Last checked: October 2026. Road status, permissions and security advice change, so confirm locally before you travel.
Toli Pir is a hilltop area in Poonch District, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, known for pine forest, meadows and wide views. This Toli Pir guide covers how to reach it from Rawalakot and Islamabad, the best time, what to do and what to check first.
Quick answer: what is Toli Pir?
Toli Pir is a hill station and national park area about 30 km from Rawalakot at roughly 2,700 m. Reports put the drive from Rawalakot at anything from 45 minutes to two hours depending on road and weather. It suits a night or two of camping, walking and views, and it is a base for treks towards Ganga Choti and Pir Chinasi.
Toli Pir quick facts
| Detail | Toli Pir |
|---|---|
| Location | Rawalakot tehsil, Poonch District, Azad Jammu and Kashmir |
| Elevation | About 2,700 m; sources give 2,666 to 2,743 m |
| From Rawalakot | About 30 to 40 km, depending on source |
| From Islamabad | About 150 km, reported at around 6 hours by road |
| Best months | May to October; heavy snow in winter |
| Suggested time | 1 to 2 nights |
Where is Toli Pir?
The hilltop lies north-east of Rawalakot. On clear days there are views towards Abbaspur, Bagh and the Poonch River. Toli Pir National Park covers surrounding forest and farmland and has a recorded plant diversity of about 158 species.
How to reach Toli Pir
Nearest airport
Islamabad International Airport is the usual starting point. See our airports guide.
Nearest railway station
Rawalpindi is the nearest rail hub. There is no railway in Azad Kashmir.
Road access
From Islamabad or Rawalpindi, roads run via Kahuta or Murree-area routes to Rawalakot, then a steeper road to Toli Pir. A sturdy vehicle is advisable for the last stretch, and rain or snow can slow it. Banjosa Lake lies along the way.
Best time to visit
May to October is the usual window. Winter snow can block roads and strand visitors, so check conditions.
Things to do
- Walk through pine forest and viewpoints.
- Camp or stay in guesthouses near the top.
- Visit Banjosa Lake on the way.
- Use Toli Pir as a base for Ganga Choti. See our Ganga Choti guide.
Where to stay and eat
Expect basic guesthouses and camping. Bring food and water for day trips, and confirm availability in advance in summer. See our Bagh guide for nearby bases.
Estimated costs
Costs depend mostly on vehicle hire and where you stay. Ask for written quotes and see our travel cost guide.
Packing checklist
- Warm layers and rain protection, even in summer
- Sturdy shoes, torch and offline maps
- Cash, water and snacks
Safety tips
Mountain weather changes quickly and roads can be steep and rough. Foreign visitors should confirm whether any permission is needed for the area before they travel.
Responsible tourism
- Take all rubbish with you and respect forests and farmland.
- Dress modestly and ask before photographing people.
- Hire local drivers and guides and buy from local shops.
Emergency contacts
- Police: 15
- Ask your host for the nearest medical facility and confirm numbers locally.
Attractions near Toli Pir
Banjosa Lake and the Rawalakot area
Banjosa Lake is an artificial lake in pine forest about 18 to 20 km from Rawalakot, reported at roughly 1,800 to 1,980 m depending on source, and linked to Rawalakot by a metalled road. It is often combined with Toli Pir. Government rest houses and a few hotels and guesthouses are near the lake, with rooms reported at about PKR 3,000 to 5,000 a night, and the lake can freeze in winter. Banjosa is reported at about 130 km from Islamabad and about 160 km from Rawalpindi, with sources differing on routes.
Distances, rates and conditions vary, so confirm rest-house availability and road status with the AJK tourism department or your host before you go.
Toli Pir FAQs
How high is Toli Pir?
About 2,700 m; sources give 2,666 to 2,743 m.
How far is Toli Pir from Rawalakot?
About 30 to 40 km, depending on source.
How far is Toli Pir from Islamabad?
About 150 km, roughly 6 hours by road.
When is the best time to visit?
May to October.
Is Toli Pir safe?
Final thoughts on visiting Toli Pir
Toli Pir is a quiet hill destination best seen in summer. Confirm road and security conditions, bring warm clothing and allow time for the drive.
Traveler Notes
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