Srinagar, July 29: Dagan Top of Jammu’s Doda district is slowly gaining popularity as a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure tourists. Situated above the village Panchayat of Gingota, this snow-covered peak, covered with thick pine forests and vast meadows, is emerging as one of the Union Territory’s most fascinating offbeat spots.Contrary to congested tourist destinations, Dagan Top presents a rugged, unpolished experience in which nature and local traditions blend in perfect harmony. Summers see nomadic groups such as the Gujjars and Bakkerwals bringing their cattle to graze on the lush meadows, infusing the landscape with a colorful, rural vibrancy. These societies represent a way of life that spans centuries and provides outsiders with a glimpse of an eco-friendly way of life free from the intrusion of high-tourism pressures.The trek to Dagan Top itself is an experience. Foot or horseback only after a road journey through Kilhotran-Changa, it keeps the area untouched from mass tourism and commercialisation. Alni Gingota, Kota, and Bunencha villages that are found in the region further enhance the authenticity of the area with a peep into rural life and spectacular vistas along the way.During winter, Dagan Top turns into white heaven perfect for snow hikes and nature photography. The serene isolation of the snow landscape provides a serene getaway for tourists looking for peace.While fundamental infrastructure is still in short supply, the untouched nature of the area is viewed as an asset. As authorities in Jammu and Kashmir strive to develop off-the-beaten-track sites, Dagan Top can be a pioneering example for eco-tourism. With proper planning and local participation, this secret treasure can project within no time as a beacon of sustainable tourists welcoming those craving beauty, genuineness, and serenity away from the masses.
