4-Day Azad Kashmir Tour from Islamabad

Departure 8:00am from Islamabad via the Murree Expressway and Kohala Bridge. Cross into Azad Jammu and Kashmir at Kohala — the bridge over the Jhelum River marks the administrative boundary. Arrive Muzaffarabad in approximately 3 hours.

Muzaffarabad, the capital of AJK, sits at the confluence of the Jhelum and Neelum Rivers. Visit the Red Fort (Patthar Qila) overlooking the river confluence, and explore the colourful local bazaar. Afternoon: drive to Keran via the Neelum Valley road — first taste of the lush valley. Return to Muzaffarabad. Overnight Muzaffarabad.

• Drive: ~155 km, 3 hours
• Highlights: Kohala Bridge, Red Fort, Neelum River first views

Full day drive through the Neelum Valley — one of Pakistan's most beautiful river valleys, the Neelum River running turquoise alongside the road for 160km. Pass through village after village of traditional Kashmiri wooden architecture, with dense pine and maple forests on the slopes above.

Arrive Keran (80km from Muzaffarabad) — a scenic town straddling the Line of Control, where the river separates Pakistan from Indian-administered Kashmir. Continue to Sharda — the furthest accessible point for most visitors, home to the ruins of the ancient Sharada Peeth temple and the Sharda University ruins. Overnight Sharda.

• Drive: ~160 km, 4–5 hours through the valley
• Highlights: Neelum Valley road, Keran, Sharda ruins, river views

Option A — Ratti Gali Lake (July–September only): From Sharda, hire a local jeep to Rati Gali base (20km rough track). Trek 2–3 hours to Ratti Gali Lake at 3,600m — one of Pakistan's most beautiful alpine lakes, completely surrounded by glaciers and snow peaks. Return to Sharda by late afternoon. Begin drive back toward Muzaffarabad.

Option B — Rawalakot & Banjosa Lake (year-round): Return from Sharda toward Muzaffarabad, then branch south through the hills to Rawalakot — a charming AJK hill town. Visit Banjosa Lake nearby — a serene artificial lake surrounded by pine forest. Overnight Rawalakot or Muzaffarabad.

• Option A Highlights: Ratti Gali Lake — one of Pakistan's best alpine lakes
• Option B Highlights: Rawalakot town, Banjosa Lake, Sudhan Gali

Morning: Final exploration of Muzaffarabad — visit the Muzaffarabad Museum if time permits, or a peaceful walk along the Neelum River bank. Shop for local Kashmiri handicrafts, dried fruits, and walnuts in the main bazaar.

Depart Muzaffarabad after lunch. Return to Islamabad via Kohala Bridge and Murree Expressway — approximately 3 hours. Arrive Islamabad by 5:00–6:00pm. Drop at your door.

• Drive: ~155 km, 3 hours
• Highlights: Muzaffarabad bazaar, Kashmiri handicrafts, Neelum River farewell views