NEELUM VALLEY (Kashmir English): Sharda loacted in the Neelum Valley of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, is one of the tourist spots that has it all: stunning snowy mountains and a picturesque winter landscape.
Its height is 1,981 meters (6,499 ft), and it is situated on the banks of the Neelum River. The main features of Sharda include high peaks that are covered with a thick blanket of snow in winters, attracting tourist world wide.
Surrounding Peaks
The town is situated between the Sharda and Nardi mountains, which are mostly snow-covered and are the highest in the area.
Winter Wonderland
The whole region is covered with snow during winter, so the remains of the ancient Sharda Peeth University seem to be an apparition in a white, mystical area.
Temperature
The winter can be quite frigid, giving a real winter experience. Nearby Highlights: Tau Butt: dubbed the “Diamond of Neelum Valley,” it is roughly 40 km away from Sharda and provides breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains.
Ratapani
A small town near Sharda that is within four-wheel-drive vehicle access and is surrounded by lofty, snowy peaks.
Chitta Katha & Shounter Lakes
Two of the highest lakes in the region. The setting has a winter period with unrivaled quiet and pristine beauty, and the presence of thick woods with some peaks exceeding 4,000 meters (13,000 ft) as their borders.
Travel Activities for Tourists in Sharda
Sharda isn’t just a small area filled with scenic views, but it also has lots of activities that tourists can do to further enhance their experience while visiting Sharda, Azad Kashmir.
Photography and sightseeing
Snow-covered trees, a frozen river, and immaculate white scenery have made nature’s beauty accessible and captured perfectly through photographs without any difficulty.
Trekking and Hiking
During winter, the Sharda and Kel regions, including the trail to Chitta Katha Lake, are considered heaven for snow trekking, yet the trails are quite demanding and need the right gear.
Roads and Hotels
Accessibility
It is a favored destination in summer, but the winter snowfall makes the road beyond Keran impassable; nevertheless, it is still the most sought-after place for winter trekking and catching a glimpse of nature’s glory.
The road from Keran to Sharda and Kel is usually hard in winter and is sometimes closed as a result of heavy snow. Before proceeding, it is advisable to check the weather and road conditions and consider using 4×4 vehicles if necessary.
Accommodation
The town of Sharda offers a wide selection of private hotels and rest houses for tourists. Make sure to plan and book your stay well in advance, especially during the winter peak season, as the region is always crowded with visitors. Various accommodation options like The Lodge Sharda or Shangrila Sharda Resort are available.
