Kashmir Border Trail

Day 1: Arrival in Srinagar and Journey to Dawar (4 hours 40 minutes, 136.7 km via Bandipora Gurez Road)

Your adventure begins as you land at Srinagar airport, where you'll be warmly welcomed and escorted to Gurez, located 125 km away. The drive, lasting approximately 4 to 5 hours, will take you through scenic routes, including breathtaking views of Razdan Pass and Harmukh Peak.

Razdan Pass, standing at an impressive 11,672 feet, is the highest elevation you'll encounter on the road from Srinagar to Dawar. Pause here to soak in the stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. If the skies are clear and the clouds cooperate, you might catch a glimpse of Harmukh Peak, the tallest peak in the area, visible in the distance. Friendly army personnel stationed at Razdan Pass can assist in pointing out Harmukh Peak amidst the drifting clouds.

After a day of travel and exploration, enjoy a delicious dinner and settle in for a restful night's stay at your hotel.

Meals: Dinner only.

Day 2: Dawar to Tulail - 1 hour 19 minutes (29.4 km) via River Road

Continuing your journey from Dawar, you'll head toward the Tulail region. As you travel roughly 60 kilometers alongside the Kishanganga River, you'll pass through a series of charming small villages, each typically home to 25-30 households. These picturesque settlements are a delight to experience, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Along the route from Dawar to Chakwali—the final village near the Pakistan border—you'll encounter places like Barnoi, Shaikhpora, Puarana Tilail, Badugam, Hasangam, Baduab, Miru, Angaikot, and Gujran. After exploring, we'll return to Dawar in the evening for an overnight stay.

Dinner and lodging at the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner only.

Day 3: Gurez Sightseeing to Bandipora (Wular Lake)

Following breakfast, you’ll spend the morning exploring the nearby town of Dawar, immersing yourself in the local culture and traditions. Today’s highlights include a visit to Habba Khatoon Peak, a striking pyramid-shaped mountain, and the nearby Habba Khatoon Spring. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a 3-hour journey back to Bandipora, where we’ll relax and spend the night. Nestled in the hills above Wular Lake, Bandipora itself is a captivating destination worth experiencing.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner only.

Day 4: Bandipora to Keran Valley

After breakfast, you’ll check out and set off for Keran Valley. This village, said to have been founded by Raja Bhaudar Khan in the 10th century, sits gracefully along the banks of the Kishanganga River, boasting breathtaking views. The route to Keran Valley takes you through Firkin Gali, located 37 kilometers west of Kupwara, 89 kilometers from Kralpora, and 118 kilometers from Srinagar, the state capital. Along the journey, you’ll pass by noteworthy spots like Milyal, the Raja Ram Mountains, Firkin Village, Kralpora, Trehgam, and the Khirbhawani Temple at Tikker, Kupwara.

Nestled in the northernmost reaches of Jammu and Kashmir near the Line of Control between India and Pakistan, Keran Valley is enveloped by breathtaking scenery and verdant greenery. Its peaceful allure and untouched beauty make it a haven for visitors. The valley draws travelers with its calm ambiance, inviting opportunities for trekking, fishing, and more. The Kishanganga River, flowing through its heart, enhances the area’s charm. In the evening, you can enjoy leisurely walks through the surrounding villages, which are easily explored independently, no guide required, as part of your Keran Valley experience.

Dinner and overnight stay at a camp or guest house.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner only.

Day 5: Keran to Bangus Valley

Our next stop is Bangus Valley, a scenic 4-hour journey north of Kupwara district, within the Handwara subdistrict, nestled in the Trans-Himalayan mountain ranges. Situated at 10,000 feet above sea level, Bangus Valley spans 300 square kilometers and is divided into two parts: Boud (Big) Bangus and Lokut (Small) Bangus.

This stunning valley features sprawling grassland meadows, dense coniferous forests, and shimmering blue streams, all open for tourists to explore. The vast pastures, dotted with grazing cattle and sheep, create a captivating scene. For trekkers and campers eager to discover new landscapes daily, Bangus Valley is an ideal destination, unveiling breathtaking vistas that feel like a glimpse of paradise.

Dinner and an overnight stay await at a camp or guest house.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner only.

Day 6: Bangus to Lolab Valley via Kalaroos Caves

After breakfast, we’ll set off for Kalaroos, a mere 60 kilometers away.

Kalaroos Village: Picture a tranquil scene—pine and deodar trees towering overhead, golden paddy fields shimmering in the summer sun, carefree streams and waterbodies winding through, and curious locals casting shy glances at passersby. This is the charm of Kalaroos Village in Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

Kalaroos Caves: Steeped in fascinating tales, these striking caves are most famously rumored to be secret passages leading straight to Russia. The name “Kalaroos” is believed to have evolved from “Qila-e-roos,” meaning “Fort of Russia.” Legends say that in ancient times, when the Silk Route was impassable, these caves served as hidden routes to Central Asia and Russia.

In the later afternoon, we’ll continue to Lolab Valley.

Lolab Valley: Dubbed the “Land of Love and Beauty,” Lolab Valley is just a short drive from Keran. This enchanting valley captivates with its lush meadows, thick forests, and charming hamlets. It’s a paradise for hikers, birdwatchers, and those eager to discover its rich flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for a day trip. With its stunning scenery and peaceful vibe, Lolab draws nature lovers and photographers seeking respite in its pristine, untouched splendor—a refreshing escape from the daily hustle.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Lolab.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner only.

Day 7: Lolab to Srinagar

As we prepare to say goodbye to Kashmir, we’ll start the day with breakfast before heading to Srinagar, approximately 100 kilometers away—a journey of about 4 hours. After arriving and having lunch, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 1-hour Shikara ride on Dal Lake. If time allows, we’ll also explore the beautiful Mughal Gardens.

Overnight stay on a houseboat.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner only.

Day 8: Srinagar Airport Drop-Off

As we wrap up your Kashmir adventure, enjoy breakfast in Srinagar and, depending on your flight schedule, take some time to browse the local market for last-minute shopping. Afterward, you’ll be dropped off at the airport, bidding a fond farewell to the stunning city of Srinagar.