Peer Chanasi, also known as Pir Chanasi, is famous for its shrine of Pir Chanas, who is believed to have lived and is buried on top of the hill. The location offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Neelum Valley, the Jhelum Valley, and the Abbottabad Mountains. The temperature at Peer Chanasi is moderate in summer and can drop to as low as -20 degrees Celsius in winter. Each year, thousands of tourists visit Peer Chanasi—some in search of chilly weather and others to pay homage at the tomb of Peer Chanas.
Peer Chanasi is a scenic destination located approximately 35 kilometers, or about an hour and a half drive, from Muzaffarabad. In the summer, temperatures range from 15 to 20 degrees Celsius, making it a pleasant getaway. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, the tomb of Peer Chanasi, and hills that seem to touch the clouds. However, remember that direct sunlight can cause sunburn, so proper precautions are recommended.
Shaheed Gali is one of the most attractive spots near Muzaffarabad, located directly opposite Peer Chanasi Peak. It is renowned for its cool weather and dense forests. While temperatures in Muzaffarabad can reach 38 degrees Celsius, Shaheed Gali typically enjoys temperatures ranging from 22 to 26 degrees Celsius. The local population has a simple lifestyle, which many tourists find appealing.
In contrast, Shaheed Gali is a nearby location just 15 kilometers away, roughly a one-hour drive from Muzaffarabad. The summer temperatures here are slightly warmer, ranging from 15 to 25 C. Shaheed Gali offers a glimpse of local villages and stunning mountain views, often accompanied by cloudy weather. It has very few confrontational issues, making it a peaceful option for travelers.
Kashmir Waterfall is a popular destination in Muzaffarabad, known for its stunning waterfall. To reach the site, visitors must cross a river. Although the waterfall is located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), the best access is from the Muzaffarabad side of Azad Kashmir. A small dhabba (food stall) has been set up for tourists, offering local snacks such as pakoras, samosas, and trout fish. Tire tubes are available for use in the swimming areas.
Lastly, the Kashmir Waterfall, located 20 kilometers from Muzaffarabad, features a warmer summer climate, with temperatures reaching between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius. This spot is famous for its beautiful waterfall and swimming pool; however, caution is advised, as the nearby river can be dangerous and requires close supervision of children.
The Village View Restaurant is known for its traditional dishes, including sabzi (vegetables), makai ki roti (corn flatbread), and lassi (yogurt drink). Situated on the banks of the Jhelum River, the restaurant features a village-themed landscape, making it an excellent venue for corporate tours, family outings, honeymoon trips, and team-building activities.
Around 100 years ago, Muzaffarabad was the center of the Shahi Dynasty and boasted a rich Kashmiri culture. Remnants of the Shahi Dynasty’s heritage can still be seen today, including the Red Fort in Muzaffarabad, establishments serving Kashmiri Wazwan (traditional cuisine), shops offering Kashmir Kulcha (baked goods), and artisan handicrafts such as shawls, rugs, wooden crafts, and paper products.
The Red Fort is situated in a scenic location along the banks of the Neelam River. Although many parts of the fort are in ruins, it is encouraging to learn from reliable sources that the government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has initiated a restoration program. A specialized firm restored ancient sites very carefully.
Even in its current condition, where few rooms have intact roofs and many walls are crumbling, the small fort still conveys the majesty and grandeur it once possessed.
Construction of the fort began in 1549 under the Chuk rulers and continued in stages until the 20th century. For those interested in history, the Red Fort is a must-visit site in Muzaffarabad.
Cham Waterfall is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Azad Jammu & Kashmir. As a local guide, I can confidently say that this waterfall is a hidden gem worth discovering. Standing at an impressive height of around 300 meters (approximately 984 feet), it ranks among the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in AJK.
The surrounding mountains, coupled with the fresh air and the thunderous roar of the cascading water, create an unforgettable experience. The trek to the waterfall is tranquil, the scenery is stunning, and the natural vistas remain largely untouched. It’s an ideal spot for photography, hiking, and simply soaking in the peacefulness of nature.
If you’re eager to witness the true beauty of Kashmir, Cham Waterfall is a must-see destination. I highly recommend it for anyone venturing to the Jehlum Valley or exploring the natural sites of AJK.
The Kohala Bridge connects Azad Kashmir to Murree. Located in the Kohala Village, the bridge spans the Neelam River. Underneath the bridge, there are spots and restaurants where visitors can sit at the river’s edge or even enjoy the water from the riverbank. A must-try dish in this area is the white trout fish. The location is perfect for relaxing and taking pictures in the water, surrounded by beautiful mountains. The clouds above add to the enchanting atmosphere.
The people in this area are very helpful and courteous. The food served is both delicious and hygienic. I highly recommend that anyone traveling to Muzaffarabad, AJK, make a stop here to enjoy the scenery and ambiance. For first-time visitors, I advise traveling during the day, as the roads can be tricky and slippery in rainy conditions.
