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About
Bangus Valley, a hidden jewel in Kashmir’s Kupwara district, is celebrated for its untouched and tranquil landscapes. This valley, with its expansive meadows and the Mawri River, presents a picturesque snapshot of Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty. Its recent rise as a tourist destination underscores its appeal, offering an immersive experience of Kashmir’s exquisite vistas, far from the usual throngs and modern interruptions. As one of Kashmir’s least trodden areas, Bangus Valley retains a pristine charm, with its meadows perched at an altitude of approximately 10,000 feet and located some 128 kilometers from Srinagar.
Discover this unspoiled beauty with exclusive Kashmir Offbeat Tour Packages.
Bangus Valley features two distinct meadows, referred to as Big Bangus and Small Bangus, nestled amid the majestic Chowkibal, Qazinag, and Shamsbery mountains in the Trans-Himalaya region. Envision a tranquil retreat amidst vast green expanses, with forests as a backdrop and a glistening river flowing nearby. Johansen Travels offers comprehensive tours to explore Bangus Valley, including stays in the heart of nature. With local guides leading the way to the valley’s innermost meadows and forests, visitors gain authentic insights into this serene haven.
Accommodations provided by Johansen Travels are designed to enhance the serene experience, situated far from bustling roads and markets. Guests can unwind in the tranquility of their surroundings, enjoying nature’s splendor from the comfort of their lodgings.
Things to Do in Bangus Valley
This valley is a paradise for enthusiasts of the natural world, boasting untouched forests, glittering streams, and panoramic vistas of the encircling mountains. Here’s a look at some of the prime activities in Bangus:
Trekking: Encircled by various high-altitude trek paths, the valley offers stunning panoramic views of the nearby peaks and valleys. Notable treks include the Bangus Trek, navigating through the valley’s core, and the Lolab Valley Trek, showcasing some of the area’s most secluded and splendid regions.
Camping: For those wishing to slumber beneath the celestial canopy, numerous camping locales are available. Noteworthy sites encompass the Bangus Campsite, with its extraordinary views of the adjacent peaks, and the Lolab Valley Campsite, situated along the picturesque Lolab River’s banks.
Wildlife Safari: The Bangus valley is a sanctuary for various wildlife species, such as the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and musk deer. Venturing on a wildlife safari through the valley’s dense forests offers a chance to witness these splendid creatures within their natural habitat.
Fishing: The valley’s streams and rivers are teeming with various fish species, including trout and mahseer. Angling enthusiasts can indulge in fishing in these unspoiled waters, though acquiring the necessary permits and licenses is imperative beforehand.
Sightseeing: The valley hosts numerous splendid temples and shrines. Additionally, a visit to the adjacent Lolab Valley unveils several enchanting villages and historical landmarks.
Best Time to Visit Bangus Valley
The optimal period for visiting Bangus Valley spans the summer months, from June to September. During this window, the landscape flourishes in verdant greenery, water bodies brim with abundance, and the climate remains pleasantly mild, making it an ideal setting for camping.
These months are characterized by gentle breezes and an overall inviting atmosphere, attracting numerous visitors seeking respite from urban heat. It marks the peak season for tourism in the valley.
Come October, the valley begins to experience a drop in temperature, making camping in its higher regions somewhat less comfortable due to the cold. By May, the upper reaches of the valley still hold onto their winter snow, lending a chill to the air. Those planning visits during May or October should consider packing warm clothing. For transportation, opting for a reliable cab service is recommended, preferably avoiding sedan-type vehicles due to their limited suitability for the terrain.
During the winter months, Bangus Valley is inaccessible. The entire area is enveloped in snow, blocking access to the meadows and leading to the closure of roads. Consequently, no cab or bus service operates to or from the valley in this season.
Bangus Valley Accommodation
In Bangus, traditional hotel accommodations are non-existent, underscoring its status as a secluded destination. Preparedness is key for visitors. The only structured lodging option before reaching the valley is a singular hut located in Reshwari, about 15 kilometers away. During summer, visitors have the option to camp within the main Bangus meadow, offering a closer connection to the natural surroundings.
An alternative access route to Bangus is through the Lolab area, which similarly lacks hotel facilities but does feature forest huts. For those seeking more conventional accommodations, staying at a hotel in Lolab and embarking on a day trip to Bangus is a viable plan.
Cliffhangers recommends that our clients consider lodging in Lolab and then take a day excursion to explore Bangus. This approach also applies to those considering a day trip from Srinagar. However, for those intrigued by the prospect of immersive outdoor living, camping within the Bangus meadow presents an adventurous lodging alternative worth exploring.
