Poonch, located in the breathtaking landscapes of Jammu & Kashmir, is a dream destination for trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Blessed with lush green meadows, dense coniferous forests, and a rich variety of flora and fauna, Poonch has always attracted explorers—right from ancient hill communities and wandering pilgrims to early European travelers who crossed its rugged trails to reach Kashmir.
Separated from the Kashmir Valley by the mighty Pir Panjal range, Poonch is home to Tatakuti Peak (15,560 ft)—its tallest and most iconic summit. On a crystal-clear day, this majestic peak is said to be visible even from Lahore. Despite its grandeur, Tatakuti remains a virgin peak, offering pure, untouched terrain that challenges seasoned trekkers and inspires adventurers.
Alpine Lakes and Meadows That Captivate Every Trekker
Poonch is blessed with some of the most enchanting alpine lakes in the Pir Panjal region. The shimmering Sukhsar, Neelsar, Bhagsar, Katorasar, Kaldachnisar, Nandansar, and more than a dozen other glacier-fed lakes create postcard-perfect views. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and carpeted meadows, these lakes offer serene spots for camping and photography.
The region is also famous for its dramatic waterfalls—Noorichhamm and Nandishool—which draw visitors with their power and beauty.
To make trekking comfortable, well-maintained rest houses are available at Surankote, Bufliaz, Dehragali, Chandimarh, Poshiana, Mandi, Loran, Sawjian, and Poonch, making the region increasingly popular on the Indian trekking map.
Local Terminology: The Heartbeat of Poonch’s Landscape
In the local dialect:
- Gallies – mountain passes
- Sars – alpine lakes
- Margs/Dhoks – high-altitude meadows
Some of the most scenic dhoks include Girjan, Panjtari, Isanwali, Nainsukh, Dharamarg, Pirmarg, and Sarimastan.
Legendary writer Krishan Chander was so moved by the beauty of Girjan that he penned the famous story “Girjan Ki Ek Shaam.”
Popular Trekking Routes in Poonch
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an adventurous beginner, Poonch offers a variety of thrilling routes:
1. Poonch to Gulmarg (via Jamia Gali)
- Poonch → Gaggrian Sawjian → Barshi Nallah → Barnara Marg → Jamia Marg → Jamia Gali (15,000 ft) → Gulmarg (Tangmarg)
2. Poonch to Nandishool (via Loran – Sultan Pathri)
3. Poonch to Yusmarg (via Nurpur Gali & Khara Gali)
- Poonch → Loran → Sultan Pathri → Nurpur Gali → Tosamaidan → Kundlan → Doodganga Bridge → Yusmarg
4. Poonch to Yusmarg (via Choti Gali)
- Poonch → Behramgala → Chandimarh → Kabar Pathran → Choti Gali (14,100 ft) → Kundlan → Yusmarg
5. Poonch to Tatakuti (via Hill Kaka & Dhara Marg)
6. Poonch to Shopian (via Peer Ki Gali)
- Poonch → Behramgala → Poshiana → Chita Pani → Peer Gali (11,500 ft) → Aliabad Sarai → Hirpur → Shopian
7. Poonch to Hirpur (via Nandansar Lake)
- Poonch → Behramgala → Girgen Gali → Girgen Marg → Panjtari Marg → Khuooah → Gumsar → Nandan Gali → Glacier → Nandansar Lake → Jaddi Marg → Aliabad → Hirpur
8. Poonch to Gulmarg (via Chor Gali)
- Poonch → Sawjian → Gali Maidan → Mangiana → Sari → Chor Gali → Gulmarg
These routes deliver everything—from alpine wilderness and panoramic mountain views to thrilling river crossings and serene lakeside trails.
Why Trekking in Poonch Should Be on Your Bucket List
- Still untouched and less crowded
- Ideal for both summer and early autumn trekking
- Offers a mix of adventure, nature, and cultural immersion
- Home to unexplored lakes and majestic high-altitude meadows
- Perfect for photographers, campers, bird-watchers, and peace seekers
Poonch is not just a destination—it’s an experience waiting to be explored.
