Yusmarg is a hidden wonder of Kashmir Valley, nestled in the Pir Panjal range of Budgam district.
Located about 90 km away from Gulmarg and 47 km from Srinagar, it is a small set of meadows lying at an altitude of 7861 feet above sea level and featuring grassy pastures, snow-covered mountains, and deep forests.
Yusmarg is a slice of paradise that provides you with the perfect solitude in the lap of nature. Yusmarg means ‘The meadow of Jesus’, ‘ Yus’ means Jesus, and ‘Marg’ means meadow.
It is a common belief among the natives of this place that Jesus came to Kashmir valley and stayed in Yusmarg for some time. That is why this meadow was named after Jesus Christ.
A most beautiful off-beat destination is a haven for nature lovers. Which is covered by lush meadows, dense pine forests, and snow-capped peaks; a 7-day Kashmir trip can offer you time to visit Yusmarg, an untouched beauty that provides a peaceful experience. Explore the Doodhganga River, follow through the Valley, or explore By walking try to Meadows; Yusmarg has everything you like to explore
Yusmarg Tourism – A Hidden Gem in Kashmir
Yusmarg is an alpine valley located at the banks of the Doodhganga River, a tributary of Jhelum. It is an offbeat tourist destination in Kashmir where you can cover a 7-day Kashmir tour. Still, it is the best tourist destination and has an excellent scope for adventure tourism.
The meadow offers opportunities for enjoying breathtaking views of grass meadows with colourful flowers, snow-clad hills, and verdant landscapes. It also provides picturesque views of the Doodhganga River, Nilnag Lake and Sang-e Safed valley.
As a local company, we dont offer stay options in Yusmarg. A Day trip to Yusmarg is enough to cover all the places. There are several cottages, huts, and hotels in the vicinity of Yusmarg, where tourists can stay for a night and enjoy the morning beauty of this place.
Yusmarg is a perfect holiday destination that rejuvenates the soul and provides an escape from the daily hustle of life.
Places to Visit in Yusmarg
- Doodhganga River
- A picturesque river known for its milky-white water, perfect for picnics and photography.
- Nilnag Lake
- A serene alpine lake surrounded by dense pine forests, ideal for trekking and relaxation.
- Sang-e-Safed Valley
- A tranquil meadow offering breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks and perfect for camping.
- Yusmarg Meadows
- Expansive green meadows are perfect for leisurely walks, horse riding, or simply soaking in nature’s beauty.
- Character-e-Sharif
- A nearby historic town home to the revered shrine of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, a Sufi saint.
- Pakherpora Shrine
- Another sacred site is known for its spiritual significance and peaceful surroundings.
- Tosamaidan
- A vast meadow located close to Yusmarg, ideal for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
- Lidder Mad
- A hidden gem offering tranquil spots and scenic views, perfect for exploring off the beaten path.
Things to do in Yusmarg Kashmir
Yusmarg is a quaint hamlet nestled on the banks of the Doodhganga River and remains largely untouched by outsiders. There are many things that tourists can enjoy in this alluring hill station, including trekking, horse riding, fishing, and birdwatching.
Trekking: the majestic landscapes of Yusmarg offer exciting trekking opportunities for adventure lovers. The meadow has several trekking trails, providing both short and long treks. Doodhganga trek is the most popular trekking trail in Kashmir.
You can start your trek from Yusmarg and walk towards the river 2 km from this place. The place is beautiful and pristine, and you can enjoy a picnic along the river bank.
Nilnag Trek is another famous trekking trail after Doodhganga. It is a hidden gem about a 4km hike from this destination. This small but stunning blue water lake is also ideal for fishing.
Trekkers can also go upto long treks to the mountain peaks of Sang-e-Safed, Doodhpathri and Tosa Maidan.
Horse riding: pony rides are a great fun activity in the vast meadows. Tourists can rent horses and enjoy the scenic views of green pastures surrounded by snow-capped mountains in the backdrop.
Families, older adults, and children can enjoy a tranquil ride on horseback without getting tired.
Fishing: Nilnag Lake and Doodhganga River provide fantastic fishing opportunities for anglers.
The milky water of Doodhganga is blessed with abundant trout fish, making it a popular fishing spot for anglers.
Nilnag, a bluewater lake, is another spot for fishing activity. The lake is filled with local trout, allowing anglers to try their luck in the calm mountain waters.
You have to be sure to obtain a permit for fishing from the fisheries department and respect the catch and release policies to maintain the balance of the ecosystem.
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Why Visit Yusmarg for Your Next Vacation
Yusmarg is a hidden gem in Kashmir; you can add this to your tour plan if you want to visit Kashmir. It is the perfect destination for your next vacation for family and couples. In Yusmarg, you will explore the serene meadows, dense pine forests, and breathtaking mountain views, offering a peaceful vacation for nature lovers. Visit the nearby destination. Pony rides are the most popular activity for exploring the landscapes.
A 7-day Kashmir tour allows you to unlock the Yusmarg and nearby destinations. Its just 45 km from Srinagar, Jammu, and Kashmir
Accommodation Options
- JKTDC Tourist Bungalows
- Managed by Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation, these bungalows provide comfortable and budget-friendly stays with scenic views.
- Private Guesthouses
- Several cosy guesthouses and homestays in Yusmarg offer a warm, personalized experience perfect for enjoying the region’s tranquillity.
- Camping Options
- For adventure enthusiasts, camping in Yusmarg’s meadows or near Doodhganga River offers an immersive experience amid nature.
The best time to visit Yusmarg
The best time to visit Yusmarg Kashmir is the summer, from April to August, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers bloom.
Summer (April to August): From April to August, Yusmarg experiences a moderate and warm climate with temperatures ranging between 10 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius. This meadow’s natural slopes bloom in summer with vibrant flowers, perfect for nature walks and picnics.
Summer is considered an excellent time to visit as the weather is conducive to outdoor activities like trekking, fishing, and camping. It is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of this pristine meadow.
Winter (October to March): each season brings its charm, and winter turns it into a fairytale land adorned with pearl-white snow-clad peaks. Winter provides a tranquil treat for those who love to enjoy the beauty of snow-covered hills with pristine meadows. However, it is worth remembering that Yusmarg gets covered with a heavy blanket of snow during winter, and the temperature drops from -1o degrees, making it inaccessible for tourists.
Know More About: Best Time to Visit Kashmir
How to reach Yusmarg Valley
By road: is situated about 47 km from Srinagar. Cabs are available from Srinagar, which will take you to Yusmarg in 2 hours. You can also hire a local taxi, which will charge you Rs. 2000 to 2500 to Yusmarg.
By air: the nearest airport to Yusmarg is Srinagar International Airport, situated 50 km away. You can hire a taxi from the airport and reach Yusmarg.
By rail: Jammu Tawi is the nearest railway station to Budgam. One can book a flight to Srinagar and then a taxi to reach Yusmarg.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the main attractions in Yusmarg?
This Place is an alluring quaint hamlet with a lot of sightseeing places including Char Sharief shrine, Doodhganga River, Nilnag Lake, Sang-e-Safed valley, and Tosa Maidan.
How many days are required to Vist?
a minimum of 1-2 days are required to visit and enjoy its breathtaking natural beauty.
Where to stay in Yusmarg?
one accommodation option available called JKTDC tourist bungalows. These provide you with basic facilities and should be booked in advance.
Is Yusmarg worth visiting?
Yes, this destination is a stunning tourist destination offering eye-catching scenes of lush green pastures and snowy hills. The meadow also offers exciting travel activities such as trekking, pony rides, and fishing making it one of the most beautiful offbeat places of Kashmir worth visiting.