Dudhpathri - Valley of Milk

Dudhpathri Valley

Introduction

Dudhpathri is a picturesque valley located at an altitude of 9,000 feet in the Himalayan mountain range, within the Pir Panjal range. It lies in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, just 42 kilometers away from Srinagar, making it a natural marvel.

Why "Valley of Milk"?

The name "Dudhpathri" is associated with the Kashmiri Muslim saint Sheikh-ul-Alam Noor-ud-Din Noorani. The stream flowing through the valley appears white, resembling milk from a distance. This is why it is referred to as the "Valley of Milk of Kashmir."

Nearby Attractions

To the west of Dudhpathri lies the famous Tosa Maidan, and nearby is the Neelnag Lake, whose water is so blue that it seems like someone has mixed blue ink into it. The dense forests, green meadows, and distant mountains surrounding Neelnag make it an ideal picnic spot, located just 47 kilometers from Srinagar.

Natural Beauty

Nature seems to have painted its masterpiece in the Dudhpathri valley. The lush green meadows are adorned with a variety of wildflowers. A rocky stream flows gently, its icy water refreshing away the fatigue of city life. During sunrise and sunset, the tall trees seem to celebrate a festival of colors.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dudhpathri is from May to September, when the milk-like white streams are visible. For the rest of the year, most of the valley remains covered in snow.

How to Reach

There are two trains from Kolkata to Jammu: Himgiri Express (three days a week) and Jammu Tawi Express (daily). Alternatively, you can fly to Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar from Kolkata or Dhaka via Delhi. From Srinagar, you can reach Dudhpathri by road.