Neelum Valley, often called the “Blue Gem of Pakistan,” is a breathtakingly beautiful stretch of land located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled between snow-covered peaks, dense forests, and the winding Neelum River, this valley offers a stunning combination of nature, culture, and adventure. Stretching over 200 kilometers from Muzaffarabad to Taobat, it features some of the most mesmerizing landscapes in Pakistan, rivalling even Switzerland in natural beauty.
If you’re craving lush green meadows, peaceful riversides, glacial lakes, roaring waterfalls, and timeless mountain villages, Neelum Valley is where your soul will find rest. In this blog, we’ll dive deep into everything Neelum Valley has to offer—from top destinations and best seasons to travel tips, local culture, and unforgettable adventures.
Why Visit Neelum Valley?
Neelum Valley isn’t just about scenery. It’s a total sensory experience—where your eyes feast on green hills, your ears are filled with birdsong and river rumbles, and your heart is moved by the warmth of local hospitality.
Whether you’re a couple on a honeymoon, a solo explorer, a trekking enthusiast, or a family looking for a relaxing break, Neelum Valley has something for everyone:
-
Ratti Gali Lake – a glacial jewel surrounded by wildflowers
-
Sharda Village – historical ruins and academic heritage
-
Keran & Upper Neelum – riverside peace and panoramic views
-
Taobat – the final frontier of the valley
-
Arang Kel – the most Instagrammed meadow in Kashmir
Neelum Valley Tour Packages Overview
Many tour operators offer curated experiences, and one of the most reliable platforms offers a wide range of packages. Whether you want a short 3-day weekend tour or a full-fledged 9-day adventure covering nearby valleys too, there’s a plan for every need.
-
3-Day Arang Kel & Keran Tour: A perfect escape for those short on time. Includes visits to Muzaffarabad, Dhani Waterfall, Kundal Shahi, Kutton Waterfall, and a short trek to Arang Kel.
-
5-Day Neelum & Ratti Gali Tour: Adds a full-day adventure to the high-altitude glacial lake with jeep rides and treks.
-
7-Day Complete Neelum Valley Tour: Covers all major spots including Sharda, Taobat, Kel, Arang Kel, Keran, and Kutton with relaxed pacing.
-
9-Day Neelum + Kaghan Tour: Ideal for those who want to experience the best of northern Pakistan in one go.
Each package usually includes transport, hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, sightseeing, experienced guides, and jeeps for off-road travel.
A Sample 5-Day Itinerary
Let’s walk through a popular itinerary to get a feel of what your days in Neelum Valley might look like.
Day 1: Departure and Arrival at Keran
Early morning departure from Islamabad or Lahore by private van or bus. En route, you’ll stop at Kohala Bridge and reach Muzaffarabad by noon. After a brief lunch break, continue your journey toward Keran, stopping at Dhani Waterfall and the stunning viewpoints along the Neelum River. Spend the night in a riverside hotel at Keran.
Day 2: Explore Ratti Gali Lake
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to Dowarian, where you’ll switch to a 4×4 jeep and begin the rugged ascent toward Ratti Gali Base Camp. From there, a 1 to 1.5-hour trek leads you to the surreal Ratti Gali Lake—a turquoise glacial basin surrounded by snow-dusted peaks and colorful alpine flowers. Return to Keran or stay overnight at a nearby guesthouse.
Day 3: Arang Kel and Sharda
Drive towards Sharda Village, where you’ll visit the ancient ruins of Sharada Peeth, an old Hindu temple and educational center. Take a thrilling chairlift across the river and begin your steep hike to Arang Kel. This magical hilltop village is famed for its sweeping meadows and peaceful ambiance. Overnight in Arang Kel.
Day 4: Kel and Taobat
Head farther up the valley to Kel, one of the last accessible settlements in Neelum. From Kel, continue to Taobat, the last village before the Line of Control. The road is rough, but the views are unmatched. This is the wild heart of Kashmir—untouched, remote, and quiet. Overnight stay in Taobat or return to Kel.
Day 5: Return Journey
Start your descent early and retrace your journey back toward Muzaffarabad, stopping at the places you missed or skipped. You’ll arrive in Islamabad or Lahore by evening or night.
Top Tourist Attractions
Here are the must-see gems in Neelum Valley:
Ratti Gali Lake
This alpine lake, sitting at 3,683 meters, is accessible only during summer and requires a 4×4 ride followed by a hike. It’s one of Pakistan’s most iconic lakes and looks like something straight out of a fantasy novel.
Arang Kel
A hilltop paradise reachable via chairlift and a short uphill trek. Perfect for camping, photography, or just relaxing with a book in the meadow.
Sharda and Sharada Peeth
Once a renowned seat of learning, Sharda holds historic significance and features scenic riverbanks, quaint markets, and archaeological ruins.
Keran & Upper Neelum
Located right next to the Line of Control, these villages offer peaceful accommodation, riverside beauty, and stunning views of Indian-occupied Kashmir.
Kutton and Kundal Shahi
Famous for waterfalls and forested slopes, these places are great picnic spots and offer trout fishing opportunities.
Taobat
The final village on the Neelum Valley route, untouched and wild, with breathtaking views and cool mountain air.
Best Time to Visit
Neelum Valley transforms with the seasons, each offering a unique charm.
-
Spring (April to May): Blossoming orchards and melting snow make it an ideal time for nature lovers.
-
Summer (June to August): Peak tourist season; the valley is fully accessible, and all lakes and roads are open.
-
Autumn (September to October): Vibrant foliage and fewer tourists make it a great time for photography.
-
Winter (November to March): Heavy snow limits access but creates magical, snowy landscapes for winter lovers.
Cultural Insights
The people of Neelum Valley are known for their hospitality, warmth, and resilience. The region is inhabited by a mix of Kashmiri-speaking and Shina-speaking communities. Traditional wooden homes, terraced farming, and local festivals reflect a rich heritage.
Local food is simple yet delicious—expect rice, lentils, trout fish, and fresh dairy. Many homestays and small hotels offer authentic home-cooked meals.
What to Pack
Traveling to Neelum Valley requires preparation, especially if you’re going to hike or camp.
Essentials:
-
Warm layered clothing (even in summer)
-
Waterproof jackets and hiking boots
-
Sunscreen and sunglasses
-
Power banks and flashlights
-
Reusable water bottles
-
Basic medication and first aid
If you’re camping, bring a quality sleeping bag, insulated mat, and weatherproof tent.
Safety Tips
-
Drive Carefully: Some roads are narrow and rough. Hire experienced drivers or book with a reputable tour company.
-
Altitude Awareness: Higher areas like Ratti Gali and Shounter Lake can cause breathlessness.
-
Keep ID Handy: There are several military checkpoints.
-
Weather Checks: Rain can cause landslides; always check the forecast.
-
Local Respect: Dress modestly and avoid photographing people without permission.
Ecotourism and Responsible Travel
Neelum Valley’s natural beauty is under threat from unchecked tourism and littering. As responsible travelers, we must:
-
Avoid single-use plastics
-
Carry reusable bags and bottles
-
Camp only in designated areas
-
Take all trash back with us
-
Support local businesses and artisans
-
Be mindful of noise and behavior in villages
