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Gurez Valley Trek

(226+ Reviews)
Jammu & Kashmir, Jammu & Kashmir

Trail Type:

It starts and ends in Dawar

Rail Head:

Jammu is the nearest railhead to the base camp

Airport:

Srinagar Airport

Base Camp:

Dawar

Best Season:

July, August, September

Service From:

Dawar to Dawar

Meals:

Veg

Stay:

Camping

Region:

Kashmir

Duration:

6 DAYS

Grade:

Moderate

Maximum Altitude:

13188 Ft

Approx Trekking KM:

40 Km

Overview


On the crown of our beautiful country lies a remote valley surrounded with high Himalayan hills that have kept it hidden for the longest time from the rest of the world. An abode of alpine lakes, green meadows and swiftly flowing glacial rivers, this is the Gurez Valley of Kashmir and it calls the adventurers from near and far to witness and experience its heavenly beauty.  

The Gurez valley is 86 kilometers from Bandipore and 123 kilometers from Srinagar. At about 2,400 meters from sea level, the valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountain peaks laden with pine and walnut trees and the curving alpine river Kishenganga running below, all coming together to paint a picture not to be seen anywhere else in the world. The mountains and the valley drastically different from the rest of the Indian Himalayan landscape seem similar to the Celestial mountains of Kyrgyzstan than to the central Himalayas of Himachal and Uttarakhand 

The lovely valley is easy to trek and requires only the willingness of the spirit to climb and explore the exquisite location making it suitable for beginners starting out their exploration of the natural world.  

The untouched landscape of Gurez valley offers a unique off-the-beaten-path trekking experience, history adding color to the natural beauty it holds. Home to the dard shina people who have lived in this valley for centuries, the trek also offers a glimpse into their unique and untouched culture 

These peaks that reach the sky and look down upon the explorer like a village elder tell tales that go deep into the distant past. While climbing up these hills one also gets the opportunity to match the steps of the medieval traders who walked through the same route to reach the central Asian lands. The famous Chinese pilgrim Ou-Kong has mentioned the route that leads through the Gurez valley and from there to Skardu to join the Gilgit route across Khunjrab pass to Central Asia. 

The tale of the 14th century Kashmiri poetess Habba Khatoon and her poetry a major part of the culture is also immortalized here in the valley in the form of a pyramid shaped hillock named after her.  

Itinerary


    Gurez (Dawar) is about 140 kilometers from Srinagar and it would take about 6 to 7 hours to reach the base camp.  

    Leaving the Srinagar valley behind, the road climbs up gracefully, twisting and turning to reveal beautiful natural sceneries. The Jhelum River, on a journey of its own tags along, sometimes running parallel to the road and at times cutting it from under a bridge and finally joining the vast and expansive Wular Lake, the largest fresh water lake in India. 

    From Bandipore the steep ascent starts and takes one straight to the perpetually snowcapped mountains, a few hours later at 11,550 feet from the sea level we reach the Razdan pass. This is the only gateway to the Gurez valley and is closed during the heavy winters, when snow reaching up to 10 to 12 feet in height block the pass and cuts off the valley from rest of the world. The pass offers a picturesque view of the pyramid shaped Harmukh Glacier visible in the back ground. Now we begin our slow decent to reach down to reach the valley and to spend our evening in Dawar.

    The first day of the trek is going to be short and easy on your legs. Starting early in the morning you get to see the golden sunlight fall softy on the valley below. You walk along the Dawar valley and see the villages down below that have been here for ages and you will also see the Kishenganga River, white and torrential in the summer but blue and calm near to the winter season. After walking like this for about 500 m you reach a football field to the left and from here begins the climb. 

    The trail, shared by village shepherds and their sheep, reaches up and after walking for about a kilometer on this track the treeline earlier visible from a distance welcomes us. The pine forest has an aroma of its own, the gentle mountain breeze sways the forest and a deep meditative sound of the rustling leaves fill the air 

    After Ascending again for about 2 kilometers the view opens up to reveal the emerald green meadow, you have reached the Gurez valley. Climbing again for another 20 minutes you reach a point where standing distinct from the rest of the mountains stands the Habba Khatoon Hillock name so after the Kashmiri poetess. Moving further up the LoC can be seen dividing the villages between India and Pakistan 

    From this viewpoint we descend, trekking for another 10 minutes to find a shepherds hut. You will camp here for the night among the massive Silver Birch trees. 

    Leaving Dison and the shepherds hut behind early in the morning, climb up to reach the highest point of the Dawar valley at about 11,700 feet. The trail to the top glides like a river bending gracefully, making its way between the green meadows filled with small alpine flowers.  

    The way now descends to the left and we trek for about 3 Kilometers on a ridge reaching a spot with another shepherds hut and an army camp further ahead.  

    Trekking ahead from the army camp you reach a point where the trail diverge in two. The one going straight ahead will take you to Patalwansar pass, and the one to the right takes you to Khaari 

    Take the route to the right and after a swift climb reach the next camping site Khaari. This site is filled with big boulders that look old and round, like pre historic dinosaur eggs. A splendid scene that would imprint itself on the heart and mind. Set up camp here for the night, walk up and explore the Patalwansar Pass. 

    On the fourth day you will venture deeper into the Himalayan wilderness and experience two great alpine lakes, the huge Patalwansar Lake II and the elongated Patalwansar Lake I. 

    To reach the lake one has to trek almost 3 kilometers through the landscape dominated by massive boulders, this is going to be fun and challenging. A morning warm up is a must to tackle these boulders 

    At the end of the boulder section another diversion awaits. A mountain that splits the trail into two. The one to the right goes to Patalwansar I and the other going straight ahead reaches Patalwansar II. Take the path going straight ahead. 

    A climb for around 2 kilometers straight, a quick turn in the right direction and you find yourself looking at the soft blue water of the Patalwansar Lake II. The huge lake tucked between the hills, and the cold breeze coming straight from the snowcapped mountains far away make the steep climb worthwhile. 

    After spending some time taking in the beauty of the glorious lake, it is time to move to the next destination Patalwansar Lake I. 

    A moderate ascent of about 1.4 Kilometers followed by a steep 200 m descent, takes you to your next destination. On the way the long lake slowly reveals itself until you witness it finally in its complete expanse. A walk around the lake to take in its glory to the fullest. Next to the ancient blue lake set up camp for the night. 

    On the fifth day we descend down for about 12 kilometers leaving Patalwansar I lake campsite and move towards Khaari. The trail is 3.5 Kilometers long and filled with the old familiar boulder from the fourth day. 

    After resting a while in Khaari and regaining the energy, head towards Dison campsite. The trail cuts between the green meadow on either sides and gently descends of another 9 kilometers to reach Dison. 

    Camp at Dison and explore the area filled with pine and silver birch trees overlooking the Habba Khatoon Mountain. Enjoy the sunset sharing the old tales about the land. 

    The last day of the trek ends on a high as you descend swiftly down for 2 kilometers to reach Dawar, walking along a ledge surrounded by pine forest and rocks. Look down to see the Dawar valley below and take in the splendid view.  

    On reaching Dawar walk for another 2 kilometers before having lunch. Head back to Srinagar after lunch. 

Gurez Valley Trek Map


Inclusions

Exclusions


Stay: 5 Nights of tented accommodation at respective campsites on sharing basis.

Meals: Veg

Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.

Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black form mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.

Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.

Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee

Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.

Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules to carry all trek equipment, ration, and vegetables.

GST 5% (it is Mandatory)

Any insurance

Any Meals/accommodation besides the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.

Transport (Non Ac)

Personal Medical expenses, do carry your medication.

Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.

Any still / video camera fee

Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot.

Mules or porter charges to carry personal baggage (Offload Charges for bag 500 per day, per bag. Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.

Any emergency evacuation charges

Any expense incurred or loss cost by reasons beyond our control such as bad weather, natural calamities (landslides, floods), flight delays/rescheduling/ cancellations, any accidents/medical evacuations, riots/strikes/war/pandemics etc.

Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section

Stay: 5 Nights of tented accommodation at respective campsites on sharing basis.

Meals: Veg

Trek Equipment:  Sleeping bag, Sleeping tents, Kitchen tent, Dining tent, Toilet Tent.

Amenities: All utensils, sleeping mattresses (Black form mats), Crampons, and Gaiters for snow.

Health & Safety:  First Aid Box, Oxygen Cylinders, Stretchers, Oxi meters, BP Machines, health.

Permits: Forest Permits and Camping Permission Fee

Trek Crew: High Altitude Chef, Helpers, Trek Leader & Guides, and other support teams.

Potters & Mules: Potters and Mules to carry all trek equipment, ration, and vegetables.

GST 5% (it is Mandatory)

Any insurance

Any Meals/accommodation besides the itinerary or not mentioned in the program.

Transport (Non Ac)

Personal Medical expenses, do carry your medication.

Any personal services such as Laundry, phone calls, liquors, mineral water, etc.

Any still / video camera fee

Any Entrance fee Monuments, Monasteries, Museums, Temples – Pay directly on the spot.

Mules or porter charges to carry personal baggage (Offload Charges for bag 500 per day, per bag. Note: Bag weight should not be more than 10 kg.

Any emergency evacuation charges

Any expense incurred or loss cost by reasons beyond our control such as bad weather, natural calamities (landslides, floods), flight delays/rescheduling/ cancellations, any accidents/medical evacuations, riots/strikes/war/pandemics etc.

Any services that are not mentioned in the cost inclusion section

What to carry


Shoes and backpack

  • Trekking shoes with ankle support
  • Backpack with rain cover

Warm Layers and Clothes

  • Warm layers (PaddedJacket)
    - 3 layers if you're trekking in spring, summer and monsoon (1 woollen sweater, 1 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
    - 4 layers if you're trekking in autumn (1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
    - 5 layers if you're trekking in winter (1 pair of thermals, 1 woollen sweater, 2 fleece, 1 padded jacket)
  • 3 Collared T-shirts (Wear one, carry two)
  • 2 quick-dry trek pants (Wear one, carry one)

Accessories

  • Sunglasses
  • Sun cap with flaps
  • Waterproof gloves
  • Balaclava
  • Woollen socks (3 pairs)
  • Headlamp
  • Trekking pole
  • Rain jacket + pants / poncho

Toiletries:

  • Sunscreen
  • Moisturiser
  • Light towel
  • Lip balm or vaseline
  • Toilet paper
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Reusable plastic covers (for used clothes)

How to reach


By Air:- Most air carriers such as Indian Airlines (www. Indian airlines.nic.in) Jet Airways (www.jetairways.com ) have regular flights to Srinagar. Getting to Srinagar by flight from New Delhi is considered the most conceivable.

By Train:- Jammu may be the closest railway station to Srinagar, which is at a distance of 290 km. Jammu railway station is nicely attached to other main towns in India by rail. Direct Rails are available from Delhi, Trivandrum, Bangalore and also Chennai.

By Bus:-Srinagar is connected through the National Highway 1A to all over the country. J & K transportation has regular comfy buses from Jammu. The Journey captures approximately ten hrs to arrive at Srinagar.

Fitness and preparation guide for Gurez Valley Trek


We recommend jogging as the best routine to get fit for a trek. It works on the same muscles that you use while trekking — your calves, glutes and hamstrings. It helps increase your stamina day by day. It is also an easy routine that does not require any equipment or tools. 

Fitness target: 

To do this trek comfortably, you must be able to cover 5 km in under 35 minutes. This is the minimum fitness required for this trek.

How to achieve this fitness? 
  • Start jogging at least 4 days a week 
  • If you cannot run 5 km immediately, start with 2 km and increase to 5 km over 2-3 weeks.
  • Once you’re able to run 5 km, increase your pace day by day. 
  • Gradually increase your pace and bring it down to 5 km in less than 35 mins.
  • You must be able to run 5 km in 35 mins consistently for at least 2 weeks before the trek. 

This trek requires at least 6-8 weeks of preparation. The longer, the better. So plan your trek soon and start preparing. 

FAQ


The Gurez Valley Trek or the Patalwan Lakes Trek starts from Dawar town. Dawar is small town is located in the Gurez Tehsil of Bandipora district in Jammu and Kashmir. It is about 140 Kms from Srinagar city and takes about 5-6 hours to reach by road. We will arrange a comfortable car pick up for you from a designated point in Srinagar, which will directly transfer you to the base camp of the trek. At the end of the trek, we will again arrange transport to drop you back to Srinagar.

The nearest motorable town for the Gurez Valley Trek is Dawar village.

The Gurez Valley Trek starts from and ends at Dawar, which is the headquarters of the region. It is perfectly safe and secure especially with the presence of a huge Army brigade in the town and multiple army camps and posts all around the valley. The Army is on very good terms with the local population, always providing much-needed assistance with medical and other emergencies, especially in the harsh winter months. As the region opens up now after being off-limits for many years, the hospitable and friendly locals are welcoming more and more trekkers and visitors every year. This not only has boosted the local economy, providing a good source of employment to local homestays, guides, porters and other service provides but has also offered adventure enthusiasts a chance to experience an unexplored wonderland.

Cancellation policy


Life is unpredictable and we understand sometimes you have to cancel or change your trip dates and it is our endeavour to make it as easy possible for you. However, please understand we plan everything including guide fees, permits, accommodation and ration in advance. Therefore any cancellation means inconvenience and certain losses to the people involved in various stages of programme. Keeping that in mind, our cancellation charges are as below-

Cancellation prior to 30 days from start of the event: Get monetary refund with 15% of cancellation charges on trek fee.

Cancellation between 30 days and 15 days to the start of event: 50% on trek fee is non refundable and the remaining 50 % will be given as cash voucher which is valid for 1 year.

Cancellation less than 15 days to the start of event: No refund.

Please note cancellation will be only accepted by email.

Booking amount is non refundable

Note: The Himalayan Daredevils reserves the right to cancel a programme before departure in the event of logistical problems arriving due to natural calamities, strikes, wars on any other circumstances that makes the event inadvisable. In this case, 50% on trek fee is non refundable and the remaining 50 % will be given as cash voucher which is valid for 1 year.

Itinerary changes & trip delays:

We plan itineraries based on the information at the time of planning and in rare circumstances, there are subject to change. In the event that the itinerary is changes or delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as bad weather conditions, transportation delays, government intervention, landslides etc. Security concerns and government orders often lead to last-minute cancellations in Jammu & Kashmir. While we make all the preparations to run the trek, we cannot guarantee that the trek will run. If such a situation occurs, we will cancel the trek and our cancellation policy will apply. We will always aim to give you the best experience possible. However The Himalayan Daredevils are not be held responsible for the cost of delay or changes.

Available
Last Remaining
Full
Available Dates :
19 July - 24 July Available
09 August - 14 August Available
16 August - 21 August Available

Note: For booking, click on the dates available in green color.

Groups of 5 or more can schedule custom trek dates.

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