Destination of the week: Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir is an administrative territory of Pakistan that lies in the west of Jammu and Kashmir. It is a part of the greater Kashmir region that shares a border with Gilgit–Baltistan. The lower part of the Himalayas is located in the northern part of Azad Kashmir, which is home for several snow-caped mountains such as Jamgarh Peak and Sarwali peak.

The Fertile green lands, mountainous valleys, dazzling rivers, blooming meadows and the picturesque spots make it one of the most heavenly regions of Asian subcontinent.

Jovagos’s top 3

Leepa valley
Leepa Valley is located 45 km from Muzaffarabad, in Azad Kashmir. The villages of the valley form a beautiful woven mosaic pattern, which is a sight to see. Some famous villages here are Reshian, Dao Khan, and Chananian. The forest in the valley is densely populated with pine and maple trees. If you plan to stay in Muzaffarabad before paying a visit to Leepa Valley, Akbar International View Hotel provides you a preferred stop over.

Neelum Valley
Neelum Valley is a bow-shaped forest region located in the north-east part of Azad Kashmir, at an elevation of 13,000 ft. above sea level. It runs parallel to Kaghan Valley – Neelum and Kaghan are separated by snowy peaks. Due to the amazing weather, beautiful hills on both sides of the River Neelum, and charming landscapes, tourists from all over Pakistan love to visit Neelum valley.

Tolipir
ToliPir is a highland, located in Tehsil Rawalakot (a place in Azad Kashmir), at an elevation of 8800 ft. above sea level. It is about a of 45-minute drive from Rawalakot town. Tolipir is the center of three different mountain ridges – Abbaspur, Bagh and Poonch River can be seen from here. It is most accessible and most beautiful during April to September.

Tips
Restaurants
Kashmir is famous for its traditional cuisines and there are many eateries located here. Some of the main Kashmiri cuisines are Kashmiri Raan, BaltiGosht, Kashmiri Dal Chanwal, Rogan Josh and Dam Aloo which are prepared with fresh Kashmiri spices. Also, there is a lot of emphasis placed upon the tradition of sipping Kashmiri Tea after a meal.

Shopping
Shopping in Kashmir really makes one feel the culture. The famous spot of Kashmir is Muzaffarabad Bazzar, where you can find traditional souvenirs and clothing like Pahari styled ShalwarKameez and beautifully woven embroidered Kashmiri shawls.

Hotels
Jovago Pakistan has many hotels and guest houses in Azad Kashmir with different price ranges. Book now on the No.1 online hotel booking site of Pakistan and get the best prices.

Money
Pakistan Rupees, All International Credit Card (Visa/MasterCard) are accepted in the ATM.

Exchange Rate
http://www.xe.com/currency/pkr-pakistani-rupee

Country code
+9258

Airport
Benazir International Airport, which is approximately at 2 hour 47 min drive to Azad Kashmir.