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Kohistan Journey
Dosut village in the Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir

Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Dense pine forests, the Neelum River and hidden alpine lakes close to Islamabad.

About this region

Often called Pakistan's 'Switzerland', Azad Jammu and Kashmir's Neelum and Leepa valleys pack dramatic scenery — waterfalls, meadows and glacial lakes — within a short drive of the capital.

22Destinations
6Treks
Spring, SummerBest season

Featured destinations

Keran village along the Neelum River, Neelum Valley
Needs verificationFeatured

Neelum Valley

A long, forested valley following the Neelum River, dotted with waterfalls.

Best season
Spring · Summer
Suggested duration
3 days
Explore
Morning light over the meadow at Arang Kel
Needs verificationFeaturedHidden gem

Arang Kel

A hilltop meadow hamlet above Kel, reached on foot or by chairlift.

Best season
Summer
Suggested duration
1 day
Explore
Ratti Gali Lake ringed by snow peaks
Needs verificationFeatured

Ratti Gali Lake

A high alpine glacial lake above the Neelum Valley, reached via Dowarian.

Best season
Summer
Suggested duration
1 day
Explore
The Jhelum River at Muzaffarabad, capital of Azad Kashmir
Needs verificationFeatured

Muzaffarabad

The capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where the Neelum and Jhelum rivers meet.

Best season
Spring · Summer · Autumn
Suggested duration
1 day
Explore
Leepa Valley orchards
Needs verification

Leepa Valley

A fruit-orchard valley south of Muzaffarabad, known for its apple and walnut harvests and a more secluded feel than Neelum.

Best season
Spring · Autumn
Explore
Banjosa Lake near Rawalakot
Needs verification

Banjosa Lake

A small artificial lake near Rawalakot, set in pine forest and used for boating and picnics.

Best season
Spring · Summer · Autumn
Explore

Featured treks

Ratti Gali Lake ringed by snow peaks
ModerateFeatured
Needs verification

Ratti Gali Lake Trek

A glacial lake trek above the Neelum Valley, reached via Dowarian.

Distance
10 km
Duration
1 day
Max elevation
3,700 m
Guide
Recommended
Best in SummerView Trek
Trail climbing toward Arang Kel meadow
EasyFeatured
Needs verification

Arang Kel Trek

A short, scenic climb from Kel to the meadow hamlet of Arang Kel.

Distance
7 km
Duration
1 day
Max elevation
2,449 m
Guide
Optional
Best in Summer · AutumnView Trek
Ganga Choti summit ridge in Azad Kashmir
ModerateFeatured
Needs verification

Ganga Choti Trek

A ridge walk to a summit above Bagh with views across Azad Kashmir.

Distance
10 km
Duration
1 day
Max elevation
3,044 m
Guide
Optional
Best in Spring · Summer · AutumnView Trek

Journey routes

Neelum Valley Crossing

Following the Neelum River from Muzaffarabad to the Ratti Gali trailhead.

Culture & heritage

A detailed cultural and historical guide to Azad Jammu and Kashmir — local traditions, language, festivals and etiquette — is planned for a future phase.

Safety & local knowledge

Region-specific safety advisories, permit requirements and road status aren't published yet. Always verify current conditions with local authorities and a licensed guide before travelling in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.