TREASURE
Bordered by bewitching natural beauty of lush green landscape, serene locales and mesmerizing mountain peaks clad with snow throughout the year, Rafiabad is famous for its tranquil surroundings especially its kand-belt. Amidst its stunning scenery, lies a hidden gem Mund Daji—a haven untouched by the frenetic pace of modernity, where the green meadows refresh and render a very peaceful aura to the whole ambiance.
Located in Barmulla district, in north-west of Rafiabad kandi-belt, some 17 km from tehsil headquarters of Dangiwacha and 32 km from B’la town in the west of Pazwalpora village, Mund Daji is a secluded spot surrounded not only by forests but also by villages like Hamam (in north), Dazna (in south) and Donawari (in east).
It is a spot based on 125 acres of land besieged by pine, kail, and burza trees; almost 8000 feet above the sea level, situated at a distance of approx. 8 km from Qazinag mountain (locally referred to as Kaejnag) towards east. As Pahalgam is to Kashmir, so is Mund Daji to Rafiabad.
Set in the heart of picturesque Rafiabad, Mund Daji, an unfamiliar destination earlier, came into limelight only after Covid-2019 pandemic when people visited this beautiful site during nation-wide lockdown. However, the full potential of this place came into being only after 2021.
Legend has it that Mund Daji earlier used to be a spot for people to collect logs of wood, locally called Mund which where later transported through historic waterway of Hamal to different lower-belt villages, whereas Dajji or Daej means an open field; both Kashmiri words.
To reach here visitors have to pass though villages like Chanam, Hachaypora, Chipdaji, Zethan, Kangroosa, Pakhwara, Ahangerpora, Pazwalpora, and Dazna. Close to Mund Daji is Kitter Daji, another hidden treasure and lesser-known location, with its untouched landscape and traditional wooden houses—making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and quietude. Up to Kangroosa, the journey is smooth. However, ahead of this village, it slightly gets uphill and steep till one reaches here.
As one approaches the picturesque Mund Daji, the refreshing breeze and chirping of birds create a symphony of sounds, harmonizing with the rhythm of nature. While the cool air wafting from snow decked Kaejnag peak spreads thrill among the picnickers, the gurgling Hamal stream near this lovely spot whispers tales of the days gone by.
The enthralling Mund Daji’s allure lies in its unspoiled beauty and virginity, untouched by the ravages of time in all seasons. The crystal-clear water of Hamal flows like lifeblood through the area, quenching the thirst of people settled on its banks; while the old water mills run on Hamal water, reminds the hard life of the people, living nearby.
This alluring destination doesn’t simply let picnickers hook at one place. It rather captivates them to go some trekking towards Qazinag side and immerse themselves in the calm atmosphere of pine trees where on the way they come across Markoot village’s rustic charms and simplicity of living. The evening time at this spot too is amazing, casting twilight upon the landscape, transforming into a surreal realm.
Mund Daji is more than just a picnic spot—it’s an experience of traditional life with rustic delights, a journey into the heart of nature, where the soul finds solace, and the spirit soars. It’s a reminder of the beauty that lies just beyond the edge of our mundane lives, waiting to be seen. As we delve into the depths of this secret refuge, we uncover the hidden treasures of Rafiabad, and the memories we create, become unforgettable.
As an unexplored and hidden abode some years before, this attractive site gained attention only after winter carnival of Feb. 22, 2023, when Dr Sehrish Asgar Sahiba, IAS (former DC, B’la) organized a snow festival here to evoke a tremendous response, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Earlier, lesser-known scenic spot, Mund Daji was only visited by Rafiabad residents. But today, people from far off places, preferably, visit this place instead of turning towards other frequently visited tourist destinations.
Mund Daji is not only a spot of unspoiled beauty and haven of tranquility but a world of marvels with mystic charm. Its allure is simply a journey to serenity and enchanted oasis that I realized while visiting the place in July month”, says former Secretary Cultural Academy & the Addt’l Dir. Gen., Doordarshan, Srinagar, Dr Rafeeq Masoodi. Highlighting this location’s charm will have a ripple effect, boosting development throughout Rafiabad area, Dr Masoodi further added.
Unveiling Mund Daji will catalyze growth and transform Rafiabad region. Because this haven of tranquility beckons us to explore, to discover, and to immerse ourselves in its majestic aura; Mund Daji’s natural beauty has power to transform and flourish kandi-belt villages. Promoting it, will create a positive impact, can illuminate livelihood opportunities for local youth, be a key factor in fostering development & revitalization.
As Pahalgam is to Kashmir, so is Mund Daji to Rafiabad. Come; let us cherish this hidden treasure, preserve its beauty, and share its story with the world, so that future generations may bask in its glory.
(Author is columnist from Rafiabad. Feedback: [email protected])
