Amidst the majestic mountains of Pakistan lies the breathtaking Hazara Division, known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. As a traveler, you’re in for a treat exploring this stunning region.

The Hazara Division is an administrative division of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in Pakistan. It was established in 2008 and comprises the following districts:

1. Abbottabad
2. Battagram
3. Haripur
4. Kohistan (Now Kohistan Upper, Kohistan Lower and Kolai Palas)
5. Mansehra
6. Torghar

The Hazara Division is situated in the northeastern part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bordering the Azad Kashmir region to the east and the Gilgit-Baltistan region to the north. The division is named after the Hazara region, which has a distinct cultural and historical identity.

Key facts about the Hazara Division:

The division covers an area of approximately 17,194 square kilometers and more than 5 Million population. Agriculture, tourism, and small-scale industry play a vital role in its economy.

Overall, the Hazara Division is a significant administrative region in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, known for its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and historical significance.

It’s a location in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where you must visit, but be cautious with weather conditions. Before leaving home with friends or family members, keep an eye on the weather.

The picnic spots mentioned below are charming, but they have slippery roads during rain. Mudslides, flash floods, and road damage can disturb the trip and sometimes cause casualties and injuries.

1. Abbottabad

A historic city surrounded by mountains and scenic valleys. Visit Ilyas Masjid, Shamla Hills, and beautiful parks for ladies and children. Explore historic landmarks like Abbottabad Fort and the museum.

• Thandiani and Nathiagali

Tranquil hill stations with breathtaking views, hiking trails, and picturesque meadows. Experience the chill weather, often described as heaven on earth.

2. Mansehra

• Palis, Ghanool, and Mahandri
  Hill stations are surrounded by lush green meadows, snow-capped mountains, and forests teeming with wildlife.

• Kaghan Valley
  A scenic valley with a river, rolling hills, waterfalls, and trout fish farms. Trek through lush forests and scenic trails.

• Naran
  Enjoy water sports on Lake Saif ul Malook and savor local cuisine, including traditional dishes like trout fish and kunna.

• Battakundi

It is a small village located in the Kaghan Valley, but most of people have no idea about this charming spot, usually Tourists staying in Kaghan and Naran then make a visit to the top and revert to the station. But Battakundi is more beautiful than these big-shot places.

It is situated in the Kaghan Valley, approximately 45 kilometers from Naran۔ The atmosphere is gorgeous because no pollution made yet and the population of Battakundi is around 500-700 people.

It is agri-depending área and every household loves livestock and is interested in tourism.

Battakundi serves as a base for trekking to nearby destinations like Lulu Sar Lake, Babusar Pass, and the Kaghan Valley. For accommodations luxury guesthouses and hotels are available in the villages.

Keeping in view to respect the local culture, norma and environment when visiting Battakundi!

• Babusar Top

It also known as Babusar Pass is a high-altitude mountain pass located in the Kaghan Valley, Mansehra District.

Its elevation is 4,173 meters (13,691 feet) above sea level. Babusar Pass is located on the border of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit-Baltistan, connecting the Kaghan Valley with the Gilgit Valley.

Babusar Top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and lakes. The Pass is a popular trekking destination, with routes leading to nearby destinations like Lulu Sar Lake and the Kaghan Valley.

Whenever; a group of members plan to visit they must keep in mind the uncertainty of weather, The pass is prone to unpredictable weather, including snow, fog, and strong wind.

During our trip in 2022 June, the weather was so pleasant to head the pass but meanwhile, clouds reached and snow started, and the weather became too harsh in a while.

All the tourists should reach in the daytime and leave the top before sunset. It’s a scene to enjoy in the daytime, it is a photographer’s paradise.

Local dishes Tea, snake, soups, popcorn and coffee are available all the time and for staying temporary shelters are available nearby these days (June to September). For the rest of the months, it’s closed because of dumped snow.

3. Battagram

• Shamlai Hills

A charming locality with good road conditions, natural waterfalls, and a variety of birds and wild animals. The locals are very polite and hospitable.

• Allai Valley

A hidden gem with stunning landscapes, waterfalls, zigzag roads, continuous hills, and trekking routes. Enjoy spring water and snow-capped meadows.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the region. The people are ever-friendly, supportive, and soft-hearted.

Important Tips:

• The tourist season runs from March to October. During the rest of the year, snowfall can block the area and roads, but nature lovers won’t be deterred.
• Transportation: Personal car, hired car, or public transport.
• Accommodation: Options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.
• Safety: Take necessary precautions, especially during trekking and hiking. Carry pills, a first aid kit, etc.
• Temperature: Usually between 15 to 20°C, and it falls lower at night. Joggers, warm clothes, raincoats, and sunglasses are mandatory.

Come and discover the natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality of the Hazara Division. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or culture enthusiast, this stunning region has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to create unforgettable experiences.