Neelum’s Jewel: Trekking into the Heart of Azad Kashmir- Arang Kel & Beyond Azad Jammu and Kashmir, famously called the “Heaven on Earth” by most is an otherworldly region of colossal pine trees and ancient traditions traversed by the shimmering Emerald River. Venture with Black Yak Adventures into the alpine wonderland that is the Neelum Valley and reach its “Pearl of Kashmir” – the mountaintop village of Arang Kel. Day One: Journey into the Neelum Valley and beyond!
Our adventure commences with a comfortable drive from Islamabad through the winding Murree Expressway and eventually onto the main Neelum Road.
We will pass through the picturesque capital city of Azad Kashmir, Muzaffarabad where the two major rivers of Kashmir, the Jhelum and Neelum River converge, giving life and vibrancy to the region. Along the course of the 144km-long valley we will stop at the roaring Dhani and Kutton waterfalls where crystal-clear glacial waters flow in freefall from dramatic rocky cliffs. Further down the path, we reach Keran, a peaceful village that hugs the banks of the Neelum River. Day Two: An emotional ascension to Arang Kel “Pearl of Kashmir”!
The main reason for our trek into the Northern Areas, Arang Kel is located at 2,554 meters (8,379 ft).
Our journey into this sublime settlement commences from the nearby village of Kel and we take a “Doli” or cable car over the roaring Neelum River. The last 45-minutes will be an incredible hike through the pristine and ancient forest that lead to the village. You’ll be greeted by the sight of endless rolling green meadows dotted with wooden Kashmiri huts, surrounded by snow capped peaks.
Arang Kel is a magical place and the atmosphere here is truly one of the most peaceful that one could ever encounter. We will enjoy the unparalled serenity and also catch one of the most breathtaking sunsets one could witness on Earth. Day Three: Explore ancient history and reach the frontier with Sharda & Taobat.
After the unforgetable day spent at Arang Kel, we head towards the historical town of Sharda, once the site of a renowned centre of higher learning.
We visit the archaeological ruins of Sharda Peeth – the ancient site of the University where scholars used to learn for centuries. Next up, for all those wishing to travel to the far reaches of the Neelum Valley, we will make a venture up to Taobat. It is a remote hamlet located at the very last post of Pakistan in the Neelum Valley before you hit the Line of Control. Its dramatic peaks and surrounding fertile land provide an authentic, rugged beauty like no other.
Day Four: Back to the cities with unforgetable memories.
After the amazing cultural expedition, we will drive back to cities like Muzaffarabad, Islamabad.
Why Choose Black Yak Adventures for your Kashmir Trip?
The journey to Kashmir requires intricate planning, logistics and the acquisition of all necessary permits and security clearances.
Black Yak Adventures’ comprehensive package will cover everything from luxury 4×4 Jeeps with high clearance, comfortable lodging at prime locations to all the permits needed for foreign tourists to travel through Kashmir. Our experienced guides will not just guide you through the landscapes but also serve as cultural liaison to ensure a truly enriching experience for you and your group.
Why Book Your Kashmir & Arang Kel Tour with Black Yak Adventure?
Choosing the right partner for your journey into the “Pearl of Neelum Valley” is the difference between a simple trip and a life-changing expedition. At Black Yak Adventure, we bring the same elite standards from our 8,000m expeditions to the meadows of Arang Kel.
Tour Highlights
- The Pearl of Neelum: Discover Arang Kel, a breathtaking hilltop village often described as a "Piece of Heaven on Earth."
- Thrilling Doli Ride: Experience the iconic chairlift (Doli) over the Neelum River for spectacular aerial views of the valley.
- Verdant Meadows: Wander through the emerald-green alpine pastures and dense pine forests of the high Arang Kel plateau.
- Sharda Heritage: Explore the ancient ruins of Sharda Peeth, a historic center of learning and spirituality in the Sharda Valley.
- The Blue Gem River: Follow the winding, turquoise-blue Neelum River as it carves through the rugged Himalayan landscape.
- LOC Panoramas: Witness unique views of the Line of Control, where you can observe villages across the border in stunning detail.
- Nanga Parbat Vistas: On clear days, marvel at the distant, towering silhouette of Nanga Parbat, the "Killer Mountain."
- Kashmiri Hospitality: Immerse yourself in the authentic culture and warm, traditional hospitality of the mountain people of Baltistan and Kashmir.
- Majestic Waterfalls: Visit the cascading Dhani and Kutton Waterfalls, two of the most powerful and scenic falls in the region.
- Starlit Alpine Nights: Enjoy serene nights under a crystal-clear sky, perfect for high-altitude stargazing and photography.
