While touring Srinagar’s delightful Dal Lake and Gulmarg’s thrilling Gondola cable car may have its own unmatched charm, a set of travellers is always seeking unconventional experiences. The heavenly Kashmir also has its fair share of alluring destinations that remain largely untouched by outsiders. Here are some of the most picturesque offbeat places in Kashmir that you can explore. By Karan Kaushik
8 offbeat places in Kashmir every backpacker will adore
Chatpal
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Nestled in South Kashmir’s Shangus district, 90km from Srinagar, Chatpal is blessed with lush forests, lofty mountains, and gushing rivers. Beautiful white and yellow wildflowers and massive pine trees dot its majestic meadows. From trekking around the woods to exploring apple and walnut orchards to meeting the friendly locals, Chatpal is all about enjoying the little pleasures of life. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department has set up a cottage in Chatpal, which makes for a comfortable stay amidst nature.
Yusmarg
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Yusmarg translates into ‘the meadow of Jesus’. It is believed that Jesus Christ had once walked through the alpine meadows here. Located on the banks of the serene Doodhganga River, the offbeat hill station overlooks the stunning Sunset and Tatakooti peaks. Yusmarg is located in the Budgam district, 47km from Srinagar. When here, embark on nature trails to the spectacular Sang-e-Safed Valley and Nilnag Lake. Yusmarg is also home to Charar-e-Sharif, one of the most sacrosanct shrines in Kashmir.
Watlab
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Famous for the shrine of Muslim mystic Baba Shukurddin, the peaceful hilly hamlet of Watlab lies in the Baramulla district. The village offers incredible views of Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. Watlab is a paradise for birdwatchers. Commonly spotted species include Rock Dove, Himalayan Monal, Barn Shallow, and Himalayan golden Eagles. Watlab offers a Forest Rest House sequestered amidst lush apple orchards for a comfortable stay.
Daksum
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Set against the the snow-clad Pir Panjal range, charming Daksum will leave you surprised with its wonderful offerings. From angling for trout at the Bhringi River to camping at its pristine meadows to trekking through its coniferous forests, there’s much to do here. Daksum’s virgin beauty, accompanied by the unmatched hospitality of its local shepherd families, will leave you smitten. You can also visit the Kokernag Springs and Achabal Mughal Gardens. The Jammu and Kashmir government runs a tourist accommodation here.
Bangus Valley
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Situated on the banks of the Mawri River in the Kupwara district, the picturesque Bangus Valley is replete with a diverse variety of flora and fauna. While colourful flowers and medicinal herbs cover its meadows and slopes, birds like monal pheasants and bush quails and animals like red foxes and snow leopards inhabit its forests. Encompassed by the Chowkibal mountain on its north and the Qazinag and Shamsbery mountains to its west, Bangus Valley is a sheer visual delight.
Verinag
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Verinag is from where the Jhelum River emerges. Steeped in Hindu mythology, Verinag is known for the Verinag Spring and the beautiful Mughal garden that houses it. Located at the foothills of the Banihal Mountain range, Verinag is 61km south of Srinagar. The prime attraction here is the Mughal Garden of Verinag. Boasting majestic chinar trees, flower beds and well-manicured lawns, the garden surrounds the Verinag Spring. The spring neither dries up nor overflows and serves as the source of the Jhelum River.
Doodhpathri
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Also known as the Valley of Milk, Doodhpathri makes for a great alternative to the touristy Gulmarg. The bowl-shaped valley is blessed with gorgeous alpine meadows dotted with pines, firs, and deodars. Nestled amidst the backdrop of the snow-clad peaks of the majestic Pir Panjal range, Doodhpathri is located at an altitude of 8,957 feet above sea level. You can reach here after a two-hour drive from Srinagar or trek from Yusmarg. The grassy meadows of Doodhpahtri are perfect for camping, so carry your tents and equipment.
Lolab Valley
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Also known as Wadi-e-Lolab, Lolab Valley is one of the popular offbeat places in Kashmir. However, Lolab still remains largely untouched by tourists. Blessed with natural springs, swaying paddy fields, and dense apple orchards, Lolab Valley sits by the Lahwal River. When here, you can explore the alluring Kalgroos, Potnai, and Brunai valleys. You must also visit Lalpur village, famous as the resting place of sage Kashyap. For a comfortable stay, book the government-run accommodation in Chandigham.
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