Azad Kashmir Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know before visiting Azad Kashmir, including top attractions, hiking routes, local culture, and more!


Introduction to Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir, also known as Free Kashmir, is a region located in the northern part of Pakistan, bordering Indian-administered Kashmir to the east, and Gilgit-Baltistan to the north. The region is a paradise for nature lovers, with its stunning mountain landscapes, lakes, and rivers. The people of Azad Kashmir are warm and welcoming, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a culturally enriching experience. This guide will help you uncover the top places to visit and best things to do in Azad Kashmir, and provide you with all the information you need to plan a safe and memorable trip.

List of Places to Visit in Azad Kashmir

Some of the must-visit places in Azad Kashmir are:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Red Fort (Muzaffarabad): A 17th-century fort constructed by the Mughal Emperor, Jahangir, and located in the heart of Muzaffarabad.
  • Chakothi Village: A village situated on the Ceasefire Line, and a historical site where the British and the Russians signed the treaty of Amritsar.
  • Pir Chinasi: A holy shrine dedicated to Shah Abdul Qadir, located at the top of a mountain, and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.

Natural Attractions of Azad Kashmir: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Neelum Valley: A picturesque valley famous for its lush greenery, waterfalls, and freshwater streams.
  • Leepa Valley: A valley famous for its apple orchards, picturesque landscapes, and historical sites.
  • Banjosa Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and home to a variety of fish and wildlife.
  • Dudhnial Lake: A serene lake that is perfect for camping and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Azad Kashmir

Azad Kashmir is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes include:

  • Neelum Valley to Ratti Gali Lake: A challenging hike that offers stunning views of Ratti Gali Lake.
  • Shounter Valley: A remote valley that attracts adventure seekers looking for unspoiled natural beauty.
  • Pir Chinasi to Mussa Ka Musalla: A trek that takes you to the top of a mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Astore Valley: A scenic valley that is home to several beautiful mountain peaks, including Nanga Parbat.

Best Things to Do in Azad Kashmir: Activities and Tours

Azad Kashmir has plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained. Some of the best include:

  • River Rafting: Take a thrilling ride down the turbulent water of River Neelum / Jhelum.
  • Camping: Experience the serene beauty of Azad Kashmir by camping in one of its many beautiful valleys.
  • Skiing: Enjoy skiing in the winter season at the beautiful hills of Ski resort in Ganga Choti.
  • Paragliding: Enjoy the bird-eye view of beautiful valleys of Azad Kashmir through paragliding from some beautiful scenic spots.

Week-Long Itinerary for Azad Kashmir

Here is an itinerary for a week’s trip to Azad Kashmir:

Day Destination
Day 1 Arrive in Islamabad and travel to Muzaffarabad
Day 2 Visit Pir Chinasi and spend the night in Muzaffarabad
Day 3 Travel to Neelum Valley and explore
Day 4 Hike to Ratti Gali Lake and spend the night camping
Day 5 Travel to Banjosa Lake and spend the day boating and fishing
Day 6 Visit Leepa Valley and experience the local culture
Day 7 Return to Islamabad for departure

Food and Drink Scene of Azad Kashmir

Must-Try Dishes

When in Azad Kashmir, be sure to try some of the traditional dishes including:

  • Roghan Josh: A Kashmiri lamb curry that is a staple in the region.
  • Dum Aloo: A spiced potato curry that is typically served with naan bread.
  • Keema Chana: A dish made with minced lamb and chickpeas.
  • Yakhni: A mild yogurt-based curry traditionally made with chicken or mutton.

Local Beverages

  • Kashmiri Chai: A pink tea made with green tea, almonds, cardamom, and saffron.
  • Lassi: Sweetened yogurt drink that is a popular summer beverage in the region.

Where to Stay in Azad Kashmir: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Azad Kashmir has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Pearl Continental Hotel (Muzaffarabad)
  • Pine Park Hotel - Keran
  • Pearl Continental Hotel - Rawalakot

What to Buy in Azad Kashmir: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to take home from Azad Kashmir include:

  • Pashmina Shawls: A soft, luxurious shawl made from cashmere wool.
  • Walnut Woodcarvings: Intricate carvings made from walnut wood, and often featuring traditional Kashmiri designs.
  • Papier-Mâché Products: Vibrantly painted decorative items made from paper pulp, such as jewelry boxes, vases, and trays.

Local Culture and Customs of Azad Kashmir

The people of Azad Kashmir are warm and friendly, and will often go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. The region has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can expect to see traditional dress, music, and dance at local festivals and events. Islam is the dominant religion in the region, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Azad Kashmir

The best time to visit Azad Kashmir is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and the valleys are lush and green. The winter months (December-February) are also a great time to visit for adventure seekers, as the region offers various winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. However, during the monsoon season (July-September), heavy rains can cause landslides, and some roads may become impassable. Visitors should also be aware that the region can get crowded during the peak tourism season, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Azad Kashmir

Do:

  • Dress appropriately, especially in religious sites and public spaces.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Urdu or Pahari to communicate with locals.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol or take drugs, as it is forbidden in Islam.
  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Engage in public displays of affection or inappropriate behavior.

Safety and Health

Safety in Azad Kashmir

Overall, Azad Kashmir is a safe place to travel, but visitors should be aware of the local laws and customs. The region is prone to earthquakes, landslides, and avalanches, so visitors should be aware of the weather conditions and potential hazards. Visitors should also be aware of the border conflict between India and Pakistan, and avoid any political demonstrations or rallies.

Health in Azad Kashmir

Visitors to Azad Kashmir should be up to date with routine vaccinations and consider additional vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid. Visitors should also take precautions against mosquito bites, as there is a risk of dengue fever and malaria in some areas. Visitors should also drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid stomach illnesses.

Getting to Azad Kashmir: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Azad Kashmir

The nearest airport to Azad Kashmir is Islamabad International Airport, which is approximately 2-3 hours away from Muzaffarabad by car.

Bus Stations Near Azad Kashmir

The region is well-connected by a network of buses, and visitors can book tickets at bus stations in major cities like Islamabad or Rawalpindi.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a private car or taxi to reach Azad Kashmir.

How to Get Around in Azad Kashmir

The best way to get around in Azad Kashmir is by hiring a private car or taxi, as public transportation options can be limited in some areas. Visitors can also rent a bike for exploring scenic routes in National Parks.

Where to Go Next from Azad Kashmir: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors looking to extend their trip to Azad Kashmir can explore nearby attractions like:

  • Gilgit-Baltistan: A scenic region located to the north of Azad Kashmir, known for its stunning mountain landscapes and outdoor adventures.
  • Lahore: A cultural hub of Pakistan, with a rich history and architecture, located approximately 6 hours from Muzaffarabad.
  • Islamabad: The capital city of Pakistan, located approximately 2-3 hours from Azad Kashmir.

Conclusion

Azad Kashmir is a beautiful region in Pakistan, with stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming people. By following local customs and taking necessary precautions, visitors can experience a safe and memorable trip to this breathtaking destination.

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    Dadyal
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