Kashmir’s Chillai Kalan period of 40 days of intensely harsh cold is well underway. This cycle brings with it heavy snowfall that recharges the rivers and streams of the valley in the summer. Now, tourists are flocking to the Guldanda meadow in the Bhaderwah Valley after it received fresh snowfall a few days ago.
Located at nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, the Guldanda meadow is a popular destination with visitors across the country. The meadow has gained attention for its winter landscape, and many visitors have enjoyed the snow-covered area. It’s easy to get there due to the restoration of the Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot National Highway.
The snowfall in Guldanda, which fell up to four feet in some places, has added to the attraction of visiting Bhaderwah, a place famous for its spectacular natural beauty. As soon as the road was cleared, a large influx of tourists arrived to enjoy the area.
The Bhaderwah Valley is known for its myriad cultural traditions, such as the Mela Pat fair, the Subar Dhar Mela and Pahari folk music. Besides this, the valley is an adventurer’s delight, with paragliding, camping and horseback riding being some of the most popular activities to do here in the summer months.
The presence of several holy temples also adds to Bhaderwah’s appeal. The Gupt Ganga Temple, for instance, is believed to be the exact spot where the Pandavas spent a few days during their exile. The temple is located on the banks of the Neeru River and is made purely of stone slabs. Meanwhile, the Vasuki Nag Temple features the idols of Vasuki Nag and Raja Jamute Vahan. The presence of the Kailash Kund, a mythical lake situated among snow-capped mountains and rugged terrain, draws plenty of worshippers in August.
Bhaderwah also hosts a three-day winter festival every year. The last one took place from December 29-31, 2024, to highlight Bhaderwah’s natural beauty and adventure tourism potential. There were activities like skiing, sledging, zorbing and ziplining to enthral visitors, as well as cultural performances by the locals.
Jammu Airport (IXJ) is the nearest airport to Bhaderwah while the Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT) is the nearest railhead. One can reach Bhaderwah from Udhampur by the NH 1A, too.