NEELUM VALLEY AZAD KASHMIR PAKISTAN

 The Neelum Valley (historically and locally known as the Kishanganga Valley) is a 200-to-240-kilometer-long bow-shaped valley in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan, stretching from Muzaffarabad up to Taobat.

 Ancient and Classical History

 • Kishanganga Origin: For centuries, the region was known as the Kishanganga Valley, named after the Kishanganga River (later renamed the Neelum River, meaning "Blue Gem").

 • Sharda Peeth (6th Century): The valley was a major ancient center of learning, philosophy, and Hindu-Buddhist civilization.  Scholars and pilgrims from across the Indian subcontinent flock to this location for the historic Sharda Peeth temple and the ruins of an earlier temple-university. • Islamic Influence: Through Sufi missionaries and traders, local populations embraced Islam over subsequent centuries, significantly influencing the region's culture and architecture. Colonial and Partition Era

 • Part of Greater Kashmir: Prior to 1947, the valley was integrated into the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.

 • Post-1947 Division: Following the partition of British India in 1947 and the first Kashmir War, the valley became part of Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir, while the upper eastern reaches and the Gurez connection remained divided by what is now the Line of Control (LoC).

 • Name Change: The valley and river officially became widely recognized as Neelum (referencing the sapphire-blue color of the water).

 Disasters and the modern era • 2005 Kashmir Earthquake: The valley suffered catastrophic damage and isolation during the devastating October 2005 earthquake, which destroyed local infrastructure, roads, and villages.

 • Development of Tourism: The area has grown from a remote border region to one of Pakistan's top tourist destinations in recent years. It now includes important towns like Athmuqam (the district headquarters), Keran, Sharda, Kel, and Taobat.  

Population of Neelum Valley Azad Kashmir:

According to the 2017 national census, the Neelum Valley (Neelum District) population is 191,233, with subsequent estimates ranging up to 216,000. Key Demographic and Geographic Facts

 • 2017 Census Population: 191,233 people.

 • Land Area: 3,621 square kilometers (1,398 sq mi), making it the largest district in Azad Kashmir by area.

 • Population Density: Roughly 53 people per square kilometer.

 • Main Tehsils: Divided primarily into Athmuqam and Sharda.