Bhaderwah, Jul 6 – The remote alpine meadow of Bhal-Padri in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district is finally stepping into the tourism spotlight, thanks to newly completed road connectivity. Located at an altitude of 11,000 feet, the breathtaking valley will host its first-ever tourism festival on July 20, marking a new chapter in Bhaderwah’s growing tourism profile.
Just 10 km from the famed Padri Top on the Bhaderwah–Chamba interstate road, the meadow—rich in wildflowers and unique flora—has long remained hidden due to inaccessibility. Now, with roads in place, the Doda administration and J&K Tourism Department are working together to showcase the area’s natural beauty and tribal heritage.
“The valley of flowers is ready to shine as J&K’s next big tourist hotspot,” said Deputy Commissioner Doda Harvinder Singh, urging travellers to discover Bhal-Padri’s untapped charm and vibrant local culture.
Adventure tour operators are equally excited. “This Himalayan marvel has all it takes—breathtaking landscapes, water bodies, and miles of multicoloured wildflowers,” said tour operator Mehran Ganai, adding that the location could soon become a flagship destination for nature and adventure tourism.
The upcoming festival is being organised in collaboration with the Education Environmental Social Sports and Cultural Society of Bhalessa, whose chairman Ayub Zargar said the event would not only boost tourism but also foster communal harmony and local development.
