Mahandri Village is a small, serene village located in the heart of Kaghan Valley in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan. Nestled amidst lush green forests, towering mountains, and the sparkling waters of the Kunhar River, Mahandri Village is a hidden gem that offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Mahandri is a village in the Kaghan Valley of Mansehra District in the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Province of Pakistan. From Balakot there is a road that ascends along the Kunhar River through beautiful forests to Mahandri and the villages of Paras, Shinu, and Jared. The Ansoo Lake trekking route starts from Mahandri which is 40 km below Naran village, but it is an alternative to the Saiful Muluk Lake route and the difficulty is not known.
Mahandri Village Location & Height
The village is accessible via a scenic drive from the town of Naran, which is approximately 22 kilometers (14 miles) away. The road leading to Mahandri Village winds through breathtaking landscapes, including fields of wildflowers, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains.
One of the unique features of the Village is its architecture. The houses in the village are built using locally sourced materials such as timber and stone, and their traditional design reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the village’s narrow alleyways and admire its beautiful buildings, many of which are decorated with intricate wood carvings and other traditional ornaments.
As visitors approach to the Village, they are greeted by stunning views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas and lush green meadows. The village is located at an altitude of approximately 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) above sea level and is surrounded by a dense forest of pine, oak, and maple trees.
It is a part of Manshera district. This village is 81 km from Mansehra town. Mahandri is 105 km away from Abbottabad city. It is 243 km from Islamabad city. The altitude of the village is 5144 feet above sea level.
There are two water bodies in the village, one is the Kunhar River and the other is the Ansoo or Dohar Lake fountain. Kunhar River flows through it and the road is called National Highway. This national highway connects Naran, Jalkhad, and Chilas through this road.
Hotels in Mahandri
Hotels and transport are easily accessible in the morning.
Distance of Mahandri from Naran and Kaghan
To reach the valley, visitors must first travel to the town of Naran, which serves as a gateway to the Kaghan Valley. From Naran, the village is accessible by a jeep track or on foot. The jeep track is approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) long and takes about 2 hours to cover. The trek to Mahandri Village is a bit challenging and takes around 5-6 hours to complete, but the effort is well worth it.
Mahandri Village to Naran:
Mahandri village is 40 km from Naran town.
Mahandri Village to Kaghan:
It is 18 km before Kaghan town. Kaghan is 1775 feet above the village.
Attractions of Mahandri Village
One of the main attractions is the Mahandri Meadows, a vast expanse of rolling green hills that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the meadows, enjoying the fresh mountain air and the peaceful serenity of the landscape.
It is also known for its warm and hospitable people. Visitors are welcomed with open arms and can enjoy the village’s local cuisine, which includes delicious dishes such as trout fish and chapli kababs. Visitors can also learn about the village’s customs and traditions, including the annual festival of Sheshi Koh, which is celebrated in late August or early September and features music, dance, and local handicrafts.
Other activities include hiking, fishing, and camping. The village is located close to several popular hiking trails, including the trek to Lake Saif-ul-Malook, one of the most famous lakes in Pakistan. Fishing enthusiasts can also try their hand at catching trout in the Kunhar River, which is known for its clear waters and abundant fish.
Overall, Mahandri Village is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a tranquil getaway in the midst of nature. Its unique architecture, warm hospitality, and stunning natural beauty make it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
