Table of Contents
Guide to Sharan Forest — Trekking, Camping & How to Reach (2025)
Why Visit Sharan Forest?
Unlike crowded tourist hotspots, Sharan Forest remains largely uncommercialized. Visitors come for: dense pine canopies, quiet camps that respect the landscape, wildflower meadows at Manshi Top, and well-preserved trails. If you want a low-key nature escape near Naran & Shogran — Sharan is ideal.
- Pristine environment: minimal litter, careful campsite management.
- Family & beginner friendly: easy-moderate treks and safe camps.
- Unique stays: camping pods and local cottages run by forest authorities.
- Wildlife & flora: mushroom beds, springs, and seasonal wild fruits.
How to Reach Sharan Forest — Route & Road Conditions
Sharan sits about 30 km from Balakot and roughly 16 km from Paras on a jeep trail. Roads are good until Paras; the final stretch requires a high-clearance 4×4.
Route Options
- From Islamabad/Lahore (self-drive): Islamabad → Hazara Motorway (M-15) → Mansehra → Balakot → Kiwai → Paras (park) → jeep to Sharan.
- By bus: Take a bus to Balakot (Faisal Movers or Daewoo), then local transport/taxis to Paras and hire a jeep.
- Private transfer: Rozefs arranges door-to-door transfers — request a custom transfer.
Driving Notes & Safety
- Park at Paras — the jeep track to Sharan is narrow and not recommended for regular cars.
- Jeep track: expect bumps, occasional mud after rain; morning departures are best.
- Make sure your driver knows local routes — local jeep drivers handle the track daily and are more reliable.
Manshi Top Trek — What to Expect
The trek to Manshi Top is a highlight: an easily paced climb through tall chinar and pine groves, ending on a grassy plateau with panoramic mountain views. Expect a 1.5–2 hour ascent for moderately fit hikers.
Trail Highlights
- Shady forest stretches with carpeted moss and seasonal wildflowers.
- Scenic resting spots with views of snow-capped ridges.
- Local shepherd routes — you may encounter grazing livestock and small tea stalls near the top in peak season.
Difficulty & Recommendations
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. Wear trekking shoes, bring water, light snacks and a windproof layer. Children and older adults can attempt the trek with frequent breaks.
Accommodation & Campsite Facilities in Sharan Forest
Accommodation is intentionally rustic to preserve the area. The main options are:
- Camping pods: Insulated pods with 12V solar lights — ideal for low-impact stays. Alt text suggestion:
Sharan Forest camping pod with pine trees — Sharan Forest campsite - Tents: Bring your own or rent local tents arranged by campsite staff.
- Forest cottages: Small local cottages run by forest/tourism agencies (limited availability).
Facilities
- Shared washrooms (insulated sheet construction), cold water from springs.
- Solar lighting (12V) — phone charging is limited; bring power banks.
- Communal kitchen and dining area; basic meals offered by campsite staff.
Costs, Jeep Fares & Booking with Rozefs
Below are typical costs — prices change seasonally, so confirm during booking.
| Item | Typical Cost (PKR) |
|---|---|
| Jeep Paras → Sharan (round jeep) | 6,000–8,000 per jeep |
| Camping pod (2-person) | 2,500–3,500 per night |
| Meals (camp kitchen) | 300–650 per person per meal |
| Guided Manshi Top trek | 1,000–2,000 (optional) |
Rozefs tip: Book jeeps and pods in advance during peak months (June–August) to secure preferred dates. Use Rozefs’ booking form for a bundled package (transport + pod + guide).
Best Time to Visit Sharan Forest
Sharan is beautiful year-round, but your best options depend on experience:
- Spring (Apr–May): Blooming wildflowers, fresh streams.
- Summer (Jun–Aug): Peak season — green meadows and cool days. Recommended for families.
- Autumn (Sep–Oct): Golden chinar leaves, quieter trails.
- Winter (Nov–Mar): Snowfall — limited access, but spectacular for snow lovers (confirm road openings).
Packing Checklist & Safety Tips
Must-haves
- Good trekking shoes, waterproof jacket and layers.
- Power bank(s) — campsite power is limited to 12V.
- Water bottle, snacks, sunscreen and hat.
- Basic first-aid kit and any personal medication.
Safety & Responsible Travel
- Always follow local guides and marked trails.
- Do not litter — use provided dustbins and pack out non-biodegradable waste.
- Ask permission before photographing locals and respect private property.
- Check weather and road conditions before departure.
Nearby Attractions — Make It a Bigger Trip
- Shogran & Siri Paye Meadows — scenic plateaus and jeep safaris. –>
- Naran & Lake Saif-ul-Malook — boating and alpine views. Saif-ul-Malook guide
- Babusar Top — high mountain pass (seasonal).
- Lalazar Meadows — wildflower terraces and hikes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Sharan Forest suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome; however, we recommend booking a guided jeep or joining a Rozefs small-group tour for added safety and local insight.
Can I charge my phone at the campsite?
Charging is limited; the pods have 12V solar lights. Bring power banks or request limited charging from the management ahead of time.
Are there shops for supplies near the campsite?
Limited facilities exist; bring essential food and medicines from Paras or Balakot. Camps provide basic meals but specialty items may be unavailable.
Book Your Sharan Forest Trip with Rozefs Tourism
Want a worry-free trip? Rozefs Tourism arranges jeeps, camping pods, guides and combined Naran–Sharan itineraries. Tell us your dates and group size and we’ll plan the rest.
- Request a custom Sharan Forest package
- Combine Sharan with Naran & Saif-ul-Malook
Contact: WhatsApp/Call +92 (314) 5383715 | Email: contact@rozefstourism.com