Uri Valley Emerges As Potential Winter Tourism Hotspot

This winter season skip the drive across the tunnels, to Jammu or mainland India to escape the harsh climate. Drive down to Uri (Baramulla). 

Uri town/tehsil is a narrow valley in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is located on the left bank of the Jhelum River, about 10 kilometres east of the Line of Control with Pakistan. This is not so developed but rather remote in many urban ways town is scattered all across the Pirpanjal mountain range.

After getting hit by the first sudden bout of harsh winters this season, early on this chilly 11th November morning, the Kashmir Off Road club members started to drive to Uri. Like all other border towns, visiting Uri demands extensive permission procedures and protocols to follow. 

Embarking on an overland adventure into the heart of Kashmir's winter wonderland, the two-day journey through Uri promised to be an exploration of natural beauty, cultural richness, and the spirit of the region.

The expedition kicked off at the Lower Jehlum Hydle Project Bridge in Gantamulla with the next destination being the Lower Jehlum Hydle Project Dam, situated near the Bimiyar Reservoir. 

Going through Dara Gutliyan village, Bosiyan awaited. The journey continued through Bosiyan to Gawashar. Chidiyan was the last village in the Zamboor Pattan area. 

The first day ended at the Bandi rest house. The next morning, the journey continued to Kaman Aman Setu, a bridge symbolising unity. The drive to Isham Village and its surrounding areas offered a glimpse into the untamed beauty of Uri in winter. 

The region has potential for winter tourism with Uri's warmer temperatures compared to the rest of Kashmir, combined with the untouched landscapes that make it a hidden gem for overlanding enthusiasts and winter wanderers seeking an escape into nature's embrace.