The Story of Arang Kel – A Beautiful Picnic Spot in Azad Kashmir
Published: 20/01/2025
Let me tell you about a small, peaceful village high in the mountains — Arang Kel.
This place is full of green meadows, tall trees, and snow-covered peaks. The air is cold and fresh. It smells like pine trees, and everything feels quiet. You can hear birds in the distance and the soft wind passing through the hills.
Arang Kel is in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir. It sits at about 8,379 feet above sea level. Many people call it the “Pearl of Neelum Valley”, and once you visit, you’ll understand why.
I heard about this place from a friend who said, “It feels like a dream.” At first, I wasn’t sure what to expect. But when I finally visited, it was even more beautiful than I imagined.
So, let’s begin our journey to Arang Kel and see what makes this quiet village so special.
How It All Started with Arang Kel
Our journey to Arang Kel began in Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir. We traveled on winding roads with the sparkling Neelum River flowing alongside us.
After hours of enjoying the beautiful scenery, we finally reached Kel Town. This is where the real adventure of Arang starts.
Two Ways to Reach Arang Kel
There are options to reach Arang Kel from Kel.
- Cable Car (Doly): You can take a cable car, called the Doly, to cross the river. It’s a small box hanging in the air that gives you a beautiful view of the river, trees, and mountains. However, during busy seasons, the wait can be 2 to 3 hours, so plan your trip to avoid the rush.
- Hiking: If you prefer walking, you can hike to Arang Kel. The hike takes about 30 to 50 minutes according to your hiking speed. You’ll pass through forests and open fields with stunning views all around.
The Hike to Arang Kel
After crossing the river, there’s still a hike to reach there. It takes about an hour and a half to climb. The path winds through shady forests and open areas where you can take breaks and enjoy the surroundings.
At first, the climb felt a little tiring, but soon it turned into fun. The trees provided cool shade, birds sang sweet songs, and other hikers shared friendly smiles. It felt like everyone was on the same journey together.
Now it’s easy to hike because of the concrete path after a cable car adventure to reach Arang Village.
Just when I started feeling tired, I finally saw it.
Hello, Arang Kel!
Arang Kel looked like a dream. A huge green meadow stretched out in front of me. Small wooden houses were scattered around, and children were playing with kites. Behind everything stood tall mountains, protecting this peaceful place.
I dropped my bag, sat on the grass, and took a deep breath. It felt like all my worries disappeared.
Why Arang Kel Feels Special
Here’s what makes Arang Kel so wonderful:
- Green Meadows: Perfect for a picnic or just sitting and enjoying the view.
- Snowy Mountains: Everywhere you look, there’s beauty.
- Local Life: The people here are friendly and live simple, peaceful lives.
While I was sitting in the meadow, a local shepherd came by. He was carrying milk in a small pot. We started talking, and he offered me a cup of warm Kashmiri tea. It was delicious and warmed me up in the cool air.
The Night Sky
When the sun set, the stars came out. It was the clearest sky I’d ever seen. There were so many stars, it felt like they were dancing. I sat on a rock, wrapped in a blanket, just looking up. It was quiet, calm, and magical.
Where to Stay in Arang Kel
When I visited this wonderful place, I found a few simple places to stay. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, there are options to suit different preferences.
- Hotels: There are a few hotels in Arang Kel that offer basic rooms with the necessary facilities. These are great for families who want a more comfortable stay.
- Local Camps: If you’re looking for a more natural experience, you can stay in local camps. It’s a fun way to sleep under the stars while still being close to nature.
- Camping: For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, camping is a great option. There are designated camping spots with basic facilities, perfect for enjoying the fresh air and beautiful views.
The places to stay in Arang Kel may be simple, but they help you connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful time with your family.
A Place to Remember – Final Thoughts
So, friends, we’ve talked about Arang Kel and how calm and beautiful it really is.
It’s not just another spot on the map. It’s a quiet village where you can sit, breathe fresh air, and feel far away from noise and busy life. The green fields, cold breeze, and tall snowy mountains make you forget time for a while.
If you ever get the chance to go, don’t skip it. Walk slowly, take pictures, talk to the kind people, and enjoy the silence.
And maybe, one day, you’ll come back with your own story to share about Arang Kel.
Just one small request.
Please keep this beautiful place clean for others to enjoy too.
FAQs About Arang Kel
The weather in Arang Kel is generally cool and pleasant, especially from May to September. Summers are mild, making it perfect for sightseeing, while winters are cold, with snowfall covering the village in white.
Arang Kel is approximately a 1 to 1.5-hour hike or a short cable car ride from Kel Town.
The best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is pleasant and the meadows are lush green.
Yes, there are several guesthouses and wooden cottages available for visitors, offering basic facilities.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy the cable car ride, the scenic hike, and the peaceful surroundings of Arang Kel.
- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
