Kashmir’s Offbeat Destinations Let us discuss Kashmir!
Beautiful lakes, wide grassy fields, snow-capped hills, and Kahwa drinkers. These prominent destinations in Kashmir characterise Kashmir to a large extent. However, paradise is not limited to these breathtakingly lovely locations.
Surprised? But it is correct. Kashmir is so much more. Moustache takes you on a journey to the top 15 undiscovered offbeat locations in Kashmir. These 15 Offbeat Destinations are just as stunning (if not more so) and begging for your attention.
So, without further ado, let’s deconstruct the valley’s popular tourist traps. Check out these 15 unusual sites in Kashmir.
1. Chatpal
You may be familiar with Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Yusmarg’s gorgeous scenery, but no one has ever described the spectacular splendour of Kashmir’s Chatpal Village. It is one of the most beautiful off-the-beaten-path tourist destinations in Kashmir. It’s in the Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir.
A vision of exceptional beauty is created by the fresh green colours of lush forests and rich green mountains. It is one of the best places to spend quality time with family and friends in the midst of nature, away from the rush and bustle of city life. For adventure junkies, a short trip through the forests around Chatpal Kashmir would also be worthwhile. A true refuge of tranquilly and calm.
2. Lamayuru
Have you ever imagined yourself on the moon? Right now, you can’t, but you can go to Lamayuru. Due to its moon-like landform, you will feel as if you are walking on another planet. Think of Lamayuru as the South American version of Iceland.
Lamayuru, 130 kilometres from Leh, is worth a night’s stay for its beauty. The best ways to go to Lamayuru are by private cab or self-driven vehicle. Lamayuru is only three hours away (one way). Avoid taking public transportation and make a point of visiting Lamayuru monastery when in Lamayuru village.
3. Daksum
Here you’ll find coniferous forests, isolated green meadows, and snow-capped mountains. Daksum Valley is a bucket full of delight and adventure as it reveals its breathtaking beauty. Trout can be found in Daksum Valley, which is located along the Bhringi River just before the Mughal Gardens of Achabal.
At Daksum, there is something for everyone. There’s something for everyone, from the breathtaking splendour of natural springs to the simplicity of country life. Daksum will appeal to nature lovers and adventurers alike. Camping and climbing to the Simthan Pass are both possible from here. A lovely occasion to celebrate with family and friends, as well as a romantic setting for couples.
4. Yusmarg
Yusmarg, which means “Jesus Meadow,” is 45 kilometres from Shrinagar in the Badgam district of western Kashmir. Beautiful green meadows bordered by heavily covered alpine woods are shown in mint, apple, lime, emerald, and various hues of green.
The views are stunning, evocative of a European alpine valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks. A four-kilometer horseback ride deep into the woods takes you past some breathtaking scenery, with a trickling creek meandering amongst the pine trees. In the distance, the Nilnag lake, nestled among the hills, shimmers.
5. Karnah
Karnah is a small but charming valley with natural beauty and a history that may be seen in the forts, palaces, statues, weaponry, and utensils. In Jammu and Kashmir, Kishtwar is 86 kilometres away while Kupwara is 78 kilometres away. The picturesque Sadhna Pass must be crossed across the Shamsbari Range. The greatest time to visit Karnah is during the summer.
From Karnah hamlet, the snowy mountain ranges of Qazi Nag and Nanga Parvat can be viewed. We represent a number of 5000-year-old civilizations at Karnah. Deodar trees surround Tangdar, Teethwal, Gundi Gujran, Amrohi, and Saidpura, and the ambiance of several villages such as Tangdar, Teethwal, Gundi Gujran, Amrohi, and Saidpura will take you to another world of delight.
6. Watlab
Take in the breathtaking views of Wular Lake, Asia’s largest freshwater lake, from Watlab. Naturalists and bird lovers flock to Watlab to see Himalayan golden Eagles, Himalayan Monal, Rock Dove, Barn Shallow, and other unique species.
Watlab is a one-of-a-kind combination of natural beauty and spirituality. On a hilltop, the Muslim Shrine of Baba Shukurddin, one of Nundresi’s four pupils, is placed. Aside from that, Watlab sightseeing is enhanced by a number of fun activities such as bird watching, fishing, and Shikara rides.
7. Gurez
Gurez is 130 kilometres from Srinagar and takes 35-40 minutes to reach the beautiful Tulail Valley. The 58-kilometer route connecting Srinagar and Bandipore passes by the Manasbal and Wular lakes, which are located on the outskirts of North Kashmir and offer breathtaking views. The massive Kishenganga River, also known as the Neelum, surges into the valley from Pakistan, and its many brooks, streams, and tributaries gurgle and rush through the valley.
Along the journey, the distinctive pyramid limestone mountain Habba Khatun, named for a prominent Kashmiri poetess, and the 3,300-meter-high Razdan Pass may be observed. The Gurez Valley lies along a section of the old Silk Route, which connected Kashmir and Gilgit. The Dards, a clan from Gurez, are thought to be ancestors of Alexander’s army’s Greek garrison. The country appears to be frozen in time, with its wooden log cabins, quaint hamlets, shepherds, and stunning natural backdrop. There’s no internet, and to begin with, there’s barely a signal.
8. Turtuk
If you’ve never heard of the location, it’s not your fault. From 1951 to 1971, Turtuk lived in Pakistan. Turtuk village is an entirely different planet. Its culture is distinct from that of Kashmiris and even Ladakhis.
Diskit is 90 kilometres away, while Leh is 211 kilometres away. Don’t be deceived by the distance; getting from Diskit to Turtuk takes roughly 4 hours due to the quality of the route. Turtuk may be reached from Leh by taking one of the regular buses. You could also take a taxi from Leh or Diskit.
Diskit is 90 kilometres away, while Leh is 211 kilometres away. Don’t be deceived by the distance; getting from Diskit to Turtuk takes roughly 4 hours due to the quality of the route. Turtuk may be reached from Leh by taking one of the regular buses. You could also take a taxi from Leh or Diskit.
10. Breng
The Breng District of Kashmir, which encompasses Kokernag, lies 85 kilometres southeast of Srinagar and contains the valley’s largest natural spring. The springs and their numerous tributaries resemble a rooster’s or Koker’s claws, therefore the name. Hundreds of visitors flock to Kokernag and its neighbour, Verinag, to see the springs and floral gardens, which are famed for their medicinal effects.
Daksum is roughly a 30-minute drive from Kokernag, with its stunning waterfalls, pine-covered hills, lush meadows, and streams. Daksum is a lovely and peaceful stop on the way to the spectacular Sinthan Top. Nearby attractions include Margan Top, Achabal, and Verinag.
11. Valley of Warwan
Warwan Valley is a quiet location 150 kilometres from Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir’s state capital. It is approximately 3 hours from the Anantnag District and is a trekkers’ delight. Some of the trekking routes include Sukhnai- Chittergul- Aishmuqam, Sukhnai- Kanital- Panikhar, and Sukhnai- Kanital- Panikhar.
This attractive tourist location is free of the detrimental effects of modern life, and hence breathes clean air. The lovely and musical Warwan River, whose source is the massive Kanital Glacier, transports visitors to a new level of delight and tranquilly. The Warwan Valley towns provide a beautiful setting.
12. Valley of Aru
Aru Valley is a 12-kilometer drive from Pahalgam in the Anantnag District of Jammu and Kashmir. Aru, termed the state’s tiniest hill station, is a naturalist’s and explorer’s dream. The scenery is dotted with waterfalls, turquoise brooks, deodars, and pines. The Lidder River, which runs upstream, drapes itself like a pale blue satin ribbon around the magnificent valley.
A pony ride from Aru village is possibly the best way to see the beautiful Lidderwat Valley if you’re short on time. The hamlet is also a jumping off place for excursions to the Kolohoi Glacier and Tarsar-Mansar Lake. Rare species like the hangul, musk deer, brown bear, and snow leopard live in the nearby Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, which encompasses 500 square kilometres and is home to rare species like the hangul, musk deer, brown bear, and snow leopard. Baisaaran and Betaab Valley are two neighbouring attractions.
13. Valley of Lolab
Lolab Valley, also known as Wadi-e-Lolab, is one of Kashmir’s most serene and tranquil areas. The features include apple orchards, a lake, springs, and covered paddy fields, to name a few. Lolab is made up of three mystery valleys: Kalaroos Valley, Potnai Valley, and Brunai Valley.
Nagmarg Meadows, which separates Lolab and Bandipora Districts, is a photographer’s fantasy. The Lahwal River, as well as the neighbouring springs named Lavnag and Gauri, present a stunning spectacle for visitors. Visit Lalpur, a lovely village near Lolab Valley in Kashmir and the resting site of sage Kashyap. Consider the Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Ibex, and Hangul, all of which are common in Lolab Valley.
14. Valley of Tulail
Tulail Valley should be on your Kashmir sightseeing agenda. It’s one of Kashmir’s best-kept secrets. It is possible to visit it on the same day as Gurez because it is a Himalayan sub-valley. The road between Gurez and Tulail passes through the beautiful Kishanganga River scenery.
On your way to the Purani Tulail Village, you’ll pass via the villages of Barnai, Chakwali, Kashpat, and Zargai. The breathtaking views are a visual and sensory treat. Houses in the Tulail area are made entirely of interlocking logs with no nails. The virgin valley blossoms in the summer and is ideal for photo shoots. In his location, freshwater trout are also very popular.
15. Bhaderwah
Bhaderwah is in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, in the Himalayan foothills. Bhaderwah’s hilly setting offers a lot of possibilities for further adventure activities. Paragliding in Seoj Meadow, skiing, mountaineering, rafting, rock climbing, angling, or simply camping in Bhaderwah’s Jai Valley are all options.
It is also known as “Nagon Ki Bhoomi” since it is home to a diversity of snake species. One can tune into the joy of spirituality by visiting the Nagraj Vasuki Temple, which is sculpted out of a single stone. The glittering water bodies, diversified flora and fauna, rocky terrains, lush green pastures, and snow-capped mountains add to Bhaderwah’s splendour.
16. Reshwari/Bangus
The scenic Kupwara District is home to a rich diversity of flora and animals, as well as other natural gems. The serene streams of Tilwan Kul, Douda Kul, and Roshan Kul, which are magnificent and graceful like a mirror, reflect Bangus’ beauty. This area is home to a variety of animals, including antelope, brown bear, musk deer, and the fearsome snow leopard, as well as beautiful migratory birds including Tragophan, Pheasants, Monal pheasants, bush quail, and others.
The Howkibal Mountains enclose the valley on the north side, while the Qazinag and Shamsbery Mountains encompass it on the west. Visit the mysterious Kala Roos caves, which are said to be the Gateway to Russia. There’s even Stone Age painting on the walls. It’s one of the best places to go hiking and shoot natural beauty. Couples will like the romantic settings, while nature lovers will appreciate the tranquilly.
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