Gurez Valley Kashmir | Travel Guide

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Gurez valley in Kashmir

Gurez Valley is a remote and breathtakingly beautiful offbeat destination located in the high Himalayas of Jammu and Kashmir. Located about 123 km from Srinagar, the valley is famous for its dramatic landscapes, lush green meadows, and the serene Kishanganga River. Beyond its natural beauty, Gurez offers a unique cultural experience as the homeland of the Dard-Shin tribe, where travelers can witness traditional customs and local lifestyle. Ideal for those seeking peace away from crowded tourist spots, Gurez Valley is a must-visit for adventurers and nature lovers looking for an authentic and offbeat Kashmir experience.

Things to do in Gurez Valley

In Gurez Valley, you can go trekking and enjoy rafting on the Kishanganga River, visit the pyramid-shaped Habba Khatoon Peak, explore traditional log-wood houses in Dawar, and see scenic spots like Tulail Valley and Chakwali. You can also look for local crafts such as pashmina shawls and handwoven carpets, making it a great offbeat destination in Kashmir.

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Road Start

A refreshment corner

Log Hut Cafe

A way in Heavens

Overview of Gurez Valley

Gurez is considered the last part of India and you cannot travel beyond it. The topography of Gurez is entirely different from the rest of Kashmir, despite being only 126 kilometers from Srinagar. The trees are different, and so is the way of life. Especially after crossing the Razdan Pass, you will encounter a completely different landscape with some traditional wooden houses. When you are in Gurez, it feels as if you have entered an entirely different world, even though you are still in Kashmir.

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The people of Gurez have ancestral connections to Gilgit (now in Pakistan), and the locals are Dards who speak the Shina language. It is believed that Emperor Yusuf Shah Chak entered Kashmir through the Gurez Valley. A pyramid-shaped peak named Habba Khatoon stands as a famous landmark in Gurez.

Gurez also offers various trekking trails, connecting to Gangabal and Sonmarg towards the east, and Drass, Dha Hanu, and Zanskar to the north. The Kishanganga River flowing through Gurez provides opportunities for rafting and trout fishing, while the surrounding mountains offer excellent mountaineering activities.

In this post, you will find complete details about Gurez Valley, including how to reach it from Srinagar, the distance, road conditions, permissions required, accommodation options, and more.

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Connectivity

Nearest Airport – Srinagar International Airport (135 Km away)
Nearest Railway Station – Sopore (120 Km away)
Nearest Bus Stop – Dawar (5 Km away)

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Gurez valley Tour Packages

Overview of Gurez Valley

It is one of Kashmir’s least explored regions and can truly be described as an offbeat destination. It is a stunningly beautiful location that does not receive the attention it deserves. The landscapes and natural beauty of the mountains that you will see here are unlike anything else you will see. Gurez was awarded the best off-beat destination by tourism department.
When people think of Kashmir, they usually think of four places like Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, and Pahalgam, but Kashmir is much more than that. Srinagar serves as a base for visiting to all the major tourist destinations. There are numerous other places here that will captivate you if you visit and Gurez is one such destination that you should visit if you are in Kashmir.

Gurez, often spelled Gurais, is a valley in Kashmir around 126 kilometers from Srinagar. Tourist movement in the region was prohibited due to its close proximity to the border but from year 2017 it’s open from tourists and since then good foot-fall of tourists has been seen especially from year 2020. Jammu and Kashmir tourism department has also made a lot of efforts and conducted many festival in Gurez this year named as Jashn–e-Gurez and Grand Gurez in year 2024.

Indian nationals can now come to Gurez Valley with valid government-issued identification (Aadhar card). Foreign nationals are are now allowed to visit the Gurez Valley Kashmir .
Read more here: Gurez Valley Opens to Foreign Tourists

The valley is bordered by snow-capped mountains at an average elevation of 8,000 feet (2,400 metres). It has a diverse fauna and species, including the Himalayan brown bear and the snow leopard.
The Kishanganga River flows through the valley before joining the Jhelum River at Muzaffarabad, Pakistan. The only high-altitude pass between Srinagar and Gurez is Razdan-Pass also called as Razdan Top. The route is closed for around six months (November to April) of the year due to heavy snowfall over the high passes.
Dawar and Tulail (Tulayl) are the two divisions that make up the entire valley of Gurez. Dawar is also Gurez’s main township, and it is here all the maximum living, eating, and shopping of basic necessary things is possible.

The distance of Gurez valley from Srinagar is around 126 kilometers. You can hire a cab from Srinagar to Gurez and back Gurez valley to Srinagar.
Book Kashmir cab service here

Itinerary plan for Gurez Valley Kashmir

You can see the tour plan in the next image for better understanding.
Day 1 : Srinagar -Bandipoa-Razdan-Dawar | 126 Kms | 6 Hours one way
Day 2 : Dawar-Tulayl-Badugam-Chakwalia- back to Dawar | 60Kms | 3 hrs one way
Day 3 : Dawar to Bandipora to Srinagar /Gulmarg / Sonmarg

A vacation to Gurez Valley might be scheduled for two or three days depending on time you have in hand.
For more information you can contact TRAVEL MY KASHMIR. +91 9796-466052
You can check them on Google
https://g.page/r/Ceg-mqP0SRWeEAE

How to reach Gurez Valley Kashmir?

Gurez Valley is open to tourists from April to October, depending on weather and road conditions. During the winter months—from November to March—road access is typically closed due to heavy snowfall. The only way to reach Gurez during this time is via helicopter service from Srinagar or Bandipora.

For budget travelers, shared cabs are available. You can take a shared cab from Srinagar (Parimpora Bus Stand) to Bandipora, and from there, another shared cab to Gurez (Dawar). The total fare is approximately ₹1,000 per person, but this option is time-consuming, lacks scenic stopovers, and is usually overcrowded with luggage—often making the journey uncomfortable.

If you’re short on time and want to explore Gurez and the surrounding beauty properly, hiring a private cab from Srinagar is the best option. It costs approximately ₹20,000 for a round trip and allows you to enjoy sightseeing along the way and within Gurez. Make sure your driver is knowledgeable about the region to enhance your experience.

One of the most trusted options for booking a cab to Gurez is Travel My Kashmir. They also offer self-drive car rentals and bike rentals for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace. The team is experienced and ensures your journey is smooth, informative, and hassle-free.

📞 Contact: +91 9796466052

How to reach Gurez Valley from Srinagar by train?

Reach Gurez Valley from Srinagar by train by first taking a train to Sopore or Baramulla, as there is no direct rail line to Gurez. From Baramulla, travel by road through Bandipora to Dawar in Gurez Valley. The journey covers about 125 km and takes around 7–8 hours, including road travel.

Road to Gurez Valley Kashmir

If you are driving your own car or renting a bike in Srinagar, here’s the route you will take to reach Gurez Valley. The road is generally in good condition, except for a few rough patches near Razdan Pass. Gurez is famous for its untouched natural beauty and unique landscape.

Srinagar → Bandipora → Razdan Pass (Gurez Entry) → Kanzalwan → Dawar (Gurez Town)

The total distance from Srinagar to Gurez is approximately 142 kilometers, and it takes around 7 to 8 hours to cover, depending on your speed and the road conditions. It’s advisable to start your journey by 9:00 a.m. at the latest.

The stretch from Srinagar to Bandipora is mostly flat and well-maintained. However, make sure to fill up your fuel tank in Bandipora, as there are no fuel stations between Bandipora and Dawar.

After crossing Razdan Top, there is a rough stretch of about 20 kilometers, but road improvement work is ongoing. Next, you’ll drive alongside Wular Lake, one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes.

As you ascend toward Razdan Pass, the road conditions will start to deteriorate, becoming a mix of good, bad, and average patches for the remainder of the journey.

Tragbal , razdan pass ,Gurez Valley Kashmir

refreshmanet pont tragbal gurez valley kashmir

Permission and Entries Required for Gurez Valley Kashmir

Before entering Gurez Valley, you must register at the Army checkpoint near Razdan Pass, known as Tragbal Checkpoint. This is the first and most important checkpoint on the route to Gurez.

Important Guidelines:

Drones and similar equipment are strictly prohibited beyond this point.
Foreign nationals are currently not permitted to enter Gurez Valley.
Carry your Aadhar Card or any valid government-issued ID — it is mandatory for verification and entry.

At Tragbal, you will receive a barcode for registration, which acts as a unique entry/exit token. This must be scanned again during your exit from Gurez Valley, so make sure to complete both entry and exit formalities. Failure to do so might result in a call or notice from your local police station.

As you continue toward Dawar, the main township in Gurez, you’ll pass through around 5 to 6 additional security checkpoints. At each checkpoint, you will be asked to provide identification and confirm your route.

The Army personnel and local police are known for their friendly and cooperative behavior. Their warm smiles and helpful attitude make the journey feel both welcoming and secure.

Accommodations in Gurez Valley Kashmir

Previously, the only accommodation option in Dawar was the J&K Tourism Dak Bungalow or rest-house. However, as tourism in Gurez Valley has steadily grown, new hotels and guesthouses—similar in style to those found in Ladakh have begun to emerge. There are now a few comfortable and well-maintained options for staying in Gurez.

Tip: It’s best to contact the hotels directly for availability and pricing, or you can reach out to TRAVEL MY KASHMIR at +91 9796466052 for hotel bookings at the best rates.
Check best hotels in Gurez valley

If you are an adventure lover, camping in Gurez is another exciting option. There are a few designated camping sites permitted for tourists, offering a raw and immersive experience of the valley.

Power Supply Situation in Gurez

One important thing to note: Despite having a hydroelectric powerhouse nearby, Gurez Valley does not have 24×7 electricity. Power is supplied to the village through a large generator, typically available from 7 PM to 11 PM for basic lighting and device charging.

Be Prepared: Many homes and guesthouses rely on solar panels or personal generators for backup. Carry power banks or solar chargers for convenience during your stay.

Mobile Network & Internet

Jio provides the best network coverage in the region—from Dawar all the way to Chakwali village. Once you enter Gurez Valley, mobile internet and call connectivity are generally reliable, especially if you’re using Jio.

When does Razdan Pass (to Gurez) open?

Razdan Pass usually opens in late May or early June after the snow is cleared and remains accessible until October or early November, depending on weather conditions.

However, it mostly depends on the weather if snowfall arrives late, the pass may remain open longer and if there is less snowfall, it can open as early as late April to May.

Best time to visit Gurez valley Kashmir

1. Gurez Valley in Summer

The summer season is considered the best time to visit Gurez Valley to explore its natural beauty and enjoy activities like trekking, rafting, fishing, and camping. During summer, Gurez Valley experiences pleasant weather, usually a few degrees cooler than other parts of Kashmir. The average temperature in Gurez during the summer ranges between 10°C and 23°C, with chilly mornings and evenings. The glaciers also begin to melt, feeding fresh water into the streams and creating breathtaking landscapes

2. Gurez Valley in Winter

Gurez Valley experiences harsh winters with heavy snowfall, and temperatures ranging from -20°C to 13°C. The nights become extremely cold. During winter, Gurez remains cut off from the rest of the Kashmir Valley due to heavy snowfall at Razdan Pass, and it usually stays closed for over six months. The only way to reach Gurez during winter is via helicopter services from Srinagar or Bandipora.

During this period, the valley is covered under a thick blanket of snow, creating a breathtaking winter landscape. The traditional wooden houses, frozen streams, and snow-covered mountains resemble scenes straight out of a European countryside. However, it is important to note that exploration options during winter are very limited. Therefore, it is generally advised not to visit Gurez Valley during the winter season.

Places to visit and points to cover in Gurez valley

The natural beauty of the area will be high on the list. Gurez’s scenery is truly quite distinct from that of the rest of Kashmir. The enormous green landscape encircled by snow-capped peaks will undoubtedly have an impression on you.Having said that, there are a few spots that can be considered the main attractions of a visit to Gurez. However, for a quick overview, here is a list of top tourist attractions in Gurez Valley.

1. Kishanganga Dam and Power Project

As soon as you descend from Razdan Pass, you’ll meet the vibrant green waters of the Kishanganga River. The Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project, located right at the entrance of Dawar (Gurez), is a spectacular sight. It offers a fantastic photo opportunity with scenic views of the river and dam

2. Habba Khatoon Peak

Overlooking the town of Dawar, this iconic peak is named after the famous poetess Habba Khatoon. It turns golden during sunset, offering incredible photo opportunities and a tranquil ambiance. A must-visit for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Know the Story of Habba Khatoon Peak

3. Habba Khatoon Spring (Locally known as "Uch")

Located in Achoora village, this spring gushes out crystal-clear water. As per legend, Habba Khatoon once fetched water in an earthen pot from a nearby river. When the pot broke near her hut, this spring emerged. It’s a peaceful spot with a fascinating story.

Learn more about Habba Khatoon

4. Khandiyal Top (Khandiyal Lotuh)

Offering a 360° panoramic view of Dawar, its nearby villages, the snow-clad peaks, and Kishanganga River, Khandiyal Top is a table-shaped hilltop near Khandiyal village. It’s one of the most scenic points in the valley.

Explore Khandiyal Top

5. Tulail Valley

Located 32 km from Dawar, Tulail is a remote and charming valley. The drive passes through Achoora, Barnoi, Purana Tulail, Sheikhpora, and Niru. While the road is partly macadamized and rough in patches, the traditional wooden and mud houses, along with untouched landscapes, make it worth the journey.

Learn More About Tulail valley

6. Chakwali – The Last Village on the Border

Chakwali is the last village on the Indian side, about 58 km from Dawar. The route includes several remote villages and army checkpoints. It’s a full-day round trip, but the views and the simplicity of life in Chakwali are eye-opening. From here, the Line of Control (LOC) is visible. Road work is underway to connect Gurez to Drass via Kaobal Gali, which may open in the coming years.

Read About Chakwali gurez

7. Log Hut Café

Established by the Indian Army in 2021, Log Hut Café overlooks Habba Khatoon Peak and has become a hotspot for tourists and locals. It offers a range of delicious city-style foods like coffee, pizza, momos, and grilled sandwiches. While only cash is accepted for now, a J&K Bank ATM is nearby in Dawar.

📍 View Location

8. Tragbal

A scenic hill station before Razdan Pass where you can stop for tea, noodles, and anda-toast at local dhabas. From here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Wular Lake.

9. Peer Baba Dargah & Temple

Located between Tragbal and Razdan Top, this spiritual site offers panoramic views of Bandipora. Maintained by the Indian Army, it houses both a dargah and a small temple, showcasing communal harmony in the region.

10. Razdan Pass

Sitting at an altitude of 3,557 meters, Razdan Top separates Gurez Valley from Bandipora. Closed during winter due to heavy snowfall, it’s considered one of the more challenging and scenic passes in the world. On a clear day, you can spot the majestic Harmukh Peak from here.

11. Khandyal View Point

Also known as “View Point Khandyal,” this picturesque spot near Khandyal village is one of the most popular places for locals and tourists to enjoy panoramic valley views.

12. Baba Dervish & Baba Razaq Shrines

Near Fakirpora village, these two sacred shrines—Baba Dervish and his brother Baba Razaq—are prominent religious sites in Gurez. They are located just 150 meters apart and are deeply revered by the locals.

Raw images that will make you fall in Love with Gurez Valley Kashmir ♥

Things to do in Gurez Valley Kashmir

Gurez has natural beauty and Tourism department wants that more tourist flong at this offbeat place and aredoing too many effort with help of festivals in Gurez. During these Festivals many activities has been introduced in Gurez which are : Hiking, Trekking to Dissan, camping, and fishing and rafting , on the Kishanganga River. The best part in Gurez is you will find peace there.

Jashn-e-Gurez Festival

20-day-festival to be held from June 1^st to 20^th is being organised by the Indian Army in collaboration with the District Administration Bandipora and Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department. The main reason of this festival is to promote Gurez valley and more tourists to come.

Jashn-e-Gurez introduced a plethora of adventure, sports and cultural activities such as inter-village and inter-school sports competitions, bike and cycle rallies, marathon, treks, village games and a grand star-studded musical. Also various adventure activities has been introduced first time in Gurez during this festival in 2022, such as water sports, Zorbing and ATVs riding.

In 2024 year, about 50,000 tourists flocked Gurez due to the concentrated efforts of the Indian Army, Local Administration and J&K Tourism. For updates regarding Gurez you can contact TRAVEL MY KASHMIR

Pricings and Budget for Gurez Valley tour.

If you are a solo person you can take a Bike on Rent in Srinagar.

Bike rental will cost you 1500-2000 for a day without fuel.
If you are a as a family or a couple you can take a taxi from Srinagar exclusively which will cost you around 18000-22000 for 3 days trip.

Accommodation / Hotels will cost you between 4000-5000 for a basic normal one , for a good one it will be between 6000-8000. Camping can be 1000-1200 for a small tent for a night.
Book Gurez taxi service

How many days are ideal for a Gurez Valley trip and what itinerary should I follow?

Day 1:
Your journey typically begins in Srinagar heading north towards the Bandipora district. The drive takes approximately 6–7 hours and is one of the most adventurous routes in Kashmir.

Stop at Wular Lake near Bandipora to witness the vastness of one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes.
Cross the Razdan Pass, which stands at 11,672 feet and serves as the gateway to the valley, offering panoramic views of the Harmukh peaks.
Arrive in Dawar, the central hub of Gurez to check into your homestay or riverside camp.

Day 2: Local Landmarks and Legend

Spend your second day exploring the immediate surroundings of Dawar, which is rich in history and local Dard-Shin culture.

Visit the base of Habba Khatoon the iconic pyramid-shaped peak that dominates the valley’s skyline.
Drink from the Habba Khatoon Spring Achoora a crystal-clear spring named after the legendary 16th-century poetess.
Walk along the banks of the Kishanganga river, known for its turquoise waters and excellent trout fishing spots.

Day 3: Deep into Tulail Valley

On day three, drive further east to explore the more rugged and untouched.

Explore the remote villages of Sheikhpora and Barnoi, where you can see traditional wooden log houses and experience the local pastoral lifestyle.
This area is perfect for light trekking and photography, as it remains largely disconnected from modern commercial tourism.

Day 4: Farewell to Gurez

Start early for your return journey to Srinagar.

Use the morning to pick up local handicrafts or famous Gurez organic products like cumin (kala zeera) or honey from the Dawar market.
Complete the return drive across the Razdan Pass, aiming to reach Srinagar by late evening.

Important Travel Note (December 2025)

As of late December, the Razdhan pass is likely closed or restricted due to heavy winter snowfall. During this season, the only way to reach Gurez is via the government helicopter service operating from Srinagar or Bandipora. If you are planning a winter visit, focus your itinerary strictly on the frozen beauty of Dawar.

Sum-up

Distance from Srinagar to Gurez 129 kms approx.
Gurez is located in Bandipora District of Kashmir.
Gurez is open from April to Oct. (can be less or more depends upon weather)
Best time to vist Gurez June to September
Public transpoer is not recommended for Gurez trip from Srinagar
Book Cabs/Hotels/Tents in Gurez from travelmykashmir.com
Rent bike for Gurez from bikerentalsrinagar.com
Places to visit during Gurez Trip are Manasbal Lake – Wular Lake – Razadan Top – Dawar – Habba Khatoon peak – Tulail – Chakwali
Two Night and Three days are best for Gurez Trip
Indian’s are allowed to visit Gurez by showing national ID – Adhaar Card
Foreigners are not allowed to Gurez Valley
Permit for Gurez will issue at Tragbal check post
J&K Bank ATM are in Dawar Gurez
One Petrol Pump is in Dawar Gurez
Aadhaar Card is mandatory for Gurez visit
No Drone is allowed in Gurez
Electricity is from 7pm to 11pm only
Weather in Gurez Valley usually remains pleasant.
Gurez valley tourism experiences a significant increase.
Gurez Valley Hotel, Hotel Gurez Valley | there are only few hotels in Gurez valley Kashmir including Hotel Grand Gurez, Wood vibes Gurez.
Gurez Valley homestays | you can also opt for homestays in Gurez Valley.
For future updates you can call +91 9796466052

Frequently asked questions about Gurez valley

Is it worth to visit Gurez valley?

Yes, Gurez Valley is absolutely worth visiting if you are looking for a raw, offbeat and untouched side of Kashmir. Some of the top attractions in Gurez valley including the iconic Habba Khatoon Peak, Kishanganga river, Gurez valley view point and traditional mountain villages

What is the best time to visit Gurez Valley?

The best time to visit Gurez Valley is from June to September. During these months, the Razdan Pass is fully accessible, the weather is pleasant (15°C to 25°C) and the landscape is a vibrant emerald green.

Where is Gurez located?

Gurez (also known as Gurais) is a high-altitude Himalayan valley located in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, India.

Why is Gurez Valley famous?

Gurez Valley is widely celebrated as the “Hidden Gem of Kashmir.” Once restricted due to its proximity to the Line of Control (LoC), it has recently surged in fame as one of India’s most pristine and culturally unique offbeat destinations.

Is Gurez Valley safe to visit right now and what permits do I need for travel?

Yes, Gurez Valley is safe to visit and as of late 2025, it has become a popular offbeat destination for travelers seeking a secure and peaceful experience. However, because it is located near the Line of Control (LoC), there are specific permit and registration requirements you must follow

What is the best time to visit Gurez Valley for clear weather and scenic views?

During this period, skies are mostly clear, roads via Razdan Pass remain open and the valley is at its greenest and most photogenic.

Which are the best hotels and homestays in Gurez Valley for couples and families?

Gurez Valley offers a unique mix of rustic homestays and growing resorts, primarily concentrated around the central township of Dawar. While the valley is remote, these accommodations provide a blend of traditional Kashmiri hospitality and modern essentials like power backup and hot water.

How can I book a private taxi or cab from Srinagar to Gurez Valley at a reasonable price?

You can book a private taxi from Srinagar to Gurez Valley at a reasonable price by choosing a trusted local operator and booking in advance. Reliable agencies like Travel My Kashmir offer well-maintained cabs with experienced drivers, transparent pricing, and assistance with permits if required. Booking directly through a local Kashmir-based travel company helps avoid middlemen, ensures road-ready vehicles for Razdan Pass, and gives you better value compared to last-minute bookings.

What are the must‑visit places in and around Gurez Valley for a 3 to 5 day trip?

For a 3 to 5 day trip, the must-visit places in and around Gurez Valley include Dawar, Habba Khatoon peak, Kishanganga River, Badoab Meadow and Razdan Pass.

How difficult is the road to Gurez Valley and should I hire an SUV or take my own car?

The road to Gurez Valley is scenic but moderately challenging, especially after crossing Razdan Pass. The route from Srinagar is mostly paved, but you may encounter narrow stretches, sharp turns and rough patches, particularly after rains or early in the season when snow has recently melted.

While experienced drivers can take a private car, it is recommended to hire an SUV with a local driver. SUVs handle steep climbs, loose gravel and sudden weather changes better and local drivers are familiar with road conditions, security checkpoints, and permit formalities. For most travelers, hiring an SUV ensures a safer, more comfortable, and stress-free journey to Gurez Valley.

Where can I find local tour operators for a customized Gurez Valley itinerary with offbeat spots?

You can find local tour operators in Srinagar who specialize in customized and offbeat itineraries for Gurez Valley by contacting Kashmir-based travel agencies directly. Trusted operators like Travel My Kashmir offer tailor made Gurez Valley trips that include hidden villages, scenic meadows, flexible schedules and assistance with permits and local logistics, making them a reliable choice for exploring lesser-known spots comfortably.