Planning a trip to Kashmir? Did you know there is a hidden treasure waiting to be explored? That’s Gurez Valley! While popular destinations like Srinagar and Gulmarg often top the list of Things to do in Kashmir, Gurez Valley is a beautiful hidden place in northern Jammu and Kashmir, India. It’s close to the Line of Control (LOC).
Gurez Valley Kashmir has amazing views with deep valleys, tall mountains, and colourful fields that you can’t find anywhere else in India. Also, a pretty river called Kishanganga flows through it.
The people living there mostly belong to the “Dard Shin” cultural heritage. They have their own special culture. They speak a language called Shina and build houses using wood in a traditional way.
In the last few years, Gurez Valley has become easier for tourists to visit( the government has been de-militarizing the area) and explore!
Immerse Yourself In Local Culture
Gurez Valley is a fun place to visit any time of year! There is always something exciting happening. If you visit Gurez Valley in July or August, you’re in for a treat! It’s Gurez Festival time.
It is a big three-day festival where you can watch people dance, hear beautiful old songs, and even join in some adventure activities. It is a great way to experience the local culture.
Go Trekking
If you are looking for an adventure in Gurez Valley, go trekking! There are lots of great trails to explore in Gurez Valley. As you trek, you will see amazing views that you will remember forever.
Lock The Best Views With Your Camera
Love taking pictures? Gurez is perfect for you! The views are so pretty, that you will want to snap photos all day long.
River Raft Or Camp By The Kishanganga River
For the best experience, why not camp by the Kishanganga River? Imagine waking up to a gorgeous sunrise over the water. It is breathtaking!
For thrill-seekers, the river offers some fun too. You can go rafting if you want some excitement, or try fishing if you prefer something relaxing.
No matter what you like to do, Gurez has something for everyone. Whether you are watching a colourful festival, taking in the beautiful scenery, or having an outdoor adventure in Gurez Valley, you will surely make memories that last a lifetime.
Imagine a high mountain road covered in snow. That is Razdan Pass! It’s about 11,000 feet up in the air. From here, you can see amazing views all around. It serves like the front door to the beautiful Gurez Valley.
On your way to Gurez, you will find a special place called Peer Baba Shrine. Many travellers stop here to pray for a safe journey. It is a peaceful spot surrounded by beautiful mountains —- must visit!
Habba Khatoon Peak, named after a famous Kashmiri poetess is a beautiful mountain in pyramid shape and is about 13,000 feet high. As it offers great views, many people hike here and capture stunning views with their cameras.
If you want to explore an off-the-beat tourist place, head to Tulail Valley. It is part of Gurez but feels like its own world. You will be amazed at how people live old-fashioned here and lots of colourful green fields all around! It is like stepping back in time.
Wular Lake is huge - one of the biggest lakes in all of Asia! It’s near a town called Sopore. It is home to many fish and people come here to fish or enjoy water sports. It is an important place for the local community.
Dawar is the main town in Gurez Valley. It is where most people live and work. The town is beautiful as it is surrounded by mountains all around. If you visit, don’t forget to check out the local markets and look at the old wooden houses(built in a special traditional style).
The above weather conditions make it clear that the ideal time to explore Gurez Valley is from April to September. This period is ideal for indulging in adventure activities, clicking pictures, and enjoying the pleasant Gurez Valley.
Airway:
Srinagar Airport is the nearest one. After reaching there take a taxi or bus to Bandipora to reach Gurez Valley.
Roadway:
You can drive from Srinagar to Bandipora for about 3 hours(65 km) and then from Bandipora to Gurez in 4 to 5 hours( 83 km). Please note that the road passes through Razdan Pass and can be tricky.
Railway:
Take a train to Banihal Station. Up on reaching Banihal, get a bus or taxi to Srinagar. From there you can follow the above route.
Remember, the journey might take longer depending on weather and road conditions. The mountain roads can be challenging, so be prepared for a bit of adventure!
