Start Date: 7 Mar 21 End Date: 8 Mar 21 Rizwan Rafi : BMW F650gs Dakar Nadeem Gill : BMW F800gs Imtiaz Ashraf : Yamaha Tenner 660 Road Captain : Distance to the Destination : Distance back to Origin : Ride time to the Destination : Ride time back to the Origin : First Aid : Nadeem Gill, Rizwan Rafi Incident reported : 1 (flat Tyre)
We took RawlaKote rout leaving Islamabad at 0800 hours. Road condition for the most part are overall good. The going for most of the route has been slow, because of it being tight and windy.
We had late lunch at Lasdana it was a delicious prepared meal from a local resturant. The final 10kms to AliAbad (our destination) where a tough ride due snow cold weather, broken and climbing road.
The reward was waiting as the hut where we stayed was very nice. It is a military guest room. There is a bit of history to it is as my Unit made this hut, the mess here services some very good food.
Next day we started late, at about 1230 hours, due to rain. Waited for the weather to settle down from Bagh and onward journey.
An issue beyond our control but we where prepared to handle it, Rizwan’s bike had a flat tire.
We had not anticipated and prepared for rain, only Imtiaz was carrying rain gear, we had heavy rain on our way back which completely socked us.
Although most of the rout had good cellular coverage but currently is no cell service available at the destination. What else could we have wished for a moment of peace and tranquility.
AliAbad was cold, we recommend the best time to travel to this area would be any time after last week of march, two to three weeks later for the weather to settle down a bit.
Since it is a long ride I would recommend the trip to be spread over a minimum of two nights.
As this was a extreme weather ride we have learned that it is important to carry tire inflation pump, bike fitted with good auxiliary lights, rain gear, regardless of what the weather forecast is. When traveling north must use water proof / winter gloves and mist proof helmet visor must always be carried.
Great ride, enjoyed it to bits, on our return we took Kohala Muree rout on our way back. Reached home by 9pm.
Over all a safe ride, only one incident to report a flat while coming back.
March 11, 2021, 10:54 am
An epic journey on this route; snow covered mountain tops at 7000 ft height from sea- level. Bikers less traveled area but full of scenic beauty at the edge of Azad Kashmir adjacent to occupied Kashmir boundary.