Kupwara

Located in the northern part of Jammu and Kashmir, Kupwara is a beautiful place full of natural wonders. This offbeat destination has emerald-green valleys, winding rivers, and snow-capped peaks that promise stunning views. If you are looking for a peaceful retreat away from the tourist rush, Kupwara is the place to be.

Often called the "Land of Love and Beauty," Lolab Valley is one of the most breathtaking spots in Kupwara. Surrounded by dense pine forests and lined with apple orchards, it’s the perfect place to unwind for travellers. Another beautiful destination in Kupwara is Bangus Valley, which offers stunning landscapes and amazing trekking opportunities. For those interested in history, the Qamar Reshi Sahib Shrine is a place for spiritual seekers.

Winter in Srinagar transforms Kupwara into a snow-laden dreamland. You can wake up to the view of scenic meadows, frozen lakes, and snow-covered peaks during this season. If you love winter adventures, snow trekking and sightseeing in this peaceful land are truly magical experiences.

For adventure lovers, trekking in Kashmir is incomplete without exploring the hidden trails of Kupwara. Whether you are hiking through lush valleys in summer or walking through the snow in winter, the excitement of the journey is memorable. So, if you are seeking a destination that blends nature, adventure, and tranquillity, Kupwara is a must-visit destination on your list of places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir!

1. Type of Destination: Nature, adventure, offbeat

2. Prime Season: November to March

3. Languages Spoken: Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi, English

4. Local Modes of Transport Available:

• Public Buses (JKSRTC)
• Private Buses
• Taxis (Rental and Sharing)
• Rickshaws/Tuk-Tuks
• Mini Buses

Weather in Kupwara

Summer in Kupwara:

• Months: March to June
• Average Temperature: 14 to 30 degrees Celsius
• Weather: Warm and pleasant temperatures
• Crowd Density: Moderate
• Budget: Medium
• Clothes to Pack: Light cotton clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a light jacket for cool evenings.

Monsoon in Kupwara:

• Months: July to September
• Average Temperature: 10 to 25 degrees Celsius
• Weather: Occasional rainfall
• Crowd Density: Low
• Budget: Low
• Clothes to Pack: Comfortable clothes, a raincoat, waterproof shoes, light woollens, and an umbrella.

Winter in Kupwara:

• Months: October to February
• Average Temperature: -4 to 10 degrees Celsius
• Weather: Extremely cold with snowfall
• Crowd Density: Low to moderate
• Budget: Medium to high
• Clothes to Pack: Heavy woollens, thermal wear, gloves, and snow boots.

How to Reach Kupwara

By Road: Kupwara is well-connected by road to Srinagar, which is about 90 kilometres away. You can take a taxi or a bus from Srinagar to reach Kupwara. The journey takes around 3 hours via NH701 and passes through beautiful valleys and forests.

By Rail: The nearest railway station to Kupwara is Baramulla Railway Station, situated at a distance of about 65 kilometres. You can take a train to Baramulla and then take a taxi or a bus to Kupwara.

By Air: The nearest airport to Kupwara is Srinagar International Airport (SXR). From there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach Kupwara in just 3 hours.

Best Places to Visit in Kupwara

There are plenty of best places to visit in Kupwara that you must include in your Kashmir tour packages:

1. Bangus Valley: Bangus Valley is a beautiful and untouched destination in Kupwara. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense coniferous forests, it has lush green meadows and clean streams. The valley is perfect for camping, hiking, and nature photography. Both parts of the valley, Bodh Bangus (big valley) and Lokut Bangus (small valley), offer stunning views.

2. Lolab Valley: Lolab Valley is known for its spectacular landscapes and rich wildlife. This 25-kilometre-long valley is surrounded by green forests and beautiful apple orchards. The valley is also home to the famous Lalkul Stream and several small villages. It is an ideal place to relax, enjoy a picnic, and explore the nearby Kalaroos caves.

3. Keran Valley: Keran Valley is a scenic location situated on the banks of the Kishan Ganga River. This beautiful valley lies along the Line of Control (LoC) and offers breathtaking views of the river and surrounding mountains. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, go for nature walks, or experience the local culture of this charming village near Kashmir in May.

4. Drangyari: Drangyari is a picturesque valley located near Chowkibal. It is surrounded by thick pine forests and is known for its crystal-clear streams and fresh mountain air. The valley is perfect for picnics, trekking, and photography. Its unexplored beauty and peaceful environment make it one of the most beautiful places in Kupwara.

5. Sadhna Pass: Sadhna Pass is a high-altitude pass in the Shams Bri mountain range. It connects Karnah Tehsil with the rest of Kupwara. This pass is famous for its beautiful views and the story of the Blind and Deaf Fairies. It is a great spot for photography and enjoying the stunning beauty of Kashmir in December.

Top Things to Do in Kupwara

Kupwara offers adventure, nature, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination. Here are the top activities to enjoy in this scenic paradise:

1. Enjoy a Nature Walk: Kupwara is known for its stunning landscapes, with lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful meadows. Here, you can take a peaceful walk through Lolab Valley or Bangus Valley to soak in the gorgeous views. The untouched beauty of the region makes it perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

2. Take a Boat Ride in the Talri River: Besides Dal Lake houseboats in Kashmir, you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Talri River in Kupwara, surrounded by mesmerising natural scenery. The calm waters of the river make it an ideal spot to experience the peaceful ambience of the region. You can enjoy fishing with the locals here or simply sit by the water to enjoy nature.

3. Hike in the Mountains of Kupwara: Kupwara is home to beautiful mountain trails that are perfect for hiking. You can trek through the beautiful meadows of the Lolab Valley or climb the rugged peaks of the Shamsabari Range at Sadhna Pass. These scenic trails offer a mix of adventure and relaxation for trekkers and nature enthusiasts looking to explore hill stations near Jammu.

4. Visit the Seemab Valley: Seemab Valley is a hidden paradise in Kupwara that has lush green landscapes and spectacular views. This peaceful valley is perfect for nature lovers, trekkers, and photographers. The untouched beauty and fresh mountain air make it an ideal spot to unwind and explore the natural charm of Kupwara.

Adventures to Try in Kupwara

Kupwara offers exciting adventure activities for thrill-seekers looking to explore its rugged landscapes and breathtaking valleys:

1. Trekking in Lolab Valley: Trek through lush green meadows, dense forests, and scenic trails of Kupwara while enjoying stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.

2. Camping in Bangus Valley: Experience an unforgettable night under the stars while camping in the serene and untouched Bangus Valley.

3. Fishing in Kishan Ganga River: Enjoy angling in the crystal-clear waters of this river, which is known for its rich population of trout fish.

4. Wildlife Safari in Kupwara Forests: Spot rare wildlife like the Himalayan black bear, musk deer, and snow leopards in the dense forests.

5. Rock Climbing in Seemab Valley: Test your skills on the rugged mountain cliffs of the beautiful landscapes of Kupwara.

Cruises to Try in Kupwara

Some delicious local dishes that you should definitely try in Kupwara are:

• Rogan Josh
• Yakhni
• Dum Aloo
• Modur Pulav
• Tabak Maaz
• Gushtaba

You can also try Haak Saag, Muji Gaad, Sheermal, and Phirni for an authentic taste of Kashmiri cuisine.

Dining Places in Kupwara

There are a variety of dining spaces in Kupwara where you can have a hearty meal with your friends and family. Some of them are as follows:

1. Royal Retreat Restaurant: Located inside the Royal Retreat resort, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with authentic Kashmiri dishes like Rogan Josh, Dum Aloo, and Kebabs.

2. Mountain View Café: This café serves fresh Kashmiri Kahwa, homemade pastries, and snacks. It is a perfect spot for tea lovers and foodies on their 7 nights 8 days Kashmir itinerary.

3. Zeromiles Kupwara: It is a popular eatery in Kupwara that is known for its delicious Kashmiri dishes and warm hospitality.

4. Study Cafe Lolab: This cafe is a cosy spot in Lolab Valley where you can enjoy tea, coffee, and light snacks while enjoying the scenic views.

5. Mughal Darbar Hotel: This restaurant is a great place to taste authentic Mughlai and Kashmiri cuisine that offers rich flavours and a traditional dining experience.

Resorts and Stays in Kupwara

If you are looking for a memorable and comfortable stay in Kupwara, you can stay in these beautiful resorts that provide excellent hospitality and stunning views of the valley:

1. Royal Retreat: This luxurious resort offers elegant rooms, an on-site restaurant, a wellness centre, and breathtaking views.

2. Mountain View Resort: Situated on a hill, this resort has spacious cabins with panoramic views. Here, you can enjoy guided nature walks, private balconies, and delicious cuisine.

3. Kashmiri Paradise Resort: It is a scenic retreat with stylish rooms, lush gardens, and adventure activities like trekking and mountaineering.

4. Himalayan Heights Resort: Located at a high altitude, this resort offers spa treatments, fine dining, and stunning views of the Kupwara valleys.

5. Valley View Retreat: Surrounded by nature, this retreat has a rooftop restaurant, an outdoor pool, and guided tours for a relaxing stay.

Nightlife in Kupwara

Kupwara offers a quiet and peaceful nightlife, which is perfect for those who love nature and relaxation. Here is how you can enjoy the evenings in this scenic district:

1. Stargazing in Lolab Valley: The clear skies of Lolab Valley make it an ideal place for stargazing. Enjoy a magical view of the twinkling stars away from city lights.

2. Bonfires and Barbecue in Bangus Valley: Spend a cosy evening with a bonfire and barbecue in Bangus Valley surrounded by mountains and lush meadows. 

3. Night Walks Along the Kishan Ganga River: Take a peaceful walk along the Kishan Ganga River and enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water under the moonlight.

4. Stay in Traditional Homestays: Experience the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality by staying in a homestay with your Kashmir honeymoon packages. Here, you can enjoy traditional meals and storytelling sessions with locals.

Shopping in Kupwara

Shop for unique local products in Kupwara and take home a piece of its culture:

• Walnuts
• Kashmiri apples
• Handwoven woollens
• Organic honey
• Wooden artefacts
• Pashmina shawls
• Traditional copperware

You can also find Kashmiri spices, handmade baskets, and local dry fruits in the markets of Kupwara.

Markets and Shopping Centres to Explore in Kupwara

Kupwara offers a unique shopping experience with its local markets filled with traditional Kashmiri products. Here are some of the best shopping spots to explore in this beautiful region:

1. Kupwara Town Market: Kupwara Town Market is a bustling hub where you can find Kashmiri dry fruits, spices, handwoven woollens, and Pashmina shawls. The market also offers fresh organic produce and traditional handicrafts.

2. Lolab Market: Lolab Market is a small but vibrant shopping area in Lolab Valley that is known for its locally made wooden artefacts and embroidered shawls. You can buy organic honey, walnuts, and Kashmiri apples, which are grown in the lush orchards of the region.

3. Handwara Bazaar: Handwara Bazaar is one of the most well-known markets in Kupwara that sells Kashmiri carpets, traditional jewellery, and handcrafted copperware. It is an ideal place to explore local art and take home unique souvenirs during your Kashmir itinerary 4 days.

Off-beat Places to Visit in Kupwara

Kupwara is home to many hidden gems that offer stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Here are some offbeat places that provide a unique experience away from the crowds:

1. Kalaroos Caves: Kalaroos Caves are ancient rock formations located in Lolab Valley. These caves are believed to have secret tunnels that lead to Russia, which adds mystery to their beauty. You can explore these caves, admire their natural carvings, and enjoy a peaceful hike in the surrounding lush green forests.

2. Teetwal Village: Located near the Line of Control (LoC), Teetwal Village provides spectacular views of the Kishan Ganga River. This village is a cultural treasure where you can experience local traditions and interact with warm and hospitable people. It is an excellent destination for those looking to explore the offbeat places in Kashmir.

3. Kazinaag Wildlife Sanctuary: Kazinaag Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for wildlife lovers. It is home to rare species like the Markhor (wild goat), Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard. The dense forests and rolling meadows of the sanctuary make it a perfect spot for wildlife spotting and nature photography in Kupwara.

4. Drangyari Valley: Drangyari Valley is a hidden paradise in Kupwara that gives you a chance to see lush green meadows, gushing streams, and breathtaking mountain views. This untouched valley is perfect for trekking and camping to experience the beauty of unspoiled nature, away from crowded places to visit in Kashmir.

5. Jumgund Valley: Jumgund Valley is an unexplored gem near the Line of Control (LoC), surrounded by dense forests and high-altitude meadows. It is a great destination for adventure seekers who enjoy trekking and photography. The remote location and natural beauty of the valley make it one of the best offbeat places in Kupwara.

Festivals and Events in Kupwara

The festivals and events of Kupwara bring joy and cultural richness, which makes your visit even more special. So, experience the local traditions and celebrations while exploring this beautiful region!

Cultural Festivals:

Lohri - January

Herath / Mahashivratri - February

Eid ul Fitr- March

Baisakhi - April

Masik Krishna Janmashtami - November

Events:

Lolab Winter Festival - January / February

District Kupwara Pencak Silat Championship - June

Bangus Festival - July / August

Key Experiences to Have in Kupwara

1. Wildlife spotting in Kupwara forests: Kupwara has thick forests that cover almost 75% of the district. These forests are home to diverse wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Hangul and snow leopards. Here, birdwatchers can spot species like the golden eagle and the monal pheasant. Wildlife enthusiasts can take a guided tour to explore these forests and experience nature closely.

2. Fishing in the Kishan Ganga River: The Kishan Ganga River in Kupwara offers remarkable opportunities for fishing and angling. This river is rich in fish species like Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, and Snow Trout. The sound of flowing water, fresh mountain air, and stunning landscapes make this experience truly relaxing.

3. Trekking to Keran Valley: Located near the Line of Control (LoC), Keran Valley is a stunning and remote destination in Kupwara. Trekking to this valley offers panoramic views of the Kishan Ganga River, which separates India and Pakistan. You can experience the unique culture of the region, interact with locals, and enjoy traditional Kashmiri food.

4. Driving Through the Sadhna Pass: If you are looking for an adventurous Kashmir bike tour/trip, you can drive through the Sadhna Pass that connects Kupwara to the Karnah Valley. You will witness breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains and deep valleys on this pass, especially during the winter season.

5. Camping and Trekking in Bangus Valley: Bangus Valley is a paradise for adventure lovers that offers trekking and camping under the stars. In this valley, you can hike through vast meadows, dense pine forests, and rolling hills while spotting rare wildlife like the Himalayan brown bear. After that, you can spend the night in a tent surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and fresh alpine air.

6. Nature Walks and Birdwatching in Lolab Valley: Take a peaceful walk through the green landscapes, apple orchards, and charming wooden villages in the Lolab Valley. Here, birdwatchers can spot rare species like the golden oriole and the monal pheasant. Along the way, you can also explore ancient caves linked to Kashmiri saints.

Tips

• Check the weather before planning your trip to Kupwara, especially during winter in Kashmir, as heavy snowfall can block roads.
• Carry warm clothes, gloves, and boots to keep yourself warm in low temperatures.
• Respect local customs while exploring villages, markets, and religious places.
• Inform your family members before travelling, as mobile networks may be weak in remote areas of Kupwara.
• Carry necessary permits if visiting areas near the Line of Control (LoC), like Machil and Keran.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring offbeat places in Kashmir, such as Drangyari and Jumgund Valley.
• Pack sunscreen, hats, and scarves for day trips to avoid sunburn.
• Try local food and enjoy fresh walnuts and apples straight from the farms in Kupwara.
• Book accommodation in Kupwara well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Interesting Facts About Kupwara

• Kupwara is an oval-shaped district in the north of Jammu and Kashmir, created in 1979 from the Baramulla district.
• Around 75% of the district is covered in thick forests with trees like Deodar, Pine, and Fir.
• Kupwara is famous for its walnuts and apples, producing over 50,000 tons of walnuts each year.
• It shares a 170-kilometre border with the Line of Control (LoC), with areas like Machil and Keran remaining cut off in winter.