Unlock Tulail Valley: Guide to Kashmir’s Hidden Paradise

Have you ever heard of the song “Mera dil kahi duur pahado me kho gaya”? So, this is what Tulail Valley in Kashmir is actually about. Kashmir, the snowy wonderland that we all want to visit once in our lifetime, Tulail Valley is a hidden part of this paradise. The best place for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Still, unexplored and hidden from the sights of major tourism, covered by mighty peaks of the Himalayas, 200 km from Srinagar, a new tehsil, known as Tulail, was carved out of the Gurez Valley in 2014. Uncover this “Heaven on Earth” with our Kashmir tour packages. 

The valley offers a serene environment for visitors to connect with nature and loved ones. Tulail Valley is Known for its exceptional trekking opportunities, lush green valleys, tranquil waterfalls, pristine lakes, and breathtaking snow-capped mountains, owing to its untouched natural beauty and tranquil ambiance, Tulail Valley promises an unforgettable experience for visitors. 

Tulail Valley is one of the most scenic valleys in Kashmir which you will love to explore while uncovering Tulail Valley in Kashmir. Tourists can also explore many other beautiful places to visit in Kashmir to get the most out of their visit here. Also newly married couples often visit the place as Kashmir is a popular destination for Honeymoon couples.

Where is Tulail Valley Located?

Tulail Valley, situated in the northern part of the Gurez region of Bandipora district in Jammu and Kashmir, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The valley stretches along the banks of the Kishanganga River surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and dense forests which add more beauty to it. Tulail Valley is also known as “Little Ladakh.” This valley is home to a village with the population of the original Dard and Shina tribes. 

Here is a travel guide to  Tulail Valley to make your travel journey more amazing and exciting with WanderOn. 

Best Time To Visit Tulail Valley

The best time to visit Tulail valley begins from April to September, when the valley blooms to life in all its glory. If you plan your trip during the summers, you’d love to see the gushing streams of river Kishanganga, charmingly flowing like poetry through the southern side of the valley. Also, you will find the best places to visit in Kashmir in May.

Tulail Valley transforms into a winter wonderland with heavy snowfall and temperatures ranging from -10°C to -20°C. While it’s perfect for activities like skating and snowboarding, travelling during this time requires comprehensive planning due to challenging conditions.

Summer (April to September)

The best time to visit is during the summer months, from April to September. The weather is pleasant with daytime temperatures around 18-20°C, ideal for enjoying the valley’s natural beauty.

Autumn (October to November)

Autumn brings a cool and refreshing atmosphere with temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, dropping to 5°C at night. The valley is adorned with golden leaves, perfect for hiking and photography. This season offers a picturesque and serene experience in Tulail Valley.

How to Reach Tulail Valley?

So, most of us will look for How to Reach Tulail Valley. 

Firstly, you need to travel to Gurez, which is located 123 km from Srinagar and 86 km from Bandipore, to reach Tulail. Reaching Tulail Valley involves a combination of road and air travel. Here’s a detailed guide on how to reach Tulail Valley:

By Air: The nearest airport is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar, which is well-connected to major cities in India. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to reach Bandipora, a town located around 130 kilometres from Srinagar.

By Road: From Bandipora, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Dawar in Gurez Valley. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours and offers stunning views of the Himalayas. From Dawar, Tulail Valley is about 40 kilometres away and can be reached by a local taxi or jeep. For more understanding you can go through the Taxi services in Kashmir.

By Train: The nearest railway station is the Jammu Tawi Railway Station. So you can book a cab or taxi to reach the final destination.

Tulail Valley nearby places

You can visit several nearby places in Tulail Valley in Kashmir, like:

Kishanganga Dam

It is one of the places to explore in Tulail Valley. Just before Dawar, there is a dam on the Kishanganga River that resembles a sizable lake. It’s an excellent place to pause and take photographs. It is one of the top places near Tulail Valley to visit.

Kishanganga River

Flowing through both Gurez and Tulail Valleys, the Kishanganga River is the lifeline of this region. The river’s pristine, turquoise waters provide an ideal setting for fishing, riverside picnics, and leisurely walks. The soothing sound of the flowing river and the surrounding greenery create a peaceful ambiance that is perfect for unwinding. This river passes through Gurez Valley before finally merging into the Jhelum River near Muzaffarabad in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In Pakistan, it is known as the Neelum River.

Chakwali

The last village in the Tulail District that tourists must-visit is Chakwali. It is one of the places to explore in Tulail Valley.  This quaint village, located near the Line of Control (LOC), is known for its traditional wooden houses and the warm hospitality of its residents. It is one of the best Tulail Valley tourist places, offering a glimpse into the simple, rustic life of the locals and their unique culture. The route currently ends here, and to the left is where Pakistan has taken control of Kashmir.

Khandiyal Top

It is located at the summit of a hillock that provides a 360-degree view of the entire town of Dawar, the lake at the Kishanganga dam, and the nearby villages. It is one of the top places near Tulail Valley to visit. 

You must travel up the hill near the gas station to reach this location. Drive as far as you can, park, and then climb to the summit on foot. If you are looking for amazing places to see in Tulail Valley, then do visit here. Ask for instructions because the roads will start to get narrow and complicated. 

Habba Khatoon

Habba Khatoon is one of the top Tulail Valley tourist places or nearby Tulail valley. Ages ago, Mughal emperor Akbar arrested and imprisoned Habba Khatoon, a poetess whose husband was the king of Kashmir during his conquest of that region.

Currently, the term refers to a mountain visible from Dawar, the central municipality of Gurez. 

Gurez Valley

Your ultimate search for places to see in Tulail Valley ends with Gurez valley. Located just before Tulail Valley, Gurez Valley is a scenic gateway that you must traverse. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Pir Panjal range, Gurez is known for its lush meadows, beautiful  rivers, charming Habba Khatoon peak, and waterfalls. The picturesque village of Dawar in Gurez serves as an excellent stopover to acclimatise and soak in the beauty of the region.

Sheikhpora

 The village is surrounded by verdant meadows, dense forests, and snow-capped mountains. Sheikhpora is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and scenic beauty. Another picturesque village in Tulail Valley, an ideal spot for nature walks and photography, offering panoramic views that are sure to leave you spellbound.

Bandipora

Located on the banks of Wular Lake, Bandipora offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The Wular Lake, one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, is a major attraction here. 

Razdan Pass

Things to Do in Tulail Valley 

Tulail Valley offers a plethora of activities that cater to various interests. Here are top Things to Do in Tulail Valley, that you can indulge yourself with:

Camping: Set up your camp in one of the most scenic spots in Tulail Valley in Kashmir. Whether by the riverside or in a meadow surrounded by wildflowers, camping in Tulail Valley is an experience that brings you closer to nature and is one such thing to do in Tulail Valley. 

Photography: Tulail valley is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, beautiful rivers, streams, and green plantations, providing the perfect backdrop for capturing its natural beauty. Tulail Valley is a photographer’s paradise. Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture these stunning scenes to take home everlasting memories from one of the world’s best photographic locations.

Hiking and Trekking: You will find so many hiking opportunities in Tulail valley. There are so many trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys while exploring the best things to do in Kashmir. The trek starts from Tulail Valley and ends in the Sonamarg area of Kashmir.

• Tulail to Gangbal Lake Trek: This trek takes you through dense forests, lush meadows, and high-altitude passes, culminating at the beautiful Gangbal Lake.
• Tulail to Harmukh Peak Trek: A challenging trek that offers breathtaking views of the Harmukh Peak, one of the highest peaks in the region.
• Tulail to Naranag Trek: This trek offers stunning views of the valley and takes you to the ancient Naranag Temple Complex.

Suggested Read: Kashmir’s Great Lake Trek

Fishing:  There are many rivers and streams in Tulail Valley where you can do fishing. The Kishanganga River is teeming with trout, making it a perfect spot for fishing enthusiasts. Keep in mind taking the permits required to do fishing in that area, Spend a day by the river, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and the thrill of fishing.

Bird Spotting: Tulail Valley is rich in biodiversity, it is a home for various bird species. You can find some local birds and migrating birds and it would be a therapeutic experience. You can also visit wildlife sanctuary in Kashmir to experience rich biodiversity.

Mountain Biking- For those who love mountain biking, the rugged terrain and scenic trails of Tulail Valley in Kashmir offer an exciting adventure. The trails range from easy to challenging, catering to different skill levels.

Snow Activities– During winter, Tulail Valley transforms into a snowy field, which is perfect for various snow activities like:

Skiing and Snowboarding: The slopes of Tulail Valley offer excellent conditions for skiing and snowboarding. The untouched powder snow makes it a great destination for these winter sports.

Snow Trekking: Explore the valley’s winter landscape on foot with snow trekking. The beautiful environment and snow-covered trails offer a unique trekking experience.

Practical Tips for Visiting Tulail Valley

• Permits: Given its proximity to the LOC, it is advisable to check for any necessary permits or permissions required to visit certain areas within the valley.
• Accommodation: Accommodation options are limited and basic. It is recommended to plan and book in advance or consider camping.
• Connectivity: Mobile connectivity can be limited, so it’s best to inform someone about your travel plans and carry the necessary supplies.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying the local Kashmiri delicacies such as Rogan Josh, and Dum Aloo, and traditional breads like Lavasa.

Note– Please keep the place tidy and clean, refrain from using plastic bags, and use jute bags instead. Tourists can also read Travel Tips to Kashmir to avoid any miss during their stay here.

Conclusion

Tulail Valley! The valley, which has many untouched landscapes and a serene and a serene environment, is a perfect destination. It doesn’t matter if you’re an adventure seeker or a nature lover, Tulail Valley offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kashmir’s wilderness.

So, what are you waiting for? Hurry Up and plan your trip today from wanderOn with friends and family and feel the beauty of the place with your eyes.