Poonch
It is present between numerous snow capped mountains. The place is dotted with lovely lakes and meandering streams. It is abundant in fruits, flowers, forests and historical monuments. It is an ideal vacation spot.
Tourist places in Poonch
Noori Chhamb: This place is connected to the Mughal Queen Noor Jahan. It is 45 kilometers from Poonch Town. There is a waterfall which gives rise to dense clouds of water vapors. The place was much admired by Emperor Jahangir. He later named the place as ‘Noori Chammb’. The Mughal Queen enjoyed her baths here. A mirror was placed besides the fall the remnants of which are present till date.
Girgan Dhok and Lakes: A total of seven lakes are found in this valley. It is 0 kilometers from Poonch. The seven lakes are the Sukhsar, Neelsar, Bhagsar, Katosar, Kaldachinasar and Nandansar. The valley has an elevation of 12000 feet.
Nandansar is the largest of the seven lakes. The length and breadth of the lake are 1 mile and half a mile respectively.
Poonch Fort: This is presently the headquarters of the Poonch district. It was built by Raja Abdul Razaq Khan in 1713 AD. Poonch was once known as Rustam Nagar. Even though the Raja belonged to the Rathore clan of Rajasthan, the architectural style is strictly Mughal. The central block of the building was added during the Sikh rule which lasted from 1819 to 1846.
Mandi: Mandi is a small village situated near the northern confluence of the two streams namely, Gagri and Pulsta. It is a narrow valley surrounded by low, steep, grassy hills. A temple is present in this village which is dedicated to Swami Budha Amar Nath. Kashmiri language is spoken by most people of Mandi. It has become one of the favorite spots due to its pleasant weather.
Loran: This village is situated 35 kilometers from Poonch. It is present near the beginning of the Pir Panjal mountain range. A small stream flows through this place called Loran Nollah. It adds beauty to this place. A fort which was earlier known as the Loran-Kote was once the capital of Poonch, the remains of which are found till date.
Nandishool: This place is situated 12 kilometers from Loran. It is a mesmerizing waterfall with a height of 150 feet. The Rural Development Department has constructed a tourist hut near the place.
Surankote: Situated on the banks of the River Suran, Surankote is a small village which offers breathtaking views. It has lofty peaks forming the background. The place derives its name from an old fort called Kote which was built in 1036 AD.
Behramgala: Behramgala is a small plateau found on the historic Mughal Road. Mountains and forests surround this place. The confluence of two streams, Parnai and Thata Pani is found nearby. This place is about 40 kilometers from Poonch.
Dehra-Gali: This place is 45 kilometers from Poonch. It has thick forests all around. It is situated at a height of 6300 feet.