New Delhi — You know that cousin who thinks Gulmarg is the most “offbeat” you can go in Kashmir? Yeah, they need to sit down. Because we just found a list that’ll make even the travel blogger who works out of Blue Tokai Khan Market feel like a tourist. Kashmir is back in travel conversations—and not for the usual Dal Lake romanticism. We’re talking about those snowy secrets, the forested passes, and the quiet, fairy-tale villages where Google Maps doesn’t even bother to send a car.
Skip the Shikaras, Here’s Where to Actually Go
Zee News recently dropped a solid scoop with their lineup of “10 Hidden Places in Kashmir You Must Visit,” and it reads like a treasure map for the travel-weary Delhiite. Tired of picture-perfect Pahalgam being overrun post-Instagram Reel popularity? Swap it out for Chatpal—a pine-cloaked valley so hushed, you can hear your Delhi stress levels detox.
Then there’s Lolab Valley—home to apple orchards, lazy brooks, and not a single overpriced café in sight. Bungus Valley? Imagine Tirthan Valley if nobody knew about it yet. Other names in the airy spotlight included Gurez, Warwan, Daksum, and Sinthan Top, most of which you’ve probably never seen even on a Ladakhi friend’s Insta Story. This isn’t just a rechristened “Top 10” list. These places are remote, raw, and mostly untouched by shiny tourist commercialization.
Why This Suddenly Matters for Dilliwaalas
For those of us cooking in Mayur Vihar and dreaming of dewy mornings and dal-chawal that’s not half microwaved—this list is your travel mic drop. A weekend trip to Mussoorie costs more in peace than in petrol. With Kashmir’s lesser-known spots gaining attention, there’s now an actual chance to breathe mountain air without competing with biker gangs at every curve.
Thing is, post-pandemic revenge tourism has flooded Himachal and Uttarakhand; you can’t get a momo in McLeodganj without a 20-minute queue. But Lolab or the untouched meadows of Warwan? They’re serene, stupidly scenic, and actually affordable. Backpacker from Kamla Nagar? Budget Rs 6,000 and you’ve got a long weekend that’ll outshine your Goa reels. Couple from Dwarka planning a babymoon? Ditch Shimla. These spots are raw, romantic, and Raja Hindustani-level magical—minus the toxic peak-season crowd.
This Ain’t Kashmir’s First Hidden Talent Showcase
If you’re wondering how we’re only now hearing about Daksum or Aharbal Falls, it’s because Kashmir’s tourism map has long been defined by just 4–5 places. Blame it on security perceptions, bad PR, or just the comfort of repeat itineraries. But here’s what’s up: back in the early 2000s, Gurez actually had a minor backpacker renaissance (pre-Instagram, of course) until border tensions soured things. Similarly, Warwan and Bungus are old-school trekking circuits used back when travel mags still came in glossy print.
What’s changed? For one, J&K’s tourism board has become Gen Z savvy—they’re actively promoting offbeat circuits, and infrastructure (read: actual drivable roads) are now in place. So what was once only accessible with three guides and four hours of hiking is now just a Jio signal bar away from becoming your next viral Reel.
📍 Spot Check: If you’re planning an epic Delhi-to-Kashmir circuit, most of these hidden gems can be tagged on a loop from Srinagar. The trek towards Bungus branches near Kupwara (north of Srinagar), while Daksum is en route to Kishtwar, around 100 km from Anantnag. Keep Srinagar International Airport as your landing pad. From there, shared taxis and local drivers (bet on a guy near Regal Chowk) can navigate you to these dream spots. Tip: Pick up essentials from Lal Chowk before heading out. You won’t get your Paharganj refill snacks in Chatpal.
The Final Word
This is your chance to go full Friend-in-Know Delhi style. Don’t just do Kashmir—own Kashmir. Let the others crowd Sonmarg for the 437th time; you’re headed to Bungus Valley with a flask of Kahwa and nowhere to be. These hidden treasures aren’t going to stay hidden forever, so now’s the time for that road trip that doesn’t just look good on Stories—but sticks in memory.
So, what’s your first pick—Chatpal or Sinthan Top?
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#KashmirUnplugged
#DitchGulmargAlready
#HiddenHillsAreCalling
#OffbeatKashmirTrip
#DelhiToValleyVibes
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