If you are looking for a hidden gem off the beaten path Kashmir. Gurez Valley is somewhere that will capture your heart. My husband and I recently took a break from our daily routine and set out to explore the uncharted beauty of Gurez Valley, a lesser-traveled paradise nestled in the north of Kashmir. Here’s an insight into our magical journey!
The Trip from Hyderabad to Gurez Valley
Our trip began in Hyderabad, and we were bursting with excitement. We took an early morning flight from Hyderabad to Srinagar, which lasted for 2.5 hours. As we arrived in Srinagar, we rented a cab to proceed to Gurez Valley. The road from Srinagar to Gurez was long but very scenic. It took us approximately 6-7 hours to arrive, as the road winds its way through the beautiful mountains, cute villages, and glistening rivers. The ride was serene, and the beautiful scenery en route made it seem as if we were driving in a dream.
The path to Gurez is very different from other areas of Kashmir. Unlike the typical tourist spots such as Gulmarg or Pahalgam, Gurez is untouched and peaceful, a perfect getaway from the tourists. There are hardly any tourists there, so it felt like we had the entire place to ourselves. The virgin natural beauty, the refreshing mountain air, and the aroma of pine trees made the entire trip feel like a whiff of fresh air.
Why Gurez Valley is Different
What sets Gurez Valley apart from other well-known Kashmir destinations is its unique appeal. While Kashmir is famous for its green meadows and towering Dal Lake, Gurez boasts rugged and unspoiled beauty still in its original form. It’s uncommercialized, so you enjoy real Kashmiri culture and breathtaking vistas without the crowds.
The valley is encircled by massive snow-covered mountains, pristine blue rivers, and charming meadows. The villages in this region are basic, with wooden cottages and hospitable people who received us with warm hospitality. As opposed to the busy markets of Srinagar, Gurez provides solitude and serenity, and it is a perfect place for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
Activities We Enjoyed
In Gurez, nature’s beauty itself is the prime draw. We used our time discovering the peaceful landscapes, going on long river-side walks, and lounging next to the meadows, soaking up the magnificence of the mountains. There is no hurry to get anything done here, so it is the best destination for some peaceful introspection and bonding.
We also undertook a quick trek to the Habba Khatoon Peak, which was christened after this renowned Kashmiri poetess. The trekking was easy enough, and we were treated to views from atop that were totally breathtaking. What a moment in time, my partner and me, amidst all this natural magnificence. Another gem that we experienced was a visit to the Gurez River, where we both sat on its banks and were content just sitting together in that serene environment.
For the more adventurous pairs, there are fishing, birdwatching, and even camping possibilities under the stars. But we were happy just to soak up the quiet and loveliness of the valley.
Where We Stayed and Costs
We lived in a small guesthouse in Dawar, the central village of Gurez. The room was basic, but it had all we required for a comfortable stay—warm quilts, a clean bed, and a stunning view of the valley. The room rent was around ₹2,500 a night, which was very reasonable considering the quiet, far-flung location.
For the taxi from Srinagar to Gurez, we paid approximately ₹7,000 for a return. It was worth it as the taxi driver knew the area well and made the long journey so much easier.
The Perfect Romantic Backdrop
Gurez Valley was the ideal romantic setting for our vacation. The tranquility and peace of the valley, combined with the stunning natural scenery, made us feel that we had discovered our own little piece of heaven. We spent our nights huddled around the fire, chatting and laughing, and staring up at the stars. It was a welcome respite from the sounds of urban existence, and we could not have asked for a more ideal romantic vacation.
Conclusion
Gurez Valley is a treasure trove that lies in wait to be discovered. It may not be the most famous of the places to see in Kashmir, but that’s what’s special about it. With its serene beauty, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly locals, it’s an experience like no other. For us, it was a trip we will never forget, and we can’t wait to go back to this serene paradise once again.
