Taobat: Pakistan’s Hidden Gem in Neelum Valley

Farooq Ahmed/Aftab Zahoor

Neelum Valley: Pakistan is blessed with a wealth of natural beauty, ranging from the coastal shores of Karachi to the towering peaks of Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Among these, the Neelum Valley, located in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), stands out for its breathtaking landscapes, and one of its most picturesque spots is Taobat.

Nestled in the Gurez Valley, Taobat lies along the serene banks of the Neelum River, near the Line of Control.

The valley, about 200 kilometers from Muzaffarabad and 39 kilometers from Kel, is home to enchanting views that have mesmerized visitors for centuries.

British author Sir Roper Walter Lawrence, in his 1895 book The Valley of Kashmir, described it as “the most beautiful scene in all of Kashmir,” where the tourmaline waters of the Kishenganga River, now known as the Neelum River, are framed by majestic mountains. Over 130 years later, Taobat’s beauty remains as captivating as ever.

The journey to Taobat from Kel is an adventure in itself, offering tourists awe-inspiring views as they pass through charming villages like Machhal, Phulwai, Halmat, Janawai, Sardari, and Makroon.

The road winds through wooden cottages, cascading waterfalls, flower-filled meadows, and lush forests, creating a picture-perfect scene of ‘Heaven on Earth’.

Sharda, located on the way to Taobat, is another must-see spot, known for its picturesque landscape, bubbling springs, and ancient ruins of a Buddhist university—once a seat of knowledge and wisdom.

“Once you enter Neelum Valley, the beauty is overwhelming,” said Rashid Mahmood, a tourist from Islamabad. “The bumpy roads only add to the thrill, with nature surrounding you at every turn. It’s a journey that leaves an unforgettable mark on your mind.”

The rugged terrain requires a jeep to traverse the road from Kel to Taobat. Along the way, scenes of traditional rural life unfold: men grazing cattle and working on farms, while women in long black velvet gowns prepare food and stockpile wood for the harsh winters. The area’s primitive charm draws visitors into a simpler, more authentic way of life.

Taobat transforms into a snow-covered wonderland during the six-month winter season, from October to April. “Our winters are harsh, with snow burying our homes and roads from December to March,” said Nasir Ali, a local resident. “We have to stock up on supplies in the summer to survive the winter months.”

The local economy primarily relies on farming, with crops like corn, beans, potatoes, and vegetables, and tourism, which provides additional income for many families.

Despite the challenges of winter, Taobat’s unspoiled beauty continues to draw visitors seeking an escape into nature’s wonders.

For those looking to experience the true grandeur of Pakistan’s natural landscapes, Taobat remains an unforgettable destination.

Lacking Basic Amenities

Despite being one of the most popular tourist destinations in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Taobat, located in the far-flung Neelum Valley, still lacks many essential facilities.

Basic amenities like well-equipped hospitals, paved roads, natural gas, and higher education institutes are scarce in the area.

“Although 60 percent of tourists visiting Kashmir come to Taobat, the region still suffers from a lack of basic services,” said Nasir Ali, a local resident. “Even for communication, tourists need to purchase special Scom SIM cards as other networks do not operate here.”

Recognizing Taobat’s growing appeal to tourists, the AJK government has taken steps to enhance visitor safety and convenience.

Measures include the establishment of a tourist police patrol for security and the distribution of pamphlets providing travel and accommodation information.

“We have two government-run lodging facilities here—one operated by the Forest Department and a hut by the local government,” said Khawaja Raees, Publicity Officer in the AJK Tourism Department.

“In addition, there are around 20 private guest houses available for tourists.”

Raees, a native of Neelum Valley, also noted that an eight-kilometer stretch of road from Kel has recently been constructed, though a 25-kilometer jeep track still requires repairs.

Despite the challenges posed by weather, we are committed to promoting eco-tourism in this pristine, pollution-free area, where tourists can enjoy organic food and stunning views.”

One of the highlights of Taobat is a long, majestic bridge over the roaring Neelum River, which connects to an unpaved road leading to lush meadows. Beyond this point, tourists must trek to explore the area, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the peaceful, natural surroundings.

Dense forests, chirping birds, blooming flowers, and babbling rivers create an enchanting atmosphere, complemented by the warmth and simplicity of the local people.

For nature lovers, white daisies blooming in the meadows evoke the beauty of William Wordsworth’s “golden daffodils,” while the shady trees are reminiscent of William Shakespeare’s Under the Greenwood Tree.

Tourists who have visited Taobat describe it as a place of unmatched serenity, urging anyone who can afford the journey to experience its natural beauty and the calming effect it has on the soul.

The feature report was released by APP.