What to do in a trip to Neelam Valley

The best kind of trip is the one where you can actually relax – no messages, no phone calls, no whatsapps, and no instagram – let go of technology and embrace your surroundings. Although it is very hard to find WiFi and signal free zones, Neelum Valley fulfills these requirements!

We have created an itinerary for you to have a relaxing trip, where you can just enjoy the company of people you travel with, and of course, yourself.

Day 1:
To start the Neelum Valley excursion, you will have to drive from Islamabad to Muzafarrabad. Muzaffarabad is the cultural and financial capital of Azad Kashmir in Pakistan. It lies on the banks of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers. When in Muzaffarabad, visit Jovago’s top three sights, and for more information click here.

Aim to leave Muzaffarabad by 11am, and drive towards Keran. You will reach Keran by 3pm.

Keran is a village in Neelam Valley. It is situated59 miles from Muzaffarabad and lies on the banks of the Neelam River at an altitude of 5,000 ft. The view from the tourist rest houses in Keran is phenomenal. Snow-capped mountains surround the resorts as well as snow kissed trees. Spend the night in Keran, and find your perfect resort through Jovago!

Day 2:
In the morning drive from Keranto 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 centers (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 Hindu was taught and learnt.

Other historical monuments that must be visited include the Sharda fort, and Kishan Ghaati. 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 kilometer 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 traveling without technology is a charm on its own. Enjoy Neelum Valley!