Muzaffarabad to Sharda: Unveiling the Secrets of the Neelum Valley
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"
A Fresh Start in Muzaffarabad
After the wild storm I faced the previous day, waking up in Muzaffarabad felt like a new beginning. The air was crisp, and the golden morning sunlight bathed the city in warmth.
With a steaming cup of Kashmiri chai in hand, I sat on my guesthouse balcony, looking at the lush green hills surrounding the city. Today, I was heading into the heart of Neelum Valley, one of the most breathtaking regions in Pakistan.
After a quick breakfast of naan and omelet, I packed my bags and set off for Sharda, a beautiful town deep within the valley.
Into the Neelum Valley
The road from Muzaffarabad to Sharda was nothing short of magical. With the Neelum River flowing beside me and towering mountains in the background, I felt like I was driving through a postcard.
Every few kilometers, I passed through small villages, where children waved at my car and shopkeepers arranged colorful fruit stalls along the roadside. The hospitality of the locals made me feel at home.
A Quick Stop at Keran
Around midday, I reached Keran, a famous village on the banks of the Neelum River. This spot was particularly special because it directly faced Indian-administered Kashmir on the other side of the river.
Standing by the water’s edge, I could see homes and fields on the Indian side, so close yet separated by the natural border. It was a surreal experience, reminding me of how nature connects places beyond human-made boundaries.
The Mesmerizing Journey to Sharda
After spending some time in Keran, I continued towards Sharda. The roads became narrower, winding through dense forests and rocky cliffs. The further I drove, the more untouched and wild the landscape became.
Occasionally, I had to stop as herds of goats crossed the road, led by shepherds who had lived in these valleys for generations. Their simple yet peaceful lifestyle made me appreciate the beauty of slow living.
Exploring the Ancient Sharda Peeth Ruins
By late afternoon, I finally reached Sharda, a charming town surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
The most famous site here is the Sharda Peeth, the ruins of an ancient Buddhist and Hindu temple. As I walked through the stone remains, I imagined the scholars who once studied here centuries ago.
The place had an aura of mystery and wisdom, as if it still held the echoes of history.
A Peaceful Evening by the River
As the sun set, I found a quiet spot by the Neelum River. The water reflected the golden hues of the sky, creating a breathtaking scene.
I dipped my feet into the cool river and let the tranquility of the place sink in. It was moments like these that made my journey through Pakistan truly unforgettable.
A Warm Kashmiri Dinner
Back at my guesthouse, I enjoyed a traditional dinner of Gushtaba (meatballs in yogurt sauce) and rice. The rich flavors were the perfect way to end an adventurous day.
As I lay in bed that night, listening to the distant sounds of the river, I had no idea what awaited me the next day.
What’s Next? A Landslide Blocks the Road!
Tomorrow, I will continue my journey towards Tao Bat, one of the most beautiful yet remote places in Azad Kashmir. But things won’t be easy—a massive landslide will block my path, forcing me to find another way forward.
Stay tuned for the next part of my journey: "Sharda to Tao Bat: A Journey through the Picturesque Landscapes of Azad Kashmir".
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