Upper Neelum
Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Valley
Location
, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day to Full Day
Visa / NOC Info
Specific NOC Required for Foreigners
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Upper Neelum is a part of the Neelum Valley in Azad Kashmir. It is known for its tall mountains, green fields, and the Neelum River flowing through it. The area offers quiet views away from crowded cities. It is a peaceful place for those who like nature and simple village life. Travelers visit to see the clear waters and enjoy the calm surroundings.
What To Do
- Walk along the Neelum River and enjoy the natural views.
- Visit local villages to see how people live and farm.
- Take photos of the mountains and green areas.
- Sit by the river and listen to the water.
- Go on a short hike on nearby trails (check local advice for safe paths).
What To Buy
- Local Handicrafts: Small items made by local people, like carved wood or handmade cloths. Look for these in shops near Kel Bazaar. Get Directions Valley
- Woolen Shawls: Warm shawls made from local wool. You can find these in small shops in village markets. Get Directions Valley
- Dried Fruits and Nuts: Locally grown nuts and dried fruits, common in the region. Ask local vendors. Get Directions Valley
- Herbal Products: Some local shops sell natural herbal remedies or teas. Enquire in smaller markets. Get Directions Valley
- Hand-knitted Socks: Warm socks knitted by local women, good for cold weather. Often sold by villagers. Get Directions Valley
Policies & Info
- Foreign visitors need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Ministry of Interior, Pakistan, to enter Azad Kashmir. Arrange this well before your trip.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting villages, to respect local culture and traditions.
- Photography is generally allowed, but always ask for permission before taking pictures of people.
- Do not litter; keep the valley clean and natural.
Health & Safety
- Roads in Neelum Valley can be narrow, unpaved, and risky, especially during rain or snowfall. Drive carefully or hire experienced local drivers.
- Cell phone network coverage is limited or not available in many parts of Upper Neelum. Inform someone of your travel plans.
- Carry warm clothes, even in summer, as weather can change quickly and nights are cold.
- Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
- Physical fitness is needed for hiking on uneven terrain. Do not stray from known paths.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Weather is cool and pleasant (April to May). Flowers start to bloom, making the valley colorful and fresh for walks.
Summer: Days are warm, and nights are cool (June to August). This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities and clear skies, escaping city heat.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Heavy rains happen sometimes (July to September). Roads can be slippery or blocked due to landslides. Views are green but travel can be difficult and risky.
Autumn: Weather is mild and crisp (September to November). The trees change color to yellow and red, giving beautiful sights beforeWinter: cold sets in.
Winter: Very cold with heavy snowfall (December to March). Many roads close, and it's hard to reach. It offers snowy views but only for those ready for extreme cold and limited access.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest active airport is Islamabad International Airport (ISB). It is about 8 to 10 hours drive to Muzaffarabad and then several more hours to reach Upper Neelum.
- By Road: Travel by road is common. You take the main road from Islamabad/Rawalpindi to Muzaffarabad. From Muzaffarabad, you drive along the Neelum Valley road towards Kel, which is the gateway to Upper Neelum. The road can be rough in parts.
- By Train: The nearest active railway station is Rawalpindi Railway Station (RWP). From Rawalpindi, you must take a bus or private car to Muzaffarabad and then further into Neelum Valley.
- By Public Transport: From Muzaffarabad, you can find shared jeeps or vans that go to Kel and sometimes further into the Upper Neelum region. These rides can be long and crowded.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- State Continental Hotel Restaurant (Kel): Offers local and Pakistani food. Located in Kel Bazar. Call: +92 345 5288220. Get Directions Valley
- Greenland Hotel Restaurant (Kel): Serves simple Pakistani meals. Located near Kel Bridge. Call: +92 345 5108643. Get Directions Valley
- Where to Stay:
- State Continental Hotel Kel: A common hotel choice in Kel. Located in Kel Bazar. Call: +92 345 5288220. Website: N/A. Get Directions Valley
- Greenland Hotel Kel: Another option for stay in Kel. Located near Kel Bridge. Call: +92 345 5108643. Website: N/A. Get Directions Valley
Emergency Contacts
- Rural Health Center (RHC) Kel, Neelum Valley. Phone: +92 5821 920000 (General Neelum Valley Health Dept). Get Directions Valley
- Ambulances: 1122 (Rescue 1122, Pakistan's emergency service).
- Police Station: Police Station Kel, Neelum Valley. Phone: +92 5821 920000 (General Neelum Valley Police Dept). Get Directions Valley
