Tour overview

Hike to Arang Kel, the “mini Switzerland” of Pakistan, where wooden cabins sit atop snow-covered ridges overlooking the Neelum River and deep pine valleys.

🌄 Arang Kel – A Village in the Clouds

Sitting at over 8,000 feet, Arang Kel is reachable only via cable car and a short but steep hike. In winter, the trail is blanketed in snow and ice, while the village — largely uninhabited in off-season — offers surreal views and absolute silence broken only by the sound of wind or distant avalanches.

❄️ Moderate to Hard Winter Hike

From Kel, cross the river via cable or bridge, then begin the 45–60 minute steep uphill hike. Snow depth can be knee-high, and gear (gaiters, poles, boots) is highly recommended. On top, enjoy hot food, endless views, and deep winter solitude.

🧳 What to Bring:

  • Thermal layers, down jacket, gloves, and snow cap
  • Waterproof boots with good grip
  • Gaiters, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Flashlight/headlamp and power bank
  • Personal medication and reusable water bottle

🌟 Tour Highlights:

  • Climb to Pakistan’s most picturesque village in snow
  • Views of the Neelum Valley, river, and ridgelines
  • Short but rewarding winter hike
  • Stay in wooden lodges with fire-heated rooms
  • Chance to meet locals and shepherds

Included

  • Guide and porter for gear
  • Lodge stay in Arang Kel
  • Cable or bridge fee
  • Meals and snacks

Not Included

  • Snow gear/clothing
  • Insurance and rescue
  • Entry permits (if needed)
  • Transport to/from Kel

Day 1: Drive to Kel – Winter Hike to Arang Kel

  • 🌄 Early Morning Departure to Kel:

    • Start your day from Muzaffarabad or Sharda and drive north toward Kel(approx. 2–4 hours depending on starting point and road conditions).
    • The drive through theNeelum Valleyoffers incredible winter scenery: frozen streams, snow-covered pine forests, and remote hillside villages.
  • 🌉 Arrive in Kel (2,097 m):

    • Short rest and tea break at Kel.
    • Cross the Neelum River via a local cable trolley or suspended bridge to reach the trailhead of Arang Kel.
  • 🥾 Begin Hike to Arang Kel:

    • Distance: ~2 km
    • Duration: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (depending on snow depth and fitness)
    • Elevation Gain: ~400 m
    • Trail Type: Zigzag uphill trail through snow-covered pine forest
    • Use hiking poles, snow gaiters, and boots with grip in winter.
  • 🏁 Evening:

    • End of the tour in Sharda or continue onward to Keran/Muzaffarabad.
  • 🏕️ Arrive in Arang Kel (2,515 m):

    • Check into a heated wooden cabin or lodge (basic but cozy accommodations).
    • Free time to explore the snow-covered plateau, meet locals, or sip chai in the snow.
    • Dinner and overnight in Arang Kel, under clear starry skies and mountain silence.

Day 2: Sunrise & Exploration – Return to Kel

  • 🌄 Early Morning:

    • Catch the sunrise over snowy meadows with a possible glimpse of Nanga Parbat in the distance (on clear days).
    • Enjoy a slow-paced walk around the village for photos and fresh air.
  • 📷 Activities:

    • Winter photography & drone footage
    • Snowshoeing or casual snow play
    • Warm chai with a mountain view
  • ⏬ Midday: Descend to Kel:

    • Hike back down the trail to Kel
    • Cross the river via trolley/bridge
  • 🚙 Late Afternoon: Return Journey:

    • Jeep drive from Kel back to Sharda or Muzaffarabad
    • Optional stop in Sharda to visit the Sharda University Ruins
  • 🏕️ Arrive in Arang Kel (2,515 m):

    • Check into a heated wooden cabin or lodge (basic but cozy accommodations).
    • Free time to explore the snow-covered plateau, meet locals, or sip chai in the snow.
    • Dinner and overnight in Arang Kel, under clear starry skies and mountain silence.

Day 3: Descend to Kel – Return Journey Ends

  • 🧭 After breakfast, descend the snow-covered trail back to Kel
    Re-cross the river via trolley
  • Tea/snack break in Kel and final shopping/photos
  • 🚙 Start return journey to Sharda or Muzaffarabad by 4x4
  • Optional stop at Sharda Ruins (if heading toward Muzaffarabad)
  • ❌ End of Tour – late afternoon arrival at drop-off point