Amidst the enchanting Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, the picturesque Warwan Valley recently hosted a two-day festival that left more than 10,000 visitors spellbound. This celebration of nature and culture drew tourists from far and wide. Tourism Secretary Syed Abid Rasheed expressed his unwavering commitment to developing this hidden gem into a thriving tourism hub.
Warwan Valley, with an average elevation exceeding 8,500 ft above sea level, is a treasure trove of natural beauty. This valley, stretching over 30 km, offers a mesmerizing landscape characterized by splendid waterfalls, vast verdant meadows, colossal cedar trees, dense forests, and other scenic wonders. As you venture into this valley, you'll be captivated by its natural splendour.
Warwan Valley serves as a base for numerous trekking routes that lead to various destinations. The Sukhnai-Kanital-Panikhar trek, taking approximately 3-4 days, offers breathtaking vistas. Alternatively, if you take a left turn, you'll embark on a trek to Sheshnag in the Pahalgam area. Another exciting option is the Sukhnai-Chittergul-Aishmuqam trek, which boasts pristine lakes, lush meadows, and dense forests. For those who prefer a different path, a right turn leads to the Marwah Valley, culminating at Sinthan Top.
During the festival, Secretary of Tourism Syed Abid Rasheed made significant commitments to enhance the region's tourism potential. He pledged to establish 100 homestays, providing local youth with skill development training. Additionally, he identified three trekking routes to attract international trekkers to put Warwan on the global tourism map.
The two-day festival, a collaborative effort between the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, the Kishtwar district administration, and the J&K Academy of Art, Culture, and Languages, offered an array of activities to engage visitors, from serene yoga sessions to heart-pounding marathon races, from graceful horseback rides to captivating live painting exhibitions, the festival catered to diverse interests.
Adventure enthusiasts had the opportunity to trek through stunning landscapes, join spirited bike rallies, and embark on angling expeditions. Nature enthusiasts revelled in leisurely nature walks and stargazing sessions. Sports enthusiasts engaged in various activities like volleyball, kho kho, and tug-of-war. For the thrill-seekers, the festival introduced exhilarating river rafting adventures for the first time. The entertainment quotient soared with captivating live musical performances by exceptionally talented artists and local luminaries. The festival truly had something for everyone.
As you explore Warwan Valley along the trekking path, you'll encounter several historic temples and shrines reflecting the region's rich cultural legacy. The renowned Machail Mata temple, dedicated to the Hindu goddess Durga, stands atop a mountainside. It's accessible from the nearby village of Gulabgarh via a challenging 30-kilometre hike. Beyond its natural and cultural splendour, Warwan Valley is renowned for its warm and welcoming residents.
The best time to visit the beautiful valley of Warwan is between July and September when the weather is lovely and ideal for all sorts of outdoor exploration of the region.
The nearest town to Warwan is Kishtwar, some 42 km away. The nearest airport is Jammu, 264 km away, while the nearest railhead is Udhampur, 265 km away.
If you want to partake in the Warwan Valley trek, start from the hamlet of Inshan, 150 kilometres away from Srinagar. The trek meanders alongside the banks of the Warren River, winding through lush stands of fir, pine, and deodar trees. Completing the walk to Warwan Valley typically takes 7-8 days and is moderately challenging. The valley is approximately 120 km from Pahalgam, 40 km from Kishtwar, and 110 km from Anantnag.
(With inputs from PTI)
