Gurez valley- a slow traveler's perfect destination

The 'GPS' (Gulmarg-Pahalgam-Sonamarg) tourism destinations in Kashmir, traditionally frequented by Indian tourists, receive heavy footfall all-around the year and have led to over-commercialization. As a result, one cannot feel at home as a slow experiential traveler in these locations.   

These peace-loving travelers now have a solution in Kashmir itself. Gurez Valley, located in Kashmir's Bandipora district, can be the ideal place to spend time surrounded by unadulterated natural beauty. Over the past few years, this location has started to draw the interest of adventurous travelers. 

The journey one must take is quite an enthralling one in order to get to Gurez from Srinagar. Shared taxis are available from Bandipora Taxi stand for Gurez. The tough 20 km off-road section follows the magnificent 130 km route from Srinagar that passes via the Wular Lake, Tragbal, and snow-covered Razdaan Pass at an elevation of 11672 feet. There would be fewer populated areas after passing through Bandipora's major town on the way to Gurez. The valley is now exclusively accessible to Indian citizens, and identity cards are verified at various checkpoints along the way because of its proximity to border areas.   

You will be greeted by a panoramic view of a broad, rich green valley with the Kishanganga river flowing through, overlooked by snow-capped mountains, towards the conclusion of a roughly 4.5–5-hour ride and after traversing the hydroelectric plant that is still under development. The villagers' positive attitudes towards visitors and tourists are evident in their eyes, and their heartfelt interactions with them are rather endearing.

A person's sense of peace will be immediately evoked when they witness this place's untainted beauty. The valley is only accessible to tourists for around four to five months of the year because it is covered in heavy snowfall for most of the year and has no access to roads.

One can unwind while watching the lovely sunset while sitting on the banks of the Kishanganga River. The Habba Khatoon Peak, the region's most notable peak and main draw, offers breathtaking views of the entire valley all day long.  One can spend some time with themselves and immerse themselves in the tranquility of the location by sitting by the Habba Khatoon spring.  The best aspect is that everything is close to the Dawar area in Gurez Valley, so if one enjoys hiking, one can easily cover all on foot.

Explorers can also arrange a day trip to Chakwali, the final village before the POK border, which is located around 70 kilometres from Gurez. The journey to the village is rather bumpy but pleasurable thanks to the road.

When it comes to the local cuisine, the area is a meat-lovers dream. It is mandatory to try the traditional Kashmiri Wazwaan meals here since the meat quality is truly outstanding. Vegetarians have a good selection of foods as well, including the distinctive "Gurezi Saag," as the locals refer to it.  The traditional "Gurezi" breakfast, which consists of butter Girda (a type of flatbread), and Namkeen chai (salted tea), shouldn't be missed either. Additionally, there are a few neighborhood bakeries in Dawar where you may sample freshly prepared cookies from the region.

There have been a lot of new resorts, hotels, and homestays developed recently. Visitors will therefore have a variety of options for lodging to choose from based on their preferences. I stayed at D Shiekh's Resort, which was situated just on the banks of the Kishanganga River. One can take a panoramic view of the entire valley from the top-floor accommodations.. The on-site restaurant also offers delicious meals, which is a big advantage.