Azad Kashmir is the best hill station which is located in Pakistan known for its beauty, culture and peace. Kashmir is called Heaven on earth. Here is the list of top five beautiful places in Azad Kashmir to visit if you are planning a trip:
1) Neelum Valley
The Neelum Valley is beautiful due to its green mountains and clear waters. The valley which extends over 200 kilometers along the Neelum River has picturesque villages and scenic spots.
Key attractions in Neelum Valley:
Keran: A scenic village with mesmerizing views of the Neelum river.
Sharda: An ancient town that used to house the Sharda University.
Arang Kel: A green meadow that can be reached by a short trek from Kel, offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.
Location: Neelum Valley on Google maps
2) Rawalakot
The “Pearl Valley” Rawalakot is a beautiful and hilly town with green surroundings. Located close to Rawalakot, Banjosa Lake is an artificial lake that is enclosed by lush green pine forests and mountains. Visitors flock to see the soothing waters cascade beneath waterfalls further down the lakeside. There is also a boating facility at the lake and great grass spots for picnics and nature walks around.
Location: Rawalakot on Google maps
3) Mangla Dam
Mangla Dam is another big water reservoir near Mirpur city. Built in 1967 on the Jhelum River, it has various applications including irrigation and hydropower generation. It is 147 meters (483 feet) high and 3,140 meters (10,300 feet) long.
Boating and fishing activities are available for tourists at Mangla Dam. It is a common place for picnics and family outings and the surrounding area is scenic. Mangla Water Resort which is situated nearby offers accommodation and recreational facilities.
Location: Mangla Dam on Google maps
4) Pir Chinasi
Pir Chinasi is a beautiful hill station in Azad Kashmir, located about 30 kilometers east of Muzaffarabad. Present at an altitude of about 2,900 meters (9,500 feet) above sea level, it provides glorious panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, green valleys and twisting rivers below. The area is also home to the shrine of a famous saint Hazrat Pir Shah Hussain Bukhari.Many followers and visitors who wish to find peace and blessings visit this site.
Adventure lovers can go to Pir Chinasi for paragliding and snow cross jeep rallies in winter when the slope is covered in snow.
Location: Pir Chninasi on Google maps
5) Leepa Valley
Leepa Valley is situated in Neelum District, Azad Kashmir. It is a lesser known tourist site featuring stunning natural parks, snowy peaks, grassy meadows and blossoms.
Key Attractions In Leepa Valley
Leepa Top: In addition to being a scenic location, Leepa top has become a visiting point particularly during the snow season due to its 360 degree view.
Leepa Meadows: Lush green meadows in summer and perfect for picnics, photography and nature walk
Chakothi and Reshian: The two villages provide beautiful views along with a peek into the Kashmiri way of life, traditions and architecture.
Wild Animal & Flora:It has leopards, black bears, and unique types of plants & flowers.
Location: Leepa Valley on Google maps
Also read: Top 5 Places to Visit in KPK
