Muzaffarabad: As the winter season reaches its prime in Pakistan. One may want to escape to paradise to enjoy the chilly weather. As turbulent as the country’s situation might be, Pakistan is blessed with captivating landscapes to visit. May it be the arid desserts with rugged beauty of Baluchistan and Sindh. Or the fertile farms and rich agriculture of Punjab. Or the largest mountain range that adorns the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Kashmir.
Embraced in these highest mountain ranges is the Neelum Valley. Also known as ‘The Blue Gem of Pakistan’ and referred to as ‘Heaven on Earth’. Both names fit its serene beauty.
The said valley is a heavily forested area. It ranges in altitude from 4,000 feet (1,200 meters) to 7,500 feet (2,300 m). With 17,000-foot (5,200 m) mountain peaks on either side. The length being 144 kilometres, or 89 miles.
Every year thousands of tourists’ flock the valley, enjoying its lush greenery in warmer months. And a frost spell in the colder months. The valley becomes a scenic location for those who enjoy the outdoors. Being full of meadows, dense forests, and placid vistas. A beautiful and tranquil setting is created by the region’s lush green valleys. Which are blanketed in coniferous trees and colourful alpine vegetation. Which contrast sharply with the nearby snow-capped peaks, giving an illusion of ‘Heaven on Earth’.
Therefore, if you are looking for an escape, following are some of the key sights you wouldn’t want to miss:
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Kutton Valley (Jagran Valley):
Known for its clear, glimmering waters and dense vegetation is the Kutton Valley. Also known as the Jagran Valley, it is a village in the Neelum Valley. Approximately 98 km away from Muzaffarabad, it is also one of the top tourist places.
The main attractions here are the green meadows. They can serve as great spots for some adventure, comprising camping, trekking, and hiking.
We can also not forget about the mesmerising Kutton waterfall. Being one of the larger attractions with the lush green environment and crustal clear, glistening water pouring down. The sound of water clashing together at the base of the waterfall can be therapeutic enough on its own. When paired with the scenic, serene environment, it undoubtedly becomes heavenly.
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Baboon Valley:
Baboon Valley is located 100 km from the district capital of Muzaffarabad. With the elevated Baboon top at an altitude of 12700 feet. Being a rather undiscovered tourist gem of Azad Kashmir.
The valley offers, along with the breathtaking scenery, a great chance of adventure for nature lovers. Being an attraction for its grand, imposing peaks, the year-round icy glaciers, shimmering lakes, and dense forests. The valley is a prime location for trekking, hiking, and camping. Moreover, the variety and abundance of flora and fauna provides a great opportunity for photography and wild life watching. So if you give Baboon Valley a visit, you might cross paths with a rare animal like the leopard. Or as a safer alternative, you might get a perfect photograph.
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Sharda Valley:
Sharda Valley is also known for its beauty, the breathtaking alpine meadows, and the beautiful lush greenery. Located on the banks of the Neelum River, it is one of the two tehsils of the Neelum district. It is a relatively small Tehsil situated at an elevation of 1,981 meters (6,499 feet). Serving as a great tourist place.
Sharda Valley is also home to the ruins of the University of Sharda. Therefore, it may pique the interest of history lovers as well as adventure lovers due to the rich historical background. Here stand the ruins of the Sharada Peeth, an ancient Hindu temple and historic educational institution. Being the most well-known temple universities in the Indian subcontinent from the sixth to the twelfth centuries CE.
The sharda river and the sharda village can prove to be a beautiful spot to relax in. Engaging and socialising with the locals can also be possible thanks to the hospitable nature of the people. The village also has small, comfortable cottages amidst the beautiful valley, which can be a great source of attraction.
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Ganga Choti:
Located in the AJKs Bagh District, Ganga Choti is an imposing mountain. Standing at 3,045 meters (9,990 feet) above sea level, it is a member of the Lower Himalayan Pir Panjal Range.
Historically getting its name from local Hindus of the time. Today, Ganga Choti is known for the opportunities to trek. So, if one treks from Sudhan Gali to Ganga Choti, it is not only a relatively easy journey. It also rewards the adventurer with a view of an ethereal landscape.
This tourist hotspot is home to scenic beauty and a trekking destination. It also offers panoramic views and offers a variety of both fauna and flora. Including the local wildlife, pine forests, and medicinal herbs.
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Taobat:
Located in Sharda Tehsil in the Neelam Valley of AJK. Taobat is a major village situated near the Line of Control (LOC). This village is home to some of the most breathtaking sights. Surrounded by the lush, dense pine forests, tall snow-capped mountains, and beautiful terraced fields. Alongside it flows the beautiful Neelum River, also providing opportunities for photography and relaxation.
The main source of attraction can be considered the traditional wooden houses. These add to the scenic beauty, the sloping roofs reflecting the beautiful culture and tradition of the place. It also provides a great opportunity for trekking and camping. The lush meadows and starry sky may prove to be an irresistible adventure.
These are some of the top tourist spots you can visit in Neelum Valley. Now, if you wonder when is the best time to enjoy the company of the locals, following is the list for public holidays announced for 2025 in AJK.
Read Next: Azad Kashmir govt announces list for public holidays for year 2025
