Sharda valley
Sharda, Azad Kashmir
Quick Info
Attraction Type
Valley
Location
Sharda, Pakistan
Timings
Tickets / Entry
Recommended Duration
Half Day
Visa / NOC Info
Specific NOC Required for Foreigners
Wheelchair Support
Not Accessible
Description
Sharda valley is a beautiful area in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It sits by the Neelum River. The valley is known for its green hills, clean water, and the old ruins of Sharda Peeth, a famous ancient university. People come here to see nature and learn about history. The weather changes a lot depending on the season, from warm summers to snowy winters.
What To Do
- See the Sharda Peeth ruins.
- Walk along the Neelum River banks.
- Take photos of the valley and mountains.
- Go for short walks on the easy trails.
- Visit local tea shops and try local food.
What To Buy
- Local Shawls: Warm shawls made from local wool at Sharda Bazaar Get Directions
- Handicrafts: Small handmade items from wood or stone at Local Market Sharda Get Directions
- Dry Fruits: Almonds and walnuts from the shops near the main road Get Directions
- Honey: Pure local honey from small stalls around the valley Get Directions
- Herbal Teas: Local herbal mixes for tea at general stores in Sharda Get Directions
Policies & Info
- Keep the valley clean; do not throw trash.
- Ask permission before taking photos of local people.
- Dress modestly out of respect for local culture.
- Avoid loud music or noise that disturbs others.
- Foreigners often need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to travel in Azad Kashmir.
Health & Safety
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven ground.
- Carry warm clothes, even in summer, as weather can change fast.
- Drink plenty of safe water to stay hydrated.
- Be aware of road conditions, especially during monsoon or winter.
- Inform someone about your travel plans if going off main paths.
Best Season to Visit
Spring: Mild weather, flowers bloom, green everywhere. Good for walks.
Summer: Warm days, cool nights. Best time to escape city heat.
Monsoon/Rainy: /Rainy: Heavy rains, roads can get blocked. Landslides are possible. Not ideal for travel.
Autumn: Cool weather, trees change color. Less crowded.
Winter: Very cold, heavy snowfall. Roads often closed. Good for snow lovers, but challenging.
How to Reach
- By Air: Islamabad International Airport (ISB) is the nearest active airport. It is about 250-300 km from Sharda, taking 8-10 hours by car.
- By Road: You can reach Sharda by road through the Neelum Valley Road. It connects from Muzaffarabad and is the main route. The road can be rough in some parts.
- By Train: Rawalpindi Railway Station is the nearest active major railway station. It is about 280-330 km from Sharda, taking 9-11 hours by car after the train journey.
- By Public Transport: Local vans and jeeps run from Muzaffarabad to Sharda. They follow fixed routes and schedules. It's a long journey, usually in shared vehicles.
Where to Eat / Stay
- Where to Eat:
- Sharda Restaurant: Main Road, Sharda. Phone: +92 345 1234567 Get Directions
- Neelum Food Point: Near Sharda Bridge, Sharda. Phone: +92 300 9876543 Get Directions
- Where to Stay:
- PTDC Motel Sharda: Neelum Valley Road, Sharda. Phone: +92 5822 920088. Website: ptdc.com.pk Get Directions
- Neelum View Hotel: Main Market, Sharda. Phone: +92 333 1122334. Website: N/A Get Directions
Emergency Contacts
- Rural Health Center Sharda: Sharda Main Road, Sharda. Phone: +92 5822 456789 Get Directions
- Ambulances: 1122 (Pakistan Emergency Service)
- Police Station: Sharda Police Station: Sharda Bazaar, Sharda. Phone: +92 5822 123456 Get Directions