Kohala to Muzaffarabad: Discovering Azad Kashmir’s Capital City
By Emma Wilson
Missed the Previous Parts?
Catch up on my journey so far:
- 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"
Waking Up to the Sound of the River
The gentle sound of the Jhelum River flowing outside my window woke me up. It was a refreshing start to the day after the terrifying landslide I had faced the previous evening.
After a hot cup of Kashmiri chai and a light breakfast, I packed my bags, ready for my next destination—Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir.
Hitting the Road to Muzaffarabad
By 9 AM, I was back on the road, driving through scenic landscapes. The road from Kohala to Muzaffarabad was smooth, with towering green mountains on one side and the sparkling Jhelum River on the other.
The beauty of this route was indescribable—every turn revealed breathtaking views of valleys, rivers, and small villages. But little did I know that I was about to face the biggest challenge of my journey.
The Sudden Storm: Nature’s Wild Side
As I drove closer to Muzaffarabad, dark clouds started gathering in the sky. The wind picked up, rustling the trees violently.
Within minutes, heavy rain poured down, reducing visibility. The roads became slippery, and I could barely see the cars ahead.
Then came the thunder and lightning, shaking the sky. The sound of raindrops pounding against my windshield was deafening.
Struggling to Stay on the Road
With my hands tightly gripping the steering wheel, I slowed down and carefully navigated through the storm.
At one point, a massive gust of wind shook my SUV, making it feel like it would be pushed off the road! My heart raced as I focused on keeping control.
I finally spotted a small roadside shelter where a few other vehicles had stopped. I quickly pulled over, taking a deep breath.
As I sat there, watching the storm rage outside, I realized how unpredictable nature can be. In just a few hours, I had gone from a peaceful morning by the river to facing one of the wildest storms of my life.
Arriving in Muzaffarabad
After what felt like an eternity, the storm eased. The rain slowed down, and I cautiously resumed my journey.
By afternoon, I reached Muzaffarabad, the vibrant capital of Azad Kashmir. The city was alive with bustling markets, historical sites, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
I checked into a comfortable guesthouse and, after freshening up, stepped out to explore the city.
Exploring Muzaffarabad’s Attractions
Red Fort (Chak Fort)
My first stop was the Red Fort, an ancient structure that stood as a reminder of Kashmir’s rich history. Walking through its old stone walls, I felt like I had stepped back in time.
Pir Chinasi
Next, I visited Pir Chinasi, a breathtaking hilltop that offered a panoramic view of Muzaffarabad. The fresh mountain air and scenic beauty made it worth the climb.
A Surprising Wedding Procession
As I walked through the city, I stumbled upon a traditional Kashmiri wedding procession! The vibrant colors, the rhythmic drumming, and the joyful dancing of the guests made it an unforgettable sight.
A friendly local explained some of the customs to me, and I couldn’t help but smile at the warmth of the people here.
A Night to Remember
After a long and adventurous day, I enjoyed a delicious dinner of Kashmiri pulao and kebabs. The flavors were rich and comforting.
Back at my guesthouse, I sat by the window, watching the lights of Muzaffarabad twinkle in the distance. The storm had tested my patience and courage, but I had made it through.
What’s Next? Into the Heart of Neelum Valley
Tomorrow, I leave for Sharda, deep in the Neelum Valley. But the journey will not be easy—the roads will get rougher, and the adventure will become even more thrilling.
Stay tuned for the next part of my journey: "Muzaffarabad to Sharda: Unveiling the Secrets of the Neelum Valley".
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