Neelum Valley facts for kids

Neelum Valley is a beautiful area located in the northern part of Azad Kashmir, Pakistan. It's known for its stunning natural beauty, with green valleys, tall mountains, and the clear Neelum River flowing through it. This valley is a popular spot for tourists who want to explore places like Arang Kel, Kel, Athmuqam, and Dowarian.

Discovering Neelum Valley's Beauty

Neelum Valley stretches for about 240 kilometers (150 miles) from the town of Muzaffarabad to Taobat. The valley gets its name from the Neelum River, which flows alongside it. This river is famous for its bright blue color, especially in certain parts of the year. The valley is surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains, making it a truly breathtaking place.

Where is Neelum Valley Located?

Neelum Valley is found in the region of Azad Kashmir, which is part of Pakistan. It's quite far north, close to the border with India. The valley is a long, narrow strip of land that follows the path of the Neelum River. Its remote location helps keep its natural environment very well preserved.

The Neelum River: A Lifeline

The Neelum River is the heart of the valley. It starts high in the mountains and flows down, providing water for the farms and villages along its banks. The river is also a great place for fishing, especially for trout. Its clear, cool waters add to the valley's peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring Neelum Valley's Attractions

Neelum Valley offers many exciting places to visit, each with its own special charm. From high mountain meadows to peaceful villages, there's a lot to see and do.

Arang Kel: A Hidden Gem

Arang Kel is a small village located high above the town of Kel. To reach it, visitors often take a chairlift and then hike through beautiful forests. Arang Kel is famous for its lush green meadows and traditional wooden houses. It feels like a hidden paradise, perfect for nature lovers.

Kel: Gateway to the Heights

Kel is a larger town in the Neelum Valley and often serves as a base for exploring higher areas like Arang Kel. It has basic facilities for tourists and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. From Kel, many hiking trails lead to other scenic spots.

Athmuqam: The First Stop

Athmuqam is one of the first major towns you reach when entering Neelum Valley from Muzaffarabad. It's an important administrative center and a good place to stop for supplies or a meal. The town offers beautiful views of the river and the valley.

Dowarian: A Scenic Retreat

Dowarian is another picturesque village in the valley. It's known for its peaceful environment and stunning landscapes. Like many places in Neelum Valley, Dowarian is surrounded by dense forests and offers great opportunities for photography and relaxation.

Nature and Wildlife in Neelum Valley

Neelum Valley is rich in natural beauty, with diverse plants and animals. The valley's varied landscape, from riverbanks to high mountain slopes, supports many different species.

Plants and Trees of the Valley

The valley is covered with thick forests, mostly made up of pine, fir, and deodar trees. In spring and summer, the meadows burst with colorful wildflowers. Many types of medicinal plants also grow here, used by local communities for traditional remedies.

Animals Living in Neelum Valley

The forests and mountains of Neelum Valley are home to various wild animals. You might spot animals like the Himalayan brown bear, Musk deer, and different types of wild goats and sheep. Birdwatchers can also enjoy seeing many species of birds, including colorful pheasants.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

Neelum Valley experiences different seasons, each offering a unique experience for visitors.

Summer in the Valley

Summers (from May to September) are mild and pleasant, making it the best time to visit. The weather is perfect for hiking, exploring, and enjoying the green landscapes. Temperatures are comfortable, usually ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).

Winter in the Valley

Winters (from October to April) are very cold, with heavy snowfall. Many areas become difficult to access due to snow. While beautiful, winter travel requires special preparation and is mostly for those who enjoy snowy landscapes and winter sports.

The 2005 Kashmir Earthquake

In 2005, a powerful earthquake struck the Kashmir region, including parts of Neelum Valley. This natural event caused significant damage to buildings and roads. However, the people of Neelum Valley showed great strength and worked hard to rebuild their communities. Today, the valley has largely recovered, and its natural beauty continues to attract visitors.

Images for kids

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  A field of maize in Dosut, Neelum Valley.