What is gurez valley?

Gurez Valley, also spelled Gurais, is a high-altitude valley located in the Himalayas, in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is situated about 86 kilometers (53 mi) from Bandipore town and about 123 kilometers (76 mi) from Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

Gurez is known for its stunning natural beauty, including lush meadows, dense forests, and the Kishan Ganga River (also called the Neelum River) flowing through it. The valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, including the prominent Habba Khatoon peak, named after a famous Kashmiri poetess.

Historically, Gurez was part of ancient Dardistan, and its inhabitants are of Dardic ethnicity, speaking the Shina language. The valley has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by both Kashmiri and Dardic traditions.

Due to its remote location and proximity to the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan, Gurez remained relatively isolated for many years. However, in recent years, it has become increasingly accessible and is emerging as a popular tourist destination, particularly for those seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences and adventure tourism. Accommodation options are increasing.