Pujj Kabar Handwara – Kashmir’s New Hidden Viewpoint on Bangus Road
If you are looking for a peaceful destination away from crowded tourist spots in Kashmir, Pujj Kabar in Handwara is becoming one of the most talked about hidden places to explore.
Pujj Kabar is a newly emerging scenic viewpoint located near Handwara in the Kupwara district of North Kashmir. Pujj Kabar is attracting visitors for its dense forest surroundings, fresh mountain air, calm atmosphere, and beautiful road journey. This hidden gem is quickly gaining attention among travelers looking for untouched natural beauty, peaceful surroundings and an offbeat experience away from crowded tourist places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam.
Quick Overview of Pujj Kabar
- Location: Handwara, Kupwara District, North Kashmir
- Distance from Handwara Town: 9 km (approx. 15–20 minutes drive)
- Best Time to Visit: May to September (Summer and early Autumn)
- Key Attractions: Pine forest trails, proximity to Bangus Valley road and a lake (Nagranar Reservoir)
- Entry Fee: Free (Managed by the Forest Department)
Planning to visit nearby? Don’t miss our complete Bangus Valley tour guide.
Where is Pujj Kabar Located?
Pujj Kabar is situated around 9 km from Handwara town in Kupwara district, Jammu & Kashmir and lies along the New Bangus Road the very same route that leads travellers toward the celebrated Bangus (Bungus) Valley, a high altitude meadow destination famous for vast meadows. The destination is gaining popularity among local travellers and weekend visitors due to easy road access and untouched natural surroundings.
The road to the spot is well-connected with a black topped stretch passing through thick forests and scenic surroundings. Avoid speeding, as the road is narrow and has sharp curves.
Why Pujj Kabar is Trending
Pujj Kabar has recently started attracting a large number of visitors due to its untouched charm and peaceful environment. Unlike commercial tourist hubs, this place offers a pure nature experience without heavy crowding or infrastructure overload.
Visitors describe it as a “breath of fresh air” compared to typical tourist spots, making it especially popular among locals and offbeat travelers.
There is a small Lake located just 1.5 kilometers from Pujj Kabar, Nagranar Reservoir is a serene lake that offers a calm and relaxing atmosphere, with views that are truly a sight to behold.
1. Pure, Untouched Nature
The biggest draw of Pujj Kabar is its pristine environment. The Forest Department diligently preserves the thick green cover, making it a sanctuary of fresh air. The canopy is so dense that even during peak summer afternoons, the area remains remarkably cool.
2. Smooth Road Connectivity
Pujj Kabar is easily accessible via a well maintained, black topped road that runs through dense forest, offering a smooth drive for bikers, road trippers and families.
3. A Haven for Food Lovers (Tujji & Kehwa)
As the location gained popularity, local villagers set up small, eco-friendly makeshift kiosks. Visitors can indulge in authentic Kashmiri street food, including:
Tujji: Perfectly charcoal-grilled meat skewers served with traditional local chutneys.
Nun Chai & Kehwa: Traditional pink salt tea and saffron-infused green tea brewed fresh over firewood.
Local Pickles & Homemade Breads: A true taste of North Kashmiri home cooking.
What to Expect at Pujj Kabar
The experience here is simple and nature focused.
You can walk through shaded forest stretches, enjoy views, relax with family, click photos and spend time away from city noise. During weekends, small local stalls may offer tea and local snacks, adding to the local experience.
However, as the destination is still developing, do not expect full tourist infrastructure yet.
Want to Know about bangus valley also Check our Bangus valley Tour guide
Activities to Do at Pujj Kabar
Pujj Kabar is not a fully developed tourist destination yet, so don’t expect organized activities or commercial attractions. The experience here is more about enjoying nature than doing structured things.
However, you can still enjoy a few simple activities:
- Pony rides: Short rides are available for around ₹50, while longer rides cost about ₹100
- Short trekking: A light trek of around 1 km takes you to a beautiful open ground surrounded by forest
- Relax & explore: Walk through the forest, enjoy the views and spend time in a peaceful environment
Food Availability at Pujj Kabar
Current Development Status
Here’s the reality you need to understand, this place is not fully developed yet.
- No proper washrooms or sanitation facilities
- Limited infrastructure
- Still under eco-tourism consideration by authorities
Despite this, the Forest Department is actively maintaining greenery and promoting cleanliness awareness to preserve the natural ecosystem.
If developed properly, Pujj Kabar has strong potential to become a major eco-tourism destination in North Kashmir.
How to Reach Pujj Kabar
- From Srinagar: Take the Srinagar–Sopore–Handwara highway (NH 701). Handwara is approximately 73 km from Srinagar around 2.5 hours by road.
- From Handwara town: Head toward the New Bangus Road (the route leading to Bangus Valley). Pujj Kabar is approximately 9 km along this road.
- By vehicle: A personal vehicle or hired taxi is the most convenient option. The road is black topped and accessible by most vehicles, including hatchbacks.
- Best time: May to October. Summers (June–August) offer the most pleasant temperatures and the lushest forest cover. Arrive on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
Tips Before You Visit
Carry your own drinking water and any necessary medications, as the site currently has no organized facilities. Pack a light jacket even in summer, the forest air can turn cool quickly, especially in the evenings. Carry your waste back with you and respect the request of the Forest Department to not litter, helping preserve the very thing that makes this place worth visiting. Visit Visit during daytime for the best experience. Photography enthusiasts will find the interplay of pine light and forest canopy particularly rewarding in the golden hours of morning and late afternoon.
FAQs
Where exactly is Pujj Kabar located?
Pujj Kabar is located approximately 9 kilometres from Handwara town, along the New Bangus Road in the Kupwara district of Jammu & Kashmir. It lies within the Langate Forest Division and sits on the route leading toward the famous Bangus (Bungus) Valley.
Is there an entry fee to visit Pujj Kabar?
It has not yet been declared a formal tourist site, so no ticketing system is in place. This may change if the planned eco-tourism development gets approved.
What is the best time to visit Pujj Kabar?
The ideal window is May through October. Summer months (June to August) offer the lushest forest canopy, the most food stall activity, and pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Avoid visiting in winter months (November–March) as snow and road conditions may make access difficult.
Is food available at Pujj Kabar Handwara?
Yes, local vendors from nearby villages serve nun chai, kehwa, tujji (charcoal-grilled skewers), fresh bread and homemade pickles from makeshift kiosks. Stalls are more active on weekends and during summer. There are no permanent restaurants or cafes yet, so carry backup snacks and drinking water.
Are there toilets or washrooms at the site?
Currently, no public toilets or washrooms exist at Pujj Kabar, a commonly noted concern among visitors, especially families with children. Facilities are planned as part of future eco-tourism development. Plan accordingly and use facilities in Handwara town before making the journey.
How do I get to Pujj Kabar from Srinagar?
From Srinagar, take the Srinagar–Sopore–Handwara highway (NH 701), a drive of roughly 73 km and about 2.5 hours. From Handwara town, head onto the New Bangus Road — Pujj Kabar is 9 km ahead. A personal vehicle or hired taxi is recommended. The road is black-topped and suitable for regular cars.
Is Pujj Kabar suitable for families and children?
Yes, Pujj Kabar is family-friendly — the paths are black-topped and accessible, the environment is peaceful, and the natural setting is open and safe. However, the absence of washrooms can be inconvenient for young children. The site is not strenuous and requires no hiking, making it easy for all age groups.
Can I visit Pujj Kabar and Bangus Valley on the same day?
Yes, since Pujj Kabar sits on the Bangus Road, many visitors combine both in one day. Stop at Pujj Kabar on the way up for tea and the forest experience, then continue to Bangus Valley for the open meadows and panoramic views. Plan to start early from Srinagar or Handwara to make the most of daylight.