Baboon Valley is a high meadow above the Neelum river, at around 3,870 metres (about 12,700 feet), reached by a 4x4 jeep track from either Keran or Kutton followed by a short, steep hike. It is one of the highest points most visitors in Neelum Valley get to, and it is not a casual stop: the jeep ride is rough, the last stretch is on foot, and the air at the top is noticeably thin.
This guide covers both routes up, what the day involves, camping at the top and when to go.
| At a glance | |
|---|---|
| Altitude | About 3,870 m (12,700 ft) |
| Starting points | Keran or Kutton, on the Neelum road |
| Jeep time | Around 2 to 3 hours from Keran or Kutton |
| Final approach | 20–40 minute hike from the jeep drop-off |
| Best months | Mid-June to early September |
| Vehicle needed | 4x4 jeep only |
Where is Baboon Valley?
Baboon Valley sits on the high ground above Keran and Jagran, on the Pakistani side of the Neelum river, roughly 95 to 100 km from Muzaffarabad by road. It looks down over the Keran and Jagran valleys, with Ganja Peak and other snow-streaked ridgelines behind it. There are no permanent buildings at the top: it is open meadow, streams and rock, with views back down the Neelum valley.
Getting there: via Kutton or Keran
Two jeep tracks climb to Baboon Valley, and both leave from villages on the main Neelum road.
- Via Kutton (Jagran Valley). Kutton, home to the well-known Kutton waterfall, is the more commonly used starting point. From here a 4x4 track climbs for around two to three hours before the road runs out and the hike begins.
- Via Keran. Jeeps from Keran typically leave early, around 7 am, and take about two hours to reach Domail village, with a short stop there before the final 30-minute climb to where the track ends.
Either way, the last section to the meadow and viewpoint is on foot: a steep 20 to 40 minute climb, depending on fitness and how far up the jeep can get that day. Only a 4x4 with a driver used to the track should attempt the drive; it is not a route for a normal car or an inexperienced driver.
There is no fixed jeep fare published for the route, and it varies with fuel prices and demand, so agree the return fare with the driver before setting out, in cash. Our guide to hiring a jeep in Neelum Valley has more on how that works generally.
What the day involves
Plan on a full day. Most groups leave Keran or Kutton in the early morning, spend two to three hours in the jeep, then hike the final stretch to the meadow and viewpoint. The oxygen is noticeably thin at the top: several visitors describe getting out of breath quickly and needing to rest often on the final climb. Take it slowly, especially with anyone unused to altitude.
A few practical points from people who have made the trip:
- The jeep track is bumpy for the whole climb, so a light breakfast beforehand is worth it.
- Rest for a few minutes on arrival before pushing on to the viewpoint.
- There are no shops, restaurants or reliable phone signal once you leave the main road, so carry all the food and water you need for the day.
Camping at Baboon Valley
Camping is possible in the open meadow at the top, and some visitors stay overnight to see the sunset and sunrise over the surrounding peaks. There are no huts, toilets or shops at the site, so this only works if you bring your own tent, warm sleeping gear and all your food and water, and take every piece of rubbish back down with you. Nights at this altitude are cold even in July and August, so pack accordingly. If you are new to camping at altitude, it is safer to do Baboon Valley as a long day trip and camp lower down, for example at Kutton or one of the established sites covered in our camping in Neelum Valley guide.
Best time to visit
Mid-June to early September is the reliable window, when the jeep track is clear of snow and the meadow is green. Late September into early October can also work, with cooler air and fewer other visitors, but the margin for a sudden change in weather is smaller. From November to April the upper track is under snow and not accessible.
Is it worth it?
Baboon Valley suits travellers who already have a day or two spare in Neelum Valley, are comfortable with a rough jeep ride and a steep short hike, and want to get well above the valley floor without a multi-day trek. It is not a good choice for young children, anyone with a heart or lung condition, or a first day in Neelum Valley before you have acclimatised at all. If that describes your trip, the Kutton waterfall or a walk around Keran gives a similar sense of the upper valley with far less effort.
Is Neelum Valley safe to visit?
Neelum Valley runs close to the Line of Control for most of its length, and much of it, including the Keran and Kutton area, lies within the stretch that the UK government's Pakistan travel advice currently advises against all travel to. Pakistani visitors travel through Neelum Valley regularly, including to Keran and Kutton, but foreign passport holders should check their own government's current advice before planning a trip, since travel against that advice can void travel insurance. Check local news and current police guidance before setting out, whoever you are.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Baboon Valley?
Around 3,870 metres (about 12,700 feet), reached by jeep and a final hike on foot.
Can I drive to Baboon Valley in a normal car?
No. The track from Kutton or Keran needs a 4x4 jeep with an experienced local driver, and the final stretch is on foot.
Is there anywhere to eat or buy supplies at Baboon Valley?
No. Carry all your food, water and warm clothing; the last shops are in Keran or Kutton before the jeep track starts.
When is the best time to visit Baboon Valley?
Mid-June to early September, when the track is clear of snow. The site is not accessible in winter.
Can I camp overnight at Baboon Valley?
Yes, in the open meadow, but only with your own tent and full supplies, since there are no facilities. It gets cold at night even in summer.
