Sharda Valley Azad Kashmir is truly one of the most enchanting spots in Neelum Valley. With its serene riverside vistas, verdant mountains, and rich historical significance, this valley draws in thousands of visitors each year. This Sharda Valley Travel Guide is designed to help you navigate the area effortlessly and savor every moment of your adventure.
Location & Landscape
Sharda is a quaint hill station nestled in Neelum Valley, about 136 km from Muzaffarabad, sitting at an elevation of 1,981 meters. It rests at the base of the majestic Sharda and Nardi peaks and is celebrated for its lush green hills, charming wooden homes, and the meandering Neelum River. The valley also boasts the ancient ruins of Sharada Peeth, a historic center of learning dating back to the 9th century. Sharda is conveniently reachable from Muzaffarabad and offers a variety of hotels and guesthouses for travelers.
Best Time to Visit
Every season brings its own unique charm:
March to October – Perfect for sightseeing and continuing your journey to Kel and Arang Kel.
July to September – The prime time for trekking and exploring jeep routes.
Winter (December–February) – Heavy snowfall can block roads, making travel quite challenging.
For the best weather and lush greenery, summer is definitely the ideal time to visit.
How to Reach Sharda Valley Azad Kashmir
From Islamabad
Distance: 263 km
Travel Time: 7 to 8 hours
Route: Islamabad → Murree / Kohala → Muzaffarabad → Neelum Valley Road → Sharda
From Muzaffarabad
Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 4 to 5 hours
Route: Muzaffarabad → Athmuqam → Keran → Sharda
The whole trip follows the Neelum River, treating you to breathtaking views the entire way.
Where to Stay in Sharda Valley
Sharda has a variety of cozy hotels and resorts to fit every budget. Here are some popular choices:
- Shangrila Sharda Resort
- Markhor Resort Sharda
- Wadi Resort Sharda
- Sharda Residency
- Neelum Star River Sharda
Most accommodations boast stunning river or mountain views and are conveniently located near local attractions.
Things to Do in Sharda Valley
- Check Out the Sharada Peeth Ruins – This historic temple and ancient learning center offers picturesque views of the river.
- Stroll Through Sharda Old Bridge & Local Bazaar – Take in the charming wooden architecture, savor local snacks, and do some shopping.
- Visit Keran, Kutton & Upper Neelum (on the way) – These spots are known for their beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints.
- Head to Kel & Arang Kel – Sharda is your main stop before reaching Kel. From there, hop on the chairlift and hike to the stunning Arang Kel.
- Enjoy Riverside Picnics – Unwind by the river, snap some photos, or engage in light activities with local guides.
Culture & Language
The folks in Sharda are warm, welcoming, and deeply rooted in their traditions. The common languages spoken here include:
– Urdu
– Kashmiri
– Hindko
– Pahari
You’ll also find lovely handmade woodwork and woolen shawls as popular local craft.
Mobile & Internet Services in Sharda Valley Azad Kashmir
When it comes to reliable connectivity in Sharda and the stunning Neelum Valley, SCOM takes the crown. As the official network for AJK and the Northern Areas, it offers solid 2G, 3G, and 4G services with impressive coverage.
In contrast, other networks like Jazz, Zong, Ufone, and Telenor often face challenges here. You might find their signals weak or even non-existent. While Ufone can sometimes connect while roaming in certain areas, internet access is usually a no-go. So, if you want a hassle-free and connected experience, SCOM is definitely your best bet.
Tour Packages & Local Guides
There are plenty of tour companies that provide both group and private tours to places like Keran, Sharda, Kel, and Arang Kel. Local guides can be incredibly helpful for discovering the wonders of Sharada Peeth or venturing further into the upper Neelum Valley.
Vibes Verdict
Sharda Valley Azad Kashmir is a beautiful mix of nature, culture, and history. Whether you’re looking to explore ancient sites, enjoy serene evenings by the river, or kick off your adventure towards Kel and Arang Kel, this enchanting valley never lets you down. With its tranquil vibe and timeless allure, Sharda Valley Azad Kashmir is truly a must-visit destination.
Also read, Taobat Neelum Valley Travel Guide—Explore the Last Village of AJK
FAQs for Sharda Valley Azad Kashmir
The ideal time to explore Sharda Valley is between March and October. During the summer months, you’ll be greeted by vibrant greenery, while from July to September, it’s perfect for trekking and jeep adventures. Keep in mind that winter brings heavy snowfall, which can make travel quite challenging.
If you’re coming from Islamabad, it’s about 263 km (a 7–8 hour journey) through Murree, then onto Muzaffarabad and the Neelum Valley Road. From Muzaffarabad, it’s a shorter trip of 130 km (around 4–5 hours) via Athmuqam, Keran, and finally to Sharda.
Absolutely! You can choose from several great places to stay, including Shangrila Sharda Resort, Markhor Resort Sharda, Wadi Resort, Sharda Residency,and Neelum Star River Sharda. Most of these spots offer stunning views of either the river or the mountains.
SCOM is your best bet for reliable service, providing 2G, 3G, and 4G coverage. Other networks like Jazz, Zong, Ufone, and Telenor might have weak signals or could be completely out of service.
You won’t want to miss the Sharada Peeth Ruins, the Sharda Old Bridge & Bazaar, and the picturesque villages of Keran and Kutton. Enjoy riverside picnics and consider taking trips to Kel and Arang Kel for some unforgettable experiences.
