Bal Padri in Bhalessa J&K: unparalleled beauty

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 Sadaket Malik

Bhalessa is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and an abundance of geographical hamlets that are waiting to be discovered. Let's take a detailed journey through the valleys and hamlets that make Bhalessa a unique and intriguing destination. 

Lies amidst snow-capped mountains and enchanting coniferous forests, one such attracted name is Bal Padri. It is a treasure in Bhalessa. This captivating hill station, located in the Changa block, has remained unexplored, yet it offers immense beauty and allure to nature lovers, trekkers, and mountaineers. 

Bhal Padri is perched at an elevation of 11,000 feet (3,400 meters) above sea level. The landscape is a symphony of meandering streams, lush meadows, and dense forests. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and trekkers, making it a captivating location for outdoor adventures.

The name Bhal Padri is derived from "Bhal," representing Bhalessa, and "Padri," named after the nearby location known as Padri Pass. Bhal Padri village is located to the northeast of Padri Pass, which is the highest point on the Bhaderwah-Chamba road. It's worth noting that this area is home to the Gujjar community, who live in mud houses and rely on solar-powered lights due to the absence of electricity.

Accessing Bhal Padri

Reaching Bhal Padri is an adventure in itself. The hill station is located 66 kilometers (41 miles) from the headquarters of Doda district, making it a relatively remote destination. Bhal Padri is the connecting link between Bhaderwah and Bhalessa, and it's not directly connected to major roads. However, nearby roads include the Bhaderwah-Chamba road and the Gandoh-Khilotran road.

To reach Bhal Padri, the journey starts from the nearest airport and provincial headquarters in Jammu. The road trip takes you through Jammu to Batote via NH1A, continuing on to Thathri via NH244. After reaching Thathri-Kishtwar Bridge, travelers turn right onto the Thathri-Khilotran Highway. In the Khilotran area of Gandoh Bhalessa, a footpath emerges, guiding adventurers towards Bhal Padri.

The journey to Bhal Padri involves a 10–15 kilometer (6.2–9.3 mile) walk along the path from the Bhaderwah-Chamba road or a 12-kilometer (7.5 mile) walk from the Gandoh-Khilotran road. This trek allows you to immerse yourself in the unspoiled natural beauty of the region, as you make your way to this tranquil hill station.

Despite its potential as a tourist hotspot, Padri has unfortunately been overlooked by the Department of Tourism and lacks the recognition and support it deserves. Let's delve into the splendor of Padri and its neighboring areas that hold immense fascination for both tourists and locals.

 This place captures the essence of a serene hill station. Surrounded by towering, snow-clad mountains and lush green coniferous forests, it offers a breathtaking panoramic view. The peaceful ambience, fresh mountain air, and tranquil surroundings make Padri a perfect retreat from the bustling city life.

With its rugged terrain and challenging trails, it beckons adventure enthusiasts, trekkers, and mountaineers. The untamed beauty of the region offers exciting opportunities for trekking and mountaineering expeditions. The trekking routes in and around Padri provide a thrilling experience, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the untouched nature and soak in the awe-inspiring vistas.

Despite its immense potential, Padri has been overlooked by the Department of Tourism and lacks the infrastructure needed to cater to tourists' needs. Establishing a Tourism Development Authority and including Padri within its scope would be instrumental in attracting more visitors to explore this scenic gem. Developing tourism-related infrastructure, including accommodation options, trekking routes, and recreational facilities, can help to unlock the significant tourism potential of Padri.

Its charm expands beyond its immediate surroundings. The nearby lush green areas of Jawali, Mandral, and Ghati offer mesmerizing views and serve as additional attractions for tourists and locals alike. These regions provide ample opportunities for nature walks, photography, and experiencing the tranquility. It showcases the unique traditions, customs, and way of life of the local communities residing in surrounding villages such as Bonincha, Kakoti, Kota, and Gingota. The Tourism Development Authority can collaborate with these communities to preserve and promote local culture, organizing cultural festivals and activities that give visitors a glimpse into their traditions and historical roots.

Padri, with its unparalleled beauty and untouched landscapes, holds immense potential to become a sought-after destination in the Bhalessa region. However, the lack of recognition and tourism development initiatives has prevented its growth. By establishing a Tourism Development Authority and channeling resources into the development of infrastructure, promotion, and preservation of local culture, Padri can attract a larger number of tourists, benefit the local economy, and provide unforgettable experiences for visitors. It is time to shine a spotlight on this place and unlock its true beauty and potential as a tourism hub in Jammu and Kashmir.


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