Gurez Valley Travel Guide

Gurez Valley, one of Kashmir’s hidden gems, is often described as an offbeat destination due to its untouched beauty and remoteness. The valley is known for its picturesque landscapes, serene snow-capped mountains, and rich cultural heritage. The valley is now gaining attention after being awarded the Best Offbeat Destination by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department. Although travelers often flock to well-known spots like Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam, Gurez offers a different side of Kashmir—a side that is tranquil, rugged, and pristine.

Once closed off due to its proximity to the border, Gurez has now become accessible to tourists since 2017. The valley is still relatively unexplored and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist hotspots in Kashmir. In recent years, efforts from the tourism department have resulted in festivals like Jashn-e-Gurez and Grand Gurez to highlight the valley’s natural beauty and rich traditions.

About Gurez Valley

Gurez, located around 126 kilometers from Srinagar, is a high-altitude valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks at an average elevation of 8,000 feet (approximately 2,400 meters). The valley is nestled between India and Pakistan, and the Kishanganga River flows through it, enhancing its charm with its emerald-green waters.

Previously off-limits to tourists due to its proximity to the border, Gurez has been gradually opening up for travel since 2017, and this trend has intensified since 2020. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has organized events such as Jashn-e-Gurez to promote the region’s tourism potential.

Divisions of Gurez

Gurez is made up of two primary regions:

• Dawar: The main town in Gurez, where you’ll find local accommodations, shops, and food.
• Tulail (Tulayl): A scenic area known for its rugged beauty, located about 32 km from Dawar.

How to Reach Gurez Valley, Kashmir

Gurez Valley is only accessible between April to October due to weather conditions and the closure of the Razdan Pass during winter months. For the remaining part of the year, the only way to access Gurez is through helicopter services from Srinagar or Bandipora.

By Road

• Srinagar to Bandipora: The journey to Gurez starts by driving from Srinagar to Bandipora (about 55 km). The road is well-paved and is an easy drive.
• Bandipora to Gurez (Dawar): From Bandipora, you’ll drive through the Razdan Pass (3557m) and continue to Dawar. The Razdan Pass can be treacherous in winter due to heavy snowfall but is beautiful year-round. The drive is about 66 km from Bandipora to Dawar.

By Shared Cabs

For those traveling on a budget, shared cabs can be taken from Srinagar to Bandipora and then onward to Dawar. A shared cab from Srinagar to Gurez costs around INR 1,000. However, shared cabs don’t offer the flexibility of sightseeing and are often crowded with luggage.

Private Cabs

For a more comfortable and flexible experience, hiring a private cab is the best option. A private cab from Srinagar to Gurez Taxi will cost around INR 20,000, but you will have the flexibility to stop and explore key attractions along the way. A good option for private cab rentals in Srinagar is Tourist Taxi Srinagar

Key Attractions in Gurez Valley

1. Kishenganga Dam and Power Project
   Located near the entrance of Gurez Valley, the Kishenganga Dam is part of the Kishenganga Hydroelectric Project. The dam is built on the Kishenganga River, and you can stop here to take scenic photos and enjoy the surrounding beauty.

2. Habba Khatoon Peak
   A significant point in Gurez, Habba Khatoon Peak offers stunning views of the valley. The peak is named after the famous Kashmiri poetess Habba Khatoon. The view of the sunset from here is particularly mesmerizing.

3. Habba Khatoon Spring (Uch)
   Located near the Achoora village, the Habba Khatoon Spring is linked to a local legend about the poetess Habba Khatoon. This spring is said to have emerged from a broken clay pot that Habba Khatoon once carried from the river.

4. Khandiyal Top
   For panoramic views of the valley, head to Khandiyal Top. This hilltop offers a 360-degree view of the entire Gurez region, including the Kishenganga River and the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

5. Tulail Valley
   A beautiful valley located about 32 km from Dawar, Tulail is known for its picturesque wooden homes and untouched beauty. The road to Tulail is a mix of good and rugged terrain, making it a unique journey for adventurers.

6. Gurez Chakwali
   Chakwali is the last village on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC), offering a glimpse of the military presence and the nearby Pakistan border. The journey to Chakwali takes an entire day, as the road is long and not in the best condition.

7. Log Hut Café
   Located in Dawar, the Log Hut Café is run by the Indian Army and provides a cozy spot for tourists and locals alike. The café serves delicious meals, including pizza, pasta, and momos. It’s also a good place for enjoying a cup of coffee and interacting with locals.

8. Tragbal
   Tragbal is a picturesque hill station on the way to Gurez. It is known for its stunning views of Wular Lake and offers delicious snacks from local dhabas.

9. Peer Baba Dargah
   Located between Tragbal and Razdan Pass, the Peer Baba Dargah offers stunning views of Bandipora. The shrine is a place of spiritual significance and is maintained by the Indian Army.

Accommodation in Gurez Valley

While Gurez Valley was once limited to a J&K Tourism Dak Bungalow, there are now several guesthouses and hotels that cater to growing tourism. These guesthouses are similar to those in Ladakh, offering a homely experience in the midst of rugged mountains.

• Camping: For adventure seekers, camping is a popular activity in Gurez. There are several permitted camping sites, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty up close.
• Power Supply: Gurez has limited electricity, with power supplied by generators between 7 pm to 11 pm. Most homes use solar power or small generators as secondary sources.

Things to Do in Gurez Valley

• Trekking and Hiking: There are several trekking routes around Gurez, including the Dissan Trek. This route offers an opportunity to experience Gurez’s rugged wilderness up close.
• Fishing and Rafting: The Kishenganga River is perfect for fishing and rafting. These activities are an excellent way to enjoy the serenity of the valley.
• Cultural Festivals: The Jashn-e-Gurez and Grand Gurez festivals are held annually, and tourists can participate in local cultural events, traditional music, and folk dances.

Travel Tips for Gurez Valley

• Best Time to Visit: April to October, when the roads are accessible and the weather is pleasant.
• Mobile Connectivity: Mobile networks like Jio work well in Gurez, but internet and signal strength drop after Tragbal.
• Permit: Indian nationals need a valid government-issued ID to enter Gurez, and foreign nationals are not permitted as of 2025.
• Safety: Always register at the army checkpoints and ensure that you have the necessary entries and exits recorded.

By visiting Gurez, you’ll experience a part of Kashmir that remains unspoiled by mass tourism, offering a truly peaceful and authentic Kashmir experience. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone looking to explore offbeat destinations, Gurez has something for everyone.

For a seamless experience, consider booking a tour or a cab with Travel My Kashmir.