Baboon Valley is a hidden treasure tucked away in the lush expanse of Neelum Valley, northern Pakistan. This guide dives into everything you need to know—from how to get there and where to stay, to why this place should top your must-visit list if you're after untouched beauty and soul-stirring landscapes.
An Untouched Slice of Paradise in Northern Pakistan
As a traveler and filmmaker, I’ve explored countless landscapes, but there are a few that truly silence the noise within—and Baboon Valley is one of them. Nestled deep inside Neelum Valley, this lesser-known marvel is still raw, untouched, and full of stories waiting to be told.
Unlike the popular tourist hubs of Hunza or Skardu, Baboon Valley feels like a whispered secret passed on by local guides, where wildflowers stretch over meadows, glaciers peek from cliffs, and the river hums a constant, calming rhythm.
If you're planning to discover the true soul of the northern areas in Pakistan, start here.
Where Exactly Is Baboon Valley?
Baboon Valley lies in the upper reaches of Neelum Valley, near Domail Bala, in Azad Kashmir. It’s about 200 km from Muzaffarabad and sits at an altitude of over 10,000 feet. The road is rough, the journey long, but the reward is unmatched.
It shares its geography with Ratti Gali Lake and Chitta Katha Lake, making it a great addition to your Neelum Valley itinerary.
How to Reach Baboon Valley
Step 1: Reach Muzaffarabad
From Islamabad, drive to Muzaffarabad (approx. 5–6 hours). This is your gateway to Neelum.
Step 2: Head to Kel via Sharda
From Muzaffarabad, drive to Kel, passing through scenic stops like:
- Dhani Waterfall
- Kutton Waterfall
- Sharda (don’t miss the ancient university ruins!)
This route takes 8–10 hours and requires an early start.
Step 3: Jeep to Domail Bala and Hike
From Kel, hire a local jeep to Domail Bala. This bumpy ride is followed by a moderate trek (3–4 hours) through lush meadows and rocky paths. Eventually, the trail opens up to the spellbinding Baboon Valley.
Watch This Next:
🎥 Baboon Valley Jeep Track Adventure | Northern Pakistan
Why Baboon Valley Deserves More Attention
1. Unspoiled Beauty
You won’t find crowds, shops, or even proper roads here. What you get instead is pristine meadows, flowing streams, alpine trees, and complete stillness. This is nature at its purest.
2. Camping Under the Stars
Forget luxury resorts—here, you camp under a galaxy of stars, cook meals by fire, and wake up to the sound of flowing rivers. It's raw and real.
3. Perfect for Filmmakers & Photographers
As Rahaal, I’m always chasing frames that feel alive. Baboon Valley gave me some of my most cinematic shots—mist dancing on water, yaks grazing on wild grass, and silhouettes against orange sunsets.
4. Cultural Connection
The locals are welcoming and curious. A smile is your best ticket to hear stories of survival, folklore, and how they coexist with nature.
Best Time to Visit Baboon Valley
Where to Stay
Since there are no hotels inside Baboon Valley, your best options are:
- Camping: Bring your own gear or hire a guide who can arrange it.
- Guesthouses in Kel or Domail Bala: Simple rooms with basic facilities. Book early in peak season.
For more about accommodations in the north:
🎥 From Kashmir’s Waterfalls to Islamabad | Northern Pakistan
Packing Essentials for Baboon Valley
- Tent + Sleeping bag (weatherproof)
- Warm layers (even in summer)
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Power bank & torch
- Basic medical kit
- Snacks and dry food (no shops in valley)
- Trash bags (leave no trace)
Travel Tips from Rahaal
- Hire a local guide from Kel—they know the trails and weather patterns
- Always check weather forecasts before heading out
- Respect nature—do not litter, disturb wildlife, or take anything
- Travel light—the trek isn’t difficult, but the altitude can be tiring
Other Nearby Attractions in Neelum Valley
Pair your trip to Baboon with:
- Ratti Gali Lake – Accessible by jeep and short hike
- Chitta Katha Lake – For experienced trekkers
- Arang Kel – A green paradise just a cable ride away from Kel
- Sharda University Ruins – For a touch of ancient history
Related Blog:
Must-See Northern Areas of Pakistan for Every Explorer
Is Baboon Valley Safe to Visit?
Yes, but with some precautions:
- No mobile signals—inform your family before heading off-grid
- Travel with a group or guide
- Wildlife is present—don’t leave food exposed
- Roads are rough—only experienced 4x4 drivers should attempt
Real Vlog Adventures from the Region
Here are my vlogs capturing the true essence of Neelum and Baboon:
- 🎥 Baboon Valley Jeep Track Adventure | Northern Pakistan
- 🎥 Journey to Babusar Top & Lulusar Lake | Northern Pakistan
- 🎥 Exploring Dudipatsar Lake | Northern Pakistan
More Blogs to Explore on Rahaal
- How to Reach Fairy Meadows from Islamabad Easily
- Northern Pakistan’s Best Spots for Nature Lovers
- Top Tourist Destinations in Northern Pakistan 2025
- Shogran Valley: A Hidden Paradise in the North
Final Thoughts: Baboon Valley Is Not Just a Destination—It’s a Feeling
If you’re someone who travels not just to escape, but to connect—Baboon Valley is your kind of place. There’s no Wi-Fi, no malls, no schedules. Just the earth beneath your feet and the sky above your head.
As Rahaal, I urge you to explore such places with humility and heart. Because these are not just tourist spots—they’re fragile ecosystems and homes to people who’ve preserved them for generations.
So plan smart, travel light, and remember—the best journeys are the ones that transform you.
