Explore the Enchanting Tourist Attractions in Neelum Valley
Nestled in the northern reaches of Muzaffarabad, Azad Kashmir; the Neelum Valley stands as a breathtaking paradise, running parallel to the captivating Kaghan Valley. The Neelum Valley Tourist Attractions include a series of natural marvels dotted from Muzaffarabad to Taobutt. With its unparalleled scenic beauty, panoramic vistas, and lush greenery, Neelum Valley undoubtedly beckons travelers seeking a dreamlike escape.
Patika: The Gateway to Neelum Valley
Patika is a welcoming gateway to this picturesque wonderland that lies just 19 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. As the initial stop on your Neelum Valley adventure, Patika boasts a thriving commercial hub where visitors can find all the essentials for their journey. Beyond the city’s commercial charm, Patika offers breathtaking panoramas of the valley. Moreover, the winding road leading to Patika is adorned with towering trees, creating a mesmerizing natural spectacle.
Dhani Waterfall: Nature’s Spectacle
Situated approximately 30 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, Dhani Waterfall is a gem of Neelum Valley Kashmir. Its crystal-clear waters glisten amidst the lush green surroundings, making it one of the region’s most captivating waterfalls. The ideal time to visit this natural wonder is from March to mid-June when it is at its most glorious. Dhani Waterfall is the largest in Neelum Valley and transforms into a spectacle during the summer months.
Kundal Shahi: The Tranquil Village
Perched at an altitude of 1,350 meters above sea level, Kundal Shahi is a charming village nestled near the confluence of Jagran Nullah and Neelum River. It is located at a distance of approximately 74 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. Despite its modest size, Kundal Shahi serves as a vital launchpad for exploring Neelum Valley, providing the essential starting point for your adventure.
Kutton: A Riverside Paradise
Just 82 kilometers from Muzaffarabad and 8 kilometers west of Kundal Shahi, the stunning Kutton Valley awaits. Accessible through a narrow uphill gorge along the Jagran River, Kutton is renowned for its natural beauty. Snow-covered Himalayan peaks guard this valley, and the melting waters of the river are teeming with Trout Fish. Kutton offers a range of accommodation options, including government rest houses and private guest houses.
Athmuqam: A Valley with Facilities Galore
Sitting at an elevation of 1,371 meters above sea level and roughly 84 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, Athmuqam is a prominent hub in Neelum Valley. Because of being the 8th station from Muzaffarabad, it earned the name “Athmuqam.” This valley boasts a plethora of amenities, including hotels, rest houses, a post office, a bank, educational institutions, and a bustling bazaar. Athmuqam is also celebrated for its diverse fruit offerings.
Keran: Lower Neelum’s Bounty
Keran, also known as Lower Neelum, lies at an altitude of 1,524 meters (5,000 ft) on the right bank of the Neelum River, a mere 10 kilometers from Athmuqam. This region is blessed with abundant fruit and wildlife. While gazing across the river, you can catch glimpses of the valleys in Indian-Occupied Kashmir. The AJK tourism department has established a beautiful rest house in Keran, making it a prime stopover in the valley.
Upper Neelum (Neelum Village): Nature’s Wonderland
Upper Neelum, or Neelum Village, is located just three kilometers from Keran at a fair altitude. It is easily accessible from Keran via a link road and from Athmuqam through the Keran bypass. Similar to Keran, Upper Neelum boasts fruit orchards and a rich wildlife population. Moreover, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of Azad Kashmir and Indian-Occupied Kashmir across the Neelum River.
Dowarian: A Forested Haven
Dowarian, situated at an altitude of 1,615 meters, is approximately 12 kilometers from Keran. Likewise, it is 22 kilometers from Athmuqam and about 106 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. This lush valley is blanketed with pine trees and is connected to Kaghan Valley via the Rattigali Pass. You can specifically find the stunning Ratti Gali Lake at 3,700 meters. Moreover, the forest rest house at the base camp caters to the needs of travelers.
Ratti Gali Lake: A Serene Alpine Gem
Nestled in the Neelam Valley at an altitude of 3,700 meters, Ratti Gali Lake is a breathtaking natural wonder. To reach this pristine lake, embark on a 17-kilometer jeepable track from Dowarian followed by a 2-kilometer hiking trek. Dowarian serves as the base camp for this awe-inspiring lake.
Sharda: A Riverside Retreat
Sharda is situated at an altitude of 1,981 meters and approximately 136 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. It is a prominent valley nestled along the Neelum River. A suspension bridge connects this charming valley to the main Neelum road. In fact, Sharda is renowned for its lush greenery, dense forests, and numerous hotels catering to tourists. The valley’s picturesque beauty is further enhanced by the Surgan Nallah and the relics of the ancient Sharda University.
Saral Lake: A High-Altitude Marvel
Saral Lake, perched at an altitude of 4,100 meters, is a hidden gem in the Neelam Valley. Sharda basically serves as the base camp for this breathtaking lake. It actually offers an ideal starting point for intrepid travelers.
Kel: Gateway to Adventure
Kel, located at an altitude of 2,097 meters, is a quaint valley situated just 19 kilometers upstream from Sharda. Basic facilities, including guest houses, are available here. At the same time, Kel is accessible from Gilgit-Baltistan via Astor and Deosai Plains and through Shounter Nullah (Gorge) via the 4,420-meter Shounter Pass. Furthermore, Kel also provides access to the 6,326-meter “Sarawaali Peak” and the expansive 25-kilometer glacier, the highest peak and largest glacier in Azad Kashmir.
Shounter Lake: A Seasonal Gem
Shounter Lake is a small, seasonal lake located in the Shounter Valley at an altitude of 3,100 meters. Accessible from Kel via a jeep track, it remains open only during peak summer months. Shounter Valley serves as the gateway to Sarawaali Peak’s base camp and provides a route to Astore in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Chitta Katha Lake: A Summer Delight
Located in the Shounter Valley at an altitude of 3,800 meters, Chitta Katha Lake is a summer paradise. It is accessible in July and August from Kel via a 20-kilometer jeep track and a 5-kilometer hiking trek. This lake undeniably offers unparalleled natural beauty. Visitors can even arrange for a horse ride from Utli Domel for a unique experience.
Arang Kel: A Serene Retreat
Just across Kel, Arang Kel is accessible via a cable car followed by a scenic 2-kilometer uphill hike. Perched at a hilltop approximately 1500 feet above the Neelam River, this valley offers unparalleled beauty. Separated from Indian-Occupied Kashmir only by a mountain ridge, Arang Kel is celebrated for its pristine landscapes.
Taobat: The Remote Oasis
Taobat, the last remote valley, sits approximately 39 kilometers from Kel. It specifically marks the point where the Neelum River originates and where the Neelum Valley concludes. Mostly unexplored, Taobat is accessible only via a 4WD vehicle, requiring a minimum of 4 hours from Kel. The region basically boasts exquisite places like Janawai, Sardari, and Halmat along the way. The AJK Tourism Department has established basic accommodation facilities, and a few privately owned guesthouses operate during the tourist season. Travelers should carry essential belongings and secure permission from the Pakistan Army, along with their original CNIC, when traveling to this remote oasis.
Unveil the wonders of Neelum Valley Tourist Attractions and embark on a journey through these enchanting destinations. Each site undeniably holds a unique charm and natural beauty that will leave you captivated by the allure of this pristine paradise.
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