What is Special About the Neelum Valley?
The Neelum Valley is one of the most scenic and beautiful valleys in Pakistan. It is located in the north-eastern part of the country and extends for about 240 kilometers. The valley is flanked by mountains on both sides and has running streams, forests and meadows.
The climate in the valley is cool in summers and cold in winters. Snowfall is common in winter season. There are many tourist spots in the valley including Kel, Kutton, Jagran, Nardiyan, Sharda and Arang Kel.
One can also visit Neelum Jhelum Hydro Power Plant which is one of the largest hydro power plants in Pakistan.
What is the Introduction of Neelum Valley?
Neelum Valley is a valley located in the Azad Kashmir region of Pakistan. The valley is about 240 kilometres long and lies between the towns of Kel and Athmuqam. Neelum Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Pakistan and is known for its lush green mountains, crystal clear rivers and streams, picturesque lakes, and dense forests.
The name Neelum comes from the Sanskrit word for blue gemstone (nilam), which is found in abundance in the valley. The people of Neelum Valley are mostly ethnically Pashtun and speak Pashto as their first language. However, there is a significant minority of people who belong to other ethnic groups such as Kashmiris, Punjabis, Sindhis, Balochis, etc., and speak their respective languages.
The climate of Neelum Valley varies depending on elevation. In the lower parts of the valley (up to 2,000 metres above sea level), the climate is tropical with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. As one goes higher up into the mountains (2,000-3,500 metres), the temperature drops to an average of 15 degrees Celsius.
Above 3,500 metres it becomes cold enough for snowfall to occur. Tourism is an important part of Neelum Valley’s economy. Every year thousands of tourists from all over Pakistan and abroad come to enjoy its natural beauty and partake in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, etc.
The Pakistani government has also developed several tourist resorts in recent years to provide better facilities for visitors. Overall, Neelum Valley is a stunningly beautiful place that should definitely be on everyone’s list of must-visit destinations in Pakistan!