Neelum Valley: A Complete Guide to Kashmir’s Hidden Paradise

Explore the Beauty of Neelum Valley

Neelum Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan. It is located in Azad Kashmir and is often called “Heaven on Earth.” With its green mountains, clean rivers, and cool weather, Neelum Valley is a great place to visit if you love nature.

Many people come here every year to enjoy the peaceful environment. Places like Keran, Sharda, and Arang Kel are very popular because they are full of natural beauty. The valley is around 144 kilometers long and has amazing views all around.

Also, the road to Neelum Valley is full of beautiful sights, which makes the journey even more fun. Whether you are going with your family, your partner, or alone, you will find something special here.

Neelum Valley is perfect for relaxing, taking pictures, and making happy memories. The people are friendly, and the fresh air will make you feel calm and happy.

So, if you are looking for a quiet and beautiful place to visit in Pakistan, Neelum Valley is the right choice. In this article, you will learn more about what to see, where to go, and how to enjoy your trip to this amazing valley.

The History of Neelum Valley

Long ago, Neelum Valley was known as Kishanganga Valley. It was part of the ancient trade routes used by travelers and traders moving between Kashmir and Central Asia. Over time, the area became popular for its beauty and peaceful surroundings.

Later, it got its new name from the Neelum River, which flows through the valley. The word “Neelum” means “blue,” and the river is called this because of its shiny blue water. Even today, people admire the river for its clean and calm look.

Because of its history, Neelum Valley has many old buildings and sites. Sharda, for example, has ruins of an ancient university and temple, which show that people lived and learned here hundreds of years ago.

Why Do People Visit Neelum Valley?

There are many reasons why people love visiting Neelum Valley:

• Natural Beauty: Everywhere you look, you will see tall trees, flowing rivers, and snow-covered mountains.

• Peaceful Environment: The valley is quiet and far from the busy city life. People come here to relax and refresh their minds.

• Adventure and Fun: Tourists enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. You can walk through forests, climb hills, or sit by the river.

• Friendly People: The local people are kind and helpful. They welcome visitors with open arms.

• Cool Weather: In summer, when many cities are hot, Neelum Valley stays cool and pleasant.

Because of all this, thousands of people visit every year. In fact, more than 600,000 tourists came to Neelum Valley in the past year alone, especially during the summer season and Eid holidays.

Top Places to Visit in Neelum Valley

Now, let’s look at the best places to visit inside Neelum Valley. These spots are easy to reach and very popular among visitors.

1. Keran

Keran is a peaceful village located along the Neelum River. It is about 90 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. Many people come here to enjoy the calm river, green hills, and fresh air.

You can also see Indian-held Kashmir from here, as it’s just across the river. The views during sunrise and sunset are unforgettable. Guesthouses and hotels are available, and you can enjoy traditional Kashmiri food here.

2. Sharda

Sharda is full of history and beauty. It is known for the Sharda Peeth, the ruins of an old university and temple. Historians believe that students came from faraway lands to study here many centuries ago.

Besides history, Sharda also has amazing scenery. The river flows through the town, and mountains surround the area. Many tourists visit in summer to relax and explore the old ruins.

3. Arang Kel

Arang Kel is a small village located high up in the mountains. To reach it, you first go to Kel, and then take a short hike or ride a chairlift.

The path may be a little steep, but the view from the top is worth it. Arang Kel looks like something from a dream – with green meadows, wildflowers, and wooden houses. It’s a perfect place for camping or taking beautiful photos.

4. Ratti Gali Lake

Ratti Gali is a stunning alpine lake that sits at an elevation of 12,130 feet. The lake is surrounded by glaciers and snowy peaks, and its water looks like a mirror.

To visit this lake, you need to go by jeep and then hike for a short distance. While the road can be bumpy, the experience is unforgettable. Most people visit between June and September when the snow melts and the lake becomes visible.

5. Kutton Waterfall

Kutton is a small town in Neelum valley with beautiful waterfalls and peaceful spots. Many families choose to stay here because it has hotels, electricity, and easy road access.

The sound of the waterfall and the cool breeze make it a great place to relax. It’s also a good spot for a picnic with your loved ones.

6. Taobat

Taobat is the last village in Neelum Valley. It is located near the Line of Control (LoC). This area is less crowded but full of untouched natural beauty.

If you want to experience a quiet and simple life, Taobat is the best place. Wooden houses, clear water streams, and fresh air make it feel like a different world.

How to Reach Neelum Valley

To visit Neelum Valley, you need to first reach Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir. From there, you can travel by car, jeep, or van along the Neelum Road. The road is hilly and sometimes narrow, but the views are amazing throughout the journey.

During the summer, the valley is open and easy to access. In winter, however, heavy snow can block some roads, especially in high areas like Arang Kel and Ratti Gali.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Neelum Valley is from May to September. During these months, the weather is cool, and all roads are open. Flowers bloom, the river flows with clear water, and you can visit all the top places without any problem.

If you love snow, you can visit in December or January, but keep in mind that not all areas may be reachable.

Tips for Tourists

Here are some helpful tips for anyone planning a trip to Neelum Valley:

• Bring warm clothes, even in summer. It gets cold at night.

• Carry cash, as there are not many ATMs in the valley.

• Make sure to book hotels early, especially during holidays.

• Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beautiful views.

• Keep the valley clean and respect the local culture.

Conclusion: Your Next Travel Destination Awaits

Neelum Valley is more than just a beautiful place – it is a full experience. From history to nature, from peaceful moments to exciting adventures, this valley has something for everyone. With friendly people, cool weather, and views that take your breath away, it is no surprise that more and more people are visiting every year.

So, if you’re searching for your next travel destination, Neelum Valley should be at the top of your list. Whether you want to relax, explore, or simply enjoy nature, this valley is ready to welcome you.

Plan Your Trip with Confidence

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