Bandipora District
About Bandipora
Bandipora district is located in the northern part of Kashmir Valley and is known for its stunning lakes, alpine meadows, and proximity to the Himalayas. The district headquarters, Bandipora town, sits on the banks of Asia's largest freshwater lake, Wular Lake. The name "Bandipora" is believed to be derived from "Bhand Pore" meaning "town of entertainers," reflecting its rich cultural heritage.
The district serves as the gateway to the beautiful Gurez Valley. Rich in biodiversity and natural resources, Bandipora is known for its walnut and apple orchards, fishing industry, and traditional boat-making. The region offers unparalleled opportunities for adventure tourism, including trekking, mountaineering, and water sports.
District at a Glance
| Altitude | 1,610 meters (5,282 feet) |
| Area | 398 sq km |
| Population | Approximately 392,000 |
| Language | Kashmiri, Urdu, Hindi, English, Shina (in Gurez) |
| Temperature | Summer: 12°C - 28°C | Winter: -8°C - 8°C |
| Best Season | April to October |
| Famous For | Wular Lake, Gurez Valley, Adventure Tourism |
How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airport is Srinagar (66 km). Regular taxi and bus services connect Bandipora to Srinagar.
By Road
Connected via NH1. Regular bus services from Srinagar (66 km). Road to Gurez Valley is seasonal (May to November).
Prominent Tourist Places
Wular Lake
Asia's largest freshwater lake, covering 189 sq km. Famous for its scenic beauty, migratory birds, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers spectacular sunset views. Boating and photography are popular activities. The lake plays a crucial role in flood control and is vital for Kashmir's ecosystem.
Gurez Valley
A pristine valley located 123 km from Bandipora at an altitude of 2,400m. Often called the "crown of Kashmir," Gurez offers untouched natural beauty with the Kishenganga River flowing through it. The valley is home to the Dard-Shin tribe with unique culture and language. Famous for its wooden houses and hospitality.
Manasbal Lake
Known as the "gem of all Kashmir lakes," Manasbal is the deepest lake in Kashmir. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, lotus flowers, and bird watching opportunities. The Mughal garden on its banks adds to its charm. Popular for water sports including kayaking and water skiing.
Razdan Pass (Razdan Top)
A high mountain pass at 3,500m connecting Bandipora with Gurez Valley. Offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and deep valleys. The pass remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall. Popular spot for photography and experiencing Kashmir's raw mountain beauty.
Ashtangi Nallah
A beautiful stream flowing through dense forests near Bandipora. Perfect for nature walks and picnics. The area is rich in flora and fauna, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and photography. Several camping sites are available along the stream.
Athwatoo
A picturesque tourist resort situated in Bandipora district. This offbeat location is away from the normal tourist map of Kashmir. Visiting this place is a leap to the most gorgeous and serene place in Kashmir. It has nice stay options alongside the gushing river stream which is full of trout fish, with jungle surroundings and pristine villages. A beautiful blend of coniferous and deciduous forests. The literal meaning of 'Ath-watoo' is the confluence of 8 ways/roads.