DISCOVER THE UNSEEN WONDERS OF THIS HEAVENLY MEADOW
Location : Budgam, Kashmir
Coordinates : 33.83°N 75.30°E
Height 2,396 metres (7,861 ft)
Official languages are English, Dogri, Urdu, and Kashmiri
Time Zone UTC+5:30 (IST)
HIGHLIGHTS OF YUSMARG TOURISM:
This Meadow of Jesus is well-known for its verdant meadows, foamy river, Dudhganga, adventurous trekking trails, and trout fishing opportunities.
Explore the pathways that lead to remote locations like Nilnag and Sang-e-Safed Valley. Yusmarg is a small slice of paradise in and of itself, free from the constraints of the ordinary.
Stroll through the velvety emerald meadows.
Enjoy activities like trekking, fishing, camping and skiing.
Take a pony ride at Doodhpathri.
OVERVIEW OF YUSMARG TOURISM:
A hill town called Yousmarg or Yusmarg, which means "Meadow of Jesus" in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, is located in the western portion of the Kashmir Valley. It is located 29 miles (47 kilometres) south of the state capital of Srinagar. Beautiful scenery, fresh pine nurseries, lush meadows, and heart-warming lotic and lentic water basins can be found at Yusmarg. The Nilnag, Doodhganga, and a newly built artificial dam all contribute to the meadows' splendour. Yousmarg is blessed by nature with beautiful plants and animals. The place is a trekkers' paradise. Yusmarg offers a few basic lodging alternatives, although new homestays have opened up nearby.
A cafe in the nearby village of Nagbal is becoming increasingly popular, especially with young people. The location is rustic, wooden, and showcases Kashmir's rich architectural history. Locals report to frequently see wolves, bears, apes, cats, and many sorts of aves among the fauna (flight as well as flightless). Schizothorax is a species of aquatic fauna that is frequently caught.
It is said that Jesus paid a visit to this valley.
It is an alpine valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains and fir and pine-filled plains. It is located 13 kilometres (8.1 miles) south of Charari Sharief, a town in Jammu and Kashmir's Budgam region. It is located alongside the Doodhganga River, a tributary of the Jhelum River. It is situated in the Himalayan subrange known as the Pir Panjal Peaks. The expeditions depart from this hill station for the Tatakooti Peak and the Sunset Peak. It is located 2,396 metres (7,861 feet) above sea level.
Yusmarg, a less visited but incredibly beautiful hill station, is now connected by a very good motorable road. It is thought by some to be the best place in Jammu and Kashmir, mainly because of its undisturbed landscape. Yusmarg will soon turn into a major tourist destination as the government works to improve its roads and connectivity.
Yusmarg currently contains forests with maple trees in them for individuals who appreciate travelling far distances and in the most isolated areas. Overall, Yusmarg is one of the most romantic locations in the state and can even be described as a miniature hill station.
It can also be referred to as Switzerland, or at least something similar.
Out of all the tourist attractions in Kashmir, it is the least busy and a fantastic site to go on a walk. Trekkies would undoubtedly enjoy it here! if you want to relax and take in some greenery.
BEST TIME TO Visit Yusmarg:
The best months to visit Yusmarg are in the spring and summer, from April to June, and in the fall, from late August to early October, however if you want to witness snow you should come in the winter season.
The location is buried beneath snow and nearly inaccessible in January and February. In contrast to Gulmarg, the snow on the roads is not cleaned here. Therefore, in the first two months of the year, Yusmarg may become totally shut off once it begins to snow.
By the end of March, the snow has completely melted. In April and the following three months, spring arrives. The optimum time to visit Yusmarg is generally said to be between April to June. It rains quite a bit in this area during the monsoon seasons of July and August.
Another excellent month to visit Yusmarg is September. You would want to spend time in the many lush green meadows that the monsoon leaves behind once it has left.
In the month of October, the green transforms to orange, which is once again beautiful to observe. Once again, November is unusually cold, and once December begins, it may snow at any time.
CLIMATE OF YUSMARG:
Summer
Yusmarg's summer season starts in March when the snow begins to melt and reveal the lush meadows that have made this place a popular tourist destination. The season's mild weather provides a break from the scorching heat. Other North Indian locations are hot. Mid-June marks the end of the season.
RAINY SEASON
Mid-June heralds the start of the rainy season in Yusmarg. September marks the season's end.
WINTER SEASON
Winter starts in Yusmarg in October and lasts until February, when the entire region transforms into a magical setting. The road above Charar-e-Sharif gets blocked by snow during this time of year, especially in December and January, making it challenging to access Yusmarg. Those who want to visit Yusmarg in the wintertime must rent a 4X4 vehicle.
HOW EACH MONTH LOOKS LIKE IN YUSMARG:
January in Yusmarg
It will be bitterly cold in January, with an average temperature several degrees below zero. The region is covered with many feet of snow, and the route is almost shut.
February in Yusmarg
The weather in February will be quite chilly, just like it was in January. After the significant snowfall in the preceding months, there will be even more snow on the ground. The road is still closed in February.
March in Yusmarg
March will also have exceptionally chilly temperatures. Towards the end of the month, the snow begins to melt and the route is opened.
April in Yusmarg
In April, the lower areas have mostly lost all of their snow cover. All surrounding will be lush green, making it a wonderful time to come. One of the two ideal months to travel to Yusmarg is April.
May in Yusmarg
At this time of year, both domestic visitors and those from other regions of the nation will be in large numbers. The climate will begin to warm.
Even though it won't be as cold during the evenings, nights, and mornings.
June in Yusmarg
In Yusmarg, June is the warmest month of the year. Additionally, it is the busiest time of year for travellers, so both domestic and foreign visitors will be in high numbers. By the end of the month, rainy season begins.
July in Yousmarg
It can still be a bit rainy in this month.
August in Yusmarg
The scenery is ethereal with occasional rains.
September in Yousmarg
The second-best month to travel to Yousmarg is this one. Although the monsoon will soon be over, there will still be plenty of greenery for you to enjoy. September is the finest month to visit Yousmarg for photography.
By the end of September, the cold begins to dissipate. In October, the wind will be chilly, so you should dress in light wool and a jacket even throughout the day. It's a wonderful time to observe the wonders of Autumn, with all of Kashmir's trees turning orange.
Yusmarg in November
The winter season officially begins in November. The higher regions would have already witnessed the commencement of the snowfall in October, and even the lower regions could experience snowfall in November.
December in Yusmarg
The intensification of cold comes in December. The area will be completely covered in snow by the end of the month.
ACCOMMODATION IN YUSMARG:
Yusmarg JKTDC Vacation Rentals (Tourist Bungalows & Huts). The tourist hut can be reserved online.Some hotels can also be found in and around Yusmarg such as Hotel Konposh.
FOOD AT YUSMARG:
The JKTDC restaurant serves basic fare. You
For breakfast, anticipate parathas and bread omelettes, while for lunch and dinner, expect plain rice, dal, and chicken curry. In the market area, there are a few restaurants. At Charar-e-Sharif, there are a lot of little dhabas and eateries as well.
TOP ATTRACTIONS TO VISIT IN YUSMARG
Those who enjoy the outdoors and adventure will appreciate Yusmarg. Yusmarg is home to a wide variety of attractions, including sacred sites, meadows, and alpine lakes. The prominent tourist destinations and activities in Yusmarg include the foaming river Dudhganga, the alpine lake Nilnag Lake, the meadows of Tosa Maidan and Sang-e-Safed, and the holy shrines of Charar-e-Sharief and Pakharpora.
In Yusmarg, a popular tourist destination, trekking is one of the must-do activities. There are numerous routes in Kashmir that lead to beautiful meadows and high-altitude lakes. One of the top locations in Kashmir for trout fishing is the River Dudhganga in Yusmarg. Concerning Yusmarg, Kashmir's Pakherpora Shrine
1.PAKHERPORA SHRINE: A revered Muslim pilgrimage site in Yusmarg is the Pakherpora Shrine, the holy shrine of Syed Balkhi. The religious site was constructed several centuries ago and is considered a heritage site. During the yearly urs (death anniversary of the saint), the shrine is overrun by worshippers. Syed Balkhi, a devout adherent of Sheikh Noor-ud-din (the patron saint of Kashmiris), emigrated from Afghanistan to Kashmir in the early15th century, he spread Islam throughout the area.
Sheikh Noor-ud-din acknowledged Syed Balkhi's peer-o-murshid status upon his arrival in Kashmir (spiritual guide). According to legend, Sheikh Noor-ud-din transported a portion of the graveyard and some of his family who were buried in Afghanistan at Syed Balkhi's request. As a result, the shrine was given the name Pakharpora; Pokher is Hindi meaning "piece of land."
Rare trees that are exclusive to Pakharpora's property are displayed in an original painting that cannot be found anywhere in Kashmir.
Ideal Season to Visit
The optimum time to visit Pakherpora Shrine is around Syed Balkhi's Urs (death anniversary), which falls between the months of August and September.
2.Charar-i-Sharief
On the road to Srinagar, Charar-e-Sharif is a small town located around 18 kilometres from Yusmarg. It is one of the most sacred Sufi shrines and is also known as Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani's Dargah or Sheikh Noor-ud-din Wali's Dargah. The Sufivmystic was recognised in the early 15th century
and was also known by the names Sheikh-ul-Alam and Nand Rishi was adored by Muslims and Hindus alike.
His poetry may be seen in works like Rishi Nama and Noor Nama, demonstrating how far ahead of his time he was. He opposed social injustice, religious prejudice, and superstition, which is sorely lacking today.
The oldest holy site was constructed to honour Sheikh Noor-ud-din (the patron saint of Kashmiris) 600 years ago. The ancient wooden shrine is highly regarded by Hindus in addition to being well-liked by Muslim believers. Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali, a well-known Kashmiri saint who offered his Friday prayers at this mosque, is also known as Charar-i-Sharief. In this well-known religious location close to Yusmarg, his remains are also interred.
People of different religions throng the shrine to seek graces on the saint's yearly Urs (death anniversary).
Unfortunately, the Dargah was the scene of a gun battle in 1995 between the Indian Army and militants. At the time, the town and the shrine were both destroyed, although they were later reconstructed. When you get to Charar-e-Sharif, the first thing you will see is the shrine's imposing spire.
Just as with most of the shrines in Kashmir, men and women have separate entrances. Once you enter the shrine you will be astounded by the tranquillity offered there. The rooms have lovely interiors. However, taking pictures inside is prohibited.
Try to go on a Thursday night when the Sufi singers are performing.
Best time to visit Charar-i-Sharif
The best time to visit Charar-i-Sharief is around the annual urs (death anniversary) of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Wali in the month of October. Tourists should visit this hallowed site between the months of March and October because Kashmir's weather is still relatively good during these months.
3. Doodh Ganga
Doodh Ganga, a breath-taking river that runs through the lovely Yusmarg, is well renowned for its water's milky appearance. The river is one of the best places in Kashmir for angling and fishing because of its abundance of trout fishes. A great starting point for many trekking treks is Dudh Ganga. After sleeping at Dudh Ganga, hikers depart for well-known treks through Sang-e-Safed Valley, Tatakoti, Romesh Thong, and Sunset Peak.
This is the most frequented tourist attraction in Yusmarg. A trip to Yusmarg entails a trek across the meadows to the Doodhganga river, where you can turn around if you don't want to continue.
To get to the Doodhganga river, you can either take the trail through the meadow or hire a local pony owner to transport you through the forest.
4.NILNAG LAKE:
One of the best spots to visit close to Yusmarg is the high-altitude lake Nilnag, which is tucked away in a thick pine forest. The lake's crystal-clear blue water and the charming setting of tall pine trees is a must-visit.
Adventure seekers have a fantastic trekking chance in Nilnag. A magnificent pine forest with numerous water streams is traversed during the hike. The journey to Nilnag Lake is stunning yet difficult, and it certainly provides some unforgettable memories.
HOW TO ACCESS NILNAG LAKE:
A 5 km hike through a lovely woodland from Yusmarg leads to Nilnag Lake.
5.SANG-E-SAFED:
In the Budgam District of Jammu and Kashmir, Sang-e-Safed, also known as White Rocks, is situated about 10 kilometres from the Yusmarg Valley. A little Doodh Ganga tributary cuts across the centre of this oval-shaped grassland.
The area is generally frequented for picnics and for the beauty of its expansive meadows, but this landing, which is encircled by a thick pine tree forest, also serves as the starting point for hikes up Mount Tatta Kutti.
Numerous meadows along the route, including Liddermar and Haigin, are suitable places to rest and spend the night. Between March through September, when the region enjoys pleasant summer and monsoon seasons, is the ideal time to explore Yusmarg.
6.Mad Lidder and Haijan
These two meadows are located 4 kilometres from Yusmarg and are on the route to Sang-e-Safed. If you don't have much time, you can visit these two meadows and then return to Yusmarg.
7.Tosa Maidan TREK:
A difficult hike from Yusmarg to Tosa Maidan has lately become possible. Tosa Maidan is rumoured to be particularly lovely.
ACTIVITIES TO DO IN YUSMARG:
1.DOODHGANGA TREK:
The most popular hiking route and tourist destination in Yusmarg is the Doodhganga trek. Just 2 kilometres separate Yusmarg, where you can hike down to the river bed, and the river. Ponies can be rented as well. Spend some time there, have a dip in the water, or go on a picnic down by the river. The setting is uncomplicated and lovely.
2.Trek to Nilnag Lake
Only a 4 kilometre journey separates NilNag Lake from Yusmarg, which is situated next to Gogji Pathri Village.It is best to bring a guide with you if you want to complete the Nilnag Lake Trek. Ponies are also offered for transportation to and from NilNag Lake.
Although the hiking track is approximately 4 kilometres long, driving to Nilnag Lake requires taking a lengthy and circuitous journey. It takes almost 49 kilometres to travel from Yusmarg to Nil Nag via Charar-e-Sharief, Nagam, Shoukatpora, Dadompora, and Nowhar. The Nilnag Lake can also be visited independently from Srinagar as a day trip.
3.Long Treks to Sang-e-Safed Valley from NilNag Lake
Location of Sang-e-Safed Valley, also known as "White Rocks"", a place famous for its frozen lake, is around 10 kilometres away from Yusmarg. The Doodhganga stream cuts an oval-shaped swath through the valley. Sang-e-Safed Valley is also accessible by pony. The excursion will take virtually the whole day to complete.
4.SKIING:
Skiing is possible on Yusmarg's formidable natural slopes for thrill seekers.
5.GET A DOSE OF PEACE:
The sacred shrine of Charar-e-Sharif is said to bless the entire territories and to guard the Spiritual land against all types of disasters. Visitors are drawn to Yusmarg by its ageless beauty and are compelled to return occasionally.
6.Horseback riding:
The Doodhganga river is the only area where horses truly transport you. Other than that, the pony owners simply take you to a vantage point and show you the lake or meadow in areas like Nilnag or Dragdolan. Please be sure to make this clear to them before beginning the walk.
7. Fishing
8.Photography
Advice for Travellers to Yusmarg
Tents and other supplies of food for the duration of the trek are advised for hikers. It is advised to use a travel agent for organised all-inclusive excursions.
9.CAMPING
HOW TO ACCESS YUSMARG:
Since Yusmarg is only 50 miles from Srinagar, travelling by car is the most efficient way to get there. It can be reached there in 2 houses. Ideally, you can drive to Yusmarg from Srinagar. Local buses and taxis connect Yusmarg and Srinagar.
From Srinagar to Charar-e-Sharif, shared taxis and local buses are also options. However, it's challenging to take a shared vehicle from Charar-e-Sharif to Yusmarg.
Kashmir Mughal Road:
The route runs from Pahalgam to ,Anantnag, Pulwama, Pehripora, Yusmarg, Pahalgam, and Pulwama.
By Air
Yusmarg's closest airport is in Srinagar.
via train
Yusmarg is located approximately 287 kilometres from Jammu, which is the closest railhead. To go to Yusmarg, one can either take a taxi or a bus to Srinagar, where they can then take another taxi to their destination.
Via Road
Yusmarg can best be reached from Srinagar via road. You can book a taxi from Srinagar and go via Charar-e-Sharief Yusmarg Road to get to Yusmarg.
You must first travel to Srinagar, which is not all that difficult, in order to get to Yusmarg.
If you were driving on your own, you could simply take the Mughal route through Shopian or the main Jammu-Srinagar highway to go to Srinagar city. The Jammu-Srinagar highway is the most heavily travelled and best maintained route, yet it is also the busiest. Of the two, Mughal Road is more picturesque and has little traffic.
When you get to Srinagar, you can take a 2- to 3-hour drive to Yusmarg.
Indian major cities and Yusmarg distance
Yusmarg to Delhi: 830 km
Bengaluru to Yusmarg - 3017 KM
Yusmarg to Leh: 480 KM
Andrut to Yusmarg: 189 KM
Lakha to Yusmarg: 567 KM
Raiyan to Yusmarg; 307 KM
Arigam to Yusmarg: 48 KM
FAQ'S
1.When Should You Visit Yusmarg on Vacation?
A well-known hill resort in Jammu and Kashmir is Yousmarg. Although Yusmarg can be visited all year round, the winter season from October to February is the best time.
2. What time of year is ideal for visiting Yusmarg?
The finest months to visit Yusmarg are in the spring and summer, from April to June, and in the fall, from late August to early October.
Yousmarg typically remains closed to visitors throughout the winter because snowfall has blocked the roads. In the winter, you might only be able to travel as far as Charar-e-Sharif.
3. Is a trip to Yusmarg worthwhile?
Yes, Yusmarg is an absolutely stunning location. It is a Kashmiri location that is highly recommended. The area is truly breathtaking in terms of its natural beauty and the peace it offers. The area is well-known for its verdant meadows and several simple hiking trails. One of Kashmir's most picturesque and unusual locations, Yousmarg, is deserving of a visit.
4.How can I travel to Yousmarg?
The best route from Srinagar to Yousmarg is by road. For a day trip, you can hire a taxi from Srinagar to Yusmarg and go via Charar-e-Sharif. Additionally, local buses are available from Srinagar to Charar-e-Sharif. However, it is preferable to rent a car to get to Yousmarg.
5.Where should I stay in Yusmarg?
The JKTDC Tourist bungalows. Your stay can be scheduled online.
6.How is the mobile network in Yusmarg?
There is very little cell phone connectivity. Postpaid phones from Airtel and BSNL are functional in Yusmarg, although the reception cannot be good. You'll need to move about a bit while holding your phone in search of a location with network bars. There will be very slow data speed.
7.Does Yusmarg have any banks or ATMs?
No, Yusmarg does not have any banks or ATMs.
Does Yusmarg have any medical facilities?
No, Yusmarg does not have any medical stores or hospitals. Charar-e-Sharif is where you can find the closest medical care. You must return to Srinagar, though, if the situation is dire.
8.What is the suggested Yusmarg Itinerary?
The best way to view Yusmarg is on a day trip from Srinagar, which is about a two-hour drive away. Arrive in Yusmarg, take a lunch break, then proceed to the Nilnag lake. Also Doodh Ganga is accessible. Visit Yousmarg once more and spend the evening amidst its serene beauty. For hiking and natural walks, you might also stay in the town. You can stay overnight or return to Srinagar.
9.How to go from Srinagar to Yusmarg?
You have two options for transportation once you get to Srinagar: either a private taxi or a bike that you can rent there. Public transportation is another option for getting to Yusmarg, however it can be a small hassle.
Only the final 17 kilometres after Charar-e-Sharif out of the entire 50 kilometres that you travel involve a severe climb. You won't even feel like you're travelling through steep terrain because the route is basically flat till Charar-e-Shariff. It has two lanes for traffic. There is no divider along its whole length, so travel with caution.
10.Can I take a bus from Srinagar to Yusmarg?
The bus from Srinagar to Yousmarg does not truly run directly. Only up to Charar-e-Shariff do local buses go, therefore you would have to divide your journey into two halves.
You must first travel to Charar-e-Sharif via bus from Srinagar. This is accessible from Parimpora in the city of Srinagar. After getting out at Charar-e-Sharif, you must find a bus going to Yusmarg.
11.How to travel to Yusmarg in Winter
Winter travel to Yusmarg will be very challenging. Winter snowfall causes the 17-kilometer stretch between Charar-e-Shariff and Yusmarg to be closed. However, the route from Srinagar to Charar-e-Sharif is still available. You will need to get a 44 cab with snow chains if you really wish to visit Yusmarg in the winter.
12.How are the Road Conditions from Srinagar to Yusmarg?
The road is a combination of excellent and ordinary. Your entire journey will be without incident. It is primarily a flat road up till Charar-e-Shariff, so you won't even feel like you're travelling through a hill station. Following Charar-e-Shariff, You gain height while climbing steeply for 17 kilometres to Yusmarg.
13.How far is the Valley of Sang-e-Safed from Yusmarg?
You can either walk the 10 kilometres to Sang-e-Safed, also known as "White Rocks," or you can hire a pony. The Doodhganga river cuts through the meadow, which is formed like an oval.It is surrounded by tall pine trees and acts as a base for Mt. Tatta Kutti.
14.How far is Haigin, Haljan, and Lidder Mad from Yusmarg?
These two fields are a further 4 kilometres apart from Yusmarg. These two actually collide while travelling to Sang-e-Safed. Therefore, if you have limited time, you can either visit these two meadows and then return, or you can visit Sang-e-Safed valley and also visit these two. Keep in mind, though, that you may only hike to Sang-e-Safed if you are spending the day in Yusmarg and have your camping equipment with you so that you can set up camp once you get there.
From Yousmarg, one can hike to Doodhpathri. Doodhpathri and Sang-e-Safed are the two treks that will require at least two days to return to Yusmarg. Consequently, it is highly advised to use a guide.
15.Are there any hotels in Yusmarg?
There are some hotels in and around Yusmarg like Hotel Kongposh.
Other than this, Charar-e-Sharif is the closest location where you can find lodging.
16.Where is the nearest gas station or mechanic near Yousmarg?
At Yusmarg, there is neither a mechanic nor a gas station. The closest one is located between Charar-e-Sharif and Srinagar.
17.In which region is Yousmarg located?
Yusmarg is situated in the Jammu & Kashmir province's Badgam district, around 50 kilometres from Srinagar.
18.What clothing should you bring with you to Yousmarg?
Woollens for winter and cotton clothes with a light jacket for summer.
19.How far is Gulmarg from Yousmarg?
Yusmarg is 100 kilometres from Gulmarg, and the trip there will take you about 4 hours.
20.Should i go to Gulmarg or Yousmarg?
Although it is a very personal decision, after visiting both locations, we would advise you to visit them both. Both places are distinctive in their own right. If you must pick just one, though, head to Gulmarg and save Yusmarg for another time.
21.What is the distance between Sonamarg to Yousmarg?
You should plan on spending at least 6 hours travelling the 140 kilometres between Yusmarg and Sonamarg. You must pass via Srinagar to go between the two locations because there is no direct route.
22.What is the Distance from Yousmarg to Doodhpathri?
There are 65 kilometres between Doodhpathri and Yusmarg.
23.At what elevation is Yousmarg located?
Yousmarg is 2,396 metres above sea level (7,861 ft)