Doodhpathri Kashmir
Doodhpathri in Kashmir
Doodhpathri, meaning “Valley of Milk,” is a breathtaking, lesser known tourist destination in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir. Famous for its lush green meadows, the crystal clear Shaliganga River and views of snow capped mountains, Located at an altitude of about 8,960 feet
This serene spot offers activities like trekking, camping and pony rides through its picturesque valleys. While the area has limited commercial amenities, Doodhpathri is perfect for travelers seeking a tranquil escape from crowded tourist destinations, making it a favorite among locals for its pristine natural beauty.
It has become a popular day trip destination for its unspoiled natural beauty, though it is less crowded than other parts of Kashmir.
It is situated just 42 kilometers from Srinagar and about 22 kilometers from the Budgam district headquarters.
Why visit Doodhpathri in Kashmir
One of the major advantages of Doodhpathri is its proximity to Srinagar International Airport, making it a convenient destination for tourists. Many travelers prefer to visit Doodhpathri on the last day of their itinerary, as they can enjoy the scenic beauty, do some last minute shopping and head straight to the airport for departure all in a single day.
Doodhpathri Budgam is an emerging tourist destination in Kashmir. Doodhpathri is a bowl-shaped vast meadow in the pri panja range surrounded by snowcapped mountains and meadows of Deodar and pine. It is situated on the bank of Shaliganga river. In Year 2023 doodhpathri witness huge rush of tourist.
Doodhpathri is located in Khansahib tehsil of district Budgam at an altitude of 8,968 ft (2,730 metres) from sea level. In the past, nomads (Bakerwals) used it for grazing their cattle and there are still some mud houses known as “Kotha” in the area. Doodhpathri is a two hour drive from Srinagar.
On your way to Doodhpathri, don’t forget to stop at Sotchal Pathri which is a picturesque location for photographs and you also take a break there. The Ashtar glacier is the sources of Shaliganga river which flows in doodhpathri . Now you can also do paragliding in Doodhpathri. The Jammu and Kashmir Government plans to make Doodhpathri a winter tourist spot and popular skiing destination in the country. A Bollywood album titled “Kitabo” was recently filmed there.
Doodhpathri is also safe for tourists as well as locals. You can visit with your family or friends. You can book one of the most affordable car rentals in Srinagar here.
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What to see and do in Doodhpathri
Here are the top attractions and activities to enjoy in Doodhpathri:
Shaliganga River
The Shaliganga River flows through the valley and is one of its main highlights. Its clear waters often appear milky white from a distance, which is how Doodhpathri got its name. You can walk along the riverbanks or take a pony ride to reach scenic viewpoints.
Doodhpathri Meadows
These vast green meadows are perfect for picnics, photography or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings. The open landscapes make it a favorite spot for nature lovers.
Pony and ATV Rides
Exploring Doodhpathri on a pony is a traditional and family-friendly way to see the area. In summer, ATV rides are also available for those who want a more adventurous experience.
Short Treks
Hike to nearby scenic spots like Mujpathri, a hamlet by the Shaliganga river or Palmaidan, a wide open ground known for its large stones. For a more challenging trek, venture to the Dishkal meadow.
Sochilpathri
Another picturesque meadow close to Doodhpathri, Sochilpathri can be reached on foot or by pony. It’s a quieter alternative for those seeking solitude in nature.
Tangnar
Located en route to Doodhpathri, Tangnar is a scenic valley lined with pine and deodar trees. It’s a great spot to pause, take photos and enjoy the alpine beauty.
Things to know before you go
Food
There is no established market in Doodhpathri, so it is best to carry your own food and drinking water. You may find a few local vendors at the entrance selling tea and light snacks.
Accommodation
Doodhpathri is usually visited as a day trip since there are no proper hotels or guesthouses. Most travelers prefer to stay in Srinagar, which offers a wide range of accommodation options.
Vehicle Restriction
During the peak tourist season, private vehicles may not be allowed up to the main meadows. In such cases, you will need to park nearby and either walk or hire a pony to reach the meadows.
Bargaining
Be ready to negotiate prices for pony rides and ATV rides, as rates are not always fixed. A little bargaining can help you get a fair deal.
Why is it called the “Valley of Milk”?
The name “Doodhpathri” comes from the local legend that the famous Kashmiri saint Sheikh ul Aalam Sheikh Noor din Noorani once prayed here. Searching for water, he is said to have struck the ground with his stick and milk gushed out. However, when he declared that milk could only be used for drinking, the stream immediately turned into water. The name also comes from the fact that the river’s water appears white as it hits the rocks, resembling milk from a distance.
What is Doodhpathri famous for ?
Doodhpathri is famous because a famous sufi saint prayed there. The doodhpathri name was given by the famous saint of Kashmir Sheikh ul Aalam Sheikh Noor din Noorani (locally known as Alamdar Kashmir). It is said that once he was in search of water to perform ablution for prayers and then he pricked the ground with his stick(Asa) and milk came out. But he said the milk can’t be used for ablution and is only used for drinking. After that the milk changed into water and in this way the meadow got its name to Doodhpathri, “doodh” means milk and “pathri” means meadows. Doodhpathri means valley of milk. Nilnag and Yusmarg are the other two spots which you can cover while visiting doohpathir in Budgam. Some other places to visit in Budgam including Tosamaidan, Charari Sharief (shrine of Sheikh Noor Ud Din Wali (RA)).
Khansahib, Yarikhah, Kremshora and Ich-Gam are some of the villages which are near doodhpathri. Doodhpathri is a beautiful place and is absolutely safe to visit doodhpathri or dudhpathri.
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Things to do in doodhpathri Kashmir
- Doodhpathri Sightseeing
- Camping | As per equipments
- Snowbiking
- Pony riding
- Paragliding in Doodhpathri
- Trekking
Now you can also enjoy paragliding in Doodhpathri. The cost of paragliding in Doodhpathri starts from Rs. 1,200. You may also like Helicopter ride in Gulmarg.
Best time to visit Doodhpathri Srinagar
The best time to visit Doodhpathri is from May to September when the meadows are green, flowers bloom and the weather stays mild. The temperature in the summer months remains pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 21°C to 28°C. Winters, from November to February, bring heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures making travel difficult but creating a scenic snow-covered landscape for adventure seekers.
Doodhpathri Weather
The doodhpathri temperature remains pleasant during summers with ranging from 22°C to 29°C. In winter the meadows of doodhpathri remains covered under thick blanket of snow. The months from April to September is the best time to visit doodhpathri. From November to February you can enjoy snowfall in doodhpathri.
During winter the meadows are covered in a thick blanket of white. However, roads can be difficult to access during heavy snowfall.
Average temperature in doodhpathri Kashmir
The average temperature in Doodhpathri ranges between 15 degrees Celsius and 24 degrees Celsius. This is a perfect destination to beat the heat and enjoy with your loved ones. Due to its pleasant weather during summer, many popular celebrities also visit Doodhpathri. So what are you waiting for? Plan your visit to Doodhpathri and enjoy its natural beauty.
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How to Reach Doodhpathri from Srinagar
Doodhpathri is easily accessible from Srinagar. You can hire a private cab for the journey, which typically takes around two hours. However, it is important to keep in mind that once you reach a certain point, vehicles are often not allowed further in order to preserve the environment, and you will need to walk or hire a local pony.
From Srinagar:
Doodhpathri is around 42 km from Srinagar and it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by road. The most common route is:
Srinagar → Budgam → Khansahib → Doodhpathri.
From Budgam:
The distance from Budgam town to Doodhpathri is 36 km and it takes around 1 hour by car.
From Srinagar Airport:
Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport is about 40–44 km from Doodhpathri. Travelers can hire a cab directly from the airport for a convenient trip.
From Railway Station:
The nearest railway station is Budgam Railway Station, located 35 km away. From there taxis are available to reach Doodhpathri.
Alternative Route (via Magam–Beerwah):
Another option is: Srinagar → Magam → Beerwah → Arizal → Doodhpathri, with a total distance of around 50 km.
You can also rent a bike in Srinagar to reach Doodhpathri. The road to Doodhpathri is narrow and uphill drive , due to which it takes 2 hours to reach Doodhpathri.
Where to Stay in Doodhpathri/ Hotels in Doodhpathri Kashmir
In doodhpathri, there are no hotels, but you can stay in resorts or cottages run by the Tourism Department of Kashmir. You can also book these resorts online through JKTDC portal at Rs. 2000 per night. There are other small igloo shaped cottages where you can stay for night at a price of Rs. 2500. In doodhpathri there is no full fledged market but tea and snacks are available at the shops run by the local people. Camping is also allowed in Doodhpathri.
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Doodhpathri Kashmir in winter
Doodhpathri in winter transforms into a stunning winter wonderland with a good amount of snowfall during December to February. And it usually remains inaccessible during winter due to heavy snowfall. The weather during winter is extremely cold and snowy. The average temperature in Doodhpathri in winter ranges between 0°C and -12°C. The month of December and January are the coldest months with temperature can go below -15°C, completely freezing the entire valley.
Doodhpathri Kashmir in Summer
Doodhpathri can be best visited during summer months(May to August). Doodhpathri in summer features lush green meadows, blooming wildflowers, and cool breezes ideal for nature walks and picnics.
During summer the meadows of Doodhpathri which which are blanketed in snow during winter, come alive with a vibrant green carpet. The temperature in summer remains pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. While Doodhpathri does not have year-round road connectivity, summer makes it more accessible. So the best months to visit Doodhpathri are May, June, July, August and September. Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities in Doodhpathri during summer, such as trekking, horse riding, and fishing.
Here are some things to keep in mind when planning a trip to Doodhpathri in summer:
- The summer months from June to August are the peak tourist season in Doodhpathri.
- The accommodation options in Doodhpathri are limited, so it is advisable to book your stay in advance.
- There are not many shops or restaurants in Doodhpathri, so it is a good idea to carry your own food when travelling to Doodhpathri.
- Doodhpathri is located at a high altitude, so the weather can change anytime, so be sure to pack warm clothes, even in summer.
Doodhpathri in March and April
March in Doodhpathri can be the time of transition between winter and spring. . The weather in doodhpathri in March can be quite unpredictable, with occasional snowfall still possible early in the month. However, as the month progresses, temperatures start to rise, and the snow begins to melt, revealing patches of green grass beneath. The weather in Doodhpathri in March can be quite variable. Temperatures can range from below freezing at night to around 10°C during the day. There is a chance of snowfall, especially in the early part of the month.
The road to Doodhpathri may still be closed due to snow in early March. It is advisable to check the road conditions before you travel.
Some activities like trekking and pony ride might still not available in doodhpathri in the month of March , but you can enjoy the snow based activities like activities like sledding or snowball fights.
If you are looking to enjoy the best of Doodhpathri , it is best to wait until April or May, because in March there is not much to do in Doodhpathri.
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Taxi fare from Srinagar to Doodhpathri
The Srinagar to Doodhpathri taxi fare is :
- Sedan (e.g., Swift Dzire, Etios, Amaze): ₹2,800
- MUV (e.g., Xylo,Scorpio,Tavera): ₹3,200
- SUV (e.g., Innova,Fortuner,Crysta): ₹3,500
These rates may fluctuate based on the season, demand, and negotiation with the taxi service. It’s a good idea to confirm the fare in advance with the cab provider like Travel My Kashmir.
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Doodhpathri in June
Doodhpathri in June offers vibrant green landscapes, pleasant temperatures around 20°C, and full access to trekking and picnic areas. Snow from winter has melted, revealing alpine flowers and scenic trails. It is one of the best times to visit for clear weather, outdoor activities, and peaceful views.
The month of June is the best time to visit Doodhpathri as the meadows are completely turned into lush green, and the surrounding snow-clad mountains provide a stunning backdrop, presenting a mesmerizing view. The weather in Doodhpathri during the month of June is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. This makes it a perfect spot to enjoy picnic with your family and friends. The month of June is also the peak tourist season in Doodhpathri. June is a great time to enjoy the lush green meadows, dense forests, and the soothing Shaliganga River of Doodhpathri.
When to visit Doodhpathri
The best time to visit Doodhpathri is from May to September when the meadows are green, flowers bloom, and temperatures range between 15°C to 25°C. These months offer clear skies and full accessibility, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, sightseeing, and picnics.
And if you don’t like crowd , then late September and early October offer a chance to experience Doodhpathri with fewer crowds. But during this time The weather starts to cool down.
Here is a summary table to help you decide when to visit Doodhpathri:
| Month | Weather | Crowds | Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| April | Pleasant, with occasional showers | Less crowded | Trekking, pony riding, fishing |
| May | Pleasant | More crowded | Trekking, pony riding, fishing |
| June | Pleasant | Most crowded | Trekking, pony riding, fishing |
| July & August | Monsoon season with rain showers | Moderate crowd | Not ideal for outdoor activities |
| September (early) | Pleasant | Less crowded | Trekking, pony riding (may be limited) |
| September (late) & October | Cooler weather with changing foliage | Least crowded | Limited outdoor activities |
| November to February | Cold with snowfall | Roads may be closed | Not recommended for visit |
Camping in Doodhpathri
Doodhpathri is the best location for camping especially during the summer months of April to June. when the weather is pleasant and the meadows are bursting with wildflowers. In order to do camping in Doodhpathri you need to bring your own camping gear including tents, sleeping bags, mats, cooking stove, food, and water. There are no shops or restaurants in Doodhpathri, so be sure to pack everything. For safety reasons it is recommended to set up your camp near Gujjar community as there are bears and wolves in the area.
How to reach Doodhpathri waterfall point
Doodhpathri Waterfall Point, also known as the Doodhpathri River View Point, is a popular tourist destination located near Doodhpathri in Kashmir. It is the main attraction in Doodhpathri. But it is important to note that it is not actually waterfall. The Shaliganga River, which flows through the rocks creating a whitewater effect, which is how the spot earned its name (“Doodh” means milk and “pathri” means stream in Hindi). The Doodhpathri River View Point is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding meadows and snow capped mountains.
The Doodhpathri River View Point is located about 2 kilometers from the main Doodhpathri meadow. You can reach it by car, taxi, or pony riding. But sometimes the locals do not allow cars to reach there, because they want to hire pony ride from them.
Tourist places near Doodhpathri
These are the tourist places near doodhpathri:-
- Yusmarg:- Yusmarg to doodhpathri distance is 53 Kms.
- Charari Sharief :- Doodhpathri to Charari sharief distance is 47 Kms.
- Tosamaidan:- Doodhpathri to Tosamaidan distance is 43 Kms.
- Nilnag :- 32 Kms from doodhpathri.
- Mujhpathri :- 3 Kms from Doodhpathri.
- Palmaidan :- In kashmiri Pal means “Stone” and Maidan means “meadow”. It is just 5 Kms from Doodhpathri.
- Diskhal :- 10 Kms trek from Shaliganga river.
Distance from doodhpathri to other popular destinations in Kashmir
| DESTINATION | DISTANCE |
|---|---|
| Distance from doodhpathri to other popular destinations in Kashmir | 45 Km |
| Doodhpathri to Pahalgam distance | 121 Km |
| Srinagar Airport to Doodhpathri distance | 39 Km |
| Doodhpathri to Gulmarg distance | 68Km |
| Doodhpathri to Gulmarg distanceDoodhpathri to Sonamarg distance | 135 Km |
Sum up
FAQ
How to reach doodhpathri Kashmir?
Doodhpathri is located in district Budgam just 42 kms from Srinagar city. You can hire a car online in Srinagar from a trusted travel agency to reach Doodhpathri.
Where is doodhpathri in Kashmir?
Doodhpathri is located in district Budgam of Jammu and Kashmir.
Is it safe to visit Doodhpathri?
Yes, it is absolutely safe to visit Doodhpathri . You can visit doodhpathri any time of the year.
What is the condition of Srinagar to Doodhpathri road?
The road is narrow and uphill drive , due to which it takes 2 hours to reach Doodhpathri.
What is the distance from Doodhpathri to Srinagar Airport?
The distance from Doodhpathri to Srinagar Airport is about 39 km. You can hire a cab directly from Srinagar Airport to Doodhpathri.
How to reach Doodhpathri from Srinagar ?
Reach Doodhpathri from Srinagar by road in about 2 hours, covering 42 km. Hire a taxi or drive via Budgam and Khan Sahib routes, which offer the most direct access. Public buses are limited, so private vehicles are the most reliable option for tourists traveling from Srinagar to Doodhpathri.
How much time is enough for Doodhpathri?
One full day is enough for Doodhpathri to explore its meadows, streams, and viewpoints. Most visitors plan a day trip from Srinagar, spending 5–7 hours at the valley. An overnight stay is optional if you want to enjoy camping or extended leisure, but it is not essential for sightseeing.
Is there snowfall in Doodhpathri?
Yes, Doodhpathri receives heavy snowfall during winter, especially from December to February.
Are there hotels in Doodhpathri?
Doodhpathri has limited hotels and guesthouses, with most visitors choosing to stay in Srinagar, 42 km away. Basic accommodations and J&K Tourism huts are available near the valley for those who want to stay overnight. For better facilities, tourists prefer hotels in Srinagar or Budgam.
