Azad Kashmir

Arang Kel: Beauty in the Kashmir Valley

Tucked between the hills of the wonderful Kashmir Valley, Arang Kel is one of the most beautiful villages which may never be heard of.

It is a little away from Muzaffarabad, the capital of Azad Kashmir, so it is the perfect place to escape the hectic city life.

During spring, the mountains and the meadows are dominated by different wildflowers, forming a beautiful scene as they light up the large fields.
During winter, there is snowfall, making Arang Kel popular among adventures for skiing and snowboarding in the area.

People in the village are hospitable and friendly, which signifies the affirmative cultural endowment of the village and its foods.

Whether a tourist wants to trek on the mountains, play near river banks, or explore an organizational lifestyle, Arang Kel is all he needs. It’s a place that is never out of the heart, and people keep returning each time.

Arang Kel Weather

The Arang Kel weather is temperate, which makes it more beautiful throughout its four seasons.

Spring (March to May) is moderately cold, and temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C; this season, photography nature walks become enjoyable as flowers develop.

There is, therefore, a relatively high temperature in summer between June and August, and it averages 15°C – 25°C; this is perfect for adventure such as hiking and other outdoor activities such as camping.

September to November is autumn, which provides a nice cool climate with beautiful views of trees as the temperature range is between 5°C and 15°C, which is perfect for touring. Last is winter, from December to February, when temperatures range between -5ºC to 5ºC, and Arang Kel is covered in snow, whereby people go skiing and do snow activities.

Now and then, there is something different with Arang Kel, which always makes this place suitable to visit, especially for hikers and trekkers.

Best Time to Visit Arang Kel

Best Time to Visit Arang Kel

It can be said that Arang Kel is best visited in the morning and evening, but the best time to visit depends on what experiences you are interested in.

  • Spring is also a good season for photographers, lovers of colourful flowers and patients with Asthma because the Arang Kel weather condition is normally relaxed.
  • Summer is the best time for adventurers because of the favourable weather for camping, hiking, and other activities in the country’s beautiful scenery.
  • Tourists especially prefer autumn since it is scenic and allows for viewing the fall season colours.
  • Conversely, winter sees tourists interested in winter sports activities like skiing and snowboarding.


    Thus, for general tourists, the best season to visit Arang Kel is from April to October, during which they can engage in various activities such as trekking, fishing, bird watching, and other outdoor activities. However, the winter months provide the best opportunities for snow activities.

Travel Routes to Arang Kel from Major Cities

Starting a journey to Arang Kel is nothing short of looking forward to spectacular sceneries. Starting from the lively city of Islamabad, there is excitement for every one-kilometre snaking through greenish hilly terrains and beautiful valleys before reaching Muzaffarabad.
Starting CityDistanceEstimated Travel TimeRecommended Mode of TransportRoute Description
Islamabad282.2 km7 to 8 hoursCar/BusTake the N-75 road via Muzaffarabad for scenic views.
Muzaffarabad148.7 km3 to 4 hoursCar/BusA scenic drive towards Neelum Valley.
Rawalpindi150 km4 to 5 hoursCar/BusRoute via Islamabad on N-75 to Muzaffarabad.
Lahore380 km6 to 7 hoursCar/BusM-2 motorway to Islamabad, then to Muzaffarabad.
Abbottabad175 km4 to 5 hoursCar/BusScenic Hazara region via N-35 and N-75.

Local Food in Arang Kel

Arang Kel View
When people get to the area surrounding Arang Kel, they are immediately welcomed by beautiful views and smells of delicious food.

Savor Rogan Josh is a delicious lamb curry dish, and Dum Aloo is a tasteful potato dish. When the day ends, you hear the sizzle of the Chapli Kebabs cooking on the grill.

Ends your meal with a hot cup of Khawa, the Kashmiri tea filled with almonds, adding to the flavour of the state’s delicious food legacy.
Food ItemDescriptionWhere to Try
Rogan JoshTraditional lamb curry, rich and aromatic.Local restaurants and eateries
Dum AlooPotatoes cooked in spices and yoghurt.Street vendors and home-cooked meals
Kashmiri PulaoA fragrant rice dish with dry fruits.Family-owned restaurants
Chapli KebabSpiced minced meat patties are crispy on the outside.Local food stalls
Khawa (Kashmiri Tea)Traditional tea is made with green tea leaves and spices.Local tea houses

Activities at Arang Kel

Arang Kel is for adventurer souls if ever there were an expeditionist’s haven. Picture this: sleeping out in the open, seeing stars and only crickets and the breeze in the trees.

That is why choosing this place to sleep in your tent is much more than an overnight trip in the wilderness. Those looking for fun will experience great pleasure in skiing in winter and turning the area into a white playground.

But if you are less active, walking through the countryside is possible by horse riding along the routes. Take a warm bonfire at night, practising the art of telling stories with laughter beneath this sky with stars.
  • Camping in Arang Kel:Camping in Arang Kel is in beautiful greenery with many trees. Arang Kel is the best time for camping in summer and autumn when it will be much better. The Arang Kel hotels are comparatively cheaper to house visiting persons or tourists.
  • Skiing in Arang Kel:
    During winter, Arang Kel mesmerizes tourists as a skiing destination. It also provides an environment best suited for winter sports lovers with snowy surroundings. The info on Arang Kel’s temperature is also important because winter might be freezing there.
  • Horse Riding in Arang Kel:
    Take an exciting horse ride in the valley, which gives you an extraordinary view of the area. Spring and summer remain the best times for this program, given the favourable Arang Kel weather throughout the year.
  • Bonfire in Arang Kel:
    Pitching a tent or a bonfire is a perfect way to usher in the night in this place amidst some of the best skies moments that can be created on Earth. This, however, is magical whether you are at a campsite or one of the Arang Kel hotels.

Attractions in Arang Kel

Attractions in Arang Kel
Arang Kel is designed with beautiful scenes that people can visit.

At this place, you are afforded a chair lift known as the Arang Kel Chair Lift, which brings you up and gives you spectacular views of the valleys.

The hiking track challenges you to explore their trail up to stunning overlooks.

The pastures of the beautiful Arang Kel are perfect for those who want to take a break from the tour and enjoy nature. The Arang Kel Forest and River offer silence and the sound of the leaves and the water.

You should not leave without witnessing this region’s magnificent, stony and icy mountains. If you go there in winter, you can witness the beauty of snowfall at Arang Kel and the surrounding areas.
  • Arang Kel Chair Lift: Enjoy panoramic views of the valley as you glide up the hills on the chair lift, a popular activity regardless of the Arang Kel weather.
  • Hiking Track: Explore various hiking trails that offer stunning scenery. Check the Arang Kel temperature before heading out, as conditions can vary.
  • Arang Kel Meadows: Relax in the lush green meadows surrounded by mountains. For those staying overnight, several Arang Kel hotels offer comfortable accommodations nearby.
  • Arang Kel Forest and River: Wander through serene forests and enjoy riverside views, which are ideal for nature lovers in all seasons.
  • Icy Mountains: Marvel at the majestic, snow-capped peaks, especially beautiful in winter when snow falls at Arang Kel.
  • Snow Falling at Arang Kel: Experience the enchanting beauty of snowfall in winter, turning Arang Kel into a magical landscape.

Accommodation Options in Arang Kel

Regarding accommodation, Arang Kel has diverse camps available to rest in after all kinds of adventures.



There are hotels with all the comforts of the new generation and guesthouses for those who want to feel like a real citizen of this country.

There are campsites for those who wish to have their typical camping styles for a getaway experience.

If you are interpersonal, then a homestay lodging scenario would be ideal since they can be inclined toward the local people.

There are some additional accommodations in Arang Kel and many more hotels, such as Green Valley Hotel and Pine Resort, but with traditional style without compromising the modern comforts.

As for the more authentic touristic offer, Neelum Star Guesthouse is perfect, and if you wish for a more adventurous stay, you can always pitch a tent. 

Arang Kel homestays
 in Heaven View offer real living experiences with the locals to add to your exciting experience in Arang Kel.

What You Should Bring

For this trip, I would recommend warm, well-fitting clothes. Pack layered clothing and shoes for trekking, going out at night, and hiking.

If you intend to camp, ensure you are well-equipped with your camping gear. Basic first aid supplies should be carried in a kit, and don’t forget your camera to capture pictures of the beautiful scenery.

Travel Tips for Visiting Arang Kel

To maximize your visit, keep these tips in mind: you can always check the weather before you go on your trip, as the weather changes quickly. When travelling in the peak season, it is accommodation to pre-arrange a place to stay.

While hiking, drinking as much water as possible and interacting with the locals is important. Finally, look for out-of-hill experiences actually to see other unique sites.

Why Should Arang Kel be on Your Travel List?

Arang Kel is, on the whole, a serene place that should be on the list of places you must visit. Its scenic geography, great attractions, and historic and cultural legacy make a memorable vacation.

In these terms, Arang Kel can now be considered a one-stop holiday for adventurous and leisure lovers. The people are extremely friendly, the food is delicious, and the ambience is quiet; all factors are worth remembering.

Let me tell you, sitting at Arang Kel is as close to perfect as I want to get, so you’ll keep wishing to be back there.
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