The best kind of trip is the one where you can actually relax – no messages, no phone calls, no WhatsApp, no Instagram – let go of technology and embrace your surroundings. Although it is very hard to find WiFi and signal-free zones, Neelum Valley fulfils these requirements!
Let’s Go to Neelum Valley!!
Here is how you can plan your 3 days trip to Neelum Valley.
Day 1:
To start the Neelum Valley excursion, you will have to drive from Islamabad to Muzaffarabad. Muzaffarabad is the cultural and financial capital of Azad Kashmir in Pakistan. It lies on the banks of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers.
Aim to leave Muzaffarabad by 11 am, and drive towards Keran. You will reach Keran by 3 pm.
Day 2:
In the morning drive from Keran to Kutton. Kutton is also known as Jagran Valley. It is a village in Neelam Valley that is located amongst vast strips of greenery and snow. There is a beautiful waterfall in Kutton, which is worth a visit. After seeing the waterfall, proceed deeper into Neelum Valley and visit Sharda.
Sharda is one of the two administrative centres (tehsil) in the Neelam district. When in Sharda, visit the ruins of Sharada Peeth a famous temple and Hindu pilgrimage site. It was dedicated to the goddess Sarasvatī (Sharda) who represents learning. Kashmir was once a place where Hindus was taught and learnt.
Other historical monuments that must be visited include the Sharda fort and Kishan Ghati.
Spend the night in Sharda, and your comfortable stay is only one click away!
Day 3:
Go from Sharda to Kel, hiking to Arang Kel and then coming back to Sharda at night.
Kel is a village in Neelam Valley, situated at an altitude of 6,879 feet. Upon reaching Kel, trek to Arang Kel which is only a 2-kilometre hike away. It is situated at an altitude of 8,379 feet and is a popular tourist spot. Arang Kel is a hill station surrounded by lush green trees and fields of greenery. The view from the hilltop features the serene mountains surrounding Neelum Valley, as well as the beautiful stream itself.
After this visit, you will notice how travelling without technology is a charm on its own. Enjoy Neelum Valley!