Let’s talk about Kashmir! Beautiful lakes, vast verdant meadows, snow capped peaks and the people sipping Kahwa. Kashmir is primarily and majorly defined by these famous destinations in Kashmir. But the paradise is not limited to these remarkably beautiful places.
Surprised? But it’s true. Kashmir is more than than. Moustache takes you on a journey to top 15 Offbeat destinations across Kashmir that are still unexplored. These 15 Offbeat destinations are equally (or even more) beautiful and craving for your attention.
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So without further ado, let’s break the stereotype of popular places across the valley. Take a look at the 15 offbeat places in Kashmir.
1. Chatpal
You may be familiar with the stunning scenery of Srinagar, Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Yusmarg, but no one has ever described the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir’s Chatpal Village. It is one of Kashmir’s most gorgeous off-the-beaten-path tourist spots. It is located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district.
Fresh green colours of lush forests and rich green mountains create a scene of unparalleled beauty. It is one of the ideal places to spend quality time with family and friends away from the hustle and bustle of city life in the midst of nature. A short hike in the forests around chatpal kashmir will also be a rewarding experience for adventure seekers. A true haven of peace and tranquilly.
2. Lamayuru
Have you ever fantasised about walking on the moon? You can’t right now, but you can go to Lamayuru. You will feel as if you are strolling on another planet due to its moon-like landform. Consider Lamayuru to be the South American equivalent of Iceland.
The grandeur of Lamayuru, located 130 kilometres from Leh, is worth a night’s stay. A private taxi or a self-driven vehicle are the finest ways to get to Lamayuru. It takes only 3 hours to go to Lamayuru (one way). Don’t rely on public transit to get about and make sure you visit lamayuru monastery while visiting lamayuru village.
3. Daksum
Coniferous forests, secluded green meadows, and snow-capped mountains can all be found here. Every mile in Daksum Valley is a bucket full of joy and adventure as it displays its beautiful beauty. Daksum Valley is located in Bhringi River, ahead of the Mughal Gardens of Achabal, and is home to Trout.
Everyone will find something to like at Daksum. From the picturesque splendour of natural springs to the simplicity of rural life, there’s something for everyone. Nature enthusiasts and adventurers will like Daksum. It’s an ideal location for camping and hiking to the Simthan Pass. A magical event to share with family and friends, as well as a perfect romantic environment for couples. So it is also one of the beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
4. Yusmarg
Yusmarg, which means “Jesus Meadow,” is 45 kilometres from Shrinagar in western Kashmir’s Badgam region. Mint, apple, lime, emerald, and other hues of green are depicted in beautiful green meadows bordered by heavy wooded alpine woods.
The vistas are breathtaking, reminiscent of an alpine valley in Europe surrounded by snow-capped peaks. A four-kilometer horse ride deep into the woods brings you past some stunning scenery, as a trickling creek meanders between the pine trees. The Nilnag lake, ensconced amid the hills, shimmers in the distance.
5. Karnah
Karnah is a small but lovely valley with natural beauty and a history reflected in its forts, palaces, statues, weaponry, and utensils. Kishtwar is 86 kilometres away, and Kupwara is 78 kilometres away in Jammu & Kashmir. Over the Shamsbari Range, one must pass through the lovely Sadhna Pass. The weather in karnah is best during the summer.
The beauty of the snowy mountain ranges of Qazi Nag and Nanga Parvat may be seen from Karnah hamlet. Here at Karnah, we represent a variety of 5000-year-old civilizations. Tangdar, Teethwal, Gundi Gujran, Amrohi, and Saidpura are surrounded by Deodar trees, and the ambiance of numerous villages such as Tangdar, Teethwal, Gundi Gujran, Amrohi, and Saidpura will transport you to another world of happiness.
6. Watlab
From Watlab, take in the mesmerising views of Wular Lake, Asia’s largest freshwater lake. Watlab is a popular off-the-beaten-path site for naturalists and bird lovers, including Himalayan golden Eagles, Himalayan Monal, Rock Dove, Barn Shallow, and other rare birds.
Watlab is a unique blend of natural beauty and spirituality. The Muslim Shrine of Baba Shukurddin, one of the four pupils of Sufi saint Nundresi, is located on a hilltop. Aside from that, a variety of exciting activities such as bird watching, fishing, and Shikara rides add to the excitement of Watlab sightseeing. So it is also one of the beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
7. Gurez
Gurez is 130 kilometres from Srinagar and is roughly 35-40 minutes away from the scenic Tulail Valley. The 58-kilometer road from Srinagar to Bandipore passes past stunning vistas of the Manasbal and Wular lakes, which are located on the outskirts of North Kashmir. The huge Kishenganga River, also known as the Neelum, rushes into the valley from Pakistan, and its various brooks, streams, and tributaries rush and gurgle through the valley.
The iconic pyramid limestone peak Habba Khatun, named for the famous Kashmiri poetess, and, of course, the 3,300-meter-high Razdan Pass, may be seen along the way. The Gurez Valley is located along a part of the old Silk Route that linked Kashmir with Gilgit. The Dards, a clan from Gurez, are thought to be descendants of the Greek garrison left behind by Alexander’s army. With its wooden log houses, picturesque hamlets, shepherds, and spectacular, natural background, the land looks to be locked in time. There’s no internet, and there’s barely a signal to begin with.
8. Turtuk
It’s not your fault if you’ve never heard of the place. Turtuk lived in Pakistan from 1951 to 1971. Turtuk became part of India after winning the war. Turtuk village is a world unto itself. It has a distinct culture from Kashmiris and even Ladakhis.
Turtuk is 90 kilometres from Diskit and 211 kilometres from Leh. Don’t be fooled by the distance; due to the state of the road, it takes about 4 hours to get from Diskit to Turtuk. Turtuk is accessible from Leh via one of the regular buses. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Leh or Diskit. So it is also one of the beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
9. Breng
Breng District of Kashmir, which includes Kokernag, is located 85 kilometres southeast of Srinagar and is home to the largest natural spring in the Kashmir valley. The springs and their numerous tributaries resemble the claws of a rooster or Koker, hence the name. These springs and floral gardens, which are known for their healing properties, attract hundreds of people to Kokernag and its neighbour, Verinag.
Daksum, with its magnificent waterfalls, pine-covered hills, green meadows, and streams, is about a 30-minute drive from Kokernag. On the way to the magnificent Sinthan Top, Daksum is a beautiful and serene break. Margan Top, Achabal, and Verinag are also neighbouring attractions. So it is also one of the beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
10. Warwan Valley
Warwan Valley is a tranquil location 150 kilometres from Srinagar, the state capital of Jammu & Kashmir. It is a trekkers’ paradise, located 3 hours from the Anantnag District. Sukhnai- Chittergul- Aishmuqam, Sukhnai- Kanital- Panikhar, and Sukhnai- Kanital- Panikhar are some of the trekking routes.
This charming tourist destination is unaffected by the negative impacts of contemporary life, and consequently enjoys clean air. The beautiful and melodious pouring of the Warwan River, whose source is the huge Kanital Glacier, gives tourists with a whole new level of happiness and tranquilly. The settlements of Warwan Valley provide a picturesque backdrop.
11. Aru Valley
Aru Valley is a 12-kilometer drive from Pahalgam in Jammu & Kashmir’s Anantnag District. Aru, dubbed the state’s tiniest hill station, is a real delight for nature lovers and explorers alike. Waterfalls, turquoise brooks, deodars, and pines dot the landscape. The Lidder River, which flows upwards, wraps itself around the lovely valley like a pale blue satin ribbon.
If you’re short on time, a pony ride from Aru village is perhaps the finest way to see the gorgeous Lidderwat Valley. The town also serves as a starting point for treks to the Kolohoi Glacier and Tarsar-Mansar Lake. The neighbouring Overa Aru Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers 500 square kilometres and is home to rare species like the hangul, musk deer, brown bear, and snow leopard, is home to rare species like the hangul, musk deer, brown bear, and snow leopard. Betaab Valley and Baisaaran are two nearby attractions. So it is also one of the beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
12. Lolab Valley
Lolab Valley, also known as Wadi-e-Lolab, is one of Kashmir’s most tranquil and peaceful locations. Beautiful apple orchards, a lake, springs, and covered paddy fields are just a few of the attractions. Kalaroos Valley, Potnai Valley, and Brunai Valley are the three mysterious valleys that make up Lolab.
The scenic grandeur of Nagmarg Meadows, which divides Lolab from Bandipora District, is a photographer’s dream. The presence of the Lahwal River, as well as surrounding springs named Lavnag and Gauri, provides travellers with a captivating spectacle. Visit Lalpur, a picturesque village and the resting place of sage Kashyap, about a kilometre from lolab valley kashmir. Take a look at the Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Leopard, Ibex, and Hangul, which are all common species in Lolab Valley.
13. Tulail Valley
Tulail Valley should be included in your Kashmir tour itinerary. It is one of Kashmir’s hidden jewels. Because it is a Himalayan sub-valley of Gurez, it can be visited on the same day as Gurez. The road from Gurez to Tulail runs through picturesque Kishanganga River scenery.
You will pass via the villages of Barnai, Chakwali, Kashpat, and Zargai on your way to the Purani Tulail Village. The magnificent vistas are a visual and sensory delight. Tulail area houses are made of interlocking logs with no nails. In the summer, the virgin valley blooms and is great for picture sessions. Freshwater trout are also highly popular in his area.
14. Bhaderwah
Bhaderwah is located in the Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir, near the foothills of the Himalayas. Bhaderwah, known for its hilly setting, has a lot of potential for increasing adventure activities. Try some of the adventure sports like paragliding at Seoj Meadow, skiing, mountaineering, rafting, rock climbing, angling, or simply camping in Bhaderwah’s Jai Valley.
Because it is home to a variety of snake species, it is also known as “Nagon Ki Bhoomi.” By visiting the Nagraj Vasuki Temple, which is sculpted out of a single stone, one can tune into the ecstasy of spirituality. The beauty of Bhaderwah is enhanced by its sparkling water bodies, diverse flora and fauna, rocky terrains, lush green pastures, and snow-capped mountains. So it is also one of the beautiful destinations in Kashmir.
15. Bangus/ Reshwari
Bangus Valley is located in the picturesque Kupwara District, which is home to a diverse range of flora and animals as well as other natural treasures. Bangus’ beauty is reflected in the peaceful streams of Tilwan Kul, Douda Kul, and Roshan Kul, which are grand and elegant like a mirror. Many animal species, including antelope, brown bear, musk deer, and the formidable snow leopard, as well as gorgeous migratory birds like as Tragophan, Pheasants, Monal pheasants, bush quail, and others, call this place home.
On the northern side, the Howkibal Mountains encircle the valley, while on the western side, the Qazinag and Shamsbery Mountains encircle it. Pay a visit to the enigmatic Kala Roos caves, which are thought to be the Gateway to Russia. It even has Stone Age artwork on the walls. It’s one of the great spots to go trekking and photograph beautiful splendour. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquilly, and couples will appreciate the romantic settings.
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