Azad Jammu and Kashmir is a self-governing jurisdiction administered by Pakistan. It was part of former princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is located west of the Indian-administered state of Jammu and Kashmir. Azad Kashmir is replete with green, mountainous valleys and stunning meadows making it one of the most heavenly places on earth. Popular destinations include Neelum Valley, Muzaffarabad, Jhelum Valley, Baral, Billan Nar and Niyarain Sharif.

Neelum Valley is located in Neelum District, the northernmost district of Azad Kashmir. Stretching for 144 km, the valley is thickly forested and has the beautiful Neelum River flowing through its length. The valley is situated in the northeast of Muzaffarabad, running parallel to Kaghan Valley. It is replete with gorgeous scenery, stunning valleys, and magical waterfalls. Major tourist attractions include Arang Kel, Athmuqam, Chitta Katha Lake, Dhani Waterfall, Kel, Keran, Kutton and Sharda.

Arang Kel, a lush green village known as the “Pearl of Neelum Valley”, is located on a hilltop at an altitude of 8,379 feet in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. It is a slice of paradise here on earth. In summers its fields are dewy, with horses and goats frolicking about, and colourful birds singing it its dense forests. In winter, its plains are carpeted with fresh snow and wooden huts and rest houses glow invitingly among the coniferous trees. Arang Kel can be reached either by a 2 kilometer trek or a kilometer-long chairlift from the town of Kel.

Kel is a scenic village in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. It is 155 km away from Muzaffarabad at an altitude of 6,879 ft. Kel serves as a base camp for Arang Kel and Chitta Katha Lake. Situated extremely close to the Line of Control dividing Pakistan and India, Kel has a strong presence of army personnel all year round. The drive to the village is a difficult one but the destination makes it worth it. Kel is covered with verdant forests and snow-capped Himalayan peaks; the Neelum River, too, flows through the village. Kel Bazaar is renowned for Kashmiri handicrafts, dresses and honey.

Recommended Gear:

• Trekking boots/Joggers/Comfortable Shoes/Slippers
• Back Pack
• Torches with extra batteries
• Waterproof lower and Jacket
• Thermals (both upper and lower)
• Fleece/Sweaters
• T-shirts for day trekking
• Water bottle
• Socks, preferably woolen (4-6 pairs)
• Gloves (highly recommended)
• Muffler (highly recommended)
• Beanie (highly recommended)
• Handwash/soap/sanitizer, wipes, toothpaste, and all other necessities
• Sun Block and Sunglasses