An overlooked alpine paradise nestled deep within the mountains of Jammu and Kashmir is finally stepping into the tourism spotlight. BhalPadri, a high-altitude meadow in the Gandoh subdivision of Doda district, has been opened to visitors following the completion of a key road link—marking a major step by the Union Territory administration to promote offbeat tourist destinations.
Often referred to as Jammu’s “Valley of Flowers”, BhalPadri’sbreathtaking meadows, undulating hills, and slopes carpeted in wildflowers remained largely unexplored for decades due to lack of road connectivity. Now, at an altitude of nearly 11,000 feet, the area is poised to attract adventure seekers, nature lovers, and eco-tourism enthusiasts from across the country.
The road not only enhances access to the region’s natural beauty but is also being seen as a catalyst for local economic development. With the arrival of tourists, many residents of nearby villages—traditionally dependent on farming and livestock—are exploring new livelihoods through homestays, food stalls, and trekking services. Guesthouses in Padri, a popular viewpoint nearby on the Bhaderwah–Chamba road, are already reporting an uptick in visitors using the area as a base to explore BhalPadri.
Government officials say the development of BhalPadri is part of a broader initiative to diversify Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism portfolio beyond its well-known destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar. Unlike these commercially saturated spots, the focus here is on responsible and sustainable tourism.
“We are promoting minimal permanent construction, limiting vehicular traffic, and actively involving the local population in tourism planning,” a senior tourism official from Doda said.
The Tourism Department of Doda has emphasised conservation-first planning, ensuring that BhalPadri’s rich biodiversity and untouched landscapes are preserved. The area’s eco-sensitive status has led to measures aimed at protecting the environment while offering immersive experiences to tourists.
Located just 10 kilometers short of Padri Top, which lies on the Bhaderwah–Chamba axis linking Jammu to Himachal Pradesh, BhalPadri was previously known only to local villagers and seasoned trekkers. The new road now reveals a landscape as striking as some of the Himalayas’ most iconic sites—minus the crowd, concrete, and commercialization.
Authorities believe BhalPadri aligns perfectly with the growing trend of tranquil, immersive vacations. With its sweeping meadows, crisp mountain air, and sense of remoteness, it offers a rare kind of escape increasingly difficult to find in today’s crowded tourist hotspots.
Dubbed by many as “Mini Kashmir”, BhalPadri combines scenic beauty with thoughtful planning. As it welcomes its first wave of visitors, there is cautious optimism that the destination will grow in a way that empowers locals while preserving its fragile ecosystem.
The road has opened the gates—but the future of BhalPadri will depend on how well development is balanced with protection. With a rare blend of natural splendor, ecological integrity, and community involvement, BhalPadri is quietly carving a space for itself on India’s tourism map.
