Sharda Neelum Valley
Sharda is a historic academic hub in Neelum Valley famous for the ancient Sharda Peeth temple ruins picturesque Neelum River views and pine forests.
ExploreMuzaffarabad City
Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu & Kashmir
Overview
Nestled at the scenic confluence of the roaring Neelum River and Jhelum River Muzaffarabad serves as the bustling capital city and administrative heart of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Situated at an elevation of 737 meters above sea level the city acts as the primary mountain gateway to Neelum Valley Jhelum Valley and Pir Chinasi. Named after Sultan Muzaffar Khan of the Bomba dynasty Muzaffarabad is rich in political and historic significance featuring prominent heritage landmarks like the 16th century Red Fort also known as Muzaffarabad Fort and the historic Black Fort. Surrounded by lush green mountain slopes bustling traditional handicraft bazaars and modern suspension bridges across turquoise river channels Muzaffarabad offers travelers an ideal blend of Kashmir valley culture delicious regional cuisine historic monuments and central hub accessibility for exploring upper AJ and K.
Highlights
- Capital city and administrative capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir AJ and K
- Dramatic natural confluence point where the turquoise Neelum River meets the Jhelum River
- Historical 16th century Red Fort Muzaffarabad Fort built by the Bomba Dynasty
- Primary transit gateway connecting Islamabad to Neelum Valley and Jhelum Valley
- Vibrant local mountain bazaars selling traditional Kashmiri shawls woodwork and spices
Things To Do
- Visit Domel to witness the scenic confluence point of the Neelum and Jhelum rivers
- Explore the ancient stone walls and historic ruins of the 16th century Red Fort
- Shop for authentic Kashmiri embroidery Pashmina shawls and carved wooden crafts in local bazaars
- Drive up to Pir Chinasi peak for sweeping high angle views over Muzaffarabad city valley
- Enjoy hot Kashmiri tea and fresh fried river fish at riverside eateries along Neelum Road
Local Transportation
Easily accessible via a well paved 3.5 to 4 hour drive 138 km from Islamabad via Murree Express Highway or Abbottabad route.
Accommodation
Pearl Continental PC Hotel Muzaffarabad, Sangam Hotel, Kashmir Lodge, and numerous mid range tourist inns along Neelum Road.
Food & Cuisine
Traditional Kashmiri cuisine including Kulcha bakery bread, Kashmiri Kahwa tea, Gushtaba, Rista, chicken karahi, and fresh river trout or carp.
Safety Information
Safe, peaceful, highly accessible, and family friendly capital city with well developed urban infrastructure and medical facilities.
Travel Tips
Muzaffarabad serves as the best fuel, ATM, and provision restock point before driving deeper into upper Neelum Valley.