Explore Kotli

The Poonch rises in the Pir Panjal range, runs about 150 km through Poonch before entering Kotli District, and finally drains into the Mangla Reservoir. In 2010 the whole of its course through Azad Kashmir was declared the Poonch River Mahaseer National Park, widely described as Pakistan's first aquatic protected area. It was created to protect the golden mahseer, a large migratory game fish, and side streams such as Ban, Rangar and Nehl act as its breeding grounds.

The best known natural attraction in the district, and the second most visited place in Kotli on Tripadvisor. Often called the twin waterfalls of Gulpur, it is fed by the Mahuli stream, which drops down rocky cliffs into a natural pool before joining the Poonch River. The falls sit close to the Kotli to Mirpur road at the junction with the Rawalpindi road, so you can drive almost the whole way. Best in the monsoon when the flow is at its heaviest, and a favourite family picnic spot right through the summer.

A well-known local shrine and a regular stop for families visiting Kotli. Shrines like this one are woven into everyday life across the district and draw steady visitors through the year, particularly on the annual urs. Ask at reception and we will tell you the best time to go and arrange transport.

A ridge viewpoint looking out over the Kotli valley and the river below. Locals go for sunset, when the light drops across the hills and the whole town is laid out beneath you. Take a jacket, it cools quickly once the sun is down.