Sharda to Tao Bat: A Journey through the Picturesque Landscapes of Azad Kashmir
By Emma Wilson
Missed the Previous Parts?
Follow my journey from the beginning:
- Day 1: "Pakistan, Here I Come! - Preparing for the Ultimate Road Trip"
- Day 2: "Islamabad to Murree: A Scenic Drive through the Hills"
- Day 3: "Murree to Kohala: Exploring the Kaghan Valley’s Hidden Gems"
- Day 4: "Kohala to Muzaffarabad: Discovering Azad Kashmir’s Capital City"
- Day 5: "Muzaffarabad to Sharda: Unveiling the Secrets of the Neelum Valley"
Waking Up in the Heart of the Neelum Valley
I woke up to the soothing sound of the Neelum River flowing gently outside my window. The chilly morning air carried the fresh scent of pine trees, a reminder that I was deep in the mountains of Azad Kashmir.
After a simple yet delicious breakfast of parathas and chai, I packed my bags for what was supposed to be a smooth drive to Tao Bat. But as I would soon find out, nature had other plans.
The Scenic Drive to Tao Bat
The road from Sharda to Tao Bat is one of the most stunning yet challenging routes in Pakistan. Winding through dense forests, riverside cliffs, and lush green meadows, every turn offered breathtaking views.
The drive was peaceful at first. I passed small villages where locals waved and smiled, and shepherds guided their flocks across the narrow road.
But just when I thought this would be a calm and scenic journey, disaster struck.
A Landslide Blocks the Road!
As I rounded a sharp curve, I suddenly slammed on the brakes—a massive landslide had completely blocked the road ahead!
Rocks, mud, and broken tree trunks lay scattered across the path, making it impossible to drive forward. A few other travelers had also stopped, staring at the scene in frustration.
Finding Another Way
Panic set in for a moment. Was this the end of my journey? Would I have to turn back?
Then, a local driver suggested an alternative—a rough, unpaved mountain path that bypassed the landslide. But there was a catch: it was narrow, steep, and risky.
With no other choice, I took a deep breath and decided to go for it.
A White-Knuckle Drive Through the Mountains
The detour was nothing short of terrifying. The dirt track was just wide enough for my car, with a sheer drop on one side and towering rocks on the other.
My heart pounded as I slowly maneuvered my way through the rugged path. Every bump and slip of the tires sent a surge of adrenaline through my veins.
At one point, I had to stop to let a group of mules carrying supplies pass by. Their handlers gave me a reassuring nod, as if to say, "You'll be fine."
Reaching Tao Bat – A Hidden Paradise
After what felt like hours, I finally made it back onto the main road and continued towards Tao Bat. As I approached the village, I was greeted with a scene straight out of a fairy tale.
Tao Bat was unlike anything I had ever seen. Rolling green fields stretched as far as the eye could see, dotted with wooden houses and grazing cattle. Snow-capped peaks towered in the distance, completing the picture-perfect scenery.
I parked my car and stepped out, taking a deep breath of the fresh mountain air. The journey had been tough, but reaching this hidden paradise made it all worth it.
A Warm Welcome from the Locals
As I walked through the village, a group of local children ran up to me, excitedly asking where I was from. Their curiosity and friendliness immediately put me at ease.
A kind elderly woman invited me to her home, where I was served a hot bowl of mutton stew. Sitting by the fireplace, sharing stories with the locals, I felt a deep sense of belonging.
Stargazing Under the Kashmir Sky
That night, I lay on a grassy hill, staring up at a sky filled with millions of stars. The silence was absolute, except for the occasional rustling of the trees.
It was a moment of pure peace, a reminder of how vast and beautiful the world truly is.
What’s Next? A Wild Encounter Awaits
As I drifted off to sleep, I had no idea that the next day would bring one of the most unexpected and thrilling encounters of my trip.
Stay tuned for the next part of my journey: "Tao Bat: Exploring the Unspoiled Beauty of Azad Kashmir's Hidden Paradise", where I come face to face with a wild animal in the mountains
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