34°39'04.8"N 73°57'00.2"E
Keran lies on the Line of Control between India and Pakistan and the village on both sides is known as Keran
The Best Time to Visit Azad Kashmir Region is Summers. Preferably from April to September. Winters are Extremely Cold and Snowfall blocks most of access. Hence Winters are not recommended.
Keran is a small village and hill station in Neelum Valley, Azad Kashmir, situated along the banks of the Neelum River, approximately 95 kilometers from Muzaffarabad. The village is uniquely positioned on both sides of the Line of Control, between Pakistan and India, with the Neelum River marking the boundary. On the Indian side, Neelum River is referred to as the Kishanganga.
Keran has emerged as a popular tourist destination and serves as a gateway for those traveling through Neelum Valley. The main Neelum Valley Road passes through Keran, continuing along the river to other iconic destinations such as Sharda, Kel, and Taobat. Numerous tourist lodges, rest houses, and hotels in Keran cater to the influx of visitors, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the valley. From Keran, visitors can also hire jeeps to reach nearby attractions, including the breathtaking Ratti Gali Lake.
One of the common travel routes from Keran is to Sharda, located 37 kilometers away and approximately two hours by road. Sharda offers several attractions, including the historic Sharda Peeth Temple, an ancient site of learning and spiritual significance. Visitors can also enjoy boating in the Neelum River, adding to the serene and picturesque experience of the valley. From Sharda, tourists usually proceed to Kel, Arang Kel and finally Taobat.
The vernacular architecture of Kashmir becomes prominent as one enters Keran. Traditional Kashmiri-style houses, constructed primarily from wood, reflect the cultural and architectural heritage of the region. This style of architecture becomes more prominent as one travels from Keran to Taobat, with Taobat displaying the most authentic specimens of traditional Kashmiri architecture. However, this unique style is increasingly being replaced, and its use is rapidly declining due to rapid urbanization and the growing use of modern construction materials. The shift towards concrete and other modern structures is gradually erasing the traditional wooden houses that define the area’s identity. There is an urgent need to study, document, and preserve this vernacular architecture before it is lost entirely.
Keran’s scenic beauty, cultural significance, and strategic location make it an essential stop for tourists traveling through the enchanting Neelum Valley. Keran is an ideal place to stay for tourists venturing into Neelum Valley due to the availability of hotels and places to eat. Furthermore, the availability of metalled road also allows tourists to bring their own cars up to Sharda, beyond which one has to hire a Jeep to travel.
Neelum Valley is located in the Western Himalayan region of Pakistan, with Keran situated at an altitude of 1521 meters (4992 feet) Above Sea Level. Summers in Keran are generally pleasant, with cool nights offering a refreshing contrast. Winters, however, bring snowfall and freezing temperatures, transforming the valley into a chilly landscape. While the summer months remain the most popular time to visit, Keran has recently seen a gradual increase in winter tourism as well. Visitors are advised to bring warm clothes in summers too, as temperatures at night can drop, especially at higher altitudes.
The village is surrounded by dense, lush green forests, which are home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. This natural environment adds to the charm of Keran, making it a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to connect with the Neelum valley’s unspoiled beauty
All Photographs by Syed Noor Hussain and Sania Azhar.
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