KASHMIR

KASHMIR

The Land of stupendous dimensions, colourful, exotic, lush green, mountainous, she never stops to excite the visitors with its varied and versatile topography. The gushing streams of cascading waters, the never ending views of mountain ranges, the natural scent of its flora, the sights of its unique fauna, the crystal clear water of its lakes and the beauty of its culture, traditions, hospitable people, cuisine. Kashmir never stops to amaze you and leave you spellbound.

Set in the Himalayas, Kashmir s a valley located between 3 countries. To the south is the mainland India, to its north is Pakistan & China, to its east is China & to the west is Pakistan. The average elevation of Kashmir is 2000 mts from sea level.

This region has 4 different seasons and every season is different from another.Come in March to June one will see flowers blooming, snow on the mountains, and water in the rivers and streams Come in June to September one will see green carpet like meadows, flowers and fruits everywhere Come in September to December the fall starts and everything turns to gold Come in December to March and you will be welcomed by white carpet of snow Ever season is kashmir is must see and provides you different look from another season Main source of economy in Kashmir is Horticulture and Tourism. There are fruits like apples,pears, cherries, apricots, perches, berries, walnuts & almonds in abundance throughout Kashmir.

2nd biggest industry in Kashmir is Tourism and there are many beautiful destinations you can visit while travelling to Kashmir. Some of the destinations are mentioned below with little intro about them.

 

SRINAGAR

Srinagar city is located in the centre of Kashmir Valley and is also the Capital city of the State. It has the history going back to 5000 years and has been ruled by many kings and rulers of. The name Srinagar comes from Sanskrit word meaning City of Wealth. The city is located on both the banks of river Jehlum which originated in south of Kashmir and then crosses many districts, cities, villages,finally leaves Kashmir Valley in Northern district of Baramulla and then enters Pakistan.

The city of srinagar has 7 bridges over Jhelum river and gives it the unique look. The city of srinagar has the population of 1.8 million and has the average elevation of 1600 mts from sea. The city has many beautiful 16th century Mughal era Gardens, Forts,Tombs, Religious places, monuments & is considered Heaven for shopping. The city offers you pure display of Kashmiri Handicrafts like, silk carpets,pashmina shawls, walnut wood carvings, paper machie, chain stitches, embroidery, crewal curtains,spices, dry fruits and saffron.

Places to Visit

Srinagar city has so many things to offer you as a tourist destination. The city is host to many water bodies in the form of lakes, water streams, rivers and fountains. It has some beautiful Mughal era gardens, historic buildings, tombs, mosques and temples.

Dal Lake : Dal lake is a fresh water body in the heart of Srinagar city with a total area of 12 sq kms.It is the most picturesque sight in Srinagar. Surrounded by Zabarwan mountains on one side & downtown city on the other side. This lake is an ideal place to hang out, go for a boat ride in Shikaras(water taxi), have a luxurious stay at the Houseboats. There are some must visit places inside the lake. Char Chinar, bathing boats, vegetable market, floating market, floating gardens, restaurants and other shopping markets are the highlights of the lake.

Nigeen Lake : Nigeen lake is another lake linked with Dal lake by a narrow channel. It has again some luxuries Houseboats, where tourists can stay for many nights relaxing and enjoying the natural scenes around the lake.Mansbal Lake : Mansbal lake is on the northeast side of Srinagar city and famous for fishing, boating.

Mughal Gardens : Srinagar city has many gardens built by Mughal Emperor’s in 16th century. These gardens are huge junks of land between Zabarwan mountains and Dal Lake. These are all terraced gardens, bisected by water streams and fountains. These gardens display diverse varieties of flowers and decorative plants. Some of the famous gardens are, Nishat, Shalimar, Botanical Garden, Cheshma Shabie, Pari Mahal, Harwan Garden.

Masjids : There are so many historic masjids found in Srinagar, Some of them to name are : Hazratbal Masjid, Jama Masjid, Pather Masjid, Aali Masjid, Shah Hamadan Masjid, Dastgeer Sahab Masjid. Mukhdoom Sahab Masid.

Tombs : Some prominent Tombs of srinagar city are Badshah Tomb & Rozabal Tomb.Some other places to visit in Srinagar city are, Shankaracharya temple, Lal Chowk, Kashmir University,Naseem Bagh, Almond Garden, Poloview. Zero bridge and other bridges.

Dachigam National Park : Dachigam National Park is located 22 kms from srinagar city centre in the in Zabarwan mountain range of Western Himalayas,, covering total area of 144 sq kms. It’s was formed by relocating 10 villages from its areas and hence the name Dachigam, which means 10 villages. It was established in 1981. The elevation of this park ranges from 1680 to 4270 mts.The main animal for which Dachigam is known for is Hangul or Kashmiri Stag. Other known animal species include, Musk dear (roose kat), Snow leapord, Himalayan Serow, Kashmiri Grey Langur, Leapord cat,Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Brown Bear, jackal, Himalayan Fox, Himalayan Weasel, jungle Cat,along tailed Marmot, Otter. There are also wide range of bird species and lot of flora found in this park.

Shopping : Visit to Srinagar without shopping is incomplete. Srinagar city is shoppers paradise for those who love and value art and craft. Kashmir is a rich art and craft society and Srinagar is the centre. There are so many handicraft artists whose contribution can’t not be ignored. One can easily find silk carpets, pashmina shawls, Walnut woodcarvings, paper Machie, chain stitches, crewal curtains,wall hangings, spices, dry fruits, condiments. When in srinagar don’t forget to buy Kashmiri saffron.

Activities to do : Srinagar city has so many activities for a traveller/tourist. List is endless, some of the major activities one can do in Srinagar city are : Shikara ride or Boat ride in Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake and Mansbal Lake, Fishing, Jet-skiing, Hot ballooning, Hiking, Trekking, Camping, Paragliding, Bird watching, water trekking, Cruising, wildlife watching.

Places to Eat : There are so many restaurants, café”s, coffee shops, local snacks counters alll over the city. Some of the best restaurants to dine at, Mughal darbar, Ahdoos, Nafeez, Lhasa, Kongposh Foodcourt, Chai Jai.Wazawan & Barbeque : Kashmiri society is incomplete without Wazawan and Barbeque. Wazawan is a traditional Kashmiri cuisine with 34 course menu mostly non- veg. It’s taste and aroma will stay with you for the years. This cuisine will bring back to you kashmir again & again. Kashmiri people are very much fond of Barbeque on the riverside and some of the Barbeque streets are Khayaam, Dalgate,foreshore road.

Bakeries : Some of the famous bakery of kashmir is Walnut fudge, pastries, cakes, cookies, patties etc. some famous bakery outlets are Moonlight, Jee Enn Sons, Mughal Darbar, Nathus etc

Best time to Visit : March to October (winter max -5°& summer max 35°)

How to Reach : There are daily direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai and indirect flights from other cities of India. By train you can come upto Jammu and then from Jammu there are taxi and buses available to srinagar on daily basis. But the best way to arrive srinagar is by flight.

Where to Stay : Srinagar city offers so many options for your stay staring from basic budget hotels to high end 5 star luxury hotels, the city has to offer you all kind of stay depending upon your preferences.

5 Star hotels : Taj Vivanta – The Dal view, The Lalit, Radisson, Rah Bagh, Kabo Luxury Houseboats : Sukoon, Mascot, Mughal Sherton, Mughal Palace

 

PAHALGAM

Pahalgam is located to the south of Kashmir and is 95 kms from srinagar city. Pahlagam falls in the district of Islamabad (Anantnag). The word Pahalgam means – The Village of Shepherds. This most beautiful hill station lies at an altitude of 2400 mts from sea level. Pahalgam town has a population of 80000 people and acts as a base camp for many trekking routes. Shri Amarnath Yatra for Hindus also starts from Pahalgam on one side. The lush green meadows and pristine ice cold glacial water attracts lakhs of tourists from all over the world each year.

Places to Visit

There are many places to visit in and around Pahalgam. The most famous places are

Lidder River : Pahalgam town is bisected by Lidder river fed by Kholai Glacier. There are 2 major streams of river, one comes from Sheshnag Lake on Amarnath cave route & another comes from Harnag Lake from Aru Valley route. Both these streams meet in Pahalgam and make a big Lidder river.This Lidder river then flows into Jehlum river and sangam in Anantnag district. There are many kinds of fishes in this river, most famous one is Rainbow trout. Lot of water sports activities are also happening in Lidder river like rafting, kayaking, angling etc.

Aru Valley : Aru Valley is 12 kms from Pahalgam up in the mountains towards Kolahai Glacier. There is a good road connectivity from Pahalgam to Aru Valley. Aru is a small picturesque village having a population of some 2000 people and is base camp to many high altitude lakes & glaciers. There are good number of hotels at Aru and one can also stay at this beautiful location set in mountains. Aru valley is also home to Overa Wildlife sanctuary and one can see Himalayan bears, snow Leopards, wild goats, Himalayan Marmot, Himalayan Fox, many reptiles, monkeys and other fauna. There are so many medicinal plants, edible mushrooms and other flora found around the valley.

Betab Valley : Betab Valley or Betab Wadi is located on the way to Chandanwari & is 7 kms from Pahalgam. The name Betab Valley has been coined after Bollywood movie Betab set in late 80”s at the same location. Almost whole move was shot at this location and hence named Betab Valley. This valley is very picturesque, lush green with a river stream flowing through it. The valley has some beautiful drooping willow trees & different kinds of pine trees. The valley is covered by snow clad mountains from all the sides. It’s a must visit place when in Pahalgam.

Chandanwari : Chandanwari is 16 kms from Pahalgam and is the road is well paved. It lies at an altitude of 2900 mts from sea level. Chandanwari is base camp for Amarnath Yatra. There is a cave high up in the Himalayan mountains where the Ice lingam (make phallus) is formed everywhere and millions of Hindus throng to this mountainous terrain to get the blessings of Babaji. This annual pilgrimage happens in the month from June to August, but due to continuous human reach, the fragility of the ecosystem is getting disturbed and many flash floods and other natural disasters happening in and around the cave.

Biseeran Valley : Biseeran Valley also called as mini Switzerland is a lush green meadow set in mountains and accessible by walk or by horse rides. It’s beautiful one and half trek from Pahalgam.One one enters into this beautiful meadow, he forgets about the world from which he has come. The valley is surrounded by snow clad mountains, dense conifers & chirping of birds. One can easily camp there for a night or so.

Kashmir Valley : This valley is also accessible by walk or by horse ride and it gives us whole view of South Kashmir. One can see to a large extent from this point & if it’s clear sky without haze, morning time one can see the mountains to the North of Kashmir.

Rafting point : Rafting point has recently come on the tourism map of Pahalgam, this place is also referred as hospitality city as all the new hotels have come up at this point. This place is 15 kms before Pahalgam on the way from Srinagar. One can do a rafting here in gushing waters of Lidder river. One can do rafting upto 10 kms and can also capture breathtaking views of surrounding mountains.

Apple Valley : Apple valley is another recent place added to the tourism map of Pahalgam. One can see abundance of fruit orchids in general and apple trees in particular. You can see almost 20 varieties of apples hanging on the trees, one can also try fresh apple juice, apple sous, apple jam, apple pickle,dried apples and other apple flavoured products.

Activities to do : One can do following activities in Pahalgam : Rafting, Angling, Trekking, Camping,Hiking, Mountaineering, Horse riding, Nature walking, nature healing, spiritual healing, wildlife watching, bird watching, plant identifying, Sledging.

Places to Eat : There are many veg and non- veg restaurants, café”s and other food outlets, some of the famous ones are, Dana Pani, Nathuram Rasoi, Trout Treat, Pakwaan, Paradise restaurant etc

Best time to Visit : March to October (winter max: -10° & summer max 30 °)How to Reach : Nearest Airport is Shaikh-Ul-Alam International Airport & there are daily direct and indirect flights from different states of india. Nearest Train Station is Jammu Tawi railway station and distance from Jammu to Pahalgam is 250 kms. By road Pahalgam is very well connected to Srinagar,Jammu and other places of Kashmir.

Where to Stay : There are good hotels, guest houses, Homestay and hostels available in Pahalgam.

5 Star Hotels : ITC Welcome Pine & Peak, Pahalgam Hotel, Radisson Pahalgam

4 Star Hotels : Heevan Resort, Kolahoi Greens, Hermitage, Mountview, Woodstock etc

 

GULMARG

Gulmarg the magical winter wonderland, the paradise of winter sports activities. There is a scent of wild flowers in the atmosphere. Gulmarg is a cup shaped valley in the foot hills of Pir Panchal mountains. The name Gulmarg was coined by 15th century Kashmiri ruler Yusuf Shah Chak. Gulmarg means Valley of flowers. Located towards north of Kashmir in the district of Baramulla. Gulmarg is 47 kms from Capital city srinagar. Gulmarg is 2700 mts from sea level and is famous for winter activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating etc. Gulmarg is located in the Pir Panchal range of western Himalayas & lies within the boundaries of Gulmarg Wildlife sanctuary. There are almost 50 varieties of wild flowers found in Gulmarg. This place has been a retreat for kings, rulers and other dignitaries from 15th century. British officers started using Gulmarg as recreational place in summers to escape from the heat of Northern plains.Gulmarg is world famous for skiing and other winter sports activities. Skiing was established in Gulmarg by Britishers in 1927 in the form of Ski club and two annual ski events were hosted one each during Christmas and Easter. Gulmarg is now an established Ski destination & it was ranked as 5th winter sports destination throughout world. Gulmarg has been home to many Bollywood movies and so many documentaries are already available about this destination.

Gulmarg is not a habitable place as the winter here is very harsh as temperatures go down upto -20 and there is an abundance of snow (15 ft) during winters, thus making difficult to live there. Nearest town is Tangmarg which is 14 kms before Gulmarg on srinagar road.

Places to Visit : Gulmarg itself is very beautiful bowl shaped valley covered by conifers and Pir Panchal mountains. One can see many beautiful places in and around Gulmarg.

Apharwat Peak : Apharwat peak is the highest point in Gulmarg. This peak is at an altitude of 4100 mts from sea level and is accessible by Gandola Cable car or one can trek upto Apharwat peak. On the other side of Apharwat peak one can see Frozen Lake which stays frozen throughout the year. There are clear views of Zabarwan mountain and while kashmir valley from Apharwat peak. This peak is base for advance kind of Heli skiing.

Kongdoori : Kongdoori is one of the secret jewel of Gulmarg. It lies between Apharwat peak and Gulmarg meadow & has an altitude of 3300 mts from sea level. It is a transit point between Gulmarg meadow and Apharwat peak. Lot of snow and other sports activities are done and Kongdoori some of them are skiing, sledding, Snow biking etc.

Drung Waterfall : This waterfall is located in the village of Drung and is 16 kms from Gulmarg. This is a popular tourist spot particularly in the winter when the fall freezes because of extremely cold temperature. The water fall is hidden in the mountains and is easily accessible by road vai Tangmarg.There is a cold misty spray during the summers and it makes the visit more refreshing.

Khilanmarg : Khilanmarg is a beautiful valley, about 6 kms from Gulmarg. The meadow is carpeted with wild flowers in Sprig and summer, whereas in winters it covered with many feet snow making it ideal place for skiing and other winter activities. There is a 600 Mt accent from Gulmarg to Khilanmarg and one can see Harmukh mountains and it’s twin peaks Mt. Nun & Mt. Kun.

Golf course : Gulmarg golf course is considered as the highest 18 whole golf course in India. It is located in the meadow of Gulmarg and is at the altitude of 2700 mts. The golf is covered by a thick blanket of snow in winters. It’s open from April to November. The golf course was built in 1890. The golf course itself has 16 species of different wild flowers.

Activities to do : Gulmarg has many activities to offer particularly in winter. It’s considered as kind of the winter sports and activities. Some of the most common activities are : Gandola Cable car rides,Skiing (base, intermediate, advance, cross country) Snowboarding, Snow Biking, Snow cycling, tube rides, sledges, ATV rides, Tube rides, sledging, horse rides, trekking, hiking, camping etc

Best time to visit : November to June (temp- winter max : -10° & Summer max 30°)How to Reach : Gulmarg is 40 kms from Srinagar International Airport & is well connected by road to Srinagar, Jammu and other major towns and cities of kashmir.

Where to stay : Gulmarg has some really good hotels to stay in, there are also some beautiful budget

hotels, guest houses and Govt accommodations.

5 Star Hotels : Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, Highlands Park

4 Star Hotels : Heevan Resort, Grand Mumtaz, Vintage Hotel, Kolahoi Gulmarg, Hiltop Hotel

 

SONMARG

Sonmarg is also called Gateway to Ladakh – The Land of high passes. As the name suggests, Sonmarg means Meadow of Gold. The grass in sonmarg is golden Colour. Sonmarg is situated on the northeast of Kashmir valley and is 85 kms from capital city srinagar.The scenic drive from Ganderbal to Sonmarg is most beautiful in whole Kashmir. On the way you are driving along the banks of Sindh river passing through paddy fields & valleys lined with conifers and huge mountains. This hill station is located in the district of Ganderbal. Sonmarg has historical significance as a gateway on ancient Silk Route,connecting Jammu & Kashmir to a Ladakh and then to Tibet. Today the hill station is very famous among hikers and trekkers as most the treks in kashmir starts from Sonmarg. One the the famous trek of Kashmir (The Great Lakes Trek) starts from Sonmarg.The hill station is at an elevation of 2900 mts from seas level & is close to valleys some of the tallest peaks.

Sonmarg Valley is bisected by Sindh river which is the most ferocious river in kashmir. It’s gushing waters can drag anything which comes on the way. Sindh river is ideal spot for white water rafting & fishing. There are some famous glaciers which feed this river. One of the famous glacier of Sonmarg is Thajiwas. It’s accessible from sonmarg either by walk or by ponies. There are many high altitude Alpine lakes scattered in the mountains of Sonmarg, some of them are Kishansar, Vsihansar, Gadsar,Gangabal, Barafsar, Sonasar, etc. these lakes are the ideal breeding grounds for Rainbow Trout & Brown Trout.

Places to visit in Sonmarg : There are lot many places which one can see in sonmarg, one needs at least 3 days to visit highlights of Sonmarg. Some of the places are as below

Thajiwas Glacier : Thajiwas glacier is roughly 6 kms from Sonmarg and is accessible by walk or horse rides, vehicles go upto certain point and after that we have to take a walk. Thajiwas glacier has the amazing views which will leave its visitors with a surprise. This glacier is biggest in Sonmarg.

Sindh River : This river flows through the centre of Sonmarg and source of many hydro power projects, fish farms and irrigation canals. The beauty of sonmarg is incomplete without mentioning Sindh River.

Zojila Pass : Zojila Pass connects Kashmir valley with Ladakh and average altitude of this pass is 4000 mts. This high pass is closed for almost 8 months due to heavy snow of 10 ft. When the road opens in May, the vehicles pass through snow walls and it gives goosebumps. The drive is very adventurous and scenic.

Zero Point : Zero point is half day excursion from Sonmarg, it’s 26 kms from sonmarg after crossing Zojila Pass. There is abundance of snow throughout the air and tourists throng to this place in summer to enjoy snow and snow activities.

Drass : Drass the 2nd inhabited cold places in the world with -55° recorded in 1995. Drass town lies on NH1 between Srinagar and Kargil & is 135 kms from Srinagar, 70 kms from Kargil town of Ladakh. It is the first town of Ladakh Région often referred as Gateway to Ladakh. This town is covered in 20 ft of snow and the people of the town doesn’t come out from their homes for most of the time throughout the year. The average elevation of the town is 3500 mts from sea level. This town is very close to border and the Kargil war of 1999 between India and Pakistan was fought from here till Kargil. The famous Tiger Hill of Kargil war can be seen from Darss Valley.

Kargil : Kargil is district and lies in Ladakh region which is now a separate Union Territory (UT). There are only 2 districts in Ladakh region (Kargil & Leh). Kargil is 200 kms from Srinagar, 100 kms from Sonmarg and lies on NH1 connecting Kashmir with Leh city. Kargil is a border town and was in news because of the Kargil war fought on it in 1999 between India and Pakistan. The district lies to the Northwest of Greater Himalayas. Kargil is home to many endangered wildlife like Snow Leopard,Tibetan wolf, Himalayan Brown bear, Asiatic Ibex, Ladakh Urail, Musk deer, Marmots & Hares.

Activities to do : The most common activities happening in Sonmarg are Trekking & Camping.Trekkers & Hikers from all across the world throng to sonmarg from June to September to take different trekking expeditions. Some other activities to do in Sonmarg are, angling, off-roading,mountaineering, wildlife watching, bird watching, skiing, snowboarding, snow biking, cycling, ATV biking, paragliding, nature walking, nature healing, spiritual healing.

Best time to visit : Throughout the year (winter – max: -15° & summer max :25°)How to Reach : Sonmarg is located on national highway (NH1) and is very well connected by road with Srinagar, Ganderbal, Kargil, Leh & other major cities/towns of Kashmir. Nearest airport is Srinagar airport (90 kms) & nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi (373 kms)

Where to Stay : There are many options of stay in Sonmarg, starting from 5 star luxury to budget hotels, list is big . Some of the best options of stay in Sonmarg are

5 Star : Snowland Hotels & Resorts, Country Inn Suites by Radisson, Badar Resort & Spa

4 Star : Imperial Resort, Hotel Village walk, Hotel Sonmarg Glacier

 

YUSMARG

Yusmarg – The meadow of Jesus is located on the west of Kashmir valley, set in the foothills of PirPanchal mountain range. Yusmarg is 49 kms from Srinagar city via Charar-i-Sharief & falls in the district of Budgam. This place has been a hot destination in 60”s, 70”s & 80”s for Bollywood movies.Lot of Hindi movies where shot here. This lush green destination provides views of beautiful landscapes, young pine nurseries, vast pastures, rolling hills, scented pines, water streams, lakes and snow clad mountains. Nature has bestowed Yusmarg with variety of flora and Fauna. There are many tribal villages and nomads living in and around Yusmarg

Yusmarg is an ideal place for trekkers, photographers, nature lovers, bird watchers and naturalists. One can easily get engaged in Yusmarg for many days and can explore nearby places as well. Tribe homestay and cafe located at the nearest village nagbal is gaining popularity especially among the youth. The place is rustic ,wooden and reflects the kashmiri architectural heritage. Among fauna,locals claim that they often sight wolves, bears, apes, cats, aves of various types.

Places to visit : There are many beautiful places to visit in and around Yusmarg. Some of the most famous places are

Doodhganga : Doodhganga Ganga is a river steam flowing Northwest of Yusmarg meadow. This river originates from a lake called Magrusar which is set high in Pir Panchal mountains. This river is located at picturesque surroundings and can be accessed by a walk of 45 minutes. One can visit Doodhganga by pony rides which are easily available at Yusmarg. This river is known for its brown trouts and is a source of mini hydroelectric plant just 3 kms down.

Neelnag Lake : Neelnag lake is 7 kms trek from Yusmarg and is accessible by trek or by ponies. This lake holds a very special significance for Hindu mythology. It’s water looks green due to refraction of surrounding environment of pines and lush green meadow. This lake is an ideal place for angling.

Yusmarg Lake : Yusmarg Lake is actually an artificial dam constructed some 50 years ago for the purpose of irrigation facility to the nearby villages. The source of the Sam is glacial water coming from Sunset peak & Tatakuti peak up in Pir Panchal mountains. This lake has a very scenic location and is an ideal place for fishing and relaxing on its banks.

Darwan Tribal Village : Darwan village is Southwest of Yusmarg just after Yusmarg Lake. This village is very exotic and picturesque. One can mingle with local people easily and are welcomed with respect. A visit to the village is memorable one.

Activities to do : Trekking and camping is main activity around Yusmarg. The routes are the most beautiful and easy. Most frequent treks are Yusmarg/Tosamaidan trek, Trusar trek, Yusmarg/Hirpora lakes trek, Yusmarg/Doodhpathri trek etc Other activities to do in Yusmarg are horse rides, fishing, nature walks, wildlife, bird watching,photography etc.

Best time to visit : Throughout the year (Temp -10 max in winter 30 max in summer)

How to reach : Yusmarg is just 30 kms from airport and is very well connected with Srinagar via

Charari Sharief. There are taxi”s easily available from airport.

Where to Stay : Tourist infrastructure in Yusmarg is yet not upto the standard, lot more is need to do for it. There is one good hotel in Yusmarg and is owned by Tourism a corporation of Kashmir. The hotel name is Kongposh. There are also some hutments, guesthouse and private Lodges’s. One can do day trip to Yusmarg from srinagar.

 

OFF BEAT KASHMIR

Nowadays so many other unexplored tourist destinations are coming up on the map of Kashmir Tourism. These destinations are much more promising and versatile as compared to existing ones, the only problem is lack of infrastructure at these destinations. Some of the offbeat destinations are

Doodhpathri: Located on the west of Kashmir some 50 km from Srinagar. Doodhpathri is a huge lush green meadow lined with pine trees and huge pit Panchal mountains. There is a river flowing on the east of the meadow. This river is called Shaliganga. Doodhpathri is trekkers paradise some beautiful treks start from this place and there are lot of high altitude lakes nestled in the mountains, some of them are Gadtarsar, Damam sar, Bandersar, Pam sar etc.

Gurez : Gurez is actually a border area close to line of control, it lies north of kashmir and is 135 kms from srinagar airport. Gurez valley falls in the district of Bandipora. Gurez is ideal place for camping and scenic beauty, there is a huge river passing through gurez. This river is called Kishan Ganga and becomes Neelam while entering Pakistan. Places to visit in Gurez are Habba Khatoon peak, Bakhtoor,Ismael, Angaikoot, Husngaam etc.

Sinthan Top : Sinthan top is a pass connecting kashmir Valley with Kishtwar district. Sinthan top is at the height of 4200 mts from sea level and is covered by snow most of the time. This road is open for only 3 months. The sights are very scenic, one feels like he is in the clouds. Sinthan top is 136 kms from srinagar and the road is in good condition. On the way to Sinthan top there is a place called Daksum which is 31 kms before Sinthan top. This place is ideal picnic spot among locals. Other tourist places around Sinthan top are Verinag, Achabal, Kokernag.

Margan top and Warwan Valley : Margan top is another high pass connecting kashmir valley with Warwan valley. This top is located southeast of Srinagar and is 130 kms from Srinagar. There are beautiful 4 high altitude lakes just 2 hrs trek from Margan top. These lakes are called Chornag means 4 lakes. 30 kms descend from Margan top is a beautiful valley called Warwan and is located on the banks of Chenab river. This valley is pristine, natural and lush green. There are some basic govt accommodations available.

Bungus Valley. Bungus valley is situated north of Kashmir in the district of Kupwara. This valley is close to border with pakistan. The valley is 110 kms from srinagar and falls in the border district of Kupwara. There are 2 big meadows in the valley one is called upper Bungus & the 2nd small valley is called lower Bangus Other places to visit around are Lolab Valley, Sadhnatop, Teetwal, Thangdar, Satbaren, Kalarus, Keren & Machil. Most of these places are border villages.

Peer ki Gali : Peer ki Gali lies on the south of Kashmir and is 90 kms from srinagar, Peter ki Gali falls in the district of Shupain. It’s actually a pass connecting Kashmir valley with Rajouri and Poonch. This pass is at the height of 4300 mts from sea level and is covered with snow throughout the year. Other places to visit around Peer Ki Gali include Debgen, Aharbal waterfall, Hirpora. There are some high altitude lakes accessible from peer ki Gali.

 

SPECIAL INTEREST TOURS

Special interest tours in kashmir are picking up with a good speed and lot of ground work has already been done by the govt and tourism players of kashmir. Kashmir is often called as Reshwar or Peerwar which means The Land of Saints and Sufi”s. There are many many shrines of Sufi”s and Saints throughout Kashmir. These shrines are mostly situated on Hilltops. Special interest tours are categorised as below

Healing Tours : Kashmir has a history of great healers who have done miracles during there time.These healers were mostly saints and Reshi”s living very simple life in the mountains. These healers are still found in kashmir and can heal many ailments, physical, mental and emotional. People across the world come to these healers and get their worries cured.

Spiritual Tours : Spiritual tours are those kinds of tours in which a person stays at one particular place and spends most of his time in remembering God and it’s creation. These are remote places high in the mountains with basic and simple life. These tours are gaining grounds in Kashmir in recent years.

Sufi Tours : Kashmir is blessed with many poets as well and these poets where philosophers, thinkers,social reformers. Their poetic verses have helped a lot to uplift the life of people in kashmir from many centuries now. Sufi tours include visiting these poets and living with them for a moment to get their blessings.