Muhammad Abdullah is a law student at the University of London. He holds a profound interest in international relations and current affairs.
Pakistan’s Waterfalls
There’s no denying the fact that Pakistan has been blessed with impeccable natural beauty; every city is an exceptional masterpiece with its own specialities. Pakistan is blessed with the breathtakingly beautiful rivers of Punjab, the sun-kissed beaches of Sindh, the jaw-dropping valleys of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the crystal-clear lakes of Gilgit-Baltistan, and the mountains of Balochistan that pierce through the mighty skies. In this piece, however, you will be given a tour around the mesmerizing waterfalls of Pakistan.
Gulpur Waterfall
The Gulpur waterfall is located in the Kotli district of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK). Azad Jammu & Kashmir is already known for its phenomenal landscapes, and the Gulpur Waterfalls there are no less. Praised by tourists from around the world, the Gulpur waterfall speaks for itself. A tremendously beautiful waterfall with clear water flowing from above the rock mountain with a soothing melody.
The surroundings of the Gulpur waterfall are filled with palpable romance emerging from every corner. The water falling down the waterfall plays a melody that brings alive the amazing landscapes of the surroundings. The place is filled with people in the summer and is a perfect spot for someone looking for a place to get away from the topsy-turvy world of today.
Pir Ghaib Waterfall
Located in Bolan valley, about 70 kilometers from Quetta, the Pir Ghaib Waterfall in Balochistan, in addition to its spectacular views, carries a legend from the early days of Islam. Concealed among the shady palm trees, the waterfall cascades down into many streams, making its way towards the scenic pond formed below.
The legend goes around that Pir Ghaib and his sister Bibi Nani came to the people of the now Bolan valley to preach Islam, but the fire-worshippers of the local areas sent an army after the religious siblings. Bibi ran down the gorge (Bibi Rani’s tomb is located nearby), and Pir Ghaib, as he was running, was blocked by a rock wall. Legend says that he prayed to the Almighty, and He split open the rock to receive the pious saint. Since then, he has been known as Pir Ghaib, the Invisible Saint.
Jarogo Waterfall
Jarogo Waterfall, locally known as the Jarogo Banda Waterfall, is located in Matta, Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). The Jarogo waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls of Pakistan and is about 30 kilometers from the Matta Tehsil and 53 kilometers from the 3rd largest city of KPK, Mingora.
The waterfall has an astounding green surrounding that lives up to the definition of a natural landscape treasure. The waterfall is about 400 feet, making its way through the green and rocky paths of the mountain. In modern Pashto, Jarogo means broom, but it is said that in the olden days, back to the ancient times when Hindus ruled Swat, there lived a woman named Jarogai in the Swat valley, and the locals of the valley named the waterfall after her.
Farphu Waterfall
Gilgit Baltistan has a plethora of waterfalls located along the rocky mountains. One of them is the Farphu Waterfall. Farphu waterfall cascades from a steep rocky surface. It is present in the Bagrote Valley in Gilgit-Baltistan and is known as one of the highest waterfalls in Pakistan. The rocky mountains on the back with little vegetation make it look like a miracle, sprouting water from inside the rocky hills and ascending up to 350 feet.
The Farphu waterfall has a spectacular view, no doubt, but getting there is difficult for some. Although entirely vegetative, the way to Farphu waterfall is long. In order to reach the Farphu waterfalls, you would need to drive to Skardu 640 kilometers and 1.5 hours from Islamabad. From there, you have to take a jeep to Askole village, and the journey takes about four hours. From there, there is a two-kilometer hike to the Bagrot Valley mouth before finally reaching the enormous Farphu waterfall.
Neela Sandh Waterfall
About a 55-minute drive away from Islamabad, the Neela Sandh waterfall is a perfect spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. It is situated in Mori Syedan, Lehtrar Road, Rawalpindi. The outing spot is not really far away from the twin cities, and it really has its fair share of pleasant views and fantastic scenery.
Neela Sandh is an area with lakes, grassy knolls, and the Neela Sandh Waterfall. The numerous lakes of Neela Sandh consolidate at one single stream, resulting in the crystal-clear waterfall of 12 meters stretching throughout the rocky terrains. The awe-inspiring green beauty of the waterfall and the surrounding areas is highly appreciated by the residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, who often come with their families and friends to enjoy the fascinating views.
Noori Waterfall
Noori Waterfall is located in the Tial Village of the Haripur District of KPK. From Islamabad, the Noori waterfall is located about 85 kilometers. It is not exceptionally high, standing up to just 10 feet, but the immense beauty that it holds is immeasurable. It is located in an open cove that is shaped like a formation on a hillside. The waterfall has clear-blue water above a sandy surface.
Despite not being that large in size, the Noori waterfall has not stopped making an impact on its visitors. People from all over the district, and even from Islamabad and Rawalpindi, take a tour to the Noori Waterfall quite often to come back to nature. The water from the waterfalls drops down in a melodious harmony that reminds you of the immaculate beauty that the Almighty has blessed Pakistan with.
Shingrai Waterfall
The Shingrai Waterfall is another waterfall located in the KPK. It is situated in Shingrai Manglawar, Swat. The high waterfall situated between a number of rocky hills and green trees is 1000 feet above sea level. From Mingora, it is about 18 kilometers and is regularly visited by the natives as well as the outsiders as a peaceful, natural spot. The village where the waterfall is located is known as Shingro, or Shingrai, and is the inspiration behind the name of the waterfall.
The 35-feet tall waterfall comes with an average width of about 70 feet. The locals call it “Shangro Dand.” In the times to come, places like Noori Waterfall are becoming more popular in the public eye, and with the passage of time, we hope that tourism in Pakistan improves.
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