VALLEY AND JAHAZ BANDA | KOHISTAN | KPK | PAKISTAN

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KUMRAT VALLEY

CAMPING SITES

ELECTRICITY AND CHARGING FACILITY

MOBILE SIGNALS AT JAHAZ BANDA AND KATORA LAKE

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR PACKING

PREPARATION FOR LEAVING ON CAMPING/ TREKKING TRIP TO KUMRAT

RESOURCES TO BUY TREKKING/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT IN PAKISTAN

TRANSPORT

EXPENSES AND JOURNEY DETAILS OF VISITING AND STAYING IN KUMRAT VALLEY

READ: Solo trip to Jahaz Banda, Katora Lake and Kund Banda

IMPORTANT TIPS FOR BACKPACKING TRIP

RESOURCES TO BUY TREKKING/ CAMPING EQUIPMENT IN PAKISTAN

BAGS AND DOCUMENTS

WEARABLES

TOILETRIES

MEDICAL/ EMERGENCY KIT

TREKKING/ CAMPING GADGETS

ELECTRONIC GADGETS

MY PERSONAL VLOGGING EQUIPMENT

VIDEO OF PREPARATION FOR CAMPING AND TREKKING TRIP TO KUMRAT VALLEY

You can also refer TRAVEL CHECKLIST for packing your bag for an INTERNATIONAL TRIP

HIGHLIGHTS OF MY 3 DAYS TRIP TO NEELAM VALLEY

TRAVELING AROUND TURKEY

Day-1 | I S T A N B U L

Day-1 | I S T A N B U L

Useful Info

Day-2 | I S T A N B U L

Day-2 | I S T A N B U L

Useful Info

Useful Info

Day-3 | I S T A N B U L

Day-3 | I S T A N B U L

Useful Info

Useful Info

Day-4 | K A P A D O K Y A

Day-4 | K A P A D O K Y A

Useful Info

Day-5 | K A P A D O K Y A

Day-5 | K A P A D O K Y A

Useful Info

Useful Info

Day-6 | F E T H I Y E

Day-6 | F E T H I Y E

Useful Info

Useful Info

Useful Info

Day-7 | P A M U K K A L E

Day-7 | P A M U K K A L E

Useful Info

Useful Info

OPTIONAL CITIES

Turkey Travel Video Highlights

Plan your Tour with Ibrahim

Ibrahim Whatsapp: +905316548393

Email: sarikuzuibrahim@gmail.com

HOW TO SPEND 5 DAYS IN DUBAI

AND VISIT MAXIMUM PLACES

2^nd Day: Aqua venture Water Park + Dubai Marina Dhow cruise