Enchanting Neelum Valley: The Jewel of Pakistan

• Helloآداب
  [aadab]
• Goodbyeخدا حافظ
  [khuda hafiz]
• Yesہاں
  [haan]
• Noنہیں
  [nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeبراہ کرم
  [barah e karam]
• Thank youشکریہ
  [shukriya]
• Excuse me/Sorryمعاف کیجیے
  [maaf kijiye]
• How are you?آپ کیسے ہیں؟
  [aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ٹھیک ہوں، آپ سنا؟
  [theek hoon, aap suna?]
• Do you speak English?کیا آپ انگریزی بولتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
• I don't understandمجھے سمجھ نہیں آیا
  [mujhe samajh nahi aya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseبراہ کرم مینو دیکھنا چاہتا ہوں
  [barah e karam menu dekhna chahta hoon]
• I don't eat meatمیں گوشت نہیں کھاتا
  [mein gosht nahi khaata]
• Cheers!خوش رہئیں!
  [khush rahiye]
• I would like to pay, pleaseبراہ کرم ادائیگی کرنا چاہتا ہوں
  [barah e karam adaigi karna chahta hoon]

• Help!مدد!
  [madad!]
• Go away!چلے جائیں!
  [chale jaiye!]
• Call the Police!پولیس کو بلائیں!
  [police ko bulaiye!]
• Call a doctor!ڈاکٹر کو بلائیں!
  [doctor ko bulaiye!]
• I'm lostمیں گم ہو گیا ہوں
  [mein gum ho gaya hoon]
• I'm illمیں بیمار ہوں
  [mein beemar hoon]

• I'd like to buy...مجھے خریدنا ہے...
  [mujhe khareedna hai...]
• I'm just lookingمیں صرف دیکھ رہا ہوں
  [mein sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?یہ کتنا ہے؟
  [yeh kitna hai?]
• That's too expensiveیہ بہت مہنگا ہے
  [yeh bohat mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?کیا آپ قیمت کم کرسکتے ہیں؟
  [kya aap qeemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?وقت کیا ہوا ہے؟
  [waqt kya hua hai?]
• It's one o'clockایک بجے ہیں
  [aik baje hain]
• Half past (10)دس بجے کا آدھا
  [das baje ka aadha]
• Morningصبح
  [subah]
• Afternoonدوپہر
  [dopehar]
• Eveningشام
  [shaam]
• Yesterdayگزشتہ کل
  [guzishta kal]
• Todayآج
  [aaj]
• Tomorrowکل
  [kal]
• 1ایک
  [aik]
• 2دو
  [do]
• 3تین
  [teen]
• 4چار
  [chaar]
• 5پانچ
  [paanch]
• 6چھہ
  [chhe]
• 7سات
  [saat]
• 8آٹھ
  [aath]
• 9نو
  [no]
• 10دس
  [das]

• Where's a/the...?...کہاں ہے؟
  [...kahan hai?]
• What's the address?پتہ کیا ہے؟
  [pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?کیا آپ مجھے دکھا سکتے ہیں (نقشہ پر)؟
  [kya aap mujhe dikhha sakte hain (naqsha par)?]
• When's the next (bus)?اگلی (بس) کب ہے؟
  [agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)ایک ٹکٹ (کے لئے ....)
  [aik ticket (ke liye ....)]

Neelum Valley, nestled in the northern regions of Pakistan, has roots deep in antiquity. Archaeological findings indicate that the valley was inhabited by various ancient civilizations. Artifacts and inscriptions suggest the presence of early human settlements dating back thousands of years, indicating that the valley was a cradle of early human civilization.

During the medieval period, Neelum Valley was a crucial segment of the Silk Route, serving as a conduit for trade between Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent. The valley saw the movement of traders, explorers, and invaders, making it a melting pot of cultures and traditions. The remnants of ancient caravanserais and forts stand testament to its historical significance during this era.

The Mughal Empire, known for its grandeur and architectural marvels, left an indelible mark on Neelum Valley. The Mughals, enchanted by the valley’s natural beauty, often used it as a summer retreat. Mughal-era gardens, forts, and mosques, though in ruins, still narrate tales of the past. The intricate Mughal architectural styles can be observed in the remnants scattered throughout the valley.

The British colonial period brought significant administrative changes to Neelum Valley. The British, recognizing the strategic importance of the region, established various administrative posts and developed infrastructure. The remnants of colonial-era buildings and road networks are still visible, depicting the blend of local and British architectural styles.

The partition of British India in 1947 had a profound impact on Neelum Valley. The valley, like many other regions, experienced the turbulence of mass migrations and border disputes. The Line of Control (LoC) between Pakistan and India runs through the valley, significantly affecting the lives and culture of its inhabitants. Despite the challenges, the valley has preserved its unique cultural heritage.

In recent decades, Neelum Valley has emerged as a prominent tourist destination in Pakistan. The valley's pristine natural beauty, combined with its rich cultural and historical heritage, attracts thousands of visitors annually. Efforts are being made to preserve its historical sites and promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that the valley’s history and culture are celebrated and preserved for future generations.

Neelum Valley is located in the northern region of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. The nearest major city is Muzaffarabad, which is approximately 90 kilometers away. To get there, you can fly into Islamabad International Airport and then take a road trip to Muzaffarabad. From Muzaffarabad, you can hire a private car or take a local bus to reach Neelum Valley. The journey by road offers stunning views but can take up to 4-6 hours depending on road conditions and traffic.

Within Neelum Valley, transportation options include local buses, jeeps, and private cars. Due to the rugged terrain, it is advisable to hire a 4x4 vehicle for a more comfortable and safe journey, especially if you plan to visit remote areas. Local jeeps are a popular choice for tourists and are available for hire in major towns such as Sharda and Kel. Walking and trekking are also common ways to explore the valley's scenic beauty.

The official currency in Pakistan is the Pakistani Rupee (PKR). While some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit cards, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas of Neelum Valley. ATMs are available in Muzaffarabad and major towns within the valley, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash beforehand to ensure you have enough funds for your entire trip.

Neelum Valley is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid traveling alone at night and stay aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure. Some areas near the Line of Control (LoC) with India can be sensitive, so always check the latest travel advisories and avoid restricted zones. Interactions with locals are usually friendly, but it is best to be respectful of cultural norms.

In case of emergency, dial 15 for police assistance and 1122 for medical emergencies. The main hospital in Muzaffarabad can handle serious medical issues, while smaller clinics are available in towns like Sharda and Kel for minor health concerns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in major towns for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering mosques and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'Assalamu Alaikum.' A handshake is common among men, while women may prefer a nod or verbal greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Neelum Valley like a local, visit the local bazaars where you can buy traditional Kashmiri handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with locals, as they are often welcoming and eager to share stories about their culture and heritage. Don't miss visiting the historical sites such as Sharda University ruins and the picturesque Arang Kel village. For a unique experience, try a traditional Kashmiri meal, such as Rogan Josh or Yakhni, at a local eatery.