Chatpal in Kashmir is a beautiful and peaceful place located in Jammu and Kashmir. It is also known as the Switzerland of India because of its exceptional beauty of mountains and valleys. Unlike other places that are always busy in Kashmir, this place is quieter and less popular. Chatpal is known for its dreamy locations and cottage houses with a touch of nature. This place is 90 km away from Srinagar. Tourists visiting this place get to experience an unforgettable memory by becoming one with nature. Many places around Chatpal are known to be one of the most beautiful places in India.
Places To Visit Near Chatpal In Kashmir
Here are a few places to visit near Chatpal for a memorable trip. These places are worth including to your itinerary and add an extra dose of charm to your trip:
1. Warwan Valley
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Warwan Valley is a part of the Himalayan Valley located in Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir. Warwan Valley, a part of Warwan River, combines Batkot and Gumbar streams. This place is rich in flora and fauna, with nearly 250 plant species. The flowering season is between June and July. The plants here are known for their medicinal features, which are used by the locals.
Trekking to Warwan valley is one of the best experiences of a lifetime. Even though this place doesn’t have much recognition, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit, with amazing views of the Himalayas. This trek is a little difficult because of its high altitude. The trek is nearly 8 days. Tourists should pre-book their trekking camp because these base camps provide all the equipment, stay and food. The trek is nearly 78 km and 14,500 feet high. The trek starts from the Panikhar base camp. While trekking to Warwan valley, tourists can observe green pasture lands, blue lakes and glaciers, white water valleys and Zanskari houses.
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2. Martand Sun Temple
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Martand Sun Temple, located in Anantnag City, Jammu and Kashmir, is a very old temple built in the 8th century. It is one of the top three sun temples in India. The temple was destroyed by the Islamic kings in the 15th century. The temple, constructed on the top most plateau in Jammu and Kashmir, provides a beautiful view of the Kashmir valley. The architecture of this temple before the destruction was the best part of Kashmir. Other than Lord Surya, the other Gods residing in this temple are Lord Vishnu and river goddesses like Ganga and Yamuna. The temple is known for its architectural miracle with 3 different types of architectural styles mixed together.
The temple is open throughout the day, and it is expected to take one to two hours to explore the entire premises. It is also strictly said that absolute peace is to be maintained inside the temple. It is also recommended to roam around the mustard field in the village, which has one of the best golden colour auras from the brightness of the Sun. Temple in winter is breathtaking to look at because of the snow-covered and present on the topmost viewpoint.
3. Tarsar Lake
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In winter, the lake is completely covered with snow, and even in summer, it is observed that the ice still floats. The base of the lake is covered with alpine flowers, and there are also other flowers like geum, blue poppy and hedysarum. Many animal species are migrating birds such as cinnamon sparrows, eagles, black bulbuls and many more. Few most important animals found in Kashmir are present here. They are ibex, musk deer, snow leopard and Himalayan brown bear. At the highest points of this mountain, golden Marmot is found.
Trekking to the mountain is possible only during the summers, that is, from June to September, because, during the winter, it receives heavy snowfall and is strictly restricted to trek during these times. There are more than three track points where you can start trekking to reach this place. Checking the climate and trekking options beforehand is recommended. It is one of the most beautiful lakes surrounded by huge mountains, which give you an unforgettable experience.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Srinagar
4. Dachigam National Park
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Dachigam National Park is located in Srinagar district, Jammu and Kashmir, on the east side of Dal Lake. It is one of the best places to visit near Chatpal. It is nearly 141 square kilometres. The name itself tells us that it covers 10 villages, and it is the memory of those 10 villages. This park has lots of flora and fauna inside. The forest is coniferous with alpine pastures, beautiful waterfalls, and amazing views of nature. There are many colourful flowers in this park except during peak winter.
One of the most famous species here is the hangul animal. Some of the other animal species are snow leopard, leopard cat, full fox, jackal, Himalayan black bear and brown bear, Jungle cat and many more. Some of the birds present here are cinnamon sparrow, Himalayan monal, golden Orion, woodpecker, Wagtail, redstar, Kashmir firecatcher and many more. Tourists visiting this park should get prior permission from the Department of Wildlife Protection online. A maximum of 15 people per day can be booked. The entry fee for Indians is rupees 25. For students and teachers, it is rupees. For cameras, it is rupees 100. It may be different for foreigners. It is also mentioned that Indians and foreigners can book the tickets together.
The park is open from 10 am – 5 pm except on Tuesdays it is closed. No vehicles are allowed inside the park, and people should explore only on foot. There is also Trek activity available. If people want to explore and have a detailed exploration of the park it is advised to start early in the morning.
5. Gadsar Lake
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Gadsar lake, located in Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir, is also known as Yemsar. It is also known as a lake of fish because there are many varieties of fish found in this lake. This lake is completely frozen during the months of November to April, and a few icebergs are seen floating in the summer. This place is also called the Valley of Flowers, with its various types of wildlife flowers, alpine meadows, and many others. This Lake also joins the Kishanganga River at Tulail. It is also called the Lake of Death because a lake monster dragged them inside the water when many people came to graze their flock here. So many avoid taking their flocks near the shore.
Fishing is done near the stream where the lake flows. Trekking and hiring a local vehicle from Srinagar are two ways to reach this Lake. If you choose a vehicle, it takes 45 km, and for trekking, it takes nearly 15 km. People also have the option to hire a horse to trek through the lake.
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6. Verinag
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Verinag located in Anantnag district, Jammu and Kashmir, is also known as the gateway to Kashmir. This place is known for its beautiful Mughal garden. This place has many pine trees and is covered with lush green plants, and it also has many ponds and water gushing out from many places. It is also believed that this place is the source of the Jhelum River. This place has a warm climate and there is rainfall almost throughout the year. 1876 m high.
This place is most famous during the spring season. It takes nearly two hours to explore it, and the hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. This place has beautiful trees, a garden, and a canal with trees on both sides, giving tourists one of the most beautiful views.
Further Read: Hill Stations Near Srinagar
Now that you have a list of things to keep in mind for your trip to Kashmir plan beforehand to have a hassle-free and memorable trip to the mountains. Explore the mountains and picturesque landscapes of Kashmir.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chatpal
How is the climate in Chatpal?
Chatpal has a moderate climate most of the time. People usually prefer to visit during the summer for a warm climate. But even during peak winters, the whole village is covered with snow, which is beautiful.
What is the best time to Visit Chatpal?
Depending on your preferences, there is no ideal time to visit Chatpal. The optimal season for good weather and lush scenery is summer (May to September). Snow lovers will love winter (December to February), while fall brings gorgeous foliage.
What are some activities to do in Chatpal?
With beautiful mountains all over, trekking is the most popular activity. There is also fishing activity near the valleys.
What is the transportation availability in Chatpal?
By airways, one can get down at Srinagar airport and take a taxi to Anantnag. By railways, the last station is Jammu Tawi, which is 222 km away from Chatpal. From there, they can take a taxi. If no taxis are available by roadways, tourists can hire local jeeps to arrive at Chatpal.
How many days does it take to cover the Chatpal village?
Since there are many mountains and valleys around, it depends on how you plan it. There are many trekking options. You can choose the best of them and have an amazing trip.
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