Shogran, one of the most beautiful plateaus in the valley, is situated 34 kilometers from Balakot via Kawai. To reach this Quaint place, take a side road on the right after passing through Kawai. From here it is a steep 7 kilometers to Shogran. The road is metalled and normal cars and vans can make the drive.
Surrounded by thick pine forests and with an altitude of 7747 feet, the summer climate of Shogran is very mild and pleasant.
One of the nicer places to visit is Shogran‘s Forest Rest House. From the rolling grassy lawns of the rest house, one can become immersed in breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered mountains. Kaghan Valley’s highest peaks, such as Musa Ka Musalla (441 9m), Makra (3 885 m), and Malika Parbat (5290m), are visible from here.
For those wishing to stay the night or have a meal, there are several small and medium-sized hotels in Shogran. For more information on hotels please consult the list of hotels. A wonderful excursion from Shogran is a visit to Sari and Paya.
A rugged eight-kilometer road climbs 2300 feet through thick pine forest to the top of Paya Ridge, a lush green meadow with a spectacular view of Malika Parbat. One can also see varieties of wild alpine flowers on the rolling grassy slopes of Paya. Visitors can then hike up Makra (Spider) Mountain, which is 2743 feet from sea level. From Paya, trekkers must climb around 2000 feet to reach the top of Makra, on the border Between Kaghan Valley and Azad Kashmir’s Neelum Valley.
This mountain climb is recommended only for those who have previous experience in high-altitude hiking, are familiar with the mountain wilderness safety rules, and are properly equipped.
Sari is a small lake on the way to Paya. One can stop here for a while for rest and refreshment. This place also has a small forest rest house and some tea stalls. Travelers enjoy sipping hot tea. one of the stalls while soaking in the majestic views of snow-covered mountains reflected in the lake.