How To Reach Gurez Valley
Overview
Gurez Valley is a retired gem of Jammu and Kashmir. It lies in the Bandipora district, about 85 kilometres away. Although Srinagar is not that far, the place shows you a completely different world. The antique mud houses, limited services, and natural beauty only seem to attract tourists here.
The remote location of Gurez Valley always leaves people wondering about its access. The valley is at an altitude of 2580m. In recent years, the Government has worked relentlessly to make this stunning destination, more available and easily reachable. Now, border tourism has peaked here especially in summers. The military camps and soldiers from the Indian army always help people in exploring the place safely. You can also explore Gurez valley through some beautifully designed tour packages offered by many travel agents in Srinagar.
In this blog, we have summarised different ways to reach Gurez Valley.
Generally, it is more accessible in the balmy weather of summer, lasting from June to September. In winters, heavy snow covers it completely. You can choose according to your budget and other preferences. Here are the different modes of transportation listed below. Take a glance!
Multiple Options To Reach Gurez Valley
Travelling to Gurez Valley via flights is one of the safest ways. Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airports is the closest one. The Airport provides direct flights from major metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.
Delhi To Srinagar:
Time taken: Approx 2 hours
Ticket prices: INR 5000-10000 per head.
Major Airlines: Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet etc.
Mumbai To Srinagar:
Time taken: 2 hours 30 mins
Ticket prices: INR 6000- 14000 per head
Major Airlines: Akasa Air, Air India, IndiGo etc.
Bangalore To Srinagar:
Time Taken: 7-10 hours( layover at Delhi or Mumbai)
Ticket prices: INR 8000- 10000
Major Airlines: Vistara, Air India, Akasa Air etc.
If you are planning for a more budget friendly trip to Gurez, train is the suitable option. The Jammu Tawi Railway Station connects Jammu regions to the rest of India. Srinagar is Approximately 270 kilometres away. Private or state-owned buses travel from Jammu to Srinagar in about 8-9 hours.
Another operational trailhead is Udhampur Railway Station. To reach Srinagar from Udhampur, you have to board multiple trains. From Udhampur to Ramban to Srinagar.
The more convenient way would be a direct bus from Udhampur to Srinagar or get in a shared taxi. The total distance between the two places is 300 kilometres. The total charges are around INR 7000-9000.
As you reach Srinagar, a scenic road trip awaits you. Rent a car or bike in the capital city to travel to Gurez. The total distance between Srinagar and Gurez Valley is 140 kilometres. Start from Srinagar to Bandipora. The route is quite clear and motorable. The first scenic stop for a stopover would be Manasbal Lake. The second worth stopping for sightseeing would be at the largest freshwater lake of India, Wular Lake. Srinagar to guerz valley has scenic routes .
Now, you have to drive up to Razdan Pass. As you reach this high- altitude mountain pass, you’ll have to get yourself Registered at an Army check post. Don’t forget your Adhar Card as an ID proof and some soft copies. After a short drive on the pass, you will enter the stunning Gurez Valley. Before getting behind the wheels, check the current weather forecast and road conditions leading to Gurez.
A self- driven road trip is advisable only in summer. In winter, the routes become risky and challenging because of heavy snowfall. A helicopter service is available during this time of the year.
There is currently no bus operating directly from Srinagar to Gurez. You have to board a bus from Parimpora to Bandipora. The fare charges of around INR 100-150 is quite reasonable. From Bandipora, shared cab services in a sumo is available, costing INR 450-500 per person.
For a more safe and comfortable drive to Gurez, a private car and taxi is the suitable option. You have the vehicle to yourself with a skilled and experienced driver taking care of the journey. We highly recommend this option. You can check our official website to book private cars and taxis by clicking on Kashmir taxi service
FAQ's
How to travel from Srinagar to Gurez?
Many ways to travel from Srinagar to Gurez exist now. Be it via Air or train, you can easily access them. The road options aren’t a bad idea themselves. Different buses till Bandipora are operational as well. For more comfortable journey u can go for taxi service in srinagar.
Is it worth visiting Gurez valley?
Gurez Valley is surely worth visiting. The unique destination of Jammu and Kashmir offers various sightseeing tours. Visitors can enjoy activities like trekking, fishing, and photography.
Which is the nearest airport to Gurez valley?
Srinagar Airport or Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport is the nearest airport to Gurez Valley. 15 kilometres from the city of Srinagar. Another 140 kilometres needs to be covered to reach Gurez Valley. Here are some places to visit gurez valley.
Is permission required for Gurez Valley?
Indian travellers don’t need any permission for Gurez Valley. You only need your Adhar card to show at different army post checks. Get some photocopies of the same.