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Bota Pathri is a breathtakingly beautiful tourist destination located in the heart of the Kashmir Valley in northern India. Nestled amidst the Pir Panjal mountain range, this serene meadow is known for its lush green landscapes, vibrant flowers, and panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Bota Pathri has gained popularity as an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and trekkers seeking tranquility and adventure.
Bota Pathri is situated approximately 15 kilometers from the town of Gulmarg, a renowned hill station in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. The meadow is perched at an elevation of around 9,000 feet (2,743 meters) above sea level, making it accessible primarily during the summer months when the snow has melted.
Is the location worth the buzz and your time? Should you plan a trip from Gulmarg to Botapathri or skip it entirely? Is it worthwhile to spend all of the money and go through all of the trouble? Let’s Find Out !
Gulmarg is 1.5 hours’ drive from Srinagar and is noted for its white beauty since it is blanketed with snow throughout the winter, which is supposedly the finest time to visit.
Botapathri is a hidden gem in the Nagin Valley, about 10-15 kilometers from Gulmarg. It is fairly close to the border, making security checks difficult. Between Gulmarg town and here, there are at least two Army checkpoints. Civilians are not permitted to travel beyond the second checkpoint because it is only 5 kilometers from the LOC. This route also goes to Apharwat Peak and Alpather Lake. The first checkpoint is near the High Altitude Warfare School, and you must obtain clearance from the Army personnel stationed there. That takes no time.
Botapathri is a lovely meadow surrounded by dense woodlands and a rushing stream that runs alongside it. The drive is truly breathtaking, passing through lofty mountains interspersed with massive glaciers. You can even attempt to walk across one! You can see some Dhokas (mud homes) of Gujjars and Bakerwals who graze their sheep in the valleys during the summer months as you pass through. In the winter, they descend to lower elevations.
You might experience the most enchanting things when not planned and may not be in the itinerary. It is often wiser to take chances and visit locations you haven’t read or heard about. But keep in mind that it is a gamble with fifty-fifty odds of being good or disastrous.
The road is in excellent condition, and the drive is pleasant. Stop at any ideal area beside the creek and surrounded by wildflowers, of which there are plenty. The deodars’ crisp smell fills your lungs with all the goodness of the mountain air. A tiny emerald-colored lake is also located a short distance from the road.
Most tourists in Gulmarg do not go that way for two reasons. The first is that few people are aware of it. The second reason is that it is not entirely open, and going there requires authorization from the J&K police and the Indian Army.
Bota Pathri offers a range of activities for tourists:
Trekking:‘ The region is a paradise for trekkers, with numerous trails that cater to different levels of expertise. Treks to nearby areas like Apharwat Peak and Khilanmarg are popular among adventurers.
Picnicking: Many visitors choose to have a picnic on the meadows, enjoying the scenic views and tranquility.
Photography: Bota Pathri is a photographer’s delight, offering incredible vistas of the surrounding mountains, meadows, and flowers.
Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including deer, hares, and a variety of bird species.
