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Gurez Valley is considered one of the most precious jewels of the paradise crown of Kashmir in India. This remote valley presents one of the most beautiful natural beauty scenes of Kashmir with the tourmaline Kishenganga river waters being framed by the indescribable grandeur of the Himalayan mountains surrounding it. It is said that this is the last latitude of India with a topography quite different from that of the rest of Kashmir. The valley beckons nature enthusiasts and adventurers with its picturesque landscapes and untouched beauty.
Quick Facts About Gurez Valley
Location: Himalayas, About 86 km from Bandipore
Elevation: 2,400 m above sea level
Nearest Airport: Srinagar Airport
Nearest Railway Station: Sopore
Nearest Bus Stop: Dawar
Best Time To Visit: April to October
How To Reach Gurez Valley
Photo: Diego Jimenez / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The fastest way to reach the valley is through a flight to Srinagar International Airport. One can hail a private taxi, cab or bus from outside the airport to further reach the valley which is located around 125 km away.
By Rail: There is no railway station in the Valley. The nearest one can go to the valley via railway is Sopore Railway station which is about 120 km away from where one can hail a cab or catch a bus to the valley.
By Road: Road trips to the Valley are one of the most beautiful drives that one can opt for travelling. The road to the valley is in good condition and best for adventure-filled drives.
Suggested Read: Jammu Temples
Places To Visit In Gurez Valley
Several scenic and beautiful tourist places in Gurez Valley will make a trip to this valley a memorable one.
1. Habba Khatoon Peak
Photo: Akhter Jan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
A trek to this gigantic pyramid-shaped peak offers some of the most beautiful and panoramic views of the entire valley. Named after the famous ‘Nightingale of Kashmir’, Habba Khatoon, it is locally believed that her soul still wanders around in the valley searching for her true love. The place even has a small spring gushing just below the mountain and joining River Kishanganga flowing beside it. In addition to being bone-chilling cold, the water of this spring is said to have medicinal properties too.
Location: Habba Khatoon Mountain, Gurez Valley, Forest Block, Jammu and Kashmir 193503
2. Kishanganga River
Photo: Ijazurrehman1970 / Wikimedia Commons
Flowing serenely amidst the valley, this river acts as a lifeline and nourishment for the vibrant flora and fauna of the place. Originating in the Kishansar Lake, the lake flows through picturesque mountain scenery before finally joining Jhelum in Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-held Kashmir. Also known by the name Neelum River, there is a dam called Kishenganga dam on it that acts like a freshwater lake. One can indulge in some camping and water sports activities around it.
Location: Srinagar 193224
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sonmarg
3. Razdan Pass
Photo: Journo Mohsin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Also known as Rajdhani Pass, this pass comes twice during your Valley tour. Not only is this pass the only motorable road connecting Gurez to the world, but it also presents some breathtaking views of the surrounding verdant valleys and picturesque snow-capped mountains. The steepest part of the road has concrete tiles and hundreds of metres of drop with no guardrail protection on the border.
Location: Razdan Pass 193503
4. Chakwali Gurez
Photo: Journo Mohsin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This is a small traditional village of Gurez which is a part of an ancient Silk route connecting Kashmir to China. Said to be the last Indian village on this side, the place has a serene landscape with an old-style feel. People still live in wooden and mud houses designed as per centuries-old style. However, to visit this place, one needs to get permission from the local authorities.
Location: Bandipora 193503
Suggested Read: National Parks In Jammu And Kashmir
5. Tulail Valley
Photo: Zahid Samoon / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A Himalayan sub-valley of Gurez, Tulail Valley is also known as “Little Ladakh” locally. Surrounded by lofty mountains on all sides, people inhabiting this place are mostly from the original Shina and Dard tribes. The place was carved out of the Valley in the year 2014 and is one of the hidden jewels of Kashmir. The entire place has farms and pine trees on all sides. One can enjoy several adventure activities here such as trekking, fishing, camping birdwatching and photography.
Location: Tulail Valley 193503
Gurez Festival
Photo: Tawan Ramtang / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Held in July or August every year, this festival is a celebration of the local culture, heritage, and handicrafts. It is a 2 day cultural and adventure extravaganza that additionally serves as a platform for the local tribal groups like Dardi, Sheena, Pahari and others to showcase their culture and history.
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Where To Stay
Photo: Rhema Kallianpur / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are several private camping sites, resorts and family stays in the Valley. Depending upon their pockets, one can choose to stay at any of them. Some accommodation options in the Valley include Kaka Palace Hotel and Resorts, La Casa Gurez, Pine Tree Resort Gurez, Gurez Retreat and many more.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jon Tyson / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are several restaurants and cafes located in the Valley. One can choose to sample local Kashmiri cuisines like Rogun Josh and Modur Pulao in restaurants like Habba Khatoon restaurant or Valley View restaurant. For a cosy cafe ambience, one can also try Gurez Inn and Restaurant or Hilport Cafe. There are many rustic eateries around the valley serving Middle Eastern, Central Asian and Persian fares.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar
Travelling to Gurez Valley is an adventure in itself. The place is an unexplored slice of heaven in a peaceful remote corner of Kashmir. Accessible only through a scenic drive from Srinagar, you can unravel the local cuisine, soak the beauty of your surroundings, culture and history of this picturesque place with a TripXL customised trip and get a fascinating glimpse of some of the most memorable and spectacular sights.
Cover Photo: Talish Rasool / Unsplash
