The Pristine Beauty of Gurez
When we think about Kashmir, we visualize snowclad mountains, the Dal lake, the Shalimar Bagh, and the Nishat Bagh.
But there are many hidden gems in Kashmir we are not even aware of. The Bangus valley, Kishtwar, Aharbal waterfall, Kounsar lake, Tosai Maidan, Lolab, Sinthan Top, Athwatoo, Naranag, and Gurez Valley are to name a few.
Which part of Kashmir is most beautiful?
Gurez Valley is the ultimate example of a beautiful serene valley, with mountains spread across the river banks. The immaculate beauty of this valley leaves all its visitors in awe. Gurez is located at a distance of 150 km from Srinagar, and 85 km from the nearest major town Bandipora. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the majestic Himalayas, Gurez is situated at an altitude of 8000 ft above sea level with the river KishanGanga flowing through it.
Which valley is famous in Gurez?
Razdan pass-
Gurez Valley: Situated at an altitude of 3300 m, Razdan pass is the highest point between Gurez and Bandipora. The Razdan Pass offers some of the most panoramic views of the high mountains and the deep gorges. This pass is very near to the Line of Control.
Dawar:
Dawar is the central part of the Gurez valley spreading over fifteen villages. Dawar is the best place in the valley to get a taste of life in the countryside. It is an important archaeological site in the valley.
Tulail Valley:
Tulail is situated at a distance of around 40 km from Dawar, it’s a cluster of 5-10 villages. A perfect blend of meadows and mountains of green and brown tinge, the place makes a perfect combination of Gulmarg and Pahalgam
Harmukh:
Considered the Abode of Lord Shiva according to Kashmiri Hindu theology, in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is located between Gangabal Lake in the south and KishanGanga/Neelum River in the north. The snow-clad Harmukh peak provides quite a spectacular view of the Gurez valley.
Gurez National Park
The flora and fauna of Gurez is very rich and diverse. From Himalayan brown bears to snow leopards Gurez is the habitat of different species of animals and birds.
Weather In Gurez valley
During winter mercury dips up to -10’C and in summer the temperature rises up to a maximum of 27’C.
Best Time To Visit Gurez
Between May and October.
PC: Shabir Mirza
How To Reach Gurez
It takes 6-7 hours from Srinagar, and 4-5 hours from Bandipora by road.
The road from Bandipora to Gurez is very rough, rugged, and narrow. It would actually test your driving skills. Shared SUV services are also there for passengers from Bandipora to Gurez.
There are no fuel refill stations in Gurez, the last filling station is in Bandipora.
Where to stay In Gurez
- JK Tourism and JKTDC have guest houses in Dawar, apart from that there are no other standard hotels or Lodges available.
- Do not forget to carry a valid id proof and your travel tickets to ensure a hassle-free vacation.
What to do in Gurez
It is an ideal place for camping, rock climbing, and trekking. If you are a nature lover who also loves trekking then, Gurez is just the place for you during summers.
We hope that this blog helped you get enough information about Gurez valley, if you need any more questions related to this feel free to contact us:)
Happy wandering!