The Baboon Valley is a hidden gem in the peaceful Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Pakistan. The highest point, Baboon Top, is at 12700 feet. This valley is beautiful and full of natural wonders. It features rugged terrain, lush forests, snow-covered meadows, and winding rivers. Its remote location keeps it away from busy tourist spots, making it an ideal place for those looking for an adventure off the beaten path. Join us as we explore the secrets and stunning nature of Baboon Valley, where nature remains untouched.
It is about 100 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, the district capital, and sits on the highlands of Jagran and Keran. People live in this remote valley surrounded by beautiful mountains and meadows. Its unique geography is close to other natural attractions in AJK, including Kundal Shahi, Keran Valley, and Jagran village.
Traveling to Baboon Valley in Kashmir is an exciting adventure. Most travelers begin their journey in Islamabad, the capital of Pakistan, about 190 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, the entrance to Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). The drive from Muzaffarabad to Baboon Valley takes around 8-10 hours. Although the distance is not very long, the rough terrain and winding roads make the trip memorable.
You can reach Baboon Valley through two routes. One route goes next to the Kundal Shahi waterfall and passes through Shaal and Ghuraal Villages. The other route is through Keran Valley, leading you to the beautiful villages of Domelian and Karka. Both routes require a 4×4 jeep. If you don’t have one, you can easily rent a jeep. The travel time from Keran or Jagran to Baboon Valley is about 3-4 hours.
Due to the valley’s remote location, road conditions may vary, and it’s advisable to check for the latest updates before embarking on the journey. The best time to visit is during the late spring to early autumn when the roads are more accessible, as heavy snowfall during the winter months can hinder travel.
Baboon Valley has a high elevation, which means it experiences freezing temperatures, snowfall, and rain throughout the year. It is best to hike to the peak when the weather is sunny. The natural beauty of Baboon Valley is stunning. This secluded area features many different landscapes that amaze visitors. Tall peaks rise into the sky, and snow-covered mountains create beautiful views that change with the seasons. The valley’s highlights are some of the snowy landscapes on one side, while lush green meadows are on the other. Baboon Valley has glaciers that are present all year round, so take the chance to enjoy them.
Baboon Valley is a true haven for camping enthusiasts. You can camp along the Shounter River or in the lush meadows. You can drift off to sleep while being serenaded by the soothing sounds of nature.
The valley’s stunning landscapes offer countless opportunities for photography. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual photographer, Baboon Valley is sure to captivate your imagination.
Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls the valley home. Spotting rare animals like leopards and bears in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers.
If you’re in the mood for adventure, the Baboon Valley track presents a wealth of hiking and trekking options. Its rugged terrain and pristine trails make it an ideal spot for trekkers of all skill levels.
Baboon Valley was the highlight of our trip; it was the only location in Kashmir where we were able to see snowy mountain peaks and actually experience snow. The combination of snow and the emerald mountains of Kashmir rendered it the most distinctive site in our journey.
The journey to Baboon Valley commenced in Keran, where we set off on a jeep ride at 7 AM. After a scenic drive lasting two hours, we reached Domail village, a beautiful stop on our way to the final destination. We spent about twenty minutes exploring the lovely village before we resumed our ascent. Another half hour brought us to Baboon Valley, situated at an impressive altitude of 12,730 feet.
1. Avoid having breakfast before the jeep ride to Baboon Valley, as the roads are quite bumpy and can easily upset your stomach.
2. There is a steep trek from the drop-off point where the jeep leaves you; to enjoy a good view, you’ll need to hike up to the viewpoint, which could take 30 to 40 minutes. So be ready for that.
3. Before beginning the hike, take some deep breaths and rest for about 15 minutes to acclimatize to the low oxygen and high altitude. The oxygen level is so low that it’s difficult to even light to a lighter. Thus, hiking can be challenging, and it’s advisable to take breaks after short intervals.