Central Idea

The high-altitude passes within the Gurez valley, located in northern Kashmir, are now linked to the Mushkoh valley in the Drass Sector of Kargil, Ladakh. This region was a significant site during the 1999 war.
The newly established 130-kilometer road has been opened to tourists, and one of its highest passes, Kaobal Gali, situated at an elevation of 4,166.9 meters in Gurez, serves as the vital link connecting these two valleys.

About Gurez Valley

Found in the Kashmir valley, Gurez is positioned near the Line of Control, which separates it from Pakistan-administered Kashmir’s Astore and Neelum districts.
The local inhabitants are primarily ethnic Dards/Shins who speak the Shina language and share similar dress and cultural traditions with their counterparts in Pakistani-administered Gilgit-Baltistan.
The Buduaab village within Gurez valley is known for its Zumba yak, a smaller breed compared to other yaks.
Gurez valley played a significant role in the Kargil war.
It is closely situated to the Line of Control (LoC), with the Kishanganga river delineating the border in multiple areas.
Unique to the Gurez valley is the presence of villages constructed entirely of log houses, devoid of modern urban construction materials.
The region boasts diverse fauna and wildlife, including species such as the Himalayan brown bear, snow leopard, ibex, musk deer, and marmots.
With approximately 38,000 inhabitants, the Gurez valley has already welcomed an impressive 50,000 tourists this year.

Located in Dras, Ladakh, the Mushkoh valley is also renowned as the “valley of wild tulips.”
The valley gained notoriety due to the fierce battle at Tiger Hill during a conflict between India and Pakistan, resulting in numerous casualties on both sides.
Mushkoh valley’s meadows are adorned with vibrant wild tulip flowers, and it is home to the endangered Himalayan yew.