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In May 2021, we started on a three-day journey from Rawalpindi’s Faizabad to the beautiful village of Taobat in Azad Kashmir. Our adventure was filled with tough terrain and beautiful surroundings. We faced challenges, but we also enjoyed the stunning natural beauty we saw along the way. Here’s a recap of our journey and the beautiful sites we experienced.
Day 1: Leaving Rawalpindi:
In the morning, I took the Metro from Saddar to Faizabad, Rawalpindi. I arrived around 9 a.m., where my friend was waiting for me on a Suzuki 150cc. We began our journey from Faizabad.
Our Adventure from Rawalpindi to Taobat:
We travelled through Bara Kahu, a lively area on the edge of Islamabad with busy markets and colourful shops, towards Murree Expressway, crossing Lower Topa and then Kohala Bridge. The bridge, though simple, offered beautiful views of the green landscape below, hinting at the beauty ahead.
Reaching Sharda: A Calm Stop:
By late afternoon, we arrived in Sharda, a lovely town in Azad Kashmir. Known for its calm beauty and historical value, Sharda greeted us with a peaceful atmosphere. We stayed at a local hotel for PKR 5000, which included basic comforts like hot water—much appreciated after the long ride.
Exploring Sharda: A Relaxing Start:
After settling in, we explored Sharda. The town’s calm vibe, surrounded by greenery and the Neelum River, was a perfect start. We walked by the river, enjoying the fresh mountain air and soothing water sounds—a great way to begin our adventure.
Day 2: The Tough Ride to Taobat:
The next morning, we left for Taobat and stopped in Kel for breakfast. After that, we continued to Taobat. The 60-kilometre drive from Sharda to Taobat was tough with rough roads and landslides, but it had beautiful views along the way. Even though the trip was challenging, the scenery was amazing.
Tough Roads:
Travelling by Jeep usually takes about four hours, but on a motorcycle, it took us six to seven hours due to the tough conditions. The ride was a real test, but it was also exciting. As we navigated the winding roads, the landscape transformed from green valleys and flowing rivers to rugged mountains, with each turn offering new views.
Facing Challenges:
One memorable part was crossing a dangerous stretch where a landslide had made the road nearly impassable. The motorcycle struggled through gravel and mud, but the sight of the mountains and waterfalls made every challenge worth it.
Arriving in Taobat: A Hidden Gem:
Taobat is a village in Sharda Tehsil, Neelam Valley, Azad Kashmir, situated 200 kilometres from Muzaffarabad and 40 kilometres (24 miles) from Kel. As the last station in Neelam Valley, Taobat offers a serene escape surrounded by high peaks and lush forests. When we arrived in the afternoon, we were captivated by its beauty, feeling as if we had stepped back in time. We took in the breathtaking scenery, visited the local mosque, and enjoyed the tranquil atmosphere.
Ride Back to Sharda:
The journey back to Sharda turned out to be quite challenging. We departed from Taobat in the late afternoon, hoping to reach Sharda before night. However, the rough roads and fading daylight made the trip increasingly difficult. As we neared Sharda, my friend, exhausted from the ride, asked me to take over the bike. This was my first time riding a bike, and despite the added risk, we managed to arrive safely in Sharda around 9 or 10 PM after a long day. We were relieved to return to the hotel, enjoy dinner, and end our adventure on a positive note.
Day 3: Sharda to Rawalpindi:
On the third day, we left Sharda early. The return journey was smoother yet still challenging, with familiar landscapes. In the evening, we arrived in Faizabad, each of us carrying good memories of the trip.
Expenses and Reflections:
Our total expenditure for the three days amounted to around PKR 20,000. This covered PKR 10,000 for two nights at a cozy hotel in Sharda and an additional PKR 10,000 for petrol, food, and various other expenses as of May 2021. Given the remarkable adventure and breathtaking scenery we experienced, this cost was quite reasonable for that time. It was a modest price for the unforgettable memories and spectacular views we enjoyed.
Conclusion:
Riding a bike for three days from Rawalpindi to Taobat was a great and tough experience. We saw the natural beauty of Azad Kashmir, which put our stamina to the test and provided breathtaking views. Every stop along the way, from the bustling streets of Faizabad to the peaceful Taobat, showed the area’s beauty. These landscapes are sure to make a lasting impression, regardless of your level of travel expertise. This journey stretched us and gave us a chance to appreciate Kashmir’s beauty. If you plan to take a similar trip, be ready for amazing rewards mixed with challenges. The difficult roads, beautiful views, and peaceful moments will make the journey memorable.
FAQs:
How long is the journey from Rawalpindi to Taobat?
The entire journey took three days. On the first day, we traveled from Rawalpindi to Sharda, which took about 8 hours. On the second day, it took us six to seven hours to reach Taobat from Sharda due to the rough roads and challenging conditions.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the route from Sharda to Taobat?
The terrain between Sharda and Taobat is rugged and challenging. Expect rough, uneven roads and potential landslides, which can make the journey difficult, especially on a motorcycle. The route features beautiful but demanding landscapes, including winding roads and mountainous terrain.
Is it safe to travel from Sharda to Taobat on a motorcycle?
Traveling from Sharda to Taobat on a motorcycle is adventurous but can be risky due to the tough road conditions, including rough patches and potential landslides. It requires a good level of riding skill and caution. It is advisable to be prepared for challenging conditions and have some experience with off-road riding.
What type of accommodation is available in Sharda?
In Sharda, you can find a range of accommodation options from basic hotels to more comfortable stays.
Also Guide on four wheel. My age is no more for two wheel.
Thank you for your comment! Yes, you’re absolutely right—traveling by four-wheel drive is a great choice. You can comfortably reach Kel by car, and from there, you can hire a 4×4 jeep to take you the rest of the way to Taobat. The journey is quite scenic, and a 4×4 is ideal for navigating the rugged terrain between Kel and Taobat. Safe travels!