Pakistan’s Hidden Kashmir: A Journey Through the Unseen

TID- 102/ 10-day trip / Grade: T2

Overview

Pakistan hidden Kashmir

Best Time to Visit:

✔ Spring (April – June): Green valleys, blooming flowers.
✔ Summer (July – September): Best for Ratti Gali Lake trek & lush scenery.
✔ Autumn (October – November): Stunning golden hues in Neelum & Leepa Valleys.

Key Points to Consider:

Trekking Difficulty: Moderate trek to Ratti Gali & Arang Kel (Horse rental available).
Clothing: Warm layers are essential for high-altitude areas (Ratti Gali, Taobat, Leepa Valley).
Connectivity: Limited or no mobile network in Taobat & high-altitude areas.
Local Culture: Respect Kashmiri traditions; dress modestly in villages.

Key Highlights of the Tour:Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad – Transfer to Muzaffarabad

Leepa Valley – A hidden Jem of Azad Kashmir
Neelum Valley – A Cultural and Natural Wonderland
Muzaffarabad – Main town / city of Azad Kashmir

What’s Included in the Tour:

Transfers by 4×4 cars for comfort and convenience.
Stay in high-quality hotels and a unique experience staying in a traditional villa for a deeper cultural immersion.
Competitive pricing for an all-inclusive experience of Pakistan’s scenic and cultural gems.

The tour begins and ends in Islamabad, giving you the flexibility to extend your stay as per your travel plans.

The tour of Pakistan’s Hidden Kashmir combines cultural exploration with adventure, providing an unforgettable experience. Join Expedition Hunt to explore the unspoiled landscapes of Azad Kashmir in Pakistan.

Day 1	Arrival in Islamabad – Transfer to Muzaffarabad
Day 2	Muzaffarabad to Leepa Valley – A Hidden Paradise
Day 3	Muzaffarabad to Keran – Entering Neelum Valley
Day 4	Keran to Sharda – Historic & Cultural Exploration
Day 5	Sharda to Ratti Gali Base Camp – Trekking Begins
Day 6	Ratti Gali Lake Exploration – Return to Sharda
Day 7	Sharda to Arang Kel – The Hidden Paradise
Day 8	Arang Kel to Taobat – The Last Village of Neelum
Day 9	Taobat to Islamabad – Farewell to Neelum Valley
Day 10	Departure – Goodbye Pakistan!

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Islamabad – Transfer to Muzaffarabad

Arrive at Islamabad International Airport.
Drive to Muzaffarabad (3-4 hours, 138 km).
Explore:
- Red Fort (Chak Fort) – A 16th-century Mughal-era fort.
- Pir Chinasi (2,900m) – Breathtaking hilltop viewpoint.
- Neelum Viewpoint – Stunning river and valley views.
Overnight stay in Muzaffarabad.

Day 2: Muzaffarabad to Leepa Valley – A Hidden Paradise

Early morning Jeep ride (5-6 hours) to Leepa Valley.
Visit:
- Reshian (gateway to Leepa Valley).
- Dao Khan – A panoramic viewpoint.
- Leepa Village – Traditional Kashmiri wooden houses & terraced fields.
- Chananian – A stunning village with river views.
Enjoy a picnic lunch & photography session.
Return to Muzaffarabad in the evening.

Day 3: Muzaffarabad to Keran – Entering Neelum Valley

Scenic drive along Neelum River to Keran (3-4 hours, 90 km).
Stop at:
- Dhani Waterfall – The highest waterfall in Neelum Valley.
- Kutton Waterfall (Jagran Valley) – A picturesque cascade.
Check-in at a riverside hotel in Keran.

Day 4: Keran to Sharda – Historic & Cultural Exploration

Drive to Sharda (2-3 hours, 50 km) along Neelum River.
Visit:
- Sharda Peeth Ruins – Ancient Hindu temple & learning center.
- Sharda University Ruins – A place of historical significance.
Evening at leisure by the Neelum River.

Day 5: Sharda to Ratti Gali Base Camp – Trekking Begins

Jeep ride (1.5 hours) to Dowarian (Base Camp).
Start Ratti Gali Lake Trek (4-5 hours).
Camping or overnight stay in wooden huts near the lake.

Day 6: Ratti Gali Lake Exploration – Return to Sharda

Enjoy the stunning alpine Ratti Gali Lake (3,700m).
Trek back to Dowarian, then Jeep ride to Sharda.
Rest & relax in Sharda after the trek.

Day 7: Sharda to Arang Kel – The Hidden Paradise

Jeep to Kel, then 1-hour trek (or cable car ride) to Arang Kel.
Explore lush meadows & wooden cottages with views of snow-capped peaks.
Overnight in a cozy guesthouse.

Day 8: Arang Kel to Taobat – The Last Village of Neelum

Drive to Taobat (4-5 hours, 80 km).
Explore:
- Taobat Village – A remote paradise with breathtaking landscapes.
- Confluence of Neelum & Gagai Rivers.
Overnight stay in a wooden cabin in Taobat.

Day 9: Taobat to Islamabad – Farewell to Neelum Valley

Drive back to Islamabad (6-7 hours).
Visit:
- Rawal Lake – Enjoy a boat ride & sunset.
- Saidpur Village – Historic site with cafes & art galleries.
Overnight in Islamabad.