Arang Kel
Kashmir -> Neelum -> Sharda
08:00 - 17:00
April, August, July, June, March, May, October, September
Zeeshan Shahzad
Attraction Type
Description
Arang Kel, perched at 8,379 feet (2,554 m) in Neelum Valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, is a lush meadow and village dubbed the “Pearl of Neelum Valley” for its verdant plains, pine forests, and Himalayan vistas. Located 2 km from Kel and 161 km from Muzaffarabad, it’s accessible via a 2-3 hour hike or a 1-km Pakistan Army-managed chairlift, offering thrilling views over the Neelum River. Historically a shepherds’ grazing ground, it’s now a tourist haven despite challenging roads, limited facilities, and LoC proximity, which requires an NOC for foreigners. Its serene beauty, Kashmiri hospitality, and adventure trails make it a bucket-list destination, though winter snows render it inaccessible.
What To Do
- Hiking the 2-3 hour trail from Kel to Arang Kel for panoramic views
- Riding the Pakistan Army-managed chairlift for a thrilling 1-km ascent
- Camping under starry skies with bonfires (tents required)
- Photographing lush meadows, pine forests, and snow-capped peaks
- Shopping for Kashmiri handicrafts (shawls, jewelry) at Kel Bazaar
- Exploring local Kashmiri culture through village homestays
- Visiting the small cultural museum or wooden huts in the village
- Trekking to nearby trails with views of Nanga Parbat’s slopes
- Enjoying Kashmiri noon chai (salted tea) with locals
- Horseback riding or hiring porters for families with children
What To Buy
Best Season to visit
April
August
July
June
March
May
October
September
Spring (March - April)
- Spring brings mild temperatures (5-15°C) and blooming meadows, ideal for hiking and photography. Trails may be muddy from snowmelt, and chairlift queues are shorter. Check road conditions for landslides.
Summer (May - August)
- Summers are cool (10-20°C), the best time for trekking, camping, and chairlift rides, with lush greenery at its peak. Expect rain and landslides, so monitor weather and travel early. Peak season with crowded trails and long chairlift waits. Highly recommended.
Monsoon (July - August)
- Monsoon overlaps with summer (10-15°C), bringing heavy rain, slippery trails, and high landslide risks. The valley is vibrant but challenging; carry rain gear and hiking sticks. Fewer visitors, but chairlift may close during storms.
Autumn (September - October)
- Autumn offers crisp temperatures (5-15°C) and clear skies, ideal for hiking and starry nights. Colorful foliage enhances views, but nights are cold, so bring warm clothing. Less crowded than summer.
Winter (November - March)
- Winters are harsh (-5 to 5°C) with heavy snowfall, blocking roads and trails, making Arang Kel inaccessible. Chairlifts are closed, and hiking is dangerous due to snowslides. Not recommended for casual tourists; suitable only for experienced adventurers with snow gear.
