Muzaffarabad

Muzaffarabad is the capital and largest city of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, set in a green valley where the Jhelum and Neelum rivers meet. Surrounded by forested hills, it serves as the region's main administrative, trade and transport hub and as the main gateway to the Neelum Valley. The city's riverside setting, mountain backdrop and bazaars give it a distinct character among northern Pakistan's urban centres. The area has a long history as a strategic crossing point and hill settlement, reflected in landmarks such as the riverside Red Fort and the Black Fort on the opposite bank of the Neelum. The 2005 earthquake caused major destruction in Muzaffarabad, and much of the present city has been rebuilt with modern schools, government buildings and hotels alongside older markets. The University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and nearby administrative institutions make the city an important centre for education and government. Central areas such as Domel, Tariqabad and Upper Chattar offer a mix of busy bazaars, hotels, restaurants and residential neighbourhoods. Beyond the centre, routes lead to viewpoints and hill areas including Pir Chinasi and Shaheed Gali, while the road north follows the Neelum River toward small towns, forests and trekking destinations. Muzaffarabad functions as a regional business and administrative centre, with trade, public services and tourism supporting much of the local economy. Visitors use the city as a base for government and business travel, as well as for valley road trips, hiking and local food experiences. Its position between Islamabad and the upper valleys makes it relevant for both short leisure trips and longer regional journeys.