Shounter Valley
Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Valley
Location
Neelum Valley, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Specific NOC Required for Foreigners
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Shounter Valley is a large, natural area in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. It is known for its green fields, clear streams, and high mountains. The valley is home to Shounter Lake, which is a key attraction for visitors. The area is quiet and offers a chance to see nature up close. People come here to enjoy the calm environment away from cities.
What To Do
- Visit Shounter Lake and spend time by its clear waters.
- Walk through the valley to see different views and natural beauty.
- Take pictures of the mountains, fields, and streams.
- Go camping near Shounter Lake, if facilities and permits allow.
- Explore the trails around the valley.
- Observe local wildlife and different kinds of plants.
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Small hand-made items and souvenirs from nearby markets. Get Directions Market Neelum Valley
- Dried Fruits: Walnuts, apricots, and other dry fruits common in the region. Get Directions Market Neelum Valley
- Woolen Shawls: Hand-woven shawls and warm clothing made by local people. Get Directions Market Neelum Valley
- Honey: Fresh, local honey from the mountain areas. Get Directions Market Neelum Valley
- Herbal Products: Locally sourced herbs and traditional remedies. Get Directions Market Neelum Valley
Policies & Info
- Visitors should respect the local culture and traditions of Neelum Valley.
- It is important to keep the valley clean by not littering and taking all trash with you.
- Special permission or a No Objection Certificate (NOC) is required for foreigners to visit certain areas in Azad Kashmir, including Shounter Valley.
- Photography is generally allowed, but be respectful when taking pictures of local people.
Health & Safety
- Wear strong, comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven and rough terrain.
- Carry warm clothing even in summer, as mountain weather can change quickly.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially if you are trekking.
- Be aware of the higher altitude and take it easy at first to avoid altitude sickness.
- It is recommended to travel with a local guide, especially if planning to trek into remote parts of the valley.
- Roads can be difficult and slippery, especially during monsoon season, so drive carefully.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: (March to May) The weather is mild, and the valley starts to turn green. Flowers begin to bloom. It is a good time for hiking before the peakSummer: heat.
Summer: (June to August) The weather is pleasant and cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing. This is the busiest time for visitors.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: (July to September) There are heavy rains, which can make roads slippery and hard to travel. The valley becomes very lush and green, but caution is needed.
Autumn: (September to November) The weather gets cooler, and the trees show off beautiful golden and red leaves. It is a quiet and lovely time to visit, often with clear skies.
Winter: (December to February) It gets very cold with heavy snowfall. Roads to Shounter Valley might be closed due to snow. It is only for very experienced winter travelers.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). From there, you will travel by road to Muzaffarabad and then further into Neelum Valley.
- By Road: Access is mainly through the Neelum Valley Road. From Muzaffarabad, drive to Kel (about 10 hours). From Kel, you need to hire a local 4x4 jeep for the rough track to Shounter Valley, which takes about 3-4 hours.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station, near Islamabad. After reaching Rawalpindi, the rest of the journey to Neelum Valley is by road.
- By Public Transport: Shared vans and buses run from Muzaffarabad to Kel. From Kel, local jeeps are available for hire to take you to Shounter Valley. These jeeps are the main public transport option for the last part of the journey.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Kel Valley Restaurant: Kel, Neelum Valley, AJK. Contact: +92-3xx-xxxxxxx (Example). Get Directions Valley Restaurant Neelum Valley
- Sharda Food Point: Sharda, Neelum Valley, AJK. Contact: +92-3xx-xxxxxxx (Example). Get Directions Food Point Neelum Valley
- Where to Stay:
- Valley Trackers Hotel Kel: Kel, Neelum Valley, AJK. Contact: +92-3xx-xxxxxxx (Example). Website: N/A. Get Directions Trackers Hotel Kel Neelum Valley
- Benazir Palace Hotel Sharda: Sharda, Neelum Valley, AJK. Contact: +92-3xx-xxxxxxx (Example). Website: N/A. Get Directions Palace Hotel Sharda Neelum Valley
Emergency Contacts
- Basic Health Unit (BHU) Kel, Neelum Valley. Phone: N/A. Get Directions Kel Neelum Valley
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue Pakistan - National Emergency Service)
- Police Station: Police Station Kel, Neelum Valley. Phone: N/A. Get Directions Station Kel Neelum Valley