Kharal Abbasian

Kharal Abbasian is a village north-east of Bagh District headquarters in Pakistan

The village is located in the Bagh District of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. It is named after the Abbasi families who have historically resided there in large numbers.

Geography

• Coordinates: 33° 59' 13" N, 73° 50' 35" E (33.98706, 73.84323)
• Altitude: The surrounding terrain, particularly the nearby Peer Kanthi peak, reaches an elevation of approximately 4,264 metres above sea level.
• Climate: Kharl Abbasian has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers, cool winters, and seasonal rainfall.

The village is surrounded by lush forests and valleys, with nearby localities including Gali, Chhatrora, Dhar, Shareef, and Hansala.

Culture

Kharl Abbasian's cultural heritage reflects the broader traditions of Azad Kashmir. One of the most prominent cultural practices in the village is "Gatka" (a traditional martial art involving sword and stick fighting), often performed during festivals and local gatherings.

Cuisine

A popular local dish in Kharl Abbasian is Mothi Chawal, which consists of white beans (moth) served with rice. This simple dish is a local favorite and is often served during family meals and social events.

Politics

Politically, the village has representation from major parties including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) - PML-N, and independent candidates. A former political figure from Kharl Abbasian, Sardar Khalil Abbasi, was a prominent leader known for his efforts in improving infrastructure, education, and the overall well-being of the community.

Tourism and wildlife

Local tourist attractions include Peer Kanthi, Shekhali, Bara, and Dar Shareef. These locations attract both local and international visitors for their scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and spiritual significance.

The area is also home to diverse wildlife. Hunting (locally called "Shikar") is a common activity, especially targeting wild animals in the surrounding forests and mountains. Due to the presence of wildlife, it is customary for many villagers to own shotguns as a means of protection and self-defense against wild animals.