Neelum Valley - Mother Nature has bestowed humanity with an abundance of treasures, from snow-clad peaks to meandering rivers, and most notably, the tranquil expanse of lush green plains dotted with towering pine trees.

In the rich tapestry of Pakistan's tourism heritage, the Himalayan region of Jammu and Kashmir stands tall with its mountainous and semi-hilly landscapes, where nature paints picturesque vistas with its rivers, waterfalls, lakes, streams, and valleys.

Among these captivating landscapes, one particular valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) stands out as a veritable "Paradise on Earth" – the Neelum Valley, renowned as one of the most beautiful and soothing tourist destinations in the Kashmir region.

Named after the meandering blue Neelum River, which gracefully snakes its way through the valley, the Neelum Valley covers an area of 1398 square kilometers and serves as the district headquarters in Muzaffarabad, with a population exceeding 200,000 residents. Some historical accounts even suggest that the name is derived from a precious gemstone known as "Neelum."

Situated to the north and northeast of Muzaffarabad, the Neelum Valley runs parallel to the Kaghan Valley and boasts unparalleled natural beauty, characterized by snow-covered peaks, the lively Neelum River, and the beloved trout fish.

Rashid Mahmood, a tourist from Islamabad, enthused, "This is truly a gift from Nature. Its enchanting vistas and serene atmosphere beckon visitors to return here time and time again."

He also urged authorities to highlight such breathtaking tourist spots in the country while ensuring easy access and affordable accommodations in the valley to promote tourism in AJK.

Enveloped in breathtaking beauty, the Neelum Valley attracts hundreds of thousands of local and foreign tourists each summer, who embark on their journeys to this region via the adjacent Kaghan Valley or the Noori Top. There are also several minor passes that provide access to the area.

Situated approximately 43 kilometers from the capital of AJK, Muzaffarabad, the region is renowned for its fruits and valuable mineral resources, including various mines at specific locations.

The minerals extracted from these mines, along with fruits such as apples, apricots, walnuts, and plums, are distributed to various parts of the country.

The Neelam Valley holds immense potential as a tourism destination, and it has the capacity to significantly improve the livelihoods of the local population if it is transformed into an international tourism hotspot, complete with world-class facilities and opportunities for visitors.

Syed Waqas Ali Kousar, an experienced academician from Poonch division in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, emphasized the need for focusing on sustainable economic development by promoting tourism and empowering women and existing and aspiring entrepreneurs in the region.

Kousar pointed out, "Even if there are budget constraints, the state government can engage the private sector in developing the area through public-private partnerships."

"This initiative would not only attract more tourists but also generate visible economic activity," he added. He also suggested encouraging local residents to invest in this sector for the betterment of their own people.

The snow-covered mountains during winter, with the Neelum River flowing through the heart of the valley, never fail to captivate tourists with Nature's countless treasures.

Known for adventure tourism, the valley attracts thousands of tourists in all seasons, including the chilly winter months.

Furthermore, it is famed for its delightful picnic spots such as Shounter Pass, Chita Khata, Ratti Gali, Baboon, Noori Top, Sharda, Kel, and Surgon.

Authmuqam, Sharda, and Kel are densely populated towns in the Neelam Valley, each possessing its own unique charm and preserving centuries-old cultural heritage from the State of Jammu and Kashmir.

Authmuqam derives its name from being the eighth station on the journey from Muzaffarabad to the upper Neelum Valley, where hiking trails meander through the surrounding mountains.

Sharda, another picturesque town, is renowned for its ancient "Sharda University," once nestled amidst lush green plains along the serene Neelum River. The remnants of this university serve as a reminder of its historical significance as a center of higher learning for students from China, East Asia, and Central Asia.

The region is also celebrated for its handicrafts and nut wood products, which serve as major sources of income for the local populace.