Valley

Arang Kel Neelum Valley

Neelum Arang Kel, Azad Jammu & Kashmir

Overview

Perched dramatically on a high hilltop plateau at an elevation of 2379 meters 7800 feet above sea level overlooking the deep Neelum River gorge Arang Kel is widely celebrated as the Pearl of Neelum Valley. Situated directly opposite Kel village in Upper Neelum District Azad Jammu and Kashmir Arang Kel is a serene car free alpine hamlet featuring verdant terraced agricultural fields lush green meadows traditional wooden Kashmiri log cabins and dense deodar pine forests. Framed by the soaring snow capped peaks of the Himalayan range the village is accessible via a thrilling cable car chairlift ride across the roaring Neelum River followed by a scenic thirty minute pine forest hiking trail. Offering a peaceful retreat away from urban noise Arang Kel serves as an idyllic destination for alpine camping nature walks photography and experiencing authentic high mountain Kashmiri village life.

Highlights

  • High altitude hilltop village and lush pastureland celebrated as the Pearl of Neelum Valley
  • Car free peaceful alpine sanctuary featuring green terraced fields and wooden log homes
  • Accessible via a thrilling cable car chairlift over Neelum River and a scenic pine forest trail
  • Panoramic 360 degree views of surrounding Himalayan snow peaks and deep river gorges
  • Premier destination for alpine wilderness camping nature photography and village walks

Things To Do

  • Experience the scenic cable car chairlift ride across the deep Neelum River gorge from Kel
  • Hike through cool pine and deodar forest trails up to the Arang Kel hilltop plateau
  • Walk across lush green village pastures and photograph traditional wooden Kashmiri cabins
  • Camp under clear starry night skies on high altitude pasture lawns facing snow peaks
  • Sip hot Kashmiri Kahwa tea while watching sunset over the surrounding mountain ridges

Local Transportation

Accessible from Kel via a 5 minute cable car chairlift ride across the Neelum River, followed by a steep 30 to 45 minute walk or hike along a paved forest trail.

Accommodation

Traditional wooden tourist guest houses, eco camping sites, and local villager homestays scattered across the hilltop pasture.

Food & Cuisine

Local wooden dhabas and lodge kitchens serve hot Kashmiri Kahwa tea, fresh flatbreads, chicken karahi, dal lentils, fresh dairy, and travel snacks.

Safety Information

Highly peaceful, safe, and welcoming village environment. Wear sturdy walking shoes with good grip for navigating the forest hiking trail.

Travel Tips

Leave heavy luggage at your hotel down in Kel bazaar and carry only light overnight backpacks up to Arang Kel for an easy hike.

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