How long is Neelum Valley Road?

How long is Neelum Valley Road?

Pakistan, asia

Length

149 km

Elevation

2,097 m

Difficulty

extreme

Best Season

Year-round

Get ready for an epic adventure on Neelum Valley Road! This wild, mostly unpaved track stretches for 149 km (92.58 miles) through Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, snaking alongside Kaghan Valley and right next to the Line of Control (LOC).

You'll start in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir, and climb to Kel, a village sitting pretty at 2,097 meters above sea level. Kel's got you covered with an army base, a hospital, phone service, and shops for supplies.

Fair warning: this route is a real challenge! A 4x4 is a must to handle the rough terrain left by the 2005 earthquake. Beyond Kel, you'll definitely need a high-clearance 4WD vehicle to keep going. The section from Keran to Kel isn't kind to low-riding cars.

Winter here is no joke. The road turns extreme, passable only in good weather, and often blocked by heavy snow. Landslides are common, so be prepared for freezing temps and potential food shortages if you get stuck.

But is it worth it? Absolutely! You're diving into Neelum Valley, a slice of paradise with stunning blue waters, endless valleys, and lush greenery. They don't call it "Heaven on Earth" for nothing!

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Road Details

Country
Pakistan
Continent
asia
Length
149 km
Max Elevation
2,097 m
Difficulty
extreme

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