Neelum Valley (also spelled Neelam Valley) (Urdu: وادیِ نیلم ) is a 144 km long bow-shaped thick forested region in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It is named after the Neelam river, which flows through the length of the valley.
The valley is situated in the north-east of Muzaffarabad, running parallel to Kaghan Valley. The two valleys are only separated by snow-covered peaks, some over 4,000 meters (13,000 ft) above sea level.
Neelam Valley, nestled in Azad Kashmir, is renowned for its lush green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and the vibrant blue waters of the Neelam River. This valley offers a picturesque escape, blending easy travel with spectacular, raw natural beauty.
This guide outlines a popular 5-day itinerary to explore the most iconic and accessible destinations of Neelam Valley, suitable for families and adventure seekers alike.
|
Location |
Activity Highlights |
Driving/Trekking Time |
|---|---|---|
|
Day 1 |
Arrival in Muzaffarabad, Drive to Keran (River Views). |
4-5 hours |
|
Day 2 |
Drive from Keran to Sharda (Historical Ruins, Scenic Drive). |
3-4 hours |
|
Day 3 |
Drive from Sharda to Kel, Short Hike to Arang Kel (The Jewel). |
2-3 hours drive + 1.5 hours hike |
|
Day 4 |
Exploration of Arang Kel and Return Drive to Kundal Shahi (or Keran). |
Full Day |
|
Day 5 |
Drive back from Kundal Shahi/Keran to Islamabad/Home. |
6-7 hours |
First Step: Start your journey early from Islamabad/Rawalpindi towards Muzaffarabad (the capital of AJK).
The Neelam Highway: From Muzaffarabad, you officially enter the Neelam Valley road. The journey to Keran is scenic, with the Neelam River flowing beside the road.
Keran Check-in: Check into a guesthouse or hotel in Keran. This village is situated right on the Line of Control (LOC), offering beautiful, close-up views of the river.
Leisure: Spend the afternoon relaxing by the riverbank, enjoying the fresh air and the distinct local culture.
Drive to Sharda: After breakfast, drive further up the valley to Sharda. The road conditions improve as you go, but slow driving is recommended due to winding roads.
Sharda Ruins: Explore the ancient Sharda University Ruins, a historically significant Buddhist and Hindu learning center.
Sharda Town: The town of Sharda sits at the confluence of the Kishan Ganga and Neelam rivers. It’s a great spot for photography.
Relaxation: Sharda is slightly more developed than Keran, offering better accommodation options for the night.
The Final Stretch: Drive from Sharda to Kel. This part of the journey is considered the most picturesque, passing through denser forests.
Cable Car/Hike: From Kel, you have two options to reach Arang Kel: either take the short cable car ride across the river or embark on the uphill hike (recommended for adventurous travelers).
Heaven on Earth: Arang Kel is a plateau village often called the “Jewel of the Neelam Valley.” The short 1.5-hour hike is well worth the effort.
Check-in: Stay in a wooden cottage here to experience the village atmosphere. Enjoy the magnificent views and the clean air.
Local Hikes: Explore the nearby trails and meadows around Arang Kel. This area is perfect for light trekking, bird watching, and photography.
Return to Valley: Descend from Arang Kel back to Kel, and drive down to Kundal Shahi (or back to Keran) for the night. This reduces the driving distance for the final day.
Farewell Drive: Enjoy one last look at the Neelam River as you drive out of the valley and towards Muzaffarabad.
Departure: Continue your journey back to Islamabad/Home.
This 5-day itinerary ensures you cover the historical landmarks and the raw natural beauty that Neelam Valley is famous for!