LOLAAB VALLEY: Uncovering the Secrets of Lolaab Valley
Floor elevation
5,464 ft (1,665 m)
Length
15 mi (24 km)
Width
3 mi (4.8 km
District\Kupwara
Kishanganga River and Neelum River borders (North)
Krishna Valley (South)
34°29′50′′N and 74°24′45′′E
HIGHLIGHTS OF LOLAAB VALLEY:
Overlooking the long, sharp ridge line of the Pir Panjal mountain in the north Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir is a valley of breath-taking beauty. The steep, snow-capped mountain ranges that surround this huge, asymmetrical valley are intertwined with dense forests, turquoise lakes, and meandering rivers.
This is the Lolab valley, encircled by a ring of high mountains and bathing in the sylvan splendour of the Himalaya. It is definitely a paradise within the paradise, beset like an emerald placed in a string of pearls!
Lolab Valley, also known as Wadi-e-Lolab by the locals, is located in the North Kashmir frontier district of Kupwara. It is one of the district's five assembly districts and one of its eight geographical divisions. It is 90 kilometres north of Srinagar and is situated east of the town of Kupwara. Along the breathtaking scenery, which is dotted with numerous Kashmiri settlements, there is a fresh mountain breeze and the aroma of dense pine.
A ring of tall mountains encircles the valley of Lolab. In the northwest, Nawan Bal and the Zamindar Khan Gali are located, while to the west, the Menganwar and Bodbal ridge line enclose the valley. The impressive Shamshabari range may be found to the north and northwest of Lolab. Lolab is surrounded by orchards of abundant fruit trees and has about 35 communities spread across the valley's floor and its edges. The major population centres of Lalpura and Sogam are expanding quickly. Khumarial, Krusan, Diver, Chandigam, Doruswain, and Cheerakut are further notable villages.
OVERVIEW OF LOLAAB VALLEY
A Himalayan valley called Lolab Valley may be found in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The valley's centre is 114 km (71 mi) northwest of Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, and its entrance is located 0.62 miles (0.01 kilometres) east of Kupwara. This Land of Love and Beauty is an oval-shaped valley that is 15 miles (24 km) long and 3 miles wide on average (4.8 km). The valley is located 1,590 metres (5,215 feet) above sea level.
The travel from Srinagar to Lolab will be shortened by 50 kilometres thanks to a road that is now being built from Bandipora to Lolab via Anderbugh Nagmarg Meadows. There are numerous camping sites and a few tourist cabins in Lolab Valley. It has the potential to rank among Kashmir's top tourism spots.
There are numerous campsites and a few tourist cabins. It has the potential to rank among Kashmir's top tourism spots.
The saint Kashyap Reshi's resting spot, which is a mile away from the village of Lalpora, is occasionally visited by visitors to Lolab. A neighbouring spring by the name of Lavnag can be found. The spring's water is very clean and about three feet deep. Another significant spring in the vicinity is Gauri spring. Due to lack of government participation, the area receives extremely few visitors, which keeps its tourism potential untapped. This location continues to rank among the best camping areas in Kashmir.
The Lolab valley, often referred to as "Wadi-e-Lolab," is renowned for its lake, springs, and verdant rice fields. Lolab is easily accessible by road. Visitors staying in Srinagar can get to Lolab by taking a local bus or hailing a taxi with ease. Potnai Valley, Brunai Valley, and Kalaroos Valley form Lolab. Beautiful Nagmarg meadows divide the Bandipora district from Lolab. Lolab's corporate offices are located in Sogam. Sogam allegedly had a high population density long ago, when the Kashmir valley was still a lake known as "Satisar."The Lolab valley is surrounded by stunning natural features and friendly, welcoming residents, without the hordes of tourists.
The Lahwal River, which flows from east to west, is what creates it. Numerous historic springs may be found in the Lolab Valley, which is also home to substantial pine and fir woods. The valley, which is referred to as "the fruit bowl of Jammu and Kashmir," is home to many fruit trees, including apple, cherry, peach, apricot, and walnut trees.
The valley is home to various tourist attractions and natural landmarks., like the Kalaroos caves. Sogam, Kalaroos, Kigam, Lalpor, Tekipora, Chandigam, Kandi, and Muqam are the major settlements in the Lolab Valley. The Lolab Valley is divided into POUTNAI and BRUNAI. Kuligam, cheepora, varnow, etc. are found in BRUNAI whereas places like Chandigam fall om Poutnai. The Lolab Valley is a picturesque location because of its surroundings, which include snow-capped mountains, foggy valleys, and lush green meadows.
The Urdu poet Muhammad Iqbal once travelled to Lolab Valley, and in honour of the area's natural beauty, he wrote a poem titled O Valley of Lolab!
The Lolab valley, which bears the name of Maharaja LOLO, is renowned for its verdant pastures and forests. It spans nearly 25 km from north to south, with widths ranging from a few yards to 5 km. It is crossed by the Lalkul stream (Lahwal). Numerous rivers from the surrounding hills that pour into the valley, which is uncommon in them and has an average depth of 7 to 15 feet and is covered in deep Deodar forest, provide water to Lalkul.
It is also well-known for a cave in the Madmadav jungles and the Sat Barran (Seven Doors). Anderbaugh village is where you may find the renowned Lov-nag. In addition to its natural beauty, Varnow village, a small community in the Lolab Valley, is historically significant.
The birthplace of Allama Anwar Shah Kashmiri is the region. The infrastructure of Lolab Valley is currently well developed, and it is well connected to the rest of the area. It provides access by road to Machil, which is famous for Rangil Waterfall. Saints, poets, and philosophers have long admired Lolab Valley in addition to being a popular destination for the Bollywood community.
Other well-known locations with enormous potential include Cherkoot, Dooruswani, Khurhama, Krusan, Khomrial, and Nagsari.
It is widely accepted that the current Kashmir valley was formerly covered by the waters of a larger lake known as Satisar or Satisaras, which included the Lolab valley. Satisarwas known as "Lake of Sati" (Durga or the consort of Lord Shiva). Early European explorers noted that "a large lake was entirely or partially occupying Kashmir in very late geological times"3. Mr. F. Drew and Colonel Godwin Austin were able to confirm the presence of lacustrine deposits in the valley.
Vigne also noted elevated calcium deposits. These were most likely moved to their current location by the eruption of volcanic materials from the ocean floor and below. Even now, Lolab's general appearance and topography resemble a basin surrounded by tall mountains.
There are currently thirteen small lakes with an average depth of three to four feet in Lolab. They provide migratory waterfowl with excellent shelter because they are covered in weeds. The Lolab Kol, which is produced when Manchhar Nadi, Khumarial, and other nars, which transport water from the perennial high mountain streams, come together, drains Lolab. At Kupwara, Lolab Kol eventually empties into the Pohru river.
The locations of Lolab are amazing. On the Kupwara Machhal road, there is a large village called Kalaroos. The enigmatic caves of Kalaroos with seven doors, Satbarran, are close by. The locals think that there is a direct underground route from here to Russia. The South Lolab settlement of Anderbugh is also home to the well-known Lav Nag spring.
After successfully conquering Kashmir, Maharaj Gulab Singh, the Dogra King, is supposed to have travelled this spring with his favourite Pujari Pandit Ganesh Bhatt. Along with Gaurishari Nag, a shrine to Goddess Gauri, Chakrabouine is a well-known, ancient Chinar tree with four branches. Chandigam is a community surrounded on three sides by lush rice fields and fir, deodar, and pine tree forests.
Geography of LOLAAB VALLEY
Sogam Lolab, a block of Kupwara, with authority over the Lolab Valley. Lolab is a Kupwara sub-district. The Kashmir Valley borders it to the south, and Nagmarg Meadows separate Bandipora to the east from the Neelum River to the north. The Lahwal River, which flows from east to west, is what creates it. Numerous historic springs may be found in the Lolab Valley, which is also home to substantial pine and fir woods.
The valley, also known as "the fruit bowl of Jammu and Kashmir," is home to many fruit trees, including apple, cherry, peach, apricot, and walnut. The Kalaroos and Green Meadows caves are only two of the natural monuments and popular tourist destinations in the region. Saiwan, Putushai, Khumriyal, Sogam, Lalpora, Darpora, Cherkoot, Kalaroos, Wavoora, Warnow, Takipora, Cheepora, Goose, etc. are the principal settlements in the Lolab Valley.
Ecology OF LOLAAB VALLEY
Lolab Valley, like other valleys in the area, The Himalayan black bear, Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, ibex, markhor, hangul, and musk deer are just a few of the many wild animals that may be found in the valley.
The Line of Control separates Kishan Ganga Valley from Lolab Valley, which is close by. There have been numerous armed conflicts in the Valley, which have caused the eviction of numerous wild animals.
PLACES TO VISIT IN LOLAAB
Kashmir's Lolab Valley is renowned for its captivating treks, rivers, waterfalls, and meadows. The Nagmarg Camping Site, Satbaran, Chandigam, Warnav, Machil, Kairwan Anderbugh, Green Meadows of Diver Caves of Kalaroos, Satber and Khumriyal.
1.CHANDIGAM: Chandigam is a beautiful city to visit because it is completely covered in lush greenery. Along with rough mountain ranges, there are pine and deodar trees. The location's entire natural backdrop lends it a very picturesque appeal and draws tourists in.
It is the ideal location for a lunch break.
2.LAVNAG AND GAURI SPRINGS: Lavnag Spring, a three-foot-deep spring beside the Lolab Valley, and Gauri Spring are also stunning springs. Both of these springs have been kept in excellent condition by the Kashmiri government.
3.Kupwara
Tourists can spend hours in Kupwara admiring the variety of wildlife and breathing in the clean air from the surrounding trees. It is 90 kilometres from Srinagar.
4.Krusan
A village with spectacular beauty, Krusan is well-known for housing the Syed Bengal Sahib shrine. The Syed Bengal Sahib Shrine, which is located in the village of Krusan Lolab close to Halmatpora, is well-known for drawing pilgrims seeking protection from natural disasters. He is thought to have been one of the Syeds that travelled to Kashmir with Shah Hamdan, according to several records that have been uncovered here. The hamlet is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, lakes, and waterfalls.
5.Satbern
The enigmatic Satbern is a seven-doored stone structure perched atop a hill in the Lolab valley of the Kupwara region of northern Kashmir, India. These doors have no exit. Its sole aim seems to be mystery. This entire building is said to date back to the time of the Pandavas, as told in the Mahabharata!
From the phrase "Sat Barr," which means "seven doors," comes the name Satbaran. The seven doors represent the seven different entrances to Russia.
A couple from Virginia named Amber and Eric Fies' research of the caves has provided any information about them. Using the proper equipment for caving, they guided the tour of the caves in 2018.They investigated 3 caves that were clearly visible and came to the ends of 2 caves that had blind ends. Years prior, the third cave had been sealed by the Indian army.
Today's Satbaran barely extends 50 metres before coming to an abrupt stop.
6.Kalaroos Caves
Kalaroos caves, which are about 16.1 km away from Lolab Valley, are among the most enigmatic and breath taking locations around. According to a legend, these tunnels lead to Russia. The Lashtiyal and Mahdmadu villages are sandwiched by the caverns. The distinctive archaeological sitesPeople are drawn to this location and want to return frequently.
The Kalaroos caverns are located above Satbern.
7.Khumriyal
A guest house managed by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department, located in the Indian state of Kashmir's northern Khumriyal valley and surrounded by pine trees.
8.Gangabal Lake
Visitors can take a taxi up to Naranag, from where it is another 15 kilometres to the precise lake, which is located nearly 32.1 kilometres from the Lolab valley. It is located on the slopes of Mount Harmukh and is ideal for travellers looking for excitement and adventure.
BEST TIME TO VISIT LOLAAB:
The greatest time to visit Lolab Valley is from April to June when the weather is ideal for all kinds of adventures and activities. When the valley is completely covered in snow in the winter, it is heavenly gorgeous. Under the blanket of white snow, the entire scene appears unreal. Therefore, if you want to experience the beauty of snowfall, the visit it during December and February, which is the winter season.
Activities to do in Lolab Valley
CAMPING: In order to boost tourism, numerous camping areas have been established in Sogam, Diver, Chandigam, Anderbug, Kalaroos, and Lalpore, despite the lolab valley's remote position. Many visitors come here to spend days enjoying the peace and quiet of nature while participating in exciting activities at the campsite.
Trekking: The valley is surrounded by stunning mountains, so if you're looking for some exciting things to do while you're here, trekking might do the trick. Valle de Lolab is the starting point of a number of stunning treks, one of which being the Lolab Valley to Lake Wular in Bandipora walk. As you walk on, you'll come across a variety of beautiful landscapes and animals that will heighten the adventure.
Visiting Beautiful Places: The valley is home to 11 lakes and ponds, numerous water streams, and other stunning natural features. Sitting next to a lake or the Lahwal River can undoubtedly settle your nerves if you're looking for tranquillity.
HORSE RIDING: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Kashmir to experience the snow-capped mountains, clear streams, and picture-perfect surroundings. At the tourist information centre, horses can be rented. Regarding safety precautions, it is also good. For the same horse ride, local guides might charge you a premium price.
ACCOMODATION IN LOLAA
The J&K tourism agency offers several charming accommodations for visitors. There are several hotels in the Lolab Valley that provide comfortable accommodations, delectable cuisine, up-to-date hygiene, and top-notch services. Try the charming tourist cottage in Chandigham or the tourist bungalow in Khumriyal village
HOW TO ACCESS
The Lolab Valley has good access to Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, as well as Srinagar Airport via the road. A bus travels 114 kilometres (71 mi) in three hours, passing through the towns of Sopore and Kupwara. The distance from Srinagar to Lolab will be slashed by 50 kilometres thanks to a road that is currently being built from Bandipora to Lolab via Anderbugh Nagmarg Meadows.
By Air
The closest airport is 90 kilometres from Kupwara in Srinagar.
By Train
The closest railhead for Kupwara, which is 64 kilometres away, is in Baramulla.
Via Road
The Lolab Valley is well accessible by road to both Jammu and Srinagar. The town of Kupwara is the principal entrance to Lolab Valley. Visitors to the valley can take taxis or buses from Kupwara. From Srinagar, buses frequently fly. Due to the rugged terrain, the 114 km is travelled in four hours.
FAQ'S
1.Where is Lolab Valley located?
Srinagar is the nearest large city to the Lolab Valley, and it offers a variety of transit options. The Lolab Valley is only accessible by road, 120 kilometres away from Srinagar. There are three ways that individuals can commute from different states with ease.
By Air: People travelling from anywhere can take a bus or cab to the kupwara district from the nearest airport, which is located in Srinagar. You can call a private cab and go straight to the Lolab valley.
By Train: The nearest train station is Srinagar, and from there you can take a bus, a taxi, or a private car to get to Lolab valley in Kupwara.
By Road: You can travel here in your own vehicle thanks to the NH1 highway's excellent connections to the Lolab Valley. However, snowfall in the Lolab Valley throughout the winter frequently causes road blockages.
2.How far is Lolab Valley from Srinagar?
There are roughly 120 miles between Srinagar and Lolab Valley.
3.What time of year is ideal for visiting Lolab Valley?
The summer months from March to September are the greatest for exploring Lolab Valley.
4.What activities can I do in Lolab Valley?
In Lolab Valley, you can go hiking, camping, and horseback riding while taking in the breath-taking scenery.