Discover Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore Kashmir’s valleys, historical sites, economy, traditions, and top tourist attractions like Neelum Valley and Sharda Peeth.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), commonly known as Kashmir, is a self-governing administrative region in northern Pakistan. Famous for its breathtaking valleys, snow-covered peaks, and flowing rivers, Kashmir is one of Pakistan’s most scenic and culturally rich areas.
Geographically, Kashmir shares borders with Gilgit-Baltistan in the north, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the west, Punjab in the south, and Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir in the east. The region is known for its pleasant summers and cold, snowy winters in the northern districts, while the southern areas enjoy a moderate climate.
Kashmir covers a total area of 13,297 square kilometers and, as per the 2023 census, has a population of around 4.5 million people. The capital city, Muzaffarabad, serves as the political, cultural, and economic center of the region. Kashmir is divided into three divisions—Muzaffarabad, Poonch, and Mirpur—comprising 10 districts in total. Its natural beauty and rich culture make it one of the most visited destinations in Pakistan.
Kashmir’s history stretches back thousands of years. It has been home to ancient civilizations and early human settlements, making it a land rich in heritage. Between 300 BCE and 700 CE, the region saw significant Hindu and Buddhist influence, leaving behind Buddhist stupas and Hindu temples that still stand today.
In the 14th century, Islam spread across the region through Sufi saints. Later, the Mughals left their mark on the architecture, culture, and art of Kashmir. By the 19th century, Kashmir came under Sikh and Dogra rule, with Maharaja Gulab Singh as its ruler during the British era.
After the partition of British India in 1947, a war broke out over Kashmir. Local forces in AJK fought for liberation and became part of Pakistan. However, Kashmir remains a disputed territory between Pakistan and India to this day.
Some of the historical landmarks reflecting this rich past include the Red Fort in Muzaffarabad, a 16th-century fortification along the Neelum River, Sharda Peeth—an ancient Hindu temple and center of learning in Neelum Valley—and Bagh Fort, located in the Poonch region.
Kashmiri women performing with the rabab, a traditional string instrument known for its deep, melodious sound, often played during cultural gatherings and folk music performances.
A serene river cuts through the lush green mountains of Kashmir, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
A bustling market in Kashmir showcasing intricately woven, handmade carpets, reflecting the region’s rich artistry and cultural heritage.
Kashmir’s economy is mainly agriculture-based. The fertile land produces maize, wheat, rice, apples, and walnuts. Dense forests make forestry another significant sector, while the region's rivers support hydropower projects, including the Mangla Dam, which provides electricity and irrigation.
Tourism is the most important industry, drawing thousands of visitors each year to explore valleys, rivers, lakes, and cultural sites. Kashmir is also known for its handwoven shawls, intricate carpets, and fine woodwork, which are highly valued locally and abroad.
Major cities include Muzaffarabad, the largest city and administrative capital, Mirpur, known for its business activity and overseas Kashmiri community, Rawalakot, a hill station rich in scenic beauty, and Bagh, famous for its forests and agriculture.
Kashmir has its own Legislative Assembly which governs the region. Though AJK is not a province, it operates with significant autonomy under the Pakistani federal system. The region is administratively structured into three divisions and ten districts.
Kashmir is home to diverse ethnic groups including Kashmiris, Paharis, Gujjars, and Mirpuris. The region is linguistically rich, with Kashmiri, Pahari, Hindko, and Urdu spoken across the valleys.
Kashmiri culture is deeply rooted in traditions, and the people celebrate several festivals. Shab-e-Miraj and Eid are important religious festivals, while the Basant Festival marks the arrival of spring with kite flying and music. The region also celebrates Independence Day on October 24th, commemorating liberation from Dogra rule.
Music is an essential part of Kashmiri culture. Traditional folk music is played with instruments like the Rabab, Santoor, and Tumbaknaer. Famous dances include the Bacha Nagma and Hafiza Dance, performed at cultural and social gatherings.
Kashmiri cuisine is known for its rich flavors and aromatic dishes. Rogan Josh, a slow-cooked lamb dish with spices and yogurt, is a local favorite. Gushtaba, soft meatballs cooked in a yogurt-based gravy, reflects the royal culinary tradition. Kashmiri Pulao, infused with dry fruits and saffron, is another specialty. Traditional beverages like Noon Chai (salted pink tea) and Kahwa (green tea with cardamom and almonds) are popular in every household.
Education is well-developed, with institutions like the University of Azad Jammu & Kashmir (Muzaffarabad) and the Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST) offering higher education opportunities.
Kashmir is often called the “Heaven on Earth” because of its unmatched natural beauty. Neelum Valley is famous for its lush mountains, flowing rivers, and picturesque villages. Visitors are drawn to Rawalakot, also known as Pearl Valley, home to Banjosa Lake and Toli Pir, offering breathtaking views. Leepa Valley is another gem, known for terraced fields, wooden houses, and pristine scenery.
Religious and cultural landmarks add to the region's charm. Sharda Peeth, located in Neelum Valley, is an ancient Hindu temple and a center of learning that attracts both local and foreign visitors. Pir Chinasi, near Muzaffarabad, is a famous Sufi shrine perched on a mountain, offering spiritual and scenic experiences.
For adventure lovers, Kashmir is ideal for hiking and trekking. Trails to Ratti Gali Lake and Arang Kel provide stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Paragliding and boating are also popular, especially at Banjosa Lake and Mangla Lake.
Azad Jammu and Kashmir is one of Pakistan’s most beautiful and culturally rich regions. Its majestic mountains, rivers, and valleys reflect nature’s finest work, while its history, from ancient Hindu and Buddhist sites to Islamic and Mughal influence, adds depth to its identity.
Kashmir’s economy, driven by agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts, plays a crucial role in regional development. With its unique culture, traditional cuisine, and adventure tourism, Kashmir stands as a land of heritage and natural beauty. It remains one of the most visited and loved regions of Pakistan.
Karachi
Clifton, Saddar
Lahore
Gulberg, Model Town
Islamabad
F-7, Blue Area
Trekking
Fairy Meadows, Margalla
Boating
Khanpur, Attabad
Mountaineering
Rakaposhi, Hunza Valley
Biryani
Sindhi, Lahore
Chapli Kebab
Peshawar, Tarru Jabba
Dry Fruit
Gilgit, Skardu, Quetta
Gilgit Baltistan
Polo Festival, Takhum Rezi
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Chilam Joshi, Buzkashi
Sindh
Camel Dance, Sindhi Day
Fabrics & Clothing
Ajrak, Balochi Tanka
Artisan Picks
Khussa, Jhumka
Collectables
Blue Pottery, Woven Baskets
Herbs & Spices
Thyme, Milk Thistle
Clothing & Textiles
Kashmiri Shawls, Cotton
Minerals
Gypsum, Aquamarine
