Keran valley Kashmir - One village in two countries
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Keran Valley
The Keran Valley is a beautiful, small village located near the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, around 120 kilometers from Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir. This valley is breathtakingly scenic and far away from crowded tourist spots like Gulmarg, Sonmarg, and Pahalgam. For travelers seeking untouched natural beauty, privacy, and tranquility, Keran Valley is a hidden gem that should definitely be on your bucket list. In this post, you will find complete information about this offbeat destination including the distance from Srinagar, transportation options, best time to visit, accommodations, and the necessary permissions.
About Keran Valley Kupwara Kashmir
Keran valley, Kashmir, is a beautiful remote village located close to the Line of Control (LoC) between India and Pakistan. The Keran village has a unique history. Before the partition of India and Pakistan, this village was one, but after the partition, the village was divided into two countries. One part of the village is under India, and the other part is under Pakistan. Both parts of the Keran valley are divided only by a river called the Kishanganga River on the Indian side and the Neelum River on the Pakistani side. People from both sides of the village usually wave their hands and greet each other. The other side of the border is famously known as the Neelum Valley. India’s first post office is also located in Keran village, and people love to take pictures with it.
Also check: How to book Gulmarg Gondola tickets in advance
What is Srinagar to Keran valley distance by road?
The distance from Srinagar to Keran Valley is 120 kilometers by road. The route passes through Kupwara and requires around 5 to 6 hours of travel, depending on road and weather conditions. Travel to Keran Valley requires valid permits due to its proximity to the Line of Control.
What is the distance from Kupwara to Keran Valley by road?
The distance from Kupwara to Keran Valley is approximately 50 kilometers by road. The journey takes about 2 hours and includes travel through mountainous terrain. Due to the sensitive border location, visitors must carry identification and may need special permits.
How to reach Keran valley Kashmir
The Keran Valley is around 120 kilometers from Srinagar, the summer capital of Kashmir, and the journey will take around 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and rush. To reach the valley of Keran you have to cross 8000 feet high pass of Farkyan or Firkin Gali(highest pass on the Keran road). From Kupwara main town the keran valley is around 50 Kilometers and 23 kilometers from Kralpora block. The best and most recommended way to visit Keran Valley is by a private car. Shared cab options are also available, but they can be time consuming. To book an online taxi from Srinagar to Keran Village for your trip or to Know about the Keran trip taxi pricing you can visit the Travel My Kashmir website or call 9796466052. In addition to taxi service you can also choose Bike rental Srinagar option for your Keran trip.
- By road: Keran valley is around 120 Kilometers from Srinagar. Both public and private transport is available. But the best option to hire a cab from Srinagar.
- By Air: The nearest airport to Keran Valley is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar. From there, you can hire a taxi to travel to Kupwara, followed by Kralpora, and finally reach Keran Valley. To prebook you Srinagar airport taxi, contact Travel My Kashmir for better service.
- By Rail: The nearest Railway stations to Keran kupwara is Sopore railway station. From sopore railway stations the keran valley is around 80 kilometers.
Where is Keran valley located and distance from Srinagar
The Keran valley, Kashmir, is a Village in Kralpora Block in district Kupwara of Kashmir, around 120 kilometers from Srinagar city. With the introduction of border tourism, Keran Valley is gaining popularity and is experiencing a significant number of local and national tourists.
Regarding the road conditions to Keran Valley, the majority of the route is macadamized and well-maintained, except for the last 5-6 kilometers where the road is in poor condition. If you are planning a trip to Keran Valley, it’s advisable to avoid small cars like hatchbacks or sedans. If you want to go to the main Keran village in your own car, then SUVs are the best option. However, if you want to travel in your own small car, you can park your vehicle at the point where local taxi services are available, which charge around Rs. 20 per person to reach Keran valley.
My personal recommendation is to consider an SUV for your Keran valley trip because small cars can struggle on the last 5-6 kilometers.
Also check : How to book Kashmir cab service online
Permissions Required for Keran valley Tour
You don’t need any permission to travel up to Kupwara. However, a permit is required to visit Keran Valley from Kupwara. Below, you’ll find all the details needed to obtain the permit for your Keran Valley tour.
Keran Valley is a border village, so it requires special permission to visit, but don’t worry, I will provide you with all the details about the permissions needed to visit Keran Valley. There are two ways to get the permission for Keran valley: the first one is online epass.kupwara.co.in., and the second one is offline. I have tried both these options, and as per my personal experience, the offline method is simple and fast. Some tips to make the permission process fast are to bring photocopies of your Aadhaar card with you along with the original ones. You will get the permission from the Kralpora police station, which lies on the way to Keran. Here are the steps to get permission for your Keran valley trip:
- Stop at the Kralpora police station.
- Get a form from the stationery shop. There are many shops that provide the permission forms.
- Fill in the details on the form, like the names of the visiting persons, the registration number of the vehicle, and other details.
- Attach the photocopies of Aadhaar cards.
- Go to the Kralpora police station. Get your form stamped and signed.
- Go to the shop again and take around 7 photo copies of it.
- There are various entry points where you need to submit a copy of the permission form.
- At the last checking point, you will need to submit the original Aadhar cards, which will be returned after you come back.
At all checking or entry points, you will need to provide details like the car’s registration number and the number of persons traveling. Since Keran Valley is a sensitive area, avoid capturing photos and videos near the checking points. If you have any query about the permissions , you can connect with us.
How many checkpoints are between Kupwara and Keran valley
There are around 7–8 checkpoints between Kupwara and Keran Valley. At each checkpoint, one person must register details such as the vehicle number, the last four digits of their driving license, and the names of the visitors. At certain checkpoints, like the Firkiyan Gali check post, vehicles are thoroughly inspected, and visitors’ ID cards are also checked.
Is it safe to camp or stay overnight in Keran Valley?
Yes, you can stay in Keran Valley for a night and is absolutely safe. You can rent camping tents available both in small and large or opt for a homestay, which I personally think is a better option compared to rental tents. However, you will need to submit an original ID card, such as your Aadhar card, at the last check post, which will be returned to you when you leave.
Also, make sure to clearly mention at the check post that you are planning to stay overnight in Keran Valley while registering your entry.
Do foreigners need any additional permissions for a Keran Valley tour?
Foreign tourists must carry multiple copies of your permit, passport, visa, and other identification documents, as these may be requested at various checkpoints.
It’s advisable to check the latest travel advisories issued by your home country, as some governments advise against travel to certain regions in Jammu and Kashmir due to security concerns.
Accommodations or Hotels in Keran valley
The Keran valley lacks proper hotels or developed infrastructure. However, there are some simple and affordable accommodation options available, including budget hotels, homestays, and camping facilities. Additionally, locals offer private homestay options where visitors can experience genuine hospitality and savor delectable local cuisine.
Is mobile network service available in Keran Valley?
The mobile network coverage in Keran Village is poor, and also on the way to Keran valley, you will hardly get any mobile network. So it is best to keep things updated before your visit to Keran valley.
Are there are any shops in Keran valley?
Yes, there are local shops in Keran Valley selling everyday essentials including food items, clothing, and vegetables. These shops typically close by 8:30 PM, so plan your shopping accordingly. For a wider variety of options, you might want to consider shopping in nearby towns like Kupwara.
Keran Valley Camping Tent Rentals: Price per Night
At the camping site in Keran, you will find many types of camping tents available on rent, ranging from small to large, priced from Rs. 400 to Rs. 1000 per night. In addition to camping, you can stay in local houses, which also provide good food options.
Srinagar to Keran valley Taxi fare
The Srinagar to Keran Valley taxi fare starts from Rs. 7,500 for sedans, Rs. 9,500 for Tavera, Rs. 12,000 for Innova, and Rs. 13,000 for Innova Crysta. It is difficult to travel to Keran Valley in a tempo traveller due to the poor road conditions.
| Srinagar to Keran valley Taxi fare | Price in INR |
|---|---|
| Sedan (Etios,Amaze, Dzire) | ₹ 7,500 |
| Tavera | ₹ 9,500 |
| Innova | ₹ 12,000 |
| Innova Crysta | ₹ 13,000 |
Best time to visit Keran valley Kashmir
The best time to visit Keran Valley is from May to September, when the roads are clear and the weather is pleasant. From December to February, the road to Keran Valley is often closed due to heavy snowfall on the Farkhyan Gali Pass. It is advisable to avoid visiting during the winter months.
Places to visit in Keran Valley Kupwara
Here are some points which you should cover while visiting Keran valley.
- Cobra Point: This is one of the last outposts near the India-Pakistan border. From here, you can enjoy a stunning view of the Kishanganga or Neelum River.
- Camping Site: This site presents a clear view of the resorts and parks on the other side of the border. Also you can get a camping tent for a night stay easily.
- Keran Village: Without visiting the main Keran village, your trip is incomplete. Exploring Keran Village offers a glimpse into the life in border areas, showcasing local culture and traditional houses.
Quick Tips for Visiting Keran Valley
- Get a permit before your visit, as Keran lies in a restricted border area.
- Mobile networks are unreliable, so prepare for limited or no connectivity.
- Pack warm clothes and essentials, including power banks and medicine.
- Travel in a sturdy vehicle with a local driver familiar with the terrain.
- Book your stay in advance, as guesthouses and camps are limited.
- Respect army instructions and avoid photographing restricted zones.
- Carry enough cash, as there are no ATMs or reliable digital payment options.
- Don’t miss the sunrise and sunset, they’re the highlight of the valley!
Keran Valley Tour Itinerary (2 Days / 1 Night)
Day 1: Srinagar → Keran Valley
- Departure Time: Leave from Srinagar by 09:00 AM to make the most of the day.
- Drive Duration: Approx. 6 hours (with scenic stops along the way).
- Route Highlights: Enjoy the drive via Kupwara, with photo stops at Sadhna Top and the lush meadows of Lolab Valley if time allows.
- Arrival in Keran: Reach by 2:00 PM.
- Evening Plans:
- Check into your guesthouse or riverside camp.
- Stroll along the Kishanganga River, which forms the natural boundary between India and Pakistan.
- Capture the breathtaking sunset views over the LOC-side villages.
- Enjoy a warm bonfire dinner (if available) and relax under the starry skies.
Day 2: Keran Local Exploration → Return to Srinagar
- Morning:
- Wake up early for the sunrise over the Neelum Valley.
- Walk to the peaceful Cobra Point for panoramic views and fresh air.
- Interact with locals or visit the historic wooden bridge near the LOC (if permitted).
- Late Morning:
- Return to your stay, enjoy local-style breakfast.
- Optional: Short hike or village walk for some quick exploration.
- Return Journey:
- Depart by 2:30 PM.
- Reach Srinagar by 8:30 PM, ending the trip with beautiful memories and stunning photos.
Here are some FAQ’s about Keran valley Kashmir
How far is Keran valley from Srinagar by road?
The distance between Srinagar to Keran valley is around 120 Kilometers.
How to reach Keran Valley?
To reach keran valley you need to reach Srinagar, then from srinagar you can go to Kupwara then to Keran valley.
In which district Keran valley is located?
Keran valley is located in Kralpora block of district Kupwara.
Do we need any special permission to visit Keran valley?
Yes, you have to get permission to visit Keran valley. Usually, you get on-spot permission for Keran valley from the Kralpora police station.
How far is Keran from Kupwara?
The distance from Kupwara to Keran is around 50 Kilometers.
Is Keran Kupwara a border area?
Yes, Keran in Kupwara is a border area, divided by the Kishanganga River, also known as the Neelum River.
Which river divides the Keran village?
The Keran village is divided into two parts by the Kishanganga River, with each part lying in a separate country.
Which is the nearest railway station to Kupwara?
The nearest railway station to Keran valley Kupwara is Sopore railway station.
Which is the nearest railway station to Kupwara?
The nearest railway station to Keran valley Kupwara is Sopore railway station.
Is Keran Valley open for Tourists?
Keran valley is absolutely safe for both local and domestic tourists, as the government is actively promoting border tourism.
Is drone photography is allowed in Keran valley
No, drone photography and videography are not allowed in Keran Valley due to its close proximity to the border.
Is it possible to visit Keran Valley and return on the same day?
Yes, it’s possible but not recommended, as the journey from Srinagar to Keran takes around 6 hours one way. A same-day trip would be too tiring and leave you with very little time to enjoy the valley. It’s best to stay overnight to truly experience the beauty and calm of the place.
Is there a fuel station in Keran Valley?
No, there is no fuel station in Keran Valley, so it’s important to refuel your vehicle in Kupwara or nearby towns before heading towards Keran.
