The best time to visit Azad Kashmir is from March to August, which covers the spring and summer seasons.
Have you ever seen a paradise on earth? Kashmir is often called as "Paradise on Earth. It is a region of mesmerizing beauty in Pakistan. It has stunning valleys, lakes,and mountains. Azad Kashmir offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Here are the Top 5 beautiful places in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, that you must check out:
1. Neelum Valley: The Crown Jewel
Neelum Valley stretches over 240 kilometers. It is like a true diamond of Azad Kashmir. It has lush forests, crystal-clear rivers, and beautiful villages,which make it the most beautiful valley of Azad Kashmir.
Top Attractions in Neelum Valley
Keran: This beautiful village along the Neelum River offers stunning views and a peaceful environment. The lush meadows and riverbanks create a perfect setting for relaxation.
Sharda: It is a historical landmark. Sharda's houses have the features of an ancient Buddhist monastery. The Sharda University and the Sharda Peeth temple are notable attractions.
Arang Kel: Arang Kel is a beautiful village accessible via a trek or a chairlift ride. It lies on a hill. The panoramic views from Arang Kel are breathtaking.
Activities in Neelum Valley
● Hiking, fishing, and camping are popular activities
● Neelum Valley is a paradise for trekkers and nature enthusiasts.
● The valley has flora and fauna, rare birds and butterflies that add to its charm.
2. Rawalakot: The Pearl Valley
Rawalakot is the capital of Poonch district. People also call it The Pearl Valley. It lies in the Pir Panjal Range. This beautiful destination has stunning landscapes and pleasant weather. That's the reason it comes under the Top 5 beautiful places in Azad Kashmir.
Top Attractions in Rawalakot
Banjosa Lake: It is a man-made lake surrounded by dense pine forests. Banjosa Lake has a peaceful environment, which is perfect for picnics and boating.
Toli Pir: A hilltop area provides panoramic views of the hills and valleys. Toli Pir is an excellent spot for hiking and photography.
Poonch River: The Poonch River is ideal for fishing and other water activities. The riverbanks are perfect for camping and enjoying nature.
Activities in Rawalakot
● Rawalakot offers boating facilities.
● You can enjoy activities like horse riding, hiking and camping.
● The local bazaars offer traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and souvenirs.
3. Muzaffarabad: The Capital of Azad Kashmir
It is the capital of Azad Kashmir. It is a crowded city rich in cultural heritage. It lies at the confluence of the Neelum and Jhelum rivers. It offers stunning river views and vibrant city life.
Top Attractions in Muzaffarabad
Pir Chinasi: Its hilltop offers panoramic views of the city and mountains. The journey to Pir Chinasi is an adventure with winding roads and beautiful scenery.
Red Fort: people also called it Chakk Fort. This historical site provides a glimpse of the region's Mughal history. The fort's architecture and location make it a must-visit.
Shaheed Gali: It is the most beautiful place in Azad Kashmir for picnics and short hikes. The lush greenery and peaceful environment offer a perfect escape from city life.
Activities in Muzaffarabad
● The rivers provide opportunities for fishing and boating.
● Muzaffarabad offers a blend of cultural and outdoor activities.
● Explore the local bazaars for handicrafts and traditional Kashmiri cuisine.
4. Leepa Valley: The Hidden Paradise
Leepa Valley is often called a hidden paradise. It is one of the beautiful valleys of Azad Kashmir. It lies near the Line of Control. It offers stunning landscapes and a calm environment.
Top Attractions in Leepa Valley
Leepa Village: This village is famous for its traditional wooden houses and terraced fields. The village offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Reshian: The entry point to Leepa Valley, Reshian is a small town with beautiful landscapes. You can trek to various parts of the valley from here.
Dao Khan: It is a beautiful valley of Azad Kashmir within Leepa Valley. It stands for its lush green meadows and panoramic views. Dao Khan is a perfect spot for picnics and relaxation.
Activities in Leepa Valley
● Leepa Valley is ideal for trekking, hiking, and exploring the local culture.
● The local cuisine, especially the traditional Kashmiri tea, is a must-try
● The valley is less commercialized and offers an authentic experience of Kashmiri life.
5. Ratti Gali Lake: The Majestic Alpine Lake
Ratti Gali Lake is a high-altitude glacial lake. It is at a height of 12,130 ft from sea level. It is one of the most beautiful places in Azad Kashmir. It has snow-capped peaks and alpine meadows.
Top Attractions in Ratti Gali Lake
Trekking to Ratti Gali: The journey to Ratti Gali Lake involves a trek through lush forests and meadows. The trek is very challenging but very rewarding.
Camping by the Lake: Camping near Ratti Gali Lake is a unique experience. The peaceful environment and starry nights make it a memorable adventure.
Wildlife and Flora: The area around Ratti Gali Lake is rich in biodiversity. You can spot various species of birds, butterflies, and wildflowers.
Activities at Ratti Gali Lake
● You can enjoy photography and bird watching.
● It gives an unbelievable experience through trekking and camping.
● The serene environment is perfect for meditation and nature walks.
Tips for Travelers
If you are planning to visit Azad Kashmir, you need useful tips. Here are the special dishes, travel essentials, and the best time to visit Azad Kashmir:
Special dishes: Don’t miss out on traditional Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Kashmiri Pulao, and the famous Kashmiri tea.
Travel Essentials: Pack warm clothing, comfortable trekking shoes, a first aid kit, and a camera with you.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Azad Kashmir is from March to August when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are at their best.
Conclusion
Azad Kashmir is a beautiful destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. It is like a paradise on earth. Its features are breathtaking beauty and diverse landscapes. Azad Kashmir is the crown jewel of South Asia because it has something to offer to everyone.
The Top 5 beautiful places in Azad Kashmir are like small slices of heaven. The best time to visit Azad Kashmir is from March to August, which covers the spring and summer seasons. Now, would you like to enjoy this ‘Heaven on Earth’ while still living in the world? Let me know in the comments.
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