Noori Top, situated on the border between KPK and Kashmir, boasts stunning snow-covered peaks. With its serene winds, lush green meadows, and captivating attractions, Noori Top is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
If you’re keen on hiking and exploring nature, consider embarking on a road trip to the enchanting Noori Pass with your fellow travellers. This destination offers a range of comfortable hotels and exciting tourist spots.
Despite its challenging terrain, Noori Top is an ideal location to beat the summer heat and indulge in hiking adventures. Make sure not to miss the chance to set up camp in the breathtaking surroundings of Noori Top.
Graana.com discusses everything you need to know about Noori Top, including history, weather, and much more.
History
Prior to 1947, Hindus inhabited Neelum Valley, specifically in Sharda. However, the local population expelled them, leading some to convert to Islam. These displaced individuals subsequently found refuge on the terraces of Noori Top. Following the partition of 1947, many treasure seekers dug up these settlements in search of gold and other valuable items.
Weather
During the summer, Noori Top remains cold and often experiences frequent rainfall. Even at the peak of summer, the temperature rarely exceeds 15 degrees Celsius, necessitating the use of a parka or jacket.
When to Visit Noori Top
The best time to visit Noori Pass is between July and September, as vehicles become inaccessible during the other months because of heavy snowfall. The pass presents diverse landscapes subject to the season, with snow-capped mountains visible in early summer and winter and lush green hills during late summer.
Noori Top Hotels
There are no hotels in the vicinity of Noori Top. Visitors will need to stay in Sharda. Some of the best hotels in Sharda are:
- Valley Trackers
- Benazir Palace Hotel
- Shadra Highland Hotel
- Shangrila Shadra Resort
Activities
There are some amazing activities that you can do on the top.
Camping
If you’re not up for the challenge of climbing the Top, you can still fully enjoy it by setting up a camp. Sing your favourite songs, reminisce about the past, and relish a BBQ in the chilly weather.
Trekking
If you’re an avid hiker seeking a fresh and adventurous experience this summer, consider trekking to the renowned Noori Top. This remarkable climb offers an abundance of attractions, including waterfalls, grazing domestic animals, verdant grassy slopes adorned with flowers, and scattered snow patches.
Tourist Attractions
Let’s explore some tourist attractions near Noori Top that can enhance enjoyment and create lasting memories for your trip.
Saral Lake
Situated at an altitude of 13,600 feet, Saral Lake is located on the fringes of the Neelum and Kaghan Valley. Accessible from Sharda via a jeep route leading to Gumot National Park, the lake can be reached by hiking.
Noori Lake
Noori Lake is located just an hour’s hike from Noori Top. It winds its way to the foot of stunning snow-covered mountains and retains its liquid state for a brief period of one month.
Ratti Gali Lake
It is another famous alpine glacier lake located in KPK. Ratti Gali sits at an elevation of 3,683 meters and is fed by water from the nearby glaciers.
Gattian Lake
Gattian Lake is positioned at an elevation of 12,000 feet above sea level in close proximity to Kaghan Valley. It is an alpine glacial lake, with pristine water flowing from the glaciers on the neighbouring mountains into Gattian Lake.
How to Reach
Located in the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park, near Lulusar Lake, reaching the summit poses a significant challenge. The pass, connecting Jalkhand to Sharda, stretches over 47.4 kilometres (29.45 miles). Numerous sections of the route entail steep descents.
On one flank, the summit provides awe-inspiring views of Kashmir and the Kargil Mountains, while on the other side, it offers a view of Naran Valley. Access to the area is exclusively possible through a 4WD vehicle.
Jeep Fare From Naran City To Noori Top
The cost of a jeep ride from Naran to Noori Top ranges from roughly between Rs. 7,000 and Rs. 10,000. The journey lasts about an hour. The route to Noori Top is rough, particularly during the rainy season when it becomes slippery and muddy.
Best Route to Reach Noori Top
The road is positioned halfway up the mountain, facilitating easier access from the Sharda, Neelum Valley side. However, on the Jalkhad, Kaghan Valley side, there remains a gravel road and a sense of isolation. Along this route, the locals referred to as “Chilasi” people, have reportedly committed robberies on tourists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Following are the most common questions and their answers about Noori Top.
Is the route to Noori Top perilous?
The pathway is often so narrow in certain sections that only one vehicle can pass through. In the event of an approaching vehicle from the opposite direction, one must halt at a widened section to allow the other to pass first. Also, the road’s water streams and mud may render it impossible to pass after rainfall.
Is it advisable for families to go to Noori Top?
It ultimately depends on your discretion. You can safely plan a family trip if you have a skilled local driver with a 4WD vehicle. However, be aware that the roads can be hazardous and narrow, with water and mud potentially causing impassable conditions after rain.
When did the Noori Top Road open?
On average, it takes individuals approximately 3 to 4 hours to complete the route without any stops. The route is open for access only from July to September. The Pakistan Army constructed the access road to the summit during the 1998 Kargil War, and it served as a crucial route for the military during the conflict. Nowadays, tourists have the opportunity to visit both the Pass and the Top.
Can I drive to Noori Top?
Travelling in a group of at least two vehicles is highly advisable, as there is no support system along the way. The route features several segments with steep drop-offs. Only 4×4 vehicles with high clearance are suitable. The turns are sharp and unpredictable, particularly following the clearing of snow in the summer.
Is the Noori Top Road open?
Located high in the Lulusar-Dudipatsar National Park, the pathway is accessible solely during the summer months. It remains closed from September to February due to snow and from February to May due to rain and landslides.
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