Habba Khatoon Peak
Overview
At the center of Gurez Valley, there lies a tall mountain, Habba Khatoon Peak, with an awe-inspiring beauty and is a tribute to the legendary poet of Kashmir.
Habba Khatoon Peak is the most popular site in Gurez Valley, and it is characterised by its unique pyramid form, which attracts many tourists, especially trekking enthusiasts to come and explore. The peak talks in its language with nature lovers and has an unbelievable vibe and attraction filled with natural wealth.
The majestic Habaa Katoon peak is named for the eponymous poetess and queen, also called the Nightingale of Kashmir. Also, a Habba Khatoon spring lies on the fringes of Achiara Village, known for its clear waters.
This mountain peak in Gurez Valley symbolises eternal love and is remembered in memory of Habba Khatoon and his beloved Yusuf Sahi Chak( The King of Kashmir). Every tourist who visits Gurez witnesses a glimpse of the peak when they learn about their journey.
Habba Khatoon (The Poetess)
Habba Khatoon, also known as Nightingale of Kashmir, was born as Zoon (The Moon) in the small village of Chandhur in Pampore. According to claims of Folktales, the origin of her name was given by Sufi Saint because of her eternal beauty.
She was born into a poor family and was expected to live by particular bondage, composed of the cost of her birth due to her disadvantaged class, gender, and caste. But it was a surprise that she learned how to read and write under the guidance of a local teacher, Maulavi.
According to Folktales, she has an unbelievable talent for composing lyrics for poems and songs and was further precepted into it by Sufi’s mentor. Zoon was utterly different from other girls of her age, and today also, her name stands as an exemplary woman who challenged the social norms restricting women at every step of her life.
After her tumultuous first marriage, she found solace and fame in her poetic talents, and her union with Yusuf Shah Chak filled happiness in her life.
Mughal conquest of Kashmir led to imprisonment of Yusuf Shah and the couple got separated. After that, Habba Khatoon’s poetry is filled with sorrow and captures the emotional essence of her life experiences.
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History of Habba Khatoon Peak
The most famous Habba Khatoon peak is at a height of 4,380 meters or 14,370 feet above sea level and honours Zoon Begum, a poetess who celebrated under the pen name Habba Khatoon.
She is among the best and most celebrated poets who explored love and desire themes and made her emblem of Kashmiri literacy and cultural identity.
The name is given to this peak as a homage to her and her important role in the rich legacy of Kashmir., not only because of its mesmerising and awe-inspiring beauty but also because of its beautiful connection to folklore and Kashmiri customs.
It is a colossal pyramid that is seen as a testament to the saga of Zooni and will be remembered and cherished today, tomorrow, and forever by all. Habba Khtoon was believed to wander near this peak and hence was given its name.
The Habba Khatoon Peak is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The place also has a small spring named Habba Khatoon Spring, which gushes waters below the mountain and joins the River Kishanganga flowing beside it. The spring water has great medicinal properties and is actually chilling cold.
Things to do at Habba Khatoon Peak
Hiking
While visiting Gurez Valley, travellers can enjoy the hike through the untouched landscapes. Explore the thrilling trails to Habba Khatoon Peak, and every path offers breathtaking panoramas and lush meadows.
This hike also allows connecting with nature and promises unforgettable memories.
However, the trek is a challenging yet gratifying experience which itself is an adventure.
The trek involves navigating rugged terrains and gushing rivers and begins from the quaint village of Dawar, known for its wooden houses and local culture.
Then, you will continue your journey across charming villages, Vinny wildflowers, and dense forests, and when you reach the peak, you will get the most beautiful gift of amazing views of the majestic Himalayan range, including the view of Mount Harmukh.
This steep and rugged terrain attracts many tourists every year to explore, and it offers the chance to indulge in many activities like rock climbing, rappelling, and river crossing.
Camping
The Habba Khatoon peak trek also has a camping experience right at the base under the sky.
Here, you can stay in the wildlife park as there will be no light, just the fresh air and the sound of the Kishanganga River flowing nearby. Habba Khaton is said to be a perfect spot for camping.
Located at a height of more than 10000 feet and offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
The camping experience at Habba Khatoon Peak is unforgettable for nature enthusiasts; however, pack essential camping gear, sturdy tents, sleeping bags, and cooking and clothing essentials.
Also, tourists may need required permits to embark on the camping trip ,so keep all your licenses with you to enjoy smooth and hassle-free camping here.
Camping here will offer a magical experience for those seeking adventure and tranquillity.
Fishing
It is another best thing to do during your Habba Khatoon peak as the Kishanganga River has trout fish in abundance.
Tourists enjoy fishing here along the river, and a day spent lying by the river is what everybody needs for peace.
The river is home to many fish species, making it the perfect fishing spot. Also, people can indulge in white water rafting here.
The Kishanganga river flows through the scenic Gurez region and is also known as the Neelum River and has beautiful pristine waters that offer opportunities for fishing, picnics, river rafting and many more activities.
Bird-watching
Birdwatching is also one of the best things to do as the area has many stunning news and opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.
The palace is best for nature, especially for those who love watching birds.
Gurez Valley is filled with many types of birds and thus attracts many tourists who want to enjoy it at its best.
The valley is home to many species, including Golden Eagle, Himalayan Monal, Western Tragopan, etc.
You just need to have your binoculars with you to enjoy the bird-watching expeditions and to catch glimpses of beautiful natural creatures in their natural habitats.
Best Time to Visit Habba Khatoon Peak
The best time to visit Habba Khatoon Peak in Gurez Valley is in summer, especially if you wish to enjoy every bit of nature. The valley is brimming with lush green meadows carpeted with beautiful, vibrant wildflowers.
The melting snow also makes the river and stream flow great, creating a picturesque scene. The sky is clear with bright sunshine and offers mesmerising views and the perfect climate to enjoy the allure and beauty of the place.
Your visit to Habba Khatoon Peak during the summer months will be great as the place has a mild climate with p[plenty of sunshine and excellent visibility. Also, the time is perfect for outdoor activities here, with the highest precipitation in the region, and is thus great for trekking and camping.
Enjoying the Habba Khatoon spring during the summertime will be the best. However, summer months are best because the place is snowbound during winter months and inaccessible, so plan your trip to enjoy the utmost.
April to June is considered the peak season to enjoy in Gurez Valley as the weather is mild and pleasant, and it is best to enjoy almost all outdoor activities.
What to See Near Habba Khatoon Peak
Dawar
Dawar village is located near the banks of the Kishanganga River and is crowned the Best Tourism Village by India’s Ministry of Tourism.
It is a charming village in Bandipora district that offers stunning vistas, a tranquil vibe and plenty of adventure and leisure activities to keep tourists indulging.
Some thrilling activities that can be enjoyed here are fishing, boating and hiking. It is one of the best places to visit whether you seek peace, adventure, or excitement.
It is the must-visit place in Kashmir that is still unexplored. Habba Khatoon Peak is close to Dawar, and every trek to Gurez Valley starts from Dawar only.
The village sits at the foothills of Habba Khatoon and under the shades of Harmukh Peak, making it a must-visit destination.
Chorwan Village
Chorwan village in Gurez is a beautiful village located a short distance from Dawar.
The village is popular, developed as an initiative of border tourism, and nestled in a remorse setting.
It is among the villages that are visited in Dawar. To reach Chorwan.
You need permission because it is a border area surrounded by natural beauty and offers a chance to witness and experience local communities’ traditional way of living.
Also, tourists can explore the shrines at Chorwan and many other places in the Gurez valley.
It is the last village with an Indian army checkpost. Every traveller must explore the traditional Kashmiri wooden houses in the picturesque Chorwad village, which is nestled amid mountains.
Kishanganga River
It is a must-visit place in Gurez Valley and is a sparkling gem where travellers can enjoy the unique mix of exciting water sports, peaceful scenery and rich culture.
There, you must take a stroll along the riverbanks and can also enjoy picnics amidst nature and indulge in trout fishing for a rejuvenating experience.
It is considered the most beautiful border river and is the main river flowing through Gurez Valley.
It offers a serene and calm atmosphere where you can make the pec fuel memorable moments.
It is also called the Neelam River, which helps many flora and animals to be born from clean and loving water and acts as a lifeline for them.
The river is home to diverse ecosystems with many fish species like Rainbow, Anyour and Snow trout.
Khandiyal Top
It is one of the most interesting spots in Gurez Valley, the highest point to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets.
The place in Gurez is perfect for people who love to explore challenging hikes. The pint is located at a height of 11672 ft and offers breathtaking views of Dawar, the Kishanganga dam, and many surrounding villages.
The place is also known as Khandyal Lotuh, having a type of landscape adjacent to Ghandiyal Village.
It is well known among adventure seekers for its mesmerising beauty and is said to be a popular trekking destination.
Stays Near Habba Khatoon Peak
There are a few great staying options near Habba Khatoon Peak, including Habba Khatoon Guest House, Kaka Palace Hotel, The Wooden Hut and Wood Vibes Hotel.
With these comfortable accommodation options nearby, the place is an ideal retreat for nature lovers and history enthusiasts. Gurez Valley has many places to stay where tourists can connect with nature and enjoy the warm hospitality of locals.
Also, you can book your stay in Dawar, where you can stay in guest houses that offer clean rooms and delicious meals. You can also plan your stay in hotel facilities here.
Also, you can enjoy your stays in homestays and the local hospitality. Many families in Shahpura and other villages offer homestays where you can enjoy home-cooked meals and interact with locals.
Also, Bandipora offers many guesthouses and small hotels for a comfortable stay. If you wish for a great experience, consider staying near Srinagar, as the place provides many accommodations, including hotels, resorts, and houseboats.
How to Reach
Habba Khatoon Mountain in Gurez Valley is just a mountain, but its location sets it apart from other peaks. The peak is visible everywhere in Dawar and looks very beautiful when the sun’s rays spread all over it both during sunrise and sunset.
To reach you can pre-book a cab from Srinagar to Gurez, which will take you to Habba Khatoon Peak and many other tourist attractions.
Remember that reaching Gurez at night is not recommended because of the steep and winding roads. The risk of falling boulders increases at night, and the area has no cell phone coverage along the route. This daytime travel is safer than reaching Gurez Valley.
Also, Helicopter reservations can be made at the TRC office in Srinagar to reach Habba Khatoon in Agurez. The cost of a one-way trip by helicopter is nominal.
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