Yousmarg is a scenic hill station located in the Budgam district of Jammu & Kashmir, situated on the banks of the Jhelum River's tributary, the Dudh Ganga River. It lies just 47 kilometers south of Srinagar. The name "Yousmarg" translates to "Valley of Jesus," as local legend claims that Jesus once visited Kashmir and stayed here for some time. The area is a beautiful alpine valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pine forests.
The valley is surrounded by rows of towering pines, and the mountains stand tall and proud. You may occasionally spot horses grazing, with their necks lowered in the lush grass. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Yousmarg offers a perfect retreat. The serene, green meadows here can provide a sense of tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. You can ride horses through the pine forests and enjoy the scenic beauty. After a long ride, you can refresh yourself with a dip in the Neelnag Lake nestled at the foot of the mountains.
During the Sultanate era, the famous Sultan Yusuf Shah of Kashmir was particularly fond of Yousmarg as a leisure retreat. The entire valley, surrounded by fir and pine trees, was covered with soft, lush green grass. The Dudh Ganga River, which appears milk-white in color, flows through the valley, creating a beautiful spectacle. The valley is also home to flocks of sheep grazing peacefully amidst the picturesque landscapes. Colorful cottages can be found amidst the green meadows, offering a peaceful ambiance for tourists looking to spend a few days here. Nearby attractions like Neelnag Lake, Dudh Ganga, and the 'He Jan' Dargah can be explored either on horseback or on foot.
On a clear day, the snow-capped peaks of Mount Tattakoti (4725 meters), Mount Romesh Hong (5000 meters), and the Sunset Peak (4745 meters) can be seen from Yousmarg.
To reach Yousmarg from Srinagar, you can hire a car. The fare ranges between ₹2000-₹4000. Alternatively, you can take a shared ride to Charar-e-Sharif and then travel to Yousmarg from there.
Since Yousmarg is quite close to Srinagar, most tourists do not stay overnight. However, if you decide to spend a day here, the tranquility of the place will leave lasting memories in your heart.
Whether you're traveling locally or internationally, always take care of the environment. It's advisable to avoid travel during extreme heat and maintain caution while moving around. Yousmarg offers a peaceful getaway and is perfect for those in search of solitude and nature's beauty.