With Travel Restrictions Lifted, Award-Winning Offbeat Destination Sees Surge in Visitors
Suhail Khan
Srinagar, July 12 : With authorities giving the go-ahead signal to locals, India’s best offbeat location in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district has become a hit among visitors again in this summer.
Gurez has once again gained momentum, with a huge rush of people from across Kashmir visiting this award-winning offbeat destination.
Advocate Arif, who recently traveled with his family to Gurez Valley, shared his experience with Kashmir Despatch, stating that it is a hidden gem where one not only experiences the vibe of old cultural traditions but also breathes freely in the calm, fresh air.
Arif said the valley embodies Kashmiriyat, offering the essence of traditional culture along with mesmerizing natural beauty. He added, “I spent a night here with my family, and it was truly refreshing amid the recent heatwave in the valley.”
Touseef, a regular visitor to the valley, told Kashmir Despatch that Gurez has been a must-visit destination for years. He mentioned that due to recent Indo-Pak tensions, there were signs of concern among travelers and local businesses. However, with authorities allowing locals to proceed, the tourist flow has regained momentum, and families are now visiting the valley freely.
Touseef said there are no major travel restrictions, making it easy to visit the valley. Further, there are ample lodging options, including tent colonies.
Jibran Khan, owner of North Kashmir’s famous food chain Zero Miles, recently visited the Gurez Valley with his family. Speaking to Kashmir Despatch, he shared, “This valley has something that truly touches the heart. Our old traditions are still alive here, and whenever we visit—especially the Tulail Valley—our hearts melt. The nostalgic vibe and emotions it evokes bring immense joy. We are Kashmiris, and in this modern era where our traditions are fading fast, seeing our cultural heritage preserved here is deeply moving. While most of us have embraced modernity, Gurez makes us reconnect with our roots.”
He added, “Though Gurez is a breathtaking destination, visitors must remember not to pollute nature and should strive to protect it in every way possible. Often, we neglect our responsibility towards these natural treasures when touring such places.
He said authorities must play a proactive role in limiting excessive construction, which could eventually strip the valley of its charm and value.”
Zahid Fayaz, a trekker and traveler who experienced a night in a tent in Gurez Valley, told Kashmir Despatch, “There’s something magical about sleeping under the stars, with nature’s soothing sounds as your lullaby, the cold breeze from the Kishanganga River, and the sense of connection with the land that a hotel room simply can’t provide.”
He said tent stays have become a game-changer, offering adventure and unplugged experiences while generating employment in border areas—a much-needed relief for locals. “By choosing a tent stay, visitors minimize their environmental impact, support local communities, and enjoy their trip at a lower cost,” he added.
Abrar Farooq Lone, who owns a camping site in Gurez, told Kashmir Despatch that the trend has led to several camping sites across the valley. He said that travelers, both local and domestic, increasingly seek unique, experiential stays to fully engage with Kashmir’s natural beauty. The tent stay craze has captivated visitors eager to immerse themselves in Gurez’s pristine surroundings.
Notably, Gurez Valley in north Kashmir has emerged as a favorite tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors from across the country and abroad.
In 2022, Gurez Valley won the award for Best Offbeat Destination, recognizing the Tourism Department’s efforts in promoting it as a top offbeat tourism location.
