Have you ever dreamed of visiting a place where you can witness the beauty and power of nature in its purest form? A place where you can feel the refreshing spray of water on your face, hear the soothing sound of the cascading stream, and see the rainbow colors reflecting on the mist? A place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the mountains?
If yes, then you should definitely add Drung Waterfall to your bucket list. Drung Waterfall is one of the most spectacular and lesser-known tourist attractions in Gulmarg, Kashmir. It is a hidden gem that will leave you spellbound by its scenic charm and adventurous appeal.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Drung Waterfall, including how to reach, best time to visit, things to do, where to stay, and travel essentials. By the end of this article, you will be ready to plan your trip to this amazing destination and experience the magic of Drung Waterfall for yourself.
How to Reach Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall is located about 15 km from Gulmarg, a popular hill station and ski resort in Kashmir. You can reach Gulmarg by road, by rail, or by air, depending on your preference and budget.
By road: Gulmarg is well-connected by road to Srinagar, the capital city of Kashmir, which is about 50 km away. You can take a bus, a taxi, or a private car from Srinagar to Gulmarg, which will take you about 2 hours. The road is scenic and offers stunning views of the valley and the mountains. From Gulmarg, you can hire a local cab or a bike to reach Drung Waterfall, which will take you about 30 minutes. The road to the waterfall is narrow and rough, so be prepared for some bumps and turns along the way.
By rail: The nearest railway station to Gulmarg is Baramulla, which is about 40 km away. You can take a train from Jammu, the winter capital of Kashmir, to Baramulla, which will take you about 7 hours. The train journey is comfortable and affordable, and you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside. From Baramulla, you can take a bus, a taxi, or a private car to Gulmarg, which will take you about an hour. From Gulmarg, you can follow the same route as mentioned above to reach Drung Waterfall.
By air: The nearest airport to Gulmarg is Srinagar, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. You can take a flight from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, or any other city to Srinagar, which will take you about an hour. The flight is convenient and fast, and you can get a glimpse of the snow-capped mountains from the window. From Srinagar, you can take a bus, a taxi, or a private car to Gulmarg, which will take you about 2 hours. From Gulmarg, you can follow the same route as mentioned above to reach Drung Waterfall.
Some tips and suggestions for choosing the best mode of transportation are:
- If you are traveling in winter, you may face roadblocks or delays due to snowfall or landslides. In that case, you may prefer to take a flight or a train to avoid any inconvenience.
- If you are traveling in summer, you may enjoy the road trip more, as you can witness the greenery and the flowers along the way. You can also stop at some places to take pictures or have a picnic.
- If you are traveling on a budget, you may opt for a bus or a train, as they are cheaper than a flight or a taxi. However, you may have to compromise on comfort and time.
- If you are traveling with a group, you may prefer to hire a private car, as you can have more flexibility and privacy. You can also split the cost and save some money.
Best Time to Visit Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall is a year-round destination, as it offers a different charm and attraction in each season. However, the best time to visit Drung Waterfall depends on your personal preference and interest. Here is a brief overview of the climatic conditions and weather patterns of the waterfall throughout the year, along with the pros and cons of visiting the waterfall in each season.
Spring (March to May): Spring is the season of freshness and renewal, as the snow melts and the flowers bloom. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 20°C, and the weather is pleasant and sunny. The waterfall is at its full glory, as the water level is high and the flow is strong. The surrounding area is lush and green, and you can see a variety of flowers and birds. This is the best time to visit Drung Waterfall if you love nature and photography. However, this is also the peak season, so you may have to deal with crowds and higher prices.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the season of warmth and adventure, as the temperature rises and the activities increase. The temperature ranges from 15°C to 25°C, and the weather is hot and humid. The waterfall is still impressive, but the water level is lower and the flow is weaker. The surrounding area is dry and dusty, and you may face some insects and mosquitoes. This is the best time to visit Drung Waterfall if you love adventure and thrill. You can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, rafting, skiing, and snowboarding. However, this is also the monsoon season, so you may have to face some rainfall and landslides.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is the season of beauty and romance, as the temperature drops and the colors change. The temperature ranges from 5°C to 15°C, and the weather is cool and breezy. The waterfall is calm and serene, and the water level is moderate and the flow is gentle. The surrounding area is colorful and scenic, and you can see a variety of fruits and nuts. This is the best time to visit Drung Waterfall if you love beauty and romance. You can enjoy the scenic views and the cozy atmosphere. However, this is also the off-season, so you may have to face some lack of facilities and services.
Winter (December to February): Winter is the season of cold and snow, as the temperature falls and the snow covers. The temperature ranges from -5°C to 5°C, and the weather is freezing and snowy. The waterfall is frozen and stunning, and the water level is low and the flow is slow. The surrounding area is white and sparkling, and you can see a variety of snowflakes and icicles. This is the best time to visit Drung Waterfall if you love cold and snow. You can enjoy the snowfall and the winter wonderland. However, this is also the most challenging season, as you may have to face some roadblocks, delays, and health issues.
The best time to visit Drung Waterfall depends on your personal preference and interest. You can choose the season that suits your taste and mood, and have a memorable experience at this natural wonder.
Things to Do at Drung Waterfall
Drung Waterfall is not just a sightseeing spot, but also a hub of activities and attractions. You can do a lot of things at Drung Waterfall, depending on your mood and energy level. Here are some of the things that you can do at Drung Waterfall:
Hiking: If you love hiking, you can explore the trails around the waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty and the fresh air. You can also climb up to the top of the waterfall and get a panoramic view of the valley and the mountains. The hike is moderate and suitable for beginners as well as experts. However, you should wear comfortable shoes and carry water and snacks along the way.
Camping: If you love camping, you can pitch a tent near the waterfall and spend a night under the stars. You can also light a bonfire and roast some marshmallows or sing some songs. The camping is fun and adventurous, and you can feel the closeness to nature and the thrill of the wild. However, you should carry your own camping gear and food, and follow the safety rules and regulations of the area.
Fishing: If you love fishing, you can try your luck at the stream near the waterfall and catch some trout or carp. You can also cook your catch and have a delicious meal. The fishing is relaxing and rewarding, and you can enjoy the tranquility and the freshness of the water. However, you should carry your own fishing equipment and license, and respect the local culture and customs of the area.
Rafting: If you love rafting, you can join a group and ride the rapids of the stream near the waterfall. You can also experience the thrill and the excitement of the water sport. The rafting is exhilarating and challenging, and you can test your skills and courage. However, you should wear proper gear and follow the instructions of the guide, and be prepared for some splashes and bumps along the way.
Skiing: If you love skiing, you can visit the nearby Gulmarg Gondola, the world’s highest cable car, and reach the Apharwat Peak, the highest skiing point in Asia. You can also glide down the slopes and enjoy the snow and the speed. The skiing is thrilling and fun, and you can choose from different levels of difficulty and duration. However, you should wear proper gear and follow the instructions of the instructor, and be aware of the weather and the avalanche conditions.
Snowboarding: If you love snowboarding, you can also visit the nearby Gulmarg Gondola and reach the Apharwat Peak, and try your tricks and stunts on the snow. You can also experience the adrenaline and the joy of the snow sport. The snowboarding is adventurous and cool, and you can show off your skills and style. However, you should wear proper gear and follow the instructions of the instructor, and be careful of the obstacles and the injuries.
These are some of the things that you can do at Drung Waterfall, but there are many more. You can also just sit and relax, and admire the beauty and the wonder of the waterfall. You can also take some pictures and videos, and capture the memories and the moments of your trip. You can also interact with the locals and learn about their culture and history, and enjoy their hospitality and warmth.
Where to Stay near Drung Waterfall
If you want to stay near Drung Waterfall, you have plenty of options to choose from. You can find some accommodation options near the waterfall, such as hotels, resorts, homestays, and guest houses. You can also find some accommodation options in Gulmarg, which is about 15 km away from the waterfall. Here are some of the accommodation options that you can consider:
Hotels: If you want to stay in a hotel, you can find some budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels near the waterfall or in Gulmarg. Some of the hotels that you can check out are Hotel Pine Spring, Hotel Hilltop, Hotel Royal Park, and Hotel Heevan Retreat. These hotels offer features, facilities, services, and prices that suit your needs and preferences. You can expect amenities such as comfortable rooms, attached bathrooms, hot water, heating, TV, Wi-Fi, room service, restaurant, bar, lounge, spa, gym, and more. You can also get a view of the waterfall, the valley, or the mountains from your room. The prices of these hotels range from Rs. 2000 to Rs. 10000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Resorts: If you want to stay in a resort, you can find some luxury and eco-friendly resorts near the waterfall or in Gulmarg. Some of the resorts that you can check out are The Khyber Himalayan Resort & Spa, The Vintage Gulmarg, The Rosewood Hotel, and The Pine Palace Resort. These resorts offer features, facilities, services, and prices that suit your taste and budget. You can expect amenities such as spacious rooms, attached bathrooms, hot water, heating, TV, Wi-Fi, room service, restaurant, bar, lounge, spa, gym, pool, golf course, and more. You can also get a view of the waterfall, the valley, or the mountains from your room. The prices of these resorts range from Rs. 10000 to Rs. 30000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Homestays: If you want to stay in a homestay, you can find some cozy and authentic homestays near the waterfall or in Gulmarg. Some of the homestays that you can check out are Drung Homestay, Gulmarg Meadows, Gulmarg Alpine Hut, and Gulmarg Green Heights. These homestays offer features, facilities, services, and prices that suit your style and mood. You can expect amenities such as clean rooms, shared bathrooms, hot water, heating, TV, Wi-Fi, home-cooked food, laundry, and more. You can also get a view of the waterfall, the valley, or the mountains from your room. The prices of these homestays range from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
Guest Houses: If you want to stay in a guest house, you can find some simple and affordable guest houses near the waterfall or in Gulmarg. Some of the guest houses that you can check out are Drung Guest House, Gulmarg Guest House, Gulmarg Inn, and Gulmarg Cottage. These guest houses offer features, facilities, services, and prices that suit your convenience and pocket. You can expect amenities such as basic rooms, shared bathrooms, hot water, heating, TV, Wi-Fi, and more. You can also get a view of the waterfall, the valley, or the mountains from your room. The prices of these guest houses range from Rs. 500 to Rs. 2000 per night, depending on the season and the availability.
These are some of the accommodation options that you can consider for your stay near Drung Waterfall. You can book your accommodation online or offline, depending on your preference and availability. You can also compare and contrast the features, facilities, services, and prices of each accommodation option, and choose the one that suits you best.
Travel Essentials for Drung Waterfall
Before you visit Drung Waterfall, you should be aware of some travel essentials that will make your trip easier and safer. Here are some of the travel essentials that you should keep in mind for your trip to Drung Waterfall:
What to pack: You should pack according to the season and the activities that you plan to do at the waterfall. You should carry clothing, footwear, accessories, and equipment that are suitable for the weather and the terrain. You should also carry some essentials such as water, snacks, medicines, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, phone, charger, power bank, and more. You should also carry some documents such as your ID, passport, visa, tickets, bookings, and more.
What to carry: You should carry only what you need and what you can manage, as you may have to walk or hike to reach the waterfall. You should also carry a backpack or a bag that is comfortable and durable, and that can fit all your belongings. You should also carry some cash and cards, as you may not find ATMs or card machines near the waterfall. You should also carry some emergency contacts and numbers, in case you need any help or assistance.
What to wear: You should wear clothes and shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for the weather and the activities that you plan to do at the waterfall. You should also wear layers and jackets, as the temperature may change during the day and night. You should also wear hats and gloves, if you are visiting in winter, as it may get very cold and snowy. You should also wear waterproof and sturdy shoes, as you may have to cross some streams or walk on some slippery or rocky surfaces.
What to pay: You should pay the entry fee, the transportation fee, the accommodation fee, and the activity fee, depending on what you choose and what you avail. You should also pay for your food and drinks, and any souvenirs or gifts that you buy. You should also tip the guides, the drivers, the staff, and the locals, if you are satisfied with their service and hospitality. You should also pay your taxes and dues, and follow the rules and regulations of the area.
What to do: You should do what you enjoy and what you are comfortable with, at the waterfall. You should also respect the nature and the culture of the area, and avoid any littering, pollution, or damage. You should also be careful and cautious of the risks and challenges of the area, and seek help or guidance if you need any. You should also have fun and make memories, and share your experience and feedback with others.
Conclusion
Drung Waterfall is a hidden gem in the paradise of Kashmir, that will mesmerize you with its beauty and charm. It is a place where you can witness the wonder of nature, and enjoy the adventure of life. It is a place where you can relax and rejuvenate, and have a memorable time.
If you are looking for a destination that will offer you a unique and unforgettable experience, you should definitely visit Drung Waterfall. You will not regret it, and you will want to come back again and again.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Drung Waterfall today, and get ready to have the time of your life.
