The Northern Area is the most spectacular and fascinating region of Pakistan. Here, world’s three famous mountain ranges meet – the Himalayas, the Karakorams and the Hindukush. The whole northern Pakistan is like a paradise for mountaineers, climbers, trekkers, hikers and anglers. The Northern Areas of Pakistan can make you feel closer to god, as nature shows its massiveness, its beauty, its wonder and its brutality at the same time.
The historic Karakoram Pass (5,575 m), an ancient trading route between the Northern Pakistan and Xinjiang (China), gives its name to the range west of it that forms the watershed between the Indus and the Central Asian deserts. The eastern boundary of the Karakorams is the upper Shyok River from where it extends over 322 km westwards to the Karumbar river and the Hindukush range, to the north the Shaksgam tributary of the Yarkand River and to the south, the Indus bounds the Karakorams. Here the Nanga Parbat (8,126 m) massif is the western anchor of the great Himalayan range which stretches in an arc 24,124 km east to Burma, a boundary and barrier, “the razor’s edge” which for centuries has determined the destiny of South Asia. Such is the setting of the Karakorams Range, this remnant of a primeval ice age, “the third pole” with extensive glacier systems and the greatest concentration of lofty mountains in the world.
Of the fourteen over 8,000 m peaks on earth, four occupy an amphitheatre at the head of Baltoro. Their shapes, forms, sizes and colours provide tremendous contrast, which defy description. These are; K-2 (8,611 m- world’s 2nd highest) – the undisputed monarch of the sky. Broad Peak (8,047 m) – massive and ugly; Gasherbrum-I (8,068 m) and Gasherbrum-II (8,035 m) the “Pakistan Pyramids” that Cheops would have preferred for a tomb; Muztag Tower – deceptively sheer; Chogolisa – the “Bride Peak”, in whose eternal embrace lies Hermann Buhi, the first man to climb Nanga Parbat; the Cathedrals of Baltoro with their great knife-edge ridges; the sky cleaving monoliths of Trango Towers and the most beautiful of all – the Peak of Perfection – Paiyu (6,600 m) first climbed by a Pakistani expedition in 1977. There are scores of over 7,000 m high peaks in the Karakoram Range and hundreds of nameless summits below 6,000 meters, mere points on the map. In the Lesser Karakorams there are equally great peaks such as Rakaposhi (7,788 m), the dominant giant in Nagar and Hunza Valleys. Its north face is fantastic precipice – 5,791 meters of plunging snow and ice. The Hindukush is also a mountain vastness containing hundreds of peaks many above 7,000 meters including Trichmir (7,705 m) that is the highest point of the range. The western bastion of the Himalayas is Nanga Parbat (8,126 m), once dreaded as the “Killer Mountain”, but climbed many times by various expeditions since the first disasters.
Some of the longest glaciers outside the polar region flow in the Karakorams. The Siachin glacier if 75km long. The Hispar, (52km) joins the Biafo at the Hispar La (5,154 m) to form a 116km long ice corridor. The Batura is 58km in length. But the most outstanding of these rivers of ice is the Baltoro (62km). This mighty glacier, fed by some 30 tributaries, constitutes a surface area of 1,219 sq. km. Seen from a distance, Baltoro appears smooth and beautiful but in fact it is a chaotic tumbling mass of rock and ice, troughs and hillocks and the debris of centuries. It is unique, remote corner of earth. For here, in a frozen wilderness of crags, cornices and crevasses, rise towering spires of granite, great snowy peaks with fluted icy ridges and pinnacles that pierce the sky.
For many centuries, caravans have braved these tortuous mountains treading precariously along paths providing shortcuts between the great towns of Central Asia and the rich markets of South Asia. However, the trails were hazardous, angry rivers horrifying to contemplate, and the Nature’s Storms caused even the most intrepid to quail on the high passes and in the desolate gorges. In 1947, travel in and out of Northern Pakistan could have been described almost as it had been 15 centuries earlier by the Chinese pilgrim Fa Hien in 400 AD; The way was difficult and rugged, running along a bank exceedingly precipitous. When one approaches the edge of it, his eyes become unsteady, and if he wishes to go forward in the same direction, there is no place on which he can place his foot, and beneath are the waters of the river called Indus. Thus, the traders of yore had travelled over this route for centuries and carried silk, tea and porcelain from China to be bartered for gold, ivory, jewels and spices from South Asia. It is against this backdrop that Pakistan and China joined hands in 1967 to construct a 900 km, “Karakoram Highway” on the alignment of the ancient Silk Route. For its sheer mountain grandeur and breath-taking panorama of beauty, few places on earth can match the superb landscape through which the Karakoram Highway snakes. A fantastic and unforgettable spectacle is the passage of the highway along the Batura glacier, rated as the world’s seventh largest glacier. The Khunjerab Pass, which the Highway crosses, and the nearby Mintaka Pass, lie astride the fabulous ancient Silk Route that led from Europe to Asia and over which history’s most famous tourists once travelled. These include the Venetian trader Marcopolo, after whom has been named the wild Marcopolo sheep, in the 13th century, the Chinese Monk Fa Hien in the 4th century and the Central Asian historian Abu Rehan Al-Beruni in the 11th century. Today the Karakoram Highway connects Islamabad with Kashgar (China), via Abbottabad, Mansehra, Thakot, Besham, Pattan, Chilas, Gilgit and Hunza across the 4.733 meters high Khunjerab Pass. The Highway, built by the Pakistani and the Chinese engineers has been described as a marvel of civil engineering and even as “The Eighth Wonder of the World”.
Skardu: Capital of Baltistan is perched 2,438 meters above sea level in the backdrop of the great peaks of the Karakorams. Balti people are a mixture of Tibetan and Caucasian stock and speak Balti, an ancient form of Tibetan. Due to the similarity of its culture, lifestyle and architecture with Tibet, Baltistan is also known as the “Tibet-e-Khurd” (Little Tibet). It borders on the Chinese province of Xinjiang and Indian -occupied Kashmir. The tourist is from April to October. The Maximum temperature is 27C and Minimum (October) 8 C. Apart from its incomparable cluster of mountain peaks and glaciers Baltistan’s five valleys – Shigar, Skardu, Khaplu, Rondu and Kharmang are noted for their luscious peaches, apricots, apples and pears.
Kharpocho Fort: Skardu has an ancient Fort known as Kharpocho Fort (King of Forts) situated on a hill overlooking the town. It was constructed by Ali sher Khan Anchan, who ruled over Baltistan till the end of the 16th century.
Buddha Rock Carvings: Dating back to 8th century AD, a huge Buddha figure surrounded by small Bodhisattvas is carved on a rock three kilometers from Skardu across Sadpara Nullah on Skardu-Sadpara Road. Pre-historic men and animal figures are carved on rocks along Kachura Lake. Some rock carvings and diagram of a monastery near Perkuta (Mehdi Abad) Nalah are also found.
Lovely Lakes: Upper Kachura (34 km). Lower Kachura (Shangrila-29 km) Lake Sadpara (8 km) Lake, are very famous for fishing and boating.
Shigar Valley: The gateway to the great mountain peaks of the Karakorams, Gasherbrum & K- 2, is only 23 km away from Skardu via jeep road. Shigar valley’s gentle, irrigated slopes are filled with terraces of wheat, maize and barley. Its orchards of apricots, mulberries, peaches, plums, pears, apples and nuts are unique to Baltistan.
Astor & Rama Lake: In ancient times, Astor was the only route for both trade and military movement between Gilgit and Srinagar. It is now approachable from Gilgit by road (110 km). Rama Lake (3,150 m) can be reached from Astor via 6 km jeep trek. Alpine pasture and forests surround the lake, which reflects the image of Nanga Parbat. It is an excellent place for trekking and to enjoy the wild nature. It is 5 hours’ drive from Gilgit.
Rupal Valley: Tarashing village is 28 kms south of Astor. From here one can start the trek around the south side of Nanga Parbat up the Rupal Valley.
Deosai Plain: From Astor another jeep trek takes us to Skardu via Deosai Plain. Situated at a height of 4,000 m, Deosai is designed as National Park. Besides its unique flora and fauna, it is the habitat of the rare Himalayan brown bear and marmot. Best months to visit are July & August.
Fairy Meadows: This place is 19 kms up a jeep trek that leaves the Karakoram Highway at Raikot Bridge. Beautifully place on the northern slopes of Nanga Parbat (8,126 m). Fairy Meadows consists of alpine pastures surrounded by pine trees. There are a few huts and camping sites catering to the needs of visitors. With breathtaking views of the snow-clad north face of Nanga Parbat, it is an ideal place for trekkers and climbers to walk up to the base Camp.
Khapula Valley: This beautiful valley of the Shyok River is 103 km east of Skardu. Kapula is the starting point for most trekking and climbing expeditions. Many famous mountains such as Masherbrum, Saltoro, Sia Kangri, K-6, K-7 are located here. Chaqchan Mosque is one of the earliest mosques in Baltistan (1504 AD), attributed to Syed Ali Hamdani. There is a Palace of Raja of Kapula and remains of Thorsikhar Fort.
Gilgit: Situated at an elevation of 1,454 meters along the banks of Gilgit River, quaint little town of Gilgit has spectacular scenic beauty. For centuries, it had been the capital of various dynasties. Its history goes well beyond 6th century AD. The town is irrigated by a network of canals fed by mountain streams. Peak tourist season is from April to October though you can visit the valley round the year. The maximum temperature in May is 33 C and the minimum 16 c and in September, Maximum 28 c and minimum 11 C.
Gilgit Bridge: The Bridge over the fast flowing Gilgit River, at the end of its traditional bazaar, is one the largest suspension bridges in South Asia (182 meters long and 2 meters wide) allowing enough space for one jeep at a time to cross.
Rock Carvings, Inscriptions & Ancient Sites: Carved on the rock near Kargah Nullah (ravine), 10 km from Gilgit town, there is a beautiful standing Buddha figure (locally known as “Yashini”) dating back to 7th century AD. Remains of a Buddhist monastery and stupas (6th century AD) were discovered in 1938 and 1956 near Nurpur. There are ancient rock carvings of animals near the Karakoram University and inscriptions near Danyore.
Monuments & Cemeteries: Built in 1962, Independence Movement is a tribute to the heroes of liberation movement of 1947-48. A victory monument of Taj Mughal, built 700 years ago, is 30 km jeep drive from Gilgit town.
Naltar Valley: Two hours jeep drive from Gilgit link road, Government Rest house, Private hotels and a Ski slope, lush green Alpine forest with small lakes and glaciers trout fishing in lake. Trekking routes ink with Iskoman, Chalt and Punial valley.
Sher Qilla: It is situated 38 km west of Gilgit, along the north bank of the Gilgit River. Sher Qilla (Lion’s Fort) was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Punial. It has a polo ground, an old carved wooden mosque and a 150 years old watchtower, crowned with a pair of Ibex horns. There is a trekking route to Naltar valley. Trout fishing can be enjoyed in Sher Qilla Nullah and nearby small lake.
Singal: About 61 km from Gilgit – Trekking route links with Chilas and Kohistan valley.
Gahkuch: Headquarter of Ghizer District – Ideal place for trekking. Fishing and duck shooting in season. It is the gateway to Ishkoman Valley. Government rest house and private hotels are available (73 km from Gilgit). Archaeological sites in Gahkuch and Hatoon.
Ishkoman Valley: The valley runs north to south joining Gilgit River at Gahkuch, dividing the Karakorams from the Hindukush. Chatorkhand, the main town of the Valley is about 100 kms from Gilgit and it takes six hours by jeep. People is Ishkoman Valley speak Khowar, Shina and Wakhi languages. From here, you can trek for 5 days east to Naltar via Naltar Pass (4,267 m), or west to Yasin in 4 days via Asambar Pass (4,432 m).
Gupis: Is located 112 kms west of Gilgit along the Gilgit River.
Yasin Valley: Yasin, the main town of the valley, lies east of Ishkoman at altitude of 2,750 m above sea level. People of Yasin speak Brushisky and Khowar languages. Until the 20th century, Yasin was an important kingdom controlling the shortest and easiest route between the Oxus and the Indus rivers.
Phundar: It is nine hours drive from Gilgit, and a recommended overnight stop enroute to Chitral. There are 2 lakes located in Phundar, Phundar and Handrab is further west up a side valley. Both lakes offer excellent trout fishing opportunities. From here, one can also do white water rafting down the Gilgit River.
Hunza: The visitors to Hunza are overwhelmed by the rugged charm, the fragrant breeze singing through graceful Poplar trees and the velvet-like green carpet of wheat fields. Set against the background of snow-covered mountains. Situated at an elevation of 2,438 meters, Hunza Valley’s tourist season is from April to October. The temperature in May is maximum 27 C and minimum 14 C. The October temperature are: maximum 10 C and minimum 0 C. Majority of the people of Hunza are Ismaili Muslims, followers of His Highness the Agha Khan. The local language is Brushisky. Urdu and English are also understood by most people.
Karimabad: The former capital of Hunza offers awe-inspiring panorama of high peaks including Rakaposhi (7,788 m), Spantik (Golden Peak – 7,027 m). Diran (7,266 m), Ultar (7,388 m) and Bubulimating (Lady Finger – 6,000 m). The snows of Rakaposhi glitter in the moonlight, producing an atmosphere at once ethereal and sublime. It is accessible by road from Gilgit (112 kms – 3 hours drive).
Baltit Fort, Victoria Monument & Ultar Glacier: The fairy-tale like castle of Baltit, above Karimabad, is a Hunza landmark built about 600 years ago. Stilted on massive legs, its wooden bay windows look over the valley. Originally, it was used as the residence of the Mirs (the title of the former rulers) of Hunza. It has been restored to its original glory and is being looked after by Baltit Heritage Trust. Just above Baltit Fort, to the west of Ultar glacier, a monument associated with Mir Nazim Khan’s coronation as Mir of Hunza by the British (1891) can be seen. Ultar Peak with its glacier are looming high over Karimabad. There is one and two day trek to the Glacier.
Altit Fort & Duikar: This 800-year-old fort is situated in the village Altit, about 3 km from Karimabad. The Fort has been built on a sheer rock-cliff that falls 300 meters into the Hunza River. Duikar is a high summer village above the valley, north of Altit Village. Approachable by jeep. Duikar offers excellent views of the valley and the surrounding peaks especially at the time of sunrise and sunset.
Ganish & Haldeikis Rocks: Ganish is an ancient village located along the Karakoram Highway below Karimabad. It has some old mosques, fort and watch tower. There are many rock carvings and inscriptions around Ganish and near Altit Fort, serving as the notice boards of history inscribed by the ancient travellers, warriors, traders and pilgrims. The most important of these are Haldeikis Rocks (Hunza Rocks) located just after the bridge over Hunza River. The inscriptions are in four different scripts, Kharoshti, Gupta, Sogdian and Tibetan. There are images of Ibex, sheep, horses and warriors as well.
Nagar Valey & Hopar Glacier: Nagar Valley runs parallel to Hunza valley across the Hunza River, Like Hunza, Nagar was a princely state. Majority of people are Shia Muslims and speak Shina language. Nagar proper is approached from Karimabad through a 10 km jeep trek across Hunza River continuing further along Nagar River, while other important towns are situated along the KKH, including Gulmat (25 km short of Karimabad), with superb views of Rakaposhi, Nagar Valley’s economy is based on agriculture, Wheat, Potatoes and Fruits like apples, apricot, cherry and mulberry are grown in abundance. Spring of Hopar (March-April) is lovely and there are trekking routes along Bualtar, Barpu and Hopar glaciers. Important peaks seen from Nagar Valley are: Rakaposhi (7,788 m), Diran (7,266 m), Ultar (7,388 m), Malubiting (7,458 m), Spantik (7,027 m) etc.
Chitral Valley: Situated at an average altitude of 1,128 m, Chitral valley is a favourite among mountaineers, trekkers, anglers, hunters and anthropologists. Trichmir (7,705 m) dominates this 322 km long exotic valley. Chitral district has Afghanistan on its north, south and west. A narrow strip of Afghan territory, (Wakhan) separates it from Tajikistan. The tourist’s season in Chitral is from June to September. The maximum temperature in June is 35 C and the minimum temperature 19 C. In September, the maximum is 23 C and the minimum 8 C.
Chitral Town: The town lies by the Chitral river at an elevation of 1,518 m. The Shahi Masjid (Royal Mosque) is set against a backdrop of the Trichmir. The Mehtar’s Fort and the Khowar houses of the Chitralis are worth seeing. The bazaar offers a fascinating array of handicrafts.
Birmoghalasht: Here, the fairy tale summer palace of the ex-ruler affords a magnificent view of the Trichmir and the surrounding valleys. It stands at a height of 2,743 m, and is approachable by jeep.
Garam Chashma (Hot Springs): This valley offers scenic beauty, with orchards, fields and snow-clad peaks. The most interesting features however, are its hot Sulphur springs, famous for their healing effects in skin diseases, gout, rheumatism and chronic headaches. “Hammaams” (baths) have been constructed near the springs for convenience of tourists.
Kalash Valley: One of the major attractions of Chitral is the Kalash valley-T=the home of Kalash or “Wearers of the Black Robes”, a primitive pagan tribe. Legends sat that five soldiers of the legions of Alexander of Macedonia settled in Chitral and are the progenitors of the Kalash. Over 3,000-strong Kalash live in the valley of Birir, Bumburet and Rambur, south of Chitral. Bumburet, the largest and the most picturesque valley of the Kalash, is 40 km from Chitral and is connected by jeepable road. Birir, 34 km away is accessible by a jeepable road, Rambur is 32 km, from Chitral. The Kalash women wear black gown of course cloth in summer and hand-spun wool dyed in black in winter. Their picturesque headgear Is made of woolen black material decked out with cowries’ shells, buttons and crowned with a large coloured feather. The Kalash love music and dancing particularly on occasions of their religious festivals.
Chilimjust or Joshi (14th and 15th May): This festival is held in Spring when the girls pick the first flowers. The days are marked by dancing, and the people visit each other and exchange milk, cheese, yogurt and flowers.
Utchal (mid July): Two days of celebration mark the harvest of wheat and barley. There is much singing, dancing and feasting.
Phool (20th to 25th September): This festival celebrates the reaping of the grape and walnut harvests.
Chowmas (18th to 21st December): This is the winter festival celebrated to welcome the new year. The people remain indoors, feasting and drinking until the elders, who sit on hill-tops to watch the sun reach its orbit, declare the arrival of the new year. Everyone then lights the torches and performs the commemorative dance, and goat sacrifices is carried out.
The lush-green valley of Swat, with its rushing torrents, icy-cold lakes, fruit laden orchards and flower-decked slopes is ideal for holidaymakers. It has a rich historical past, too. This is “Udayana” (The Garden) of the ancient epics; the land of enthralling beauty, where Alexander of Macedonia fought and won some of his major battles before crossing over to the delta of Indus River. This is the “Valley of the Hanging Chairs”, as described by the famous Chinese pilgrim-chroniclers, Huan Tsang and Fa-Hian in the fifth and sixth centuries. Swat was once the cradle of Buddhism of all of its schools - Mahayana, Hinayana and Tantrayana, where once 1,400 monasteries flourished. It was the home of the famous Gandhara School of Sculpture that was an expression of Greco-Roman form in the local Buddhist tradition. Swat was also the historical land where the Muslim conquerors, Mahmud of Ghazni, Babur of Ferghana and Akbar fought their battles preparatory to the conquest of South Asia. The valley f Swat sprawls over 10,360 sq. km at an average elevation of 875 meters. The maximum temperature in July is 38 C and minimum (during January) is 1 C. The normal temperature is maximum 21 C and minimum 7 C. The tourist season is all year round.
Miandam: At 1.830 m, above sea level. Miandam Valley is 50 km from Saidu Sharif and recommended for those looking for a peaceful place full of fragrance and scenic beauty.
Madyan & Bahrain: Both the towns are a good stop-over while travelling from Saidu Sharif to Kalam. Madyan is famous for its trout hatcheries and Bahrain for its meeting of two rivers and its handicrafts.
Kalam: The most popular tourist spot in Swat Valley (2,073 m) is 100 km away from Saidu Sharif.
Ushu, Matiltan and Mahodand Lake: This is the most spectacular area of upper Swat Valley. While staying overnight at Kalam, you can enjoy a day trip by jeep to these beautiful tourist spots. Distance is just 13-16 km from Kalam.
Utrot-Gabral: Another scenic valley of upper Swat, located 21-29 km from Kalam. The road is jeepable and jeeps can be hired from Kalam. A day trip with picnic lunch is recommended.
A holiday in Kaghan Valley, the Himalayan hide-away situated northeast of Hazara district of North West Frontier Province, is an unforgettable experience. Its mountains, dales, lakes, waterfalls, streams and glaciers are still in an unbelievable pristine state, an unspoiled paradise. The Valley extends for 155 km rising from an elevation of 2,134 meters to its highest point, the Babusar Pass (4,173 m). Kaghan is at its best in the summer months (May to September). In May the temperature is maximum 11 C and a minimum 3 C. From the middle of July up to the end of September, the road beyond Naran, snowbound throughout the winter, is open right up to Babusar Pass.
Abbottabad: It is a charming town spread out over several low, refreshingly cool and green hills. Abbottabad is 116 km (2 hours) from Rawalpindi and 208 km (3 hours) from Peshawar. Places worth visiting in Abbottabad are: Simla Hill, Ilyasi Masjid etc.
Shogran: At a distance of 34 km from Balakot, lies the green plateau of Shogran (2,362 m above sea level). Drive by car to village Kiwai, 24 km from Balakot and turn to right for Shogran for another 10 km. From Shogran, you can visit Sari, Paye and Makra by jeep or you can go for hiking.
Kaghan & Naran: Kaghan Village has given its name to the whole Valley, It is 64 km from Balakot at an altitude of 2,039 m. Naran is the main tourist attraction of the valley. It is linked with Balakot by 88 km long metaled road. It takes 4 hours by car to reach Naran. Naran serves as a base for the whole valley. From here, you can ride a jeep, horse or hike to several picturesque lakes, valleys and peaks. The journey through the valley by the side of Kunhar river is indeed a unique experience.
Lake Saiful Maluk & Lalazar: Lake Saiful Maluk has a touch of the unreal about it, nestling 3,206 meters high in the shadow of the Malika Parbat (Queen of the Mountains – 5,291 m). You can go fishing or boating in the lake and hear the local legend about Prince Saiful Maluk who fell in love with a fairy. Further up are quaint woodland villages, Battakundi, Burawai, Basal, Gittidas and Lalazar. At a distance of 19 km from Naran, Lalazar is a very unique place for a day excursion,
Lovely Lakes & Meadows: If you love hiking, trekking or fishing, then Kaghan Valley is like heaven. There are many lakes and meadows high up in the mountains waiting for you. Some of them are; Lake Lulusar, Lake Dodipastar, Danna Meadows, Sharan, Sri, Paye, Makra Peak, Malika Parbat and Musa Ka Masalla (Prayer Mat of Prophet Moses).
Siran Valley: It is accessible through KKH via Shinkiari. There is a jeep trek from Daddar along the Siran River to Jabori (Forest Rest House), Nadi (Rest House) and to Sharan in Kaghan Valley.
People and Culture: Azad Jammu & Kashmir is a land of fascinating people, languages and culture. Its population is composed of different races claiming their descent from Semitic, Mongoloid, Pahari, Punjabi and Pushto. The people of Kashmir are sturdy, simple, truthful, intelligent, ingenious, hardworking, skillful and deeply attached to their land.
Azad Jammu & Kashmir is very rich in natural beauty. Its snow-covered peaks, dense forests, winding rivers, turbulent foaming streams, sweet scented valleys. Velvet green plateaus and climate varying from arctic to tropical, all join together to make an excellent tourist attraction. Valleys like Neelum, Jhelum, Leepa, Rawalkot, Banjosa, Samahni and Bagsher unfold delightful scenic beauty and provide a feast of pleasure to a discerning tourist’s eyes. Azad Kashmir is also blessed with a varied mountainous landscape ranging from low hills to high mountains (2000 to 6000 m) most suitable for adventure sports like climbing, trekking, mountaineering, summer camping and hiking. Blessed with rivers and streams, it offers great potential for white water sports, especially rafting, canoeing and kayaking. Azad Kashmir has a varied wildlife including Leopard, Himalayan Bear, Ibex, Grey Goral, Musk Deer, Kashmir Stag, Monal Pheasant, Western Tragopan, Snow Pheasant, Red-led Partridge (Chakor), Black Koklas Pheasant, Peacock, Eagle, Dusk Markhor etc.
Muzaffarabad: The capital of Azad Jammu & Kashmir is situated at the confluence of the Jhelum and Neelum rivers. It is 138 kms from Rawalpindi and about 76 kms from Abbottabad. The present name of Muzaffarabad has been given to it after the name of Sultan Muzaffar Khan, a chief of Bomba Dynasty (1652}. There are two Forts, namely, Red & Black Fort, situated on the opposite sides of river Neelum. The Neelum river streams through the town, joins river Jhelum at Domel and plays a dominant role in the micro climate of Muzaffarabad. Places of interest and around Muzaffarabad are: Pir Channasi, Shaheed Gali and Patika.
Neelum Valley: About 240 kilometers long picturesque 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 5000 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. Places of interest in Neelum Valley are: Kundal Shahi, Kutton, Salkhala, Athmaqam, Karen, Dowarian, Sharda and Kel.
Jehlum Valley: The curling river flows through from East to West between the high green mountains of this valley and joins the river Neelum at Domel near Muzaffarabad. A59 km long metaled road runs along the river Jhelum from Muzaffarabad to Chakothi, close to the line of control (LOC). Places of interest in Jhelum Valley include: Garhi Dopatta, Chinari, Chakothi, Chikkar, Loon Bagia, Dungan and Danna.
Leepa Valley: This is the most fascinating and loveliest valley. A metaled road branches off for Leepa from Naily 45 kms from Muzaffarabad, climbs over the Reshian Gali (3,200 m) and then descends to 1,677 m on the other side into Leepa Valley. The valley remains open for domestic tourists from May to November. Places of interest in this valley are: Leepa, Dao Khan, Chananian etc.
Poonch & Sudhnoti: Places of interest in both of these districts are: Rawalkot, Paniola, Chottagala, Koyian, Ghorimar, Tatta Pani, Pullandri, Tararkhal and Aliabad etc.
Bagh & Kotli: District Bagh, is rich in variegated natural beauty. Bagh Dheerkot, Sudhan Gali, Hanse Chowki, Neela Butt, Las Danna, Mehmood Gali, Suddhan Gali, Kahuta, Havaily and ganga Choti are the main attractions. Kotli is located at a distance of 141 kms from Rawalpindi/Islamabad via Sehnsa, Holar and Kahuta. It is linked with Mirpur by two metalloid roads, one via Rajdhani (90 kms) and the other via Charhoi. It is also directly linked with Rawalkot via Trarkhal (82 kms). Places of interest are: Teenda, Hajiabad, Khoiratta, Fatehpur, Karela Majhan etc.
Mirpur and Bhimber: Mirpur is situated at an elevation of 459 m. It is linked with G.T. Road at Dina, a small town about 15 kms short of Jhelum city. The construction of Mangla Dam converted the old Mirpur town into a big artificial lake and affected a population of around 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. Places of interest around Mirpur are: Mangla Dam, Ramkot Fort etc. Bhimber was mentioned by Mughal Emperor “Jahangir” in his book “Tuzh-e-Jahangiri”. It falls on the route that was followed by the Mughals for their frequent visits to the Kashmir Valley. Bhimber town is located at a distance of 50 kms from Mirpur and 166 kms from Rawalpindi. Places of interest are: Baghsar, Jandi Chontra etc.