AZAD KASHMIR DISTRICTS

District Haveli (Kahutta)

2010-10-14T10:17:00.000-07:00

District Haveli (Kahutta) newly formed district remained subdivision of district Bagh before July 15th 2009. It is situated at distance of 162 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, capital of AJ&K and at distance of 250Kilometers from Rawalpindi. Its total area is 598 Sq. Kms. According to census of 1998, its total population is 0.112 million. Annual growth rate is 2.00%. Administratively this district has two subdivisions, Haveli and Khurshid Abad. District Haveli enjoys sixty percent literacy rate. Rich fertile land of Haveli is famous for brave and diligent tribes. Roads are metalled and a 4MW Hydel power project is under way at Chanjel. Overall culture is farming anyhow most of the people are related with teaching profession while a reasonable percentage serving the country adopting the professions of army, police, judiciary, civil bureaucracy and politician as well. Large numbers of people are in foreign who are earning there and increasing the revenue of their own country. Region has sound historical background as it served as a safe route between Poonch and Seri nagger during Mughal regime. This region is well-known for inhabitants who are bold, hard worker and very patriotic. Geographically district Haveli is covered with high mountains and Nalla Bettar flows in the center. It has many picnic points like Bedori Peak (17000 feet high from sea level). Hajji Peer Pass, Hillan valley and Ali Abad are presenting a most eye catcher view for tourists. People from all parts of the country come here in summer and spring seasons. The region is popular for all weather fruits, crops, dry fruits and pure Honey. Forward Kahutta is the districts headquarter where as Plangi, South and East Hallan, Bedi and Qaim Abad are the prominent places. Beautiful mountainous view of Qaim Abad is also famous for living place of spiritual Baba Qaim Din and Bajji Alf Din. It is also known as the house of natural honey and wall nuts.

Places for tourist
Hajji Pir
Ali Abad
Sheroo Dahara
Las Dana
Mehmood Gali
Neel Fari

Prominent places in District Haveli are

Plangi
Naga Nari
Khurshid Abad
South Hallan
East Halln
Jabbi Syedan
Kalali

District Bagh

2010-10-14T10:15:00.000-07:00

Before getting the status of an independent district in 1988, Bagh was a part of District Poonch, This district almost resembles district Poonch in its history, culture, customs and traditions. District Bagh, as a whole is rich in variegated natural beauty. Topographically, this district falls into mountainous zone. Bagh, Dheerkot, Sudhan gali. Hanse Chowki, Neela Butt, Las Danna, Mahmood Gali, Kahuta, Havaily and Ganga Choti are the main locations of tourists Interest in this region.

Bagh
Dheerkot
Neela Butt
Lasdanna
Sudden Gali

Bagh
Bagh, the district headquarter of district Bagh is 100 Kilometers from Muzaffarabad via Kohallah & 80 Kilometers. via Suddhen Gali, 205 Kilometers from “Islamabad” and 48 Kilometers from Rawalakot This town Is situated on the confluence of two mini nullahs-Malwani & Mall, which flow all the year round. The people of Bag) are brave, courageous and skilled, especially the artificers in the field of bakery & confectionery. The well recognized “Haji Peer Pass’ is about 32 kilometers from Bagh City linked with metalled road. Middle standard hotels, PWD and Forest rest houses are available for visitors.

Dheerkot
The fascinating and charming place of District Bagh is 25 Kilometers from Kohalla, the gateway of Azad Jammu &Kashmir and 132 kilometers from Islamabad, Located at an altitude of 1676 meters. Dheerkot possesses an extremely pleasant arid healthy climate. This place is very popular among the visitors as a tourist resort mainly due to easy access. Suitable altitude and beautiful landscape. In the heart of the calm & quite Deodar and Kail mixed forest, there is a posh Forest rest house, three Tourist Huts and a Log Hut, which are greatly sought after by tourists in the summer. Dheerkot is linked with other parts of Azad Kashmir by black top roads and direct transport services are also available.

Neela Butt
From Dheerkot towards southeast 6 Km ahead, this spot is situated at an altitude of 2000 meters. Besides its scenic beauty, this place Is well-known for its historic background. On August 23, 1947 the Mujahideen-e-Azadi assembled at this place and started an armed struggle for accession to Pakistan. Sufficient accommodation facilities are available here for visitors.

Lasdanna
From Bagh, a 15 Kilometers long metalled road leads to Las Danna which is a place of captivating scenes and natural beauty, From Lasdanna, three roads branch off the main road i.e. Mahmood gali-Palangi, Haji pir- Aliabad and Abbasspur-Hajira respectively. A tourist rest house is available here for accommodation.

Sudden Gali
Sudhangali, located at a height of 2134 meters, links Chikkar with Bagh, a town in the Bagh district. This scenic spot also serves as a base camp for those interested in hiking/ rekking to the nearby 3045 meters high mountain “Ganga Choti”. It is also linked with Chikkar. Buses & vans ply daily from Bagh, Chikkar & Muzaffarabad to this place, A tourist rest house & PWD rest house provide reasonable accommodation facilities here.

District Kotli

2010-10-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

District Kotli

The area now comprising district Kotli was a sub-division of Mirpur district up to the year 1975. District Kotli is a hilly area rising gradually towards the high mountains of Poonch district. Its climate is more moderate than that of Mirpur due to the sub- mountainous topography.

Kotli
Khoiratta
Fatehpur
Teenda
Hajiabad (Sehnsa)

Kotli

Kotli, the District Headquarter, is at a distance of 141 kilometers from Rawalpindi/ Islamabad via Sensa, Holar and Kahuta. It is linked with Mirpur by two metallic roads, one via Rajdhani (90 Kilometers) and the other via Charhoi. It is also directly linked with Rawalakot via Tarkhal (82 Kilometers). A PWD Rest House, Tourist Rest House at Sarda and middle standard hotels in the town provide accommodation facilities to the visitors. Developed into an Industrial city very rapidly. All the basic amenities of lire are available In Roth Town. Bus and wagon transport services are also available.

Khoiratta

38 kilometers from Kotli ahead, a road leads to Khoiratta. Khoiratta and the nearby area provide remarkable attraction to tourists because of the remains of gardens and fountains of the older times From 4 kilometers ahead of Khoiratta is famous shrine of “ Mai Totti Sahiha” which is visited by hundreds of people daily. A rest house by Tourism Department at Khoiratta is available for tourist accommodation.

Fatehpur

Fatehpur was a part of tehsil Mahnder before independence, It Is located at a distance of 40 kilometers from Kotli and 181 kilometers from Islamabad Due to high altitude (1524 meters) Fatehpur is comparatively a cold place then the rest of the district. A Tourist Rest House provides accommodation facilities to the tourists/ visitors.

Teenda

Teenda is a place of viewpoint linked with metallic road, 6 kilometers from Kotli, One can have a wonderful view of “Kotli “ City and surrounding areas from this place. To make it an attractive tourist spot, AJ&K Tourism Department has constructed a Tourist Rest House here to provide accommodation facilities.

Hajiabad (Sehnsa)

Hajiabad, located on Holar- Roth road, is a midway point for the travelers coming from Rawalpindi Islamabad. A cafeteria for refreshments has been provided by the Tourism Department.

District Mirpur

2010-10-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

District Mirpur

District Mirpur is located at the extreme South of the State and is linked with Pakistan and the districts of Azad Kashmir through several routes. District Mirpur comprises partly plain and partly hilly areas Its hot climate and other geographical conditions intensely resemble to those of Jhotum and Gujrat, the adjoining districts of Pakistan. The people of this area are basically agriculturists. During the last four decades a large number of people from this district have gone abroad, especially to United Kingdom Today they are the major foreign exchange earning recourse for Pakistan As it adjoins the industrial cities of Pakistan, the Government of Azad Jammu & Kashmir has successfully’ endeavored to develop It as an industrial place and promote private Investment for establishing Textile, vegetable ghee garments scooters, cosmetics and many other industries.

Mirpur
Mangla
Ramkot Fort
Khari Shareef

Mirpur

Mirpur, the district headquarter is situated at an elevation of 459 meters A.S.L. It is linked with the main Peshawar-Karachi Grand Trunk Road at Dina. A small town about 15 kilometers short of Jhelum city. The construction of Mangla Darn converted the old Mirpur town into a big artificial lake and effected a population of about 50,000. But it paved the way for existing new Mirpur town situated on the bank of Mangla Lake. The city is well planned and buildings are mostly of modern design. Mirpur has developed into an industrial city very rapidly; all the basic amenities of life are available in Mirpur Colleges, hospitals, banks, shopping centers, hotels, telephone & telegraph units, Forest. PWD, Industries and Tourist rest houses exist in the city. Bus and wagon transport services are also available.

Mangla

Mangla is a small beautiful modem town. It is situated at a distance of 110 kilometers from Islamabad and is 15 kilometers short of Mirpur City. The construction of Mangla reservoir having perimeter of 100 kilometers and presence of Mangla and Ramkot Forts of Mughal period have turned this place into an attractive tourist spot. Mangla has special attraction for the tourists coming on short visits because of its proximity to Jhelum, Lahore and Rawalpindi) Islamabad.

Ramkot Fort

Picturesquely located on the summit of a hill, Ramkot Fort is built over the site of an old Hindu Shiva temple, 3 sides of this hill top are surrounded by River Jhelum (ancient “Vitasta”), during excavations relics of the 5th & 9th century AD have been discovered near one of the temples. In the 16th 17th century AD “the Muslim rulers of Kashmir” while safe guarding their boundaries built numerous forts. Ramkot. Sitting on top of the confluence of the river Jhelum & Poonch is one of them. The Sikh Maharaja or Kashmir further fortified Ramkot. Ramkot Fort is located on the opposite side of the Mirpur Town and one has to cross Mangla Lake on boat to reach there. A 10 minutes travel by road from Mirpur leads to Sukhian and nearby Army Water Sports Club from where boats are available for access to Ramkot Fort. It takes 45 minutes to reach there.

Khari Shareef

8 kilometers from Mirpur, a black top road runs to Khari Shareef, a place of religious importance. This place is well known due to the shrines of Baba Peer-e-Shah Ghazi arid Mian Mohammad Buksh (the author of famous “Saif-ul-Malook”) based on mystic poetry. Thousands of devotees visit this sacred place to rejuvenate their adjust hearts daily. Hajiabad, located on Holar- Roth road, is a midway point for the travelers coming from Rawalpindi Islamabad. A cafeteria for refreshments has been provided by the Tourism Department.

District Poonch

2010-10-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

District Poonch

From the end of the 17th century up to 1837 A.D Poonch was ruled by different Muslim Rajas of Loran. It then fell in to the hands of Raja Falz Talab Khan of Rajori. In 1846, this area was handed over to Maharaja Ghulab Singh under the Treaty of Amritsar. Before this transfer, Poonch was considered a district of Lahore. Maharaja Ghulab Singh handed over Poonch and some other areas to his nephews, Jawahar Singh and Moti Singh, with the condition that they would not make any administrative change without the consent of the Maharaja of Kashmir.

Poonch was annexed and converted Into Jagir by Maharaja Han Singh in 1935-36 by the deposing Raja of Poonch the Dogras always found it difficult to establish their rule in Poonch. In 1947 when Pakistan came into being, the people of Poonch started an armed struggle against the Dogra and Indian forces and got the area liberated which now administratively stands divided into three districts namely Poonch Sudhnutti and Bagh

Rawalakot
Kot Muttay Khan
Chape-ni-Dahar(Gulshan-eShuhda)
Banjosa
Koian
Ghori Maar & Tolipir
Hot springs (Tatta Pani)

Rawalakot

Rawalakot the district headquarters is situated in the heart of district Poonch. The altitude of this beautiful saucer-shaped valley is 1615 meters. Situated at a distance of 76 kilometers from Kohalla and 110 kms from Rawalpindi. It Is linked with Rawalpindi, Islamabad via Azad pattan and Dhalkot and with Muzaffarabad via Kohalla by black top roads.

The construction of Guoien Nullah road between Rawalakot and Azad pattan has reduced the distance and journey time considerably During summer the place becomes full of green grass and beautiful flowers including many varieties of roses. Rawalakot offers very pleasant climate during the summer. In Rawalakot, some good hotels and private guest houses provide comfortable accommodation. Here the tourism industry is growing with the increasing collaboration of public-private efforts.The central location of Rawalakot in AJ&K, its pleasant climate and easy access from other regions makes it a favorite tourist destination. The improvement of transportation arid telecommunication sectors have further contributed to its potential for tourism.

Kot Muttay Khan

It is situated on the main Rawalakot -Mang road near Topa, The site is located at a high altitude and allows visitors to enjoy cool and comfortable atmosphere during summer. One can have a nice over view of the adjoining valleys from this point.

Chape-ni-Dahar(Gulshan-eShuhda)

The place is located on the outskirts of Rawalakot (4 kms) on the main Rawalakot-Banjosa road. The site offers comfortable climate arid tranquil atmosphere during the summer. It also possesses historical archaeological importance as an abandoned old temple exists here. The renovation and preservation of the said temple can increase the interest of the visiting researchers and tourist.

Banjosa

It is situated 20 kilometers from Rawalakot, at an altitude of 1981 meters. Its scenic beauty and impressive surrounding is compelling and attracts tourists to reach here to enjoy the nature amidst the captivating beauty of Banjosa, the artificial lake reflects the dense forest standing along the surroundings of the resting calm waters of Banjosa Lake. The nearby worth-seeing areas of Banjosa are Jandall, Hussain Kot (the native town of the great freedom fighter Captain Hussnain Khari) and Devi Gali which cannot be simply by passed for a pleasure trip. The distance parting these destinations from Banjosa are 3 kms, 4kms and 12 kms respectively.

These places portray rich inherent natural beauty encompassing all others while awaiting visitors for a comfortable stay. There are of a few private rest houses on the way to Banjosa from Rawalakot also Ghorimar is situated 20 kms from Khaigala awaiting ones arrival to explore the fascinating beauty over-looking the sub-valley of Rawalakot and Bagh Accommodation on reasonable rates is available here in Tourism, PWD and Pearl Development Authority’s rest houses.

Koian
From Rawalakot 17 kilometers ahead this place is surrounded by dense forests, which makes It charming and pleasant A Tourist Lodge has been constructed by AJ&K Tourism Department for the tourists. The place enables the tourist to have an easy access to Banjosa which is 5 kms ahead.

Ghori Maar & Tolipir
Ghori Maar is situated at a distance of 30 kilometers ahead of Rawalakot. A fair weather road via Khaigala leads to this place. On reaching Ghori Mar, one can explore the fascinating beauty over-looking the sub valleys of Rawalakot & Bagh. AJ&K Tourism Department provides accommodation facilities to visitors.

The road from Ghori Maar leads to Tolipir a place that offers calm atmosphere with vast green meadows stretching over a big area a big area. The place holds the potential to mesmerize visitors.

Hot springs (Tatta Pani)
Tatta Pani is situated on the right bank of the river Poonch, at a distance of 29 kilometers from Hajeera and is connected with two fair weather roads i.e. via Hajeera-Mandol & Balouch-Pakhonar road. It can also be reached from Kotli, the district headquarter of Kotli district, by covering a distance of 26 kilometers. Tatta Pan is famous for is sulphur water springs. During winter season a large number of people visit this place daily to have hot water bath for the cure of skin & rheumatic ailments.

AJ&K Tourism Dept. has constructed Tourist Lodge arid bathrooms for the convenience of the visitors here. Transport services for Tatta Pan are available in good number from all important points of the Poonch, Mirpur & Kotii districts of Azad Kashmir.

District Bhimber

2010-10-14T10:06:00.000-07:00

District Bhimber

Bhirnber, administratively declared as an Independent district in 1996, was a sub division of district Mirpur. This district is very rich in Archaeology arid wildlife, whereas, it’s enchanting valleys present panoramic views to the visitors.

Bhimber
Baghsar
Jandi Chontra

Bhimber

Bhimher, the district headquarter is an old historical town, discussed by Mughal Emperor, “Jahangir” In his book “Tuzh-eJaharigiri”. It fails on the route that was followed by the Mughal Emperors for their frequent visits to the Kashmir Valley. Bhimber town is located at a distance of 50 kilometers from Mirpur and 166 kilometers from Rawalpindi. This town is connected both with Mirpur & Gujrat through all weather black top roads. All the basic amenities of life are available in Bhimber.

Baghsar

Baghsar, 975 meters in elevation is an ideal tourist resort in the Samahni Valley. The Sar, local name for a lake is nearly half kilometer long sheet of crystal-clear water that soothes the senses of a visitor after traveling 64 kilometers journey from Gujrat via Bhimber. On the top of hill is a famous Mughal fort overlooking the lake that acids grandeur to the whole area. This four-storied massive structure of granite is a feat of Mughal engineering that has stood the ravages of time. It has also played important roles in the history during the times of Ahmad Shah Abdali, Ranjeet Sing and Gulab Sing. It is said that Emperor Jahangir on his way back from Kashmir fell Ill and ultimately expired in this Fort.

Jandi Chontra

This scenic spot is situated at 17 kilometers from Bhimber and 67 kilometers from Mirpur. Despite its panoramic views, this area is well- known due to the Shrine of Baba Shadi Shaheed nearby Jandi Chontra that values the importance of the area. A Tourist Rest House serves the tourists by providing accommodation facilities.

Sudhnotti District

2010-10-14T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sudhnotti

From the end of the 17th century up to 1837 A.D Poonch was ruled by different Muslim Rajas of Loran. It then fell into the hands of Raja Falz Talab Khan of Rajori. In 1846, this area was handed over to Maharaja Ghulab Singh under the Treaty of Amritsar. Before this transfer, Poonch was considered a district of Lahore. Maharaja Ghulab Singh handed over Poonch and some other areas to his nephews, Jawahar Singh and Moti Singh, with the condition that they would not make any administrative change without the consent of the Maharaja of Kashmir.

Poonch was annexed and converted into Jagir by Maharaja Han Singh in 1935-36 by the deposing Raja of Poonch the Dogras always found it difficult to establish their rule in Poonch. In 1947 when Pakistan came into being, the people of Poonch started an armed struggle against the Dogra and Indian forces and got the area liberated which now administratively stands divided into three districts namely Poonch Sudhanoti and Bagh. More...

PULLANDRI
TARAKHAL
ALIABAD

Pullandri

Pullandri Is the headquarter of district Sudharioti, It is at an elevation of 1372 meters and is at a distance of 97 kilometers from Rawalpindi via And Pattari, and is also connected with Rawalakot by 64 kilometers long road. There is a PWO Rest House located at the hilltop, giving a wonderful view of the picturesque landscape and green mountains all round. All the basic facilities of lire are available.

Tarakhal

With an altitude of 1982 meters, Tararkhal Is situated at distance of 211 kilometers from Rawalpindi via Kohala and 129 kilometers via Azad Pattan. It is a nice small station for tourists. Here PWD Rest House provides Spartan accommodation facilities. Essential commodities of daily use are also available from local bazaar.

Aliabad

Aliabad, situated at an altitude of about 2134 meters, is at a distance of 50 kilometers from Pullandri and 112 kilometers from Rawalakot. This place is surrounded by thick, mixed forests of Deodar, blue pine and Fir. Bus service is available both from Rawalakot to Abbasspur and Rawalpindi to Kahuta, from Kahuta onwards journey by jeep is advisable.

District Neelum

2010-10-14T09:55:00.000-07:00

Neelum

About 240 kilometre long the picturesque District Neelum Valley is situated to the North & North East of Muzaffarabad. Running parallel to the Kaghan Valley it is separated from it by snow covered peaks, some over 4000 meters above sea level. Excellent scenic beauty, panoramic view, towering hills on both sides of the noisy Neelum River, lush green forests, enchanting streams. High altitude lakes and attractive surroundings make the valley a dream come true.

Moreover like Kaghan Valley is famous for fishing and angling activities in Neelum River and Jagran nullahs which are stocked with trout fish. A fair weather road opens the valley to tourists up to KeI, 155 Kilometers from Muzaffarabad Buses ply daily on this route and, accommodation facilities are also available in the rest houses at places of tourist attraction. More...

KUNDAL SHAHI
KUTTON (JAGRAN VALLEY)
SALKHALA
ATHMAQAM
LOWER NEELUM (KERAN)
UPPER NEELUM
DAWARRIAN
SHARDA
KEL

District Neelum

About 240 kilometers long the picturesque District Neelum Valley is situated to the North & North East of Muzaffarabad. Running parallel to the Kaghan Valley it is separated from it by snow covered peaks, some over 4000 meters above sea level. Excellent scenic beauty, panoramic view, towering hills on both sides of the noisy Neelum River, lush green forests, enchanting streams. High altitude lakes and attractive surroundings make the valley a dream come true.

Moreover like Kaghan Valley is famous for fishing and angling activities in Neelum River and Jagran nullahs which are stocked with trout fish. A fair weather road opens the valley to tourists up to KeI, 155 Kilometers from Muzaffarabad Buses ply daily on this route and, accommodation facilities are also available in the rest houses at places of tourist attraction. Some of the places of tourist interest are

Kundal Shahi
Kutton (Jaghran Valley)
Salkhala
Athmaqam
Lower Neelam (keran)
Upper Neelum
Dawarrian
Sharda
Kel

Kundal Shahi

It is 74 Kms from Muzaffarabad. Here, silvery stream Jagran nullah Joins river Neelum, where trout fish is found abundantly.

Kutton (Jaghran Valley)

The bewitching beauty of Kutton permeated in the radius of 10 kilometers, makes Jagran Valley. The area is 16 kilometers from Kundal Shahi and is accessible by road. For the convenience of tourists, AJ&K tourism Department has constructed a rest house here. Whereas, accommodation facilities are also available in adjacent residential complex managed by the Hydro Electric Board. From here 16 Kms onward, Thunian, Ghainsi and Jagran are located which are worth seeing spots for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Salkhala

About 5 kilometers ahead of kundal Shahi, Salkhala is another secluded spot of tourist interest located across river Neelum. Here a trout hatchery has been established by AJ&K Fisheries Department. A tourist Rest House and 3 huts are available here for accommodation.

Athmaqam

Athmaqam is 10 kilometers from Kundal Shahi. It is located at a height of 1371 meters ASL. Being the district headquarters of Neelum District, it serves as a take-off point for tourists interested in hiking and exploring the inner valley. It is an attractive place known for its variety of fruit. All necessary facilities via bazaar, post office, banks, hospital, telephone and PWD rest house are available here.

Lower Neelam (keran)

At a distance of about 9 Kms from Athmaqam, Neelum (Karen) it situated on the Right Bank of Neelum River at about 1524 meters above sea level. It has fascinating scenery. A small bazaar and a tourist rest house situated on the bank o’ meandering river Neelum across which one can have a glance at the Indian held Kashmir.

Upper Neelum

Upper Neelum (Neelum Village) is located at a distance of about two & a half kms from Keran. This panoramic lush green village, profound in wild fruit and wildlife, attracts the tourists from every nook & corner of the country. Another remarkable feature of this spot is that one can view the entire area of occupied Kashmir from here. Owing to its tourist attraction AJ&K Tourism Department has launched a development project to convert both the Upper & Lower Neelum in to a Resort.

Dawarrian

Dowarrian is situated about 13 Kms from Neelum at an altitude of about 1615 meters. It is surrounded by mountains covered with Conifer trees. A mute track up to Ratti Gali Pass about 30 kms towards west connects the Neelum & Kaghan Valleys. There is a Forest Rest House on the top of the hill and a tourist rest house is available for accommodation near main road.

Sharda

Located at a distance of 30 kilometers from Dowarrian, it is a breath- taking green spot at an altitude of 1981 meters. Shardi & Nardi are the two mountain peaks overlooking the valley named after legendary princesses, Sharda & Narda. It has captivating landscape with numerous springs and hillsides covered with thick forest. Over the right bank, opposite to Sharda, the river Neelum is joined by the Surgan nullah along which a track leads to the Noon Nar Pass and through it to Kaghan Valley.

In Sharda, one also finds ruins of an old Buddhist Monastery and a fort which are of historical background, Facilities of a srnal bazaar. Post Office, health center and Public Call Office art available in Sharda. The AJ&K Tourism Department has established here a “Tourist Village” consisting of Tourist Rest Houses, Youth Hostels, Cafeteria and Games room to facilitate tourists.

Kel

19 kilometers journey from Sharda, upstream takes one to Kel. It is a small valley at the height of 2097 meters. This is another picturesque place in the Neelum Valley. The Shounter Nullah joins river Neelum at this place and leads to Gilgit Agency over the Shounter Pass (4,420 meter) Kel is also a base camp of mountaineering activities up to “Sarawaali Peak” 6326 meters above sea level and biggest Glaciers (about 25 kms long) which are said to be the highest peak and biggest glacier of Azad Kashmir.

Buses ply daily on this route. It is advisable to hire a jeep from Athmaqam for a trip into the Valley. Horses and ponies can also be hired locally for travel to the interior of the Neelum Valley Banks. College, Hospital, Bazar, PCO and a Tourist Motel are available here. The border village about 38 km ahead of Kel, is a fascination yet unexplored. Halmat, Tao Butt. Janawai, and Sardari are the most beautiful places around here.

(Note): Some of the tourist places of Neelum Valley are situated in the range of Line of Control (LoC), therefore. Sometimes it becomes difficult to visit these areas. So before visiting the valley. The visitors are required to get information from AJ&K Tourism Department.

Muzaffarabad District

2010-10-14T09:20:00.000-07:00

Muzaffarabad

Muzaffarabad, the capital of the Azad State of Jammu & Kashmir is situated at the confluence of the Jhelum & Neelum rivers. It is at a distance of 138 kilometre from Rawalpindi and about 76 kilometre from Abbottabad. Muzaffarabad has been named after Sultan Muzaffar Khan, a chief of Bomba Dynasty (in 1652). Cradled by lofty mountains, Muzaffarabad is a blend of varied cultures and languages. Being the capital of the state, it has all the necessary facilities of life. In addition, there are two historical forts, the Red & Black Fort, situated on the opposite sides of river Neelum. The Neelum river streams, proudly through the hubbub of the town, joins river Jhelum at Domel and plays a dominant role in the micro climate of Muzaffarabad. The capital city of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, “Muzaffarabad” also serves as a base camp for the tourist intending to visit tourist spots and other historical and cultural & traditional aspects of AJK.

Muzaffarabad is not only the hub of political and cultural activities, but also has various spots for leisure. Domel, the junction point of Neelum & Jhelum Rivers, presents a magic beauty from here. At the right bank of River Jhelum near this site, an established “Food Point” offers the delicacy of the famous “Kashmiri Cuisine” and other varieties of local traditional dishes of Kashmiri origin. "Lohaar Gali" situated 9 kilometre from the city on Abbottabad road, offers a bird eye view of the capital city. At night, the lights of the city present an unforgettable scene from this point.

RED FORT
PIR CHINASSI
SHAHEED GALl
PATIKKA
JHELUM VALLEY
LEEPA VALLEY

Muzaffarabad, the capital of the Azad State of Jammu & Kashmir, is situated at the confluence of the Jhelum & Neelum rivers. It is at a distance of 138 kilometers from Rawalpindi and about 76 kilometers from Abbottabad. Muzaffarabad has been named after Sultan Muzaffar Khan, a chief of Bomba Dynasty (in 1652). Cradled by lofty mountains, Muzaffarabad is a blend of varied cultures and languages. Being the capital of the state it has all the necessary facilities of life. In addition, there are two historical forts, the Red & Black Fort, situated on the opposite sides of river Neelum.

The Neelum river streams, proudly through the hub of the town, joins river Jhelum at Domel and plays a dominant role in the micro climate of Muzaffarabad. The capital city of Azad Jammu & Kashmir, “Muzaffarabad” also serves as a base camp for the tourist intending to visit tourist spots and other historical and cultural & traditional aspects of AJ&K.

Muzaffarabad is not only the hub of political and cultural activities, but also has various spots for leisure. Domel, the junction point of Neelum & Jhelum Rivers, presents a magic beauty from here. At the right bank of River Jhelum near this site, an established “Food Point” offers the delicacy of the famous “Kashmiri Cuisine” and other varieties of local traditional dishes of Kashmiri origin. "Lohaar Gali" situated 9 kilometers from the city on Abbottabad road, offers a bird eye view of the capital city. At night, the lights of the city present an unforgettable scene from this point.

Red Fort
Pir Chinassi
Shaheed Gali
Patika
Jhelum Valley
Leepa Valley

Red Fort

The Red fort is a witness to the ancient history of this great city. Muzaffarabad Fort, generally known as Red Fort, traces back a chequered history. It is said that construction of the Fort was initially taken up by the Chuk rulers to counter the offensives of the intruders. However, Sultan Muzaffarabad Khan, the founder of Muzaffarabad town, finally completed it in 1646. During the mughal rule in Kashmir this Fort lost its importance, as they were more interested in other parts of their empire.

But when Durrani’s took over the rule of this area It gain came into limelight and its importance was recovered. Afterwards during the dogra rule of maharaja ghulab singh and Maharaja ranbir singh, the fort was reconstructed and extended according to their political and militaries requirements. However, towards the end of 1947, the Dogra’s fled away leaving the fort wide open to anybody. Since then it has braved devastating floods, ravages of time, and another hazards to project its inherent glory and historical background.

Pir Chinassi

The awe-inspiring locus, with an altitude of 2924 meters above the sea level is located eastward of Muzaffarabad. Due to its tremendous scenic beauty, velvet green plateaus and wonderful climate, it wins admiration of nature lovers. The view of the summit of the neighboring mountain peaks spell bounds a tourist. Devotees of Saint Shah Hussain Bukhari, take pilgrimage to rejuvenate their adust heart. The adjacent Pir Asimar, phawna da Danna and the areas iShaheed Gali n the bottom of Pirchinassi, i.e. Saran, Sud Bun, Mushki, Sakki and Jarran phirran are also worth seeing and ideal for hiking, trekking and camping activities.

A Tourist Lodge at Saran provides accommodation facilities to the tourists. The comely beauty of the place attracts a restive mind to prolong his stay. The picturesque Shaheed Gali. Situated at the height of about 1640 meters above sea level is at a distance of about 16 kilometers westward from Muzaffarabad. From height of about 1640 meters above sea level is at a distance of about 16 kilometers westward from Muzaffarabad. From Shaheed Gali a trek of 4 Kms leads towards a wholesome spot namely “Sri Kot”. A tourist is bound to be fascinated by the serenity for the backdrop of the area. A Tourist Rest House is available for accommodation at Shaheed Gali.

Patika

Located at a distance of 19 Km from Muzaffarabad, it is a gateway to Neelum valley and can be the first journey break on the way. A mini zoo and a fish hatchery have turned the place into a site of diversions. AJ&K Tourism Department has constructed a Tourist Rest House here, which is very popular among tourists.

Jhelum Valley

This is an ideal valley for both the domestic and ‘international tourists. The curling river Jhelum passes through from East to West between the high green mountains of this valley and joins the river Neelum at Domel near Muzaffarabad city. A 59 Km long metalled road runs along the river Jhelum from Muzaffarabad to Chokothi, which is located adjacent to Line of Control (LoC). Buses & wagons ply on this route regularly.

Leepa Valley

This is the most fascinating & loveliest valley in Azad Kashmir. A metalled road branches off for Leepa from Naily,45 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, climbs over the Reshian Gali 3200 meters high and then descends to 1677 meters on theother side into the valley It spell bounds everyone who visits this valley. valley remains open for domestic tourists only from May to December A tow places of tourist interest in this valley are.