Gurez: The Hidden Valley in Kashmir

6 nights/ 7 days Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival 

Land at Srinagar airport, and from Srinagar drive down to Bandipore. Visit Manasbal Lake and the Ancient Water Temple. Later, spend time at Wular Lake- The Largest Freshwater Lake in India. 

Overnight stay at Bandipore.

Day 2: Discover the Valley of Gurez

Head to Gurez Valley from Bandipore, the road is an uphill ascend you will get to enjoy the magnificent views of the Kashmir valley below you. En route, visit the Pir Baba Shrine, and take a pit stop at Razdaan Pass- The Gateway to Gurez. 

From Razdaan Pass, descend to the pristine village of Izmarg. Settle into your homestay, and later you can stroll around the village exploring by foot. Later, take a stroll around the neighbouring village of Bakhtor, the last village near LoC.

For dinner, sit along a bonfire and relish some freshly caught trout fish. Overnight stay at Izmarg.

Day 3: Explore in and around Dawar Village

Head towards Dawar and Tulail Valley driving along the Kishenganga river while listening to the roaring sounds of the gushing waters, a truly unique experience!

Dawar is the central block of the Gurez valley spread across over fifteen villages. It provides you with the experience of the countryside and the calm life of the locals. At Dawar, visit the Sheena Tribe museum and gain an insight into the lives of the brave Sheena people of Gurez. 

Marvel at the famous Habba Khatoon, named after the famous Kashmiri poetess Habba Khatoon, is the most fascinating peak in Kashmir.

Later in the evening, indulge in some shopping at the local market, step into the home of a local host and enjoy a traditional Kashmiri dinner with them while learning about their lives. 

Overnight stay at Gurez.

Day 4: Day Trip to Tulail Valley

Tulail, the mini Ladakh, is a newly created tehsil carved out of Gurez Tehsil in 2014. The people here are the ethnic Dards with their own culture and Shina being their language. However, due to the cultural contact with the Kashmiri people and modern education, cultural assimilation has taken place. But still, the Dardic culture is alive because of the people of this valley. Be it in the form of traditional dresses like woollen Pherons, blankets or socks, log houses, or the generous hospitality of people.

Take a stop at Sheikhpora Village and relish a traditional lunch at a local's home. Later, you can embark on a short hike around the village and soak in the tranquil surroundings.

Return to Dawar for your last night at Gurez. You could participate in an excursion around Dawar, and if lucky you might spot the Brown Himalayan Bear here!

Day 5: Discover the pristine Village of Tangmarg

One of the most famous Gulmarg sightseeing places, Tangmarg is a quaint little town and connects a 5-kilometre-long trekking route and Gulmarg by a 13-kilometre-long metal road. You cannot skip this one which is one of the secrets that Kashmir has kept guarded for so long. 

At Tangmarg, witness the cascading waterfall of Drung,  set amidst majestic mountains, it freezes completely during winter due to the extremely low temperature. This frozen waterfall is a must-visit in the area. 

At Tangmarg, you will get to live like the locals. Kashmiri folk make for warm hosts, stay at a family-run homestay and enjoy the simple living and beautiful meadows surrounding you!

Day 6: An Immersive Day around Tangmarg

Start your day with a visit to the local cheese factory followed by a tour of the Trout Fish farm at Tangmarg.  Head towards Gularmarg to enjoy a ride on the Gulmarg Gondola. The scenic views of mountains and valleys during the cable car ride are unforgettable and unmatched. 

End your day with a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan dinner experience at an authentic Kashmiri restaurant, the perfect way to end your vacation in Kashmir.

Day 7: Departure

Head back to Srinagar airport, catch your flight from here and fly back with memories of a lifetime!