Written by: Zainab Naseem Sheikh
Posted on: December 22, 2025 | 
| 中文
Toli Pir in Rawalakot, Poonch
Planning a trip to Toli Pir as someone from the city requires a little preparation, but the journey is worth every moment. Perched at around 8,800 feet above sea level in the Poonch District of Azad Kashmir, the hills seem to float among the clouds, offering views that feel like they belong in a postcard. For anyone seeking quiet, natural beauty, and a connection with the local culture, Toli Pir is a hidden gem that leaves a lasting impression.
Toli Pir, Rawalakot
We set off from Rawalakot, a place about thirty kilometers away. The road to Toli Pir is lovely, going through forests, little villages, and rolling hills. Hiring a local jeep made the ride smoother, and our driver, experienced with the terrain, told stories about the area and its people along the way. The road was narrow in certain places, but the green canopy and the occasional glimpse of distant mountains made every turn worthwhile.
As we neared the top, the scenery changed. The air grew cooler, filled with the carrying the fresh scent of of pine and wildflowers. Rolling meadows spread over hills with little streams and grazing cattle. We could see clouds drifting close enough to touch, and the soft breeze made the entire sight feel peaceful and even magical. Through the greenery, a few guesthouses and cottages offered a basic but cozy spot to spend the night.
Toli Pir top
The hike to the top of Toli Pir is difficult yet rewarding. The path is well-trodden with modest inclines and occasional steeper stretches that challenge the legs and reward the eyes. Every step revealed something new: clusters of wildflowers, fluttering butterflies and birds that seemed to welcome us with delicate chirps. Local guides added to the knowledge of the highlands, secret vantage locations, and little legends.
We reached the top and stopped to view the landscape. The hills of Poonch stretched in all directions; there were glowing rivers in the distance and the neighbourhoods scattered over the valleys. The serenity of the surroundings is difficult to describe, as the only sounds one could hear were the breeze through the grass and distant chirping of birds, and the occasional laughter from fellow passengers. We spent hours roaming the meadows, capturing photos, and generally enjoying that serenity which comes along with being far away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Toli Pir trek
Toli Pir is not a place that consists of nature only. The tomb of Hazrat Pir gives spiritual depth to the visit. Pilgrims regularly hike up the hill for reflection and prayer, and seeing their calm devotion imparts a sense of peace. The local people are very kind and welcoming. Simple, cozy foods like rice dishes, hot pakoras, and fresh Kashmiri tea were available at small dhabas close to the route. We decided to have a picnic in the middle of the meadows so we could take our time enjoying the food and the scenery.
A house at Toli Pir hills
For those willing to continue the journey, adjacent sights including Las Danna, Banjosa Lake, and Ganga Choti provide additional trekking, scenic drives, and opportunity for photography. While each region has its own beauty, Toli Pir is still unique for its peacefulness and entering into an unspoiled area.
By the time we started to make our way down, the sun had begun to set behind the hills, soft hues of orange and pink tinting the sky. I reflected over the experience as I carefully made my way down. The trip to Toli Pir is not only about the scenery and the hike themselves; it's about reconnecting with nature, finding the peace that comes from being in isolated hills, and enjoying the simplicity of life in these tiny communities.
Banjosa Lake
Toli Pir is a reminder that some places remain hidden treasures, waiting to be explored with care and respect. For travelers seeking quiet, beauty, and a touch of culture, it is a destination that lingers in memory long after the journey ends.
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