Best Places to Visit in Kashmir: 2023
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir is famous for its outstanding natural beauty and is sometimes referred to as “Heaven on Earth.” Azad Kashmir is home to several gorgeous spots that draw visitors all year long by showcasing Pakistan’s natural beauty and wide views. Azad Kashmir shares a border with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab, and Northern Gilgit Baltistan in Pakistan since it was the main point of contention during the 1947 split.
The ideal time to visit Azad Kashmir is from April to October especially in the summer months because of the beautiful weather. The winter is chilly and covered in a heavy covering of snow. They close the border because of the cold winter weather and frequent snowfall and snowstorms. Regardless of the weather, Azad Kashmir is one of those areas where you may visit and enjoy the vast beauty of the magnificent country.
Two distinct regions now make up Azad Kashmir. One controls Jammu and Kashmir, while the other is a free state run by the Pakistani government. Azad Kashmir refers to the region governed by Pakistan.
Best Places to Visit in Kashmir
When you visit Kashmir, these are the best places to visit in Kashmir.
- Neelum Valley
- Arang Kel
- Shorter Lake
- Muzaffarabad
- Ratti Gali Lake
- Leepa Valley
- Banjosa Lake
- Ramkort Fort
- Toli Pir
- Rawalakot
- Sharda
- Jehlum Valley
1. Neelum Valley
One of the nicest spots to visit in Kashmir is Neelum Valley. You can’t take your eyes off this stunning location, which is located in the heart of Azad Kashmir, which is filled with the land of fantasy! Neelum Valley has a stunning aspect; it resembles a fairy-tale setting. The 144 km long, bow-shaped Neelum Valley is located in the north and northeast of Muzaffarabad and is surrounded by the Neelum River’s crystal-clear waters. Neelum Valley’s picturesque surroundings, which include lush green mountains and crystal-clear blue water, are known as “blue diamonds.”
Before the partition, the valley was known as Kishanganga; it has since been renamed Neelam Valley. You may find a tonne of suburbs and small towns, lakes, hiking trails, mountain passes, and other fantastic things in Neelum Valley. The Neelum Valley has the advantage that these locations are accessible for amazing hiking and the greatest photography of the valley. It is a 100-kilometer journey from Muzaffarabad to Neelum Valley. Don’t miss the fairytale Neelum Valley if you want to see this famous and stunning location!
2. Arang Kel
Arang Kel is a lushly verdant hamlet located above Kel near the hills in Azad Kashmir’s Neelum Valley. The height of Arrang Kel is 8,379 feet (2554 m) above sea level. Arang Kel is known as the “Pearl of Neelum Valley” because it resembles a small piece of heaven on earth. The meadows are lush and green, and in the summer, horses, goats, and birds may be seen there along with their lovely singing. NY time of year is a great time to visit this place.
For convenience, a lengthy path connects Kel and Nanga Parbat. You may enjoy a breathtaking view of the Nanga Parbat Mountain from there, making it a must-see attraction. Three hours are needed to travel via the track with background music by Arang Kel. This is one of the most peaceful locations in Azad Kashmir to visit, so make hiking plans, take in the breathtaking scenery, and don’t forget to stop by the lovely Arang Kel!
3. Shounter Lake
The finest months to visit Shounter Lake are from May to August since the weather is excellent throughout that period. Shounter Valley, a sub-valley of Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir, is home to Shounter Lake.
Shounter Lake is bordered by glacial waters, beautiful vegetation, mountains, and sporadic occurrences of various species. The surrounding hills are densely snow-covered and the lake freezes over in the winter, giving the area a beautiful white appearance. Due to the possibility of landslides, Shounter Lake is dangerous to visit during blizzards and heavy snowfall, which makes jeep mobility difficult.
You could use a jeep to reach the lake from Kel and Neelum Valley. It is the perfect site for individuals who want to go camping, take pictures, and hike. While enjoying the little but stunning Shounter Lake and seeking a place to camp, you will take the most beautiful images of the surroundings! Azad Kashmir is now considered to be one of the most stunning places to visit.
4. Muzaffarabad
Azad Kashmir’s capital city, Muzaffarabad, serves as the geographical region’s political and cultural hub. The capital is the biggest city in Azad Kashmir, which is also close to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s west and Neelum District’s north. The capital city is a haven for locals and tourists from across the world since it is surrounded by beauty, nature, and serenity. There are many places to relax in Muzaffarabad, which encourages exploration of the area. To take in the breathtaking vista, visit places like Sathra, Lohar Gali, and the confluence of the Neelum and Jhelum Rivers.
Sultan Muzaffar Khan, the leader of the Bomba Tribe, inspired the naming of Muzaffarabad. He oversaw Kashmir and built the Red Fort to defend the Mughal Empire. The city’s Red Fort is a historic location where Muzaffarabad’s history is still being written. You will adore the amazing beauty of Muzaffarabad as you tour the lovely cultural centre of the capital city! Don’t forget to get to the capital city!
5. Ratti Gali Lake
One of the most well-known locations in the Neelum Valley is the Ratti Gali Lake. The frozen lake is located in Neelum Valley and is 12,130 feet above sea level (3700 meters). From the mountains’ pure, cool water that melts, the lake receives the glacier water that flows into it. Ratti Gali Lake is surrounded by mountains that are covered with lush meadows and gorgeous flowers for an exotic spring and summer season, adding to its natural beauty.
The lake freezes over in the winter and the mountains are dusted with snow, turning the landscape completely white. The glacier occasionally floats on the lake throughout the winter, adding to the beautiful scenery in the chilly weather. Since Dowarian is the route that leads to Ratti Gali Lake, you may enjoy hiking and photography while traveling to the most breathtaking location in Neelum Valley. This is one of Kashmir’s stunning locations that offer a contemplative view to appreciate hiking and photography! You may enjoy the breathtaking Ratti Gali Lake, which is a fantastic destination to visit in the Neelum Valley.
6. Leepa Valley
Undoubtedly, popular tourist destinations in Pakistan can be found in Azad Kashmir. One of the most lovely spots to visit in Azad Kashmir is the Leepa Valley, where you can take in the surrounding pine trees and fertile valley that give the area a rural appearance. The 83-kilometer-long Leepa Valley, which separates Muzaffarabad into five sections, is located there. They are the Chananian, Nowkot, Kasirkot, Dao Khan, and Leepa sectors. The best season to visit Leepa Valley is from May to November since the climate is agreeable and hospitable to visitors of this gorgeous valley.
In his historical writings, Leepa mentions that the area, which is today a part of Jhelum Valley in Azad Kashmir, was formerly a part of the Kupwara District in Jammu and Kashmir. When you cross Reshian, local jeeps are ready to drive you to Leepa Valley. The area is reachable from Muzaffarabad, where you may visit the noteworthy Dao Khan, Leepa, and Chananian. You will savour the spectacular vista of the Leepa Valley as you go to Kashmir’s most attractive places!
7. Banjosa Lake
Banjosa Lake is surrounded by tall pine trees and residences, and the surrounding foliage provides a tranquil vista from which to admire the lake’s reflection. Banjosa Lake is located in the Poonch District of Azad Kashmir, 18 kilometers from Rawalakot. The man-made lake emits a pleasing hue of green, red, and blue, providing the shimmering water to take in the serene scene. This beautiful lake is impossible to look away from! The elevation of Banjosa Lake’s surface is 1981 meters. This designates a popular tourist destination in Kashmir, which is reflected in the lovely lake of buildings and trees.
The summer months are ideal for visiting Banjosa Lake as the temperature rises over 25°C and the weather is at its most comfortable. Snowfall during the wintertime causes a sharp reduction in temperature. The lake offers a combination of gold and reddish-brown trees coupled with a shining reflection as a result of the crisp fall leaves of brown and red. You will appreciate the serenity of Banjosa Lake if you visit this picturesque lake in Azad Kashmir! Don’t forget to practice photography and boating!
Also, Read More About Best Places to Visit in Swat in 2023
8. Ramkort Fort
Azad Kashmir leaves its past behind, and the area contains historical sites to investigate to learn more about the mystery surrounding the archaeological site. You will adore this lovely attraction of Ramkot Fort, a historical place in Azad Kashmir! Ramkot Fort was built in 1342 during the era of the Delhi Sultanate and is situated close to Mangla Dam. The Jhelum River, which is 13 kilometers by boat from Dina and 79 kilometers by road from Mirpur, surrounds the fort. The location is also reachable.
Ramkot Fort serves as a model for contemporary Muslim military architecture. The fort was built between the fifth and ninth centuries. The Muslim rulers found the fort in the 17th century and destroyed the place, leaving the ruins behind. For those who wish to discover historical sites in Azad Kashmir, this is the ideal spot. You will appreciate seeing the magnificent Ramkot Fort to see an ancient site in the area!
9. Toli Pir
Toli Pir is one of the most attractive locations in the area, with a hilltop that offers a magnificent outlook and breathtaking scenery. Toli Pir is 8800 feet above sea level and is located in the Poonch District. On the route to Rawalakot, the renowned mountain is located. You will view Abbaspur, Bagh, and Poonch, three major rivers after you reach the top of Toli Pir. At the top of Toli Pir, it seems as though you can see forever!
It is reachable by automobile, which travels 30 kilometers away from Rawalakot in 1 hour and 45 minutes. Extremely cold temperatures occur during the winter, and the hilltop is covered with snow. Due to the good weather, it is suggested to visit this location throughout these months: April to early October.
10. Rawalakot
The capital of Poonch District and the most well-known city in Azad Kashmir is Rawalakot. The valley is about 80 kilometers between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. You may visit the area fast and simply owing to the accessibility since it is only 80 kilometers away. The Goyain Nala and Tain Road connect to this location. With a height of 1638 meters (5374 feet), Rawalakot is located 76 kilometers (km) from Kahuta and 120 kilometers (km) from Rawalpindi.
A second nickname for Rawalakot is “Pearl Valley” because of the variety of almond flowers that, when viewed from a high vantage point on the mountain, appear to be scattered pearls. When you arrive at this location, you’ll see blooming flowers and lush hills where you may take in the beautiful spring and summer scenery. It is preferable to visit this location for an exploration trip in the summer because the winter season is difficult for everyone. Summertime brings out Rawalakot’s captivating beauty. Tatta Pani, Sudhngalli, and Toli Pir are three must-see tourist destinations as you travel the region. You must travel to Rawalakot if you want to see the famous town in Azad Kashmir!
11. Sharda
When visiting Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir, Sharda is one of the must-see attractions. Sharda identifies tourism destinations in Kashmir where there are lovely landscapes and many cottages on flat terrain. The location is 136 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. Sharda leaves the beauty and the fascinating history of the little Tehsil despite the small city at the foot of Neelum Valley. At an elevation of 1981 meters (6499 feet), the little city is situated on the banks of Neelum Valley and is an excellent starting point for exploring the lush green glades.
Sharda was given its name after the Sharada temple in Perth, which served as the final resting place for the Hindu deity Sharada. In the morning, the light reflects over the river’s water, changing the surrounding area into a beautiful setting. The little settlement is enveloped in a thick layer of snow throughout the winter, creating a picturesque expanse of whiteness. There are several hotels and guesthouses in Sharda where you can unwind after a day of hiking and sightseeing. Make sure to go to Sharda if you want to see a lovely little town nearby!
12. Jehlum Valley
The Jhelum Valley is renowned for its friendliness to both domestic and international tourists. The rivers that wind from east to west amid enormous mountains are the major draw for travelers. Jhelum Valley is located 50 miles across the Jhelum River and is surrounded by mountains covered in beautiful greenery. Hattian Bala is the largest city in the Jhelum Valley.
Ripe rice fields and wooden homes that offer an incredible perspective dominate the valley. You’ve never experienced delicious cherries and walnuts as they have. These two cuisines are exclusive to the Jhelum Valley! The Leepa Valley, which is next to Jhelum Valley, is the most well-liked tourist destination because of its numerous farms and lush vegetation. You must not miss the Jhelum Valley if you want to see the meandering rivers among the enormous mountains! This is regarded as one of Azad Kashmir’s most tranquil tourist destinations.
