Sharan Forest: Unexplored Valley With Magnificent Views

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Complete Guide Of Sharan Forest: Camping, Hiking, Places Nearby

Nestled in the enchanting Kaggan Valley in northern Pakistan, Sharan Forest beckons with its unique charm. Its unspoiled beauty, dense pine trees, and tranquil ambiance promise an unforgettable camping experience amidst nature’s embrace, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

In this blog, we will explore the wonders of Sharan Forest, including its attractions, activities, accommodation options, and more.

Where is Sharan Forest?

Sharan Forest is located at an altitude of 2425 meters, about 16 km from Paras and 30 km from Balakot. You must take a thrilling 4×4 jeep ride through rugged mountain roads surrounded by dense pine trees and lush green grass to reach it. It is one of the best tourist destinations in northern Pakistan.

Despite increasing tourist popularity, it remains relatively unspoiled and maintains a quiet, clean, and sophisticated atmosphere. The 13,370-foot-high Musa Ka Musala Peak is located near the forest. However, due to the presence of leopards and black bears in the forest, it is recommended that you hire a local guide to trek to Musa Ka Musala Peak.

How to Reach Sharan Forest?

Sharan Forest Valley, an untouched and well-maintained area of Manshi Hills in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is easily accessible. It’s a mere 16 km from Paras village and 30 km from Balakot, making it a convenient destination for nature lovers.

There are several public transport options to reach the Sharan Valley. One can take a bus to Manshera, where one can change to another mode of transport or go directly to Balakot via Paras Road, which is 16 km from Sharan Forest. However, most people avoid taking this route and use private transport such as cars or bicycles.

Another option is to use private transportation, which is more convenient for tourists. Once you reach Palas, this is where the jeep route to the jungle begins.

Sharan Forest is a beautiful place to go if you’re looking for peace and relaxation. Although only accessible by car, many have yet to discover its hidden treasures, making it a new place in Pakistan.

If you plan to visit this natural attraction, remember there are no hotels or restaurants nearby, so bring enough food and water before leaving town. 

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Road To Sharan Forest

 

Be sure to pack some warm clothes, as winters here can be quite cold – an umbrella is helpful too! To ensure a safe journey, always bring a first aid kit. It’s also wise to bring a good backpack for those traveling long distances – otherwise, carrying everything can be difficult!

Book your Sharan Forest Tour Now with us. 

Tourist Attractions Near Sharan Forest

Kaghan Valley Meadows

Apart from the breathtaking beauty of the forest itself, many tourist attractions in and around the area are worth exploring during your visit. The Upper Kaghan Valley offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and valleys, providing a visual feast for nature lovers.

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Places near Sharan Forest: Manor Valley

Located nearby, Valley Manor is known for its stunning natural beauty and panoramic views. It offers a peaceful and picturesque getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.

For adventure lovers, a hike to Manshi Peak is highly recommended. It offers hikers mesmerizing views of snow-capped mountains and luxurious meadows, creating a truly magical experience.

Sharan Forest

Camping and connecting with nature are refreshing changes from the usual daily routine for those who wish to spend their free time in a peaceful environment.

There are many such places in northern Pakistan. Sharan Forest is one of the serene places to relax while appreciating the natural beauty.

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Places Near Sharan Forest: Jungle Picture Credit: Beingatraveler

 

Sharan Forest Valley is a picturesque place with pleasant climatic conditions. Summer temperatures never exceed 15°C and never fall below 25°F.

The forest consists of vast expanses of lush vegetation, but it also includes patches of rocky terrain, rocky outcrops, meandering streams, and picturesque little ponds. 

Manshi Top

Manshi Top is a small meadow at the top of Sharan Forest, averaging over 3000 meters above sea level. It is a 2-3 hour hike from Sharan Camping Pods.

 

The hike is moderately difficult and passes through some pine loops above the woods to reach these tall meadows, with an unobstructed view of the Kaghan Valley and the Kunhar River winding through the densely forested hills.

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Places Near Sharan Forest: Manshi Top

 

In winter, it is almost impossible to reach here on foot due to heavy rainfall, which raises the snow level in front of the Sharan Forest to over 6 feet.

However, bordering the forest to the south is another unique place where visitors can enjoy a stunning view of this majestic paradise from the mountain’s steep slopes.

Sharan Waterfalls

Sharan Forest is a perfect getaway for those looking for adventure. This place has many waterfalls and hiking trails that give visitors a memorable experience. There are many attractions, including Sharan Waterfall, which is 16 km from Paras in Kaghan district and takes about an hour and a half by car or two hours on foot if you take the jeep route. Manshi Peak and Sharan Waterfall are also major tourist destinations.

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Places Near Sharan Forest: Sharan Waterfall

 

Activities in Sharan Forest

Mountains and Meadows in Sharan Forest

It offers visitors a host of exciting activities to suit all interests. Hiking and wilderness walks are popular choices for nature lovers, allowing them to immerse themselves in pristine nature and enjoy the fresh mountain air. The trails are relatively easy and suitable even for beginners.

The trails are lined with golden red mangroves, adding to the stunning beauty of the surroundings. Along the way, you will come across streams, making for a perfect place to take a short stop to relax and rejuvenate.

Fishing is another popular activity, as the lakes, streams, and rivers are rich in trout and other freshwater fish.

Horseback riding is a fun way to explore the area leisurely. It allows you to enjoy scenic views while using a unique mode of transportation.

Hosting a barbecue in the tranquility of nature and camping under the stars is an experience that tourists should not miss.

Accommodation Options

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has taken commendable steps to facilitate tourists by developing cabins and camping huts to provide comfortable accommodation in the dense forest. TDC-KP has launched pods that offer a unique and immersive experience.

Each capsule accommodates two people and offers a comfortable bed and solar-powered facilities. This eco-friendly approach allows tourists to enjoy modern amenities while minimizing environmental impact.

There are dedicated kitchens and dining areas for tourists to enjoy meals and cook their own. The cabins and camping capsules create a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, immersing guests in the forest’s natural beauty.

Things to know before visiting Sharan Forest

Sharan Forest is one of the most beautiful, serene, and scenic tourist destinations in the Kaghan Valley. It can only be reached by a 4×4 vehicle from Baras – jeep prices start at 4,000 rupees per trip and vary according to the season. 

While it has fewer accommodations or restaurants than Naran, some capsule-style accommodations are available for overnight stays. You’ll need to bring your food. However, be warned — the solar panels that power these pods only provide 12-volt DC (so no phone chargers!). 

Standard amenities include mattresses, sheets, and pillows; however, you may need extra clothes as there is no clothing service.

When is the best time to visit Sharan Forest?

Sharan Forest is a picturesque place with a pleasant environment. It is a quiet place, and the winter season from December to February is its peak. The best time to visit Sharan is the summer season.

The pleasant weather throughout the year makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and camping adventures. The average temperature in the area ranges from a minimum of 15°C to a maximum of 25°C, providing comfortable conditions for tourists to enjoy their time to the fullest.

Why Should You Visit Sharan Forest?

The Sharan Forest is an amazing beauty in the mountainous region of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, in the valley where Mansi Peak and Manor Valley are. The reserve is surrounded by lush greenery and has various tourist attractions, including the Upper Kaghan Valley, which is great for hikers.

You can visit the Sharan Falls – a peaceful spot where you can watch water flow into this picturesque valley – or explore the endless hiking opportunities along the excellent hiking trails of this wonderful part of Pakistan!

Deep, green, dense forests

The Sharan Forest Valley is a pristine, unspoiled area surrounded by Pakistan’s highest peaks. Surrounded by tall green trees, sparkling streams, and lush greenery, one must climb over mountains to find this place, and there is only one road in and out. When one visits this forest, one would think he has traveled back in time and takes a deep breath while exploring its serene beauty.

Beautiful Hiking Trails

Explore the hiking trails in Sharan,  KPK, Pakistan, and find the one that suits you best. Download GPS tracks and reviews of these tracks or routes and take them with you on an easy-to-use map! Make sure to hike at least once on these great hiking trails!

 

Peaceful and Calming Atmosphere

Listen to the peaceful sounds of Sharan Forest, a wonderful place with a calm and peaceful atmosphere that makes you feel like paradise.

Historic English Cottage

There are many such places in northern Pakistan, but one of the most beautiful is Sharan Forest. This English cottage was built hundreds of years ago and provides respite to those who need it most. As you walk through the gates, an incredible surprise awaits you.

Great Picnic Spot

It is impossible to describe how magical the Sharan Forest is. It is an ideal picnic spot for nature lovers, as its stunning views are unmatched.

Things to Do in Sharan Forest

Sharan is a pristine, virtually unspoiled forest reserve in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. The forest is densely forested with lush vegetation and is sparsely visited. It is largely non-commercial, so it is clean and natural – the area has not seen a large influx of tourists yet. 

The forest borders Manshi Peak, a lush green plateau that you can also explore! You’ll find an abundance of flora, fauna, and mushrooms; there are also fruits hanging from the trees; freshwater springs run through the landscape; and the climate is pleasant all year round—the temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, so it’s never too hot or too cold here! 

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Jungle in Kaghan Valley

Activities include trekking, fishing, hiking, and horse riding. If you’re looking for a picturesque getaway, this might be it!

Horseback Riding

Walking through the Sharan Forest is one of the most popular activities when people need peace. There are many activities to choose from here, such as horse riding, so it’s worth exploring these forests occasionally.

Stargazing at night

The Sharan Forest is one of the most peaceful and tranquil places to escape the hustle and bustle, and it has an unforgettable charm. In winter, the sky is dark and filled with stars, and there’s nowhere else to observe them up close like here. If you want to admire its beautiful lights, head to the Sharan Forest tonight.

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Jungle Sharan Drone View By Being A Traveler

Hiking in the Sharan Forest

Hiking is an easy and rewarding activity – even for beginners. The lanes are lined with red pine trees with golden leaves, adding a stunning beauty to this peaceful place. If you are a hiker who loves to explore new places, this route will take you to the top of the mountain. 

The Sharan Forest is home to tigers and black bears; a local guide is essential. Remember to bring your best backpack with compartments to hold everything you need for a long trip.

Sharan Forest Facilities

Sharan Forest offers several facilities for travelers who want to camp or stay in a hut. The government is working hard to make the area more accessible to tourists. In addition, recent innovations by KPCTA mean that visitors can enjoy the views of the Sharan Forest without leaving their modern comforts.

The pods offered by KPCTA have a bedroom and allow up to two people to sleep per night. They have a comfortable bed, a seating area, and a solar panel socket. They’re cheaper than other options and more comfortable — perfect if you’re looking for an adventure that breaks the routine.

Camping Capsules

Sharan Forest Valley is a peaceful and beautiful forest in Manshi Peak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The area became popular with tourists after the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government developed cabins and camping pods.

However, it’s less commercialized than other tourist attractions, so you’ll find the most tranquility here. The peak of Musa ka Musala – at 13,370 feet above sea level, located near Sharan Forest – can also be found.

Kitchen and Cooking

Two buildings in Sharan Forest, one brown wood and the other old stone are home to forest creatures. One serves as a storage unit, and the other as a sleeping area for the rangers. There is also a large shed called the kitchen, which has cooking utensils; if visitors have small children who want to forage for something other than grains, they can use them.

Beautiful Rest Area

The Sharan Forest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is considered the most unique and pristine place in Pakistan, and it has stunning scenery. The peaceful rest areas of the Sharan Forest – beautiful rest areas – make visitors feel warm inside.

Tips and Advice

Ask permission from residents before taking photos, especially in villages, to respect their privacy and cultural sensitivity.

Purchase local products and food to support local communities. It will benefit local people economically and promote sustainable tourism in Pakistan.

Maintain cleanliness by using designated trash containers and ensuring the destination is trash-free. This helps preserve the natural beauty and ensures a pleasant experience for future visitors.

During walks and excursions, it is advisable to carry snacks and bottled water to stay hydrated and energized.

Interact respectfully with locals to learn about their culture and traditions, cultivate positive relationships, and build meaningful connections.

Sharan Forest: A Beautiful Place in Kaghan Valley - Pakistan Tour n travel

Sharan Jungle: Best place for a picnic

 

Since the campsite’s limited electricity supply is generated through solar panels, carrying a battery bank to charge electronic devices is best.

Don’t miss out on the magnificent starry sky during your stay. There is no light pollution, and you can enjoy a wonderful starry sky experience.

 

Frequently Answer Questions 

How far is it from Kaghan to Sharan Forest?

This secluded place is hidden among the rolling hills of the Kaghan Valley, near the Pakistan-Kashmir border, at an altitude of 2,425 meters. It can be reached by driving a 4×4 jeep through 16 kilometers of rugged terrain from Baras (village), but it takes 30 kilometers if you drive along the route.

How much does it cost to stay at the capsule camping site?

In Sharan Forest, camping prices are:

  • Total cost: Rs 7,000 per person, including food and camping capsule charges.
  • Shared camping capsule: Rs 2,000 per night in low season and Rs 3,000 per night in high season.
  • Shared camping capsule for four: Rs 3,000 per night in low season and Rs 4,000 per night in high season.
  • Quadruple occupancy: Rs 1,000 per night.

How do you book the Sharan Forest camping capsule?

The accommodation facilities here are worth praising. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has made great efforts to create this warm and cozy place in the heart of the jungle. Sharan Forest is undoubtedly one of the best places in Naran Khan Valley.

Moreover, camping sites are available for rent. Both are located in the middle of the woods. You can call 0319-9191819 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. A 10% fee is required at the time of booking.

How far is Sharan Forest from Islamabad?

Islamabad is 232 km from Sharan Forest. The route can also be found if you use other modes of transportation, such as buses.

Can families visit the Sharan Forest?

Sharan is a dense and unexplored forest reserve in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan. Families are encouraged to visit, but please bring the recommended gear.

Conclusion

It offers a serene and immersive experience for nature lovers and adventurers. Its pristine beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and wide range of activities make it an ideal destination for camping, trekking, and exploring the Kaghan Valley. 

Visitors can contribute to conserving this natural paradise by adopting sustainable practices and respecting the local community. Plan your trip to create unforgettable memories amidst the wonders of nature.

The serene and unexplored landscape of the Sharan Forest makes it one of the most beautiful spots in the vast Kaghan Valley. This charming place is adjacent to the Manshi Peak, another tourist attraction known for its lush greenery.

If you’re searching for the perfect getaway, look no further than Sharan Forest, especially if you want to go camping! This picturesque spot has many accommodation options, including camping pods fully equipped with electricity and hot water!

Saba Ghani
Saba Ghani

Since 2017, Saba Ghani has been serving as the talented and dedicated chief content writer for Pakistan Tour and Travel & EMHI Solutions. With her exceptional writing skills and in-depth knowledge of the travel industry, she has been instrumental in crafting engaging and informative content that captivates the audience. You can catch her at [email protected] or Twitter

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