Balakot to Babusar Track
The road leading from Balakot to Naran is now no longer gradable as track. From Naran to Jalkhad, the road is partly metalled, and some part is broken down road. However, from Jalkhad to Babusar is a good track. In two years time, it appears, this will also be converted to tarmac: creating a lot of ease and all-weather access, but destroying the beauty. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com<img src=" /><o:p></o:p>
HERE IS AN INTRODUCTION OF THE TRACK FROM BALAKOT TO BABUSAR TOP<o:p></o:p>
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Name of the Destination: BABUSAR TOP<o:p></o:p>
Distance from a point of common knowledge / Length of the track<o:p></o:p>
FROM BALAKOT, it is around 150 km, and in good weather, it shall take around 6-8 hours<o:p></o:p>
Advisable to start early from Balakot, especially if coming from Islamabad<o:p></o:p>
Distance in travel hours on an average speed <o:p></o:p>
Around 6 - 8 hours <o:p></o:p>
Track Grade Grade 0, going upto Grade 1 in wet weather<o:p></o:p>
Immediately when the road opens in spring, may go up to Grade 3 due to glacier crossings<o:p></o:p>
Very convenient for trolley or trailer towing, and establishing camps<o:p></o:p>
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Last Fuel Availability Point<o:p></o:p>
Presently NARAN<o:p></o:p>
Battakundi is another small establishment where fuel may be available, albeit at a higher price, and stored in containers, so not very clean.<o:p></o:p>
Beyond Battakundi, the fuel availability is low. If someone is intending to track the plains, GittiDass, and beyond, it is advisable to keep a supply of Fuel on board.<o:p></o:p>
Last Food Availability Point<o:p></o:p>
For purchasing food items and cooking stuff, it is NARAN. Ready food is available up to Baissel. Beyond Baissel, no food is available. One may be able to buy some goat or other animal on the way, and recently, some honey, but other than that, almost nothing. Even fuel wood is scarce up in the mountains (above tree line). So, it is advisable to carry a supply of fuel for cooking also.<o:p></o:p>
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Last Roofed Accommodation Point<o:p></o:p>
NARAN for families<o:p></o:p>
Jalkhad or Baissel for groups of off-roaders or adventurers. Even beyond Baissel, some ‘Chappar’ type hotel may be found. These are owned and run by locals, and the staff is very friendly, in their own way. May appear rude on initial contact, which is not a fact. <o:p></o:p>
Recently some tents have cropped up along Lulusar lake, and other visitors’ interests, and these may be rented reasonably cheaply, but still, toilet facilities, and other amenities are unsatisfactory. Not recommended for families<o:p></o:p>
Security Concerns<o:p></o:p>
NONE whatsoever.<o:p></o:p>
No animal dangers. No two-legged animals abound. The locals are very co-operative and very decent people. Beautiful and loving people as a matter of fact. Without any reference, however, it is recommended to be always polite to any person in any locality. Walking in the night alone or in group is not dangerous at all. A stick in hand is good for any stray animals or for feeling for the track though. <o:p></o:p>
Kids Interests<o:p></o:p>
Rafting has recently been started in Naran. Some other activities are conducted by the Adventure Foundation: Highly recommended for kids of all ages. Very safe, and run by expert instructors. <o:p></o:p>
Activities Possible at Destination<o:p></o:p>
Walking, Photography, Cycling, Camping, Birds Watching; Practically anything to do with Nature<o:p></o:p>
Destination Grading / Scenery<o:p></o:p>
Very scenic. I would recommend to all off roaders to visit at least once in life time. Visitors from abroad are welcome and will be very comfortable and will enjoy the beauty. <o:p></o:p>
Please substantiate with some pictures: <o:p></o:p>
Below are a limited number of pictures from the track. Others may be found at ‘off-roaders unlimited’, in forums ‘Off-Roaders Unlimited (OFF-ROADERS / SUVs) on the same website.<o:p></o:p>
Contact Chairman, Off-Roaders Unlimited, for any questions or guidance, through the forum or through email message.<o:p></o:p>
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