Sahil Manzoor Bhatti
The Kashmir Valley is world-famous for its enchanting, lush, and charming beauty. Often called “Paradise on Earth,” Kashmir is blessed with breathtaking landscapes—dense vegetation, fresh-water springs, gushing waterfalls, and crystal-clear rivers that flow gracefully from the mighty Pir Panjal range. These natural wonders reveal the true essence of Kashmir’s unmatched splendor. The people of this valley are equally remarkable—known for their generosity, warmth, and unmatched hospitality, a trait that leaves every visitor touched (as tourists often remark).
One of the major facts about the Kashmir Valley is that tourism is the backbone of its economy. Lakhs of people—men, women, and youth—earn their livelihoods directly or indirectly from this sector. The Department of Tourism plays a vital role not only in generating employment for the unemployed youth but also in identifying and developing new recreational destinations. It strives to provide better facilities to both local and international visitors while promptly addressing their concerns. Although the tourism infrastructure has improved, there remains scope for better and more secure accommodation facilities throughout the year, alongside the discovery of newer, unexplored destinations.
Among the emerging tourist destinations in the valley is Doodhpathri—a place that truly lives up to its poetic name. The word Doodhpathri is derived from two Kashmiri words: “Doodh,” meaning milk, symbolizing the milky-white clarity of the Shaliganga River; and “Pathri,” meaning meadows. Thus, Doodhpathri translates to “The Valley of Milky Meadows.”
Located about 45 kilometers from Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, and around 36 kilometers from the district headquarters Budgam, Doodhpathri not only enhances the scenic charm of Budgam district but also sustains the livelihood of many villagers from adjoining areas. The name Doodhpathri is believed to have been given by one of Kashmir’s most revered Sufi saints, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA)—popularly known as Alamdar-e-Kashmir. The place, known among the natives of Budgam for centuries, was once primarily used for cattle grazing. Even today, visitors can spot traditional mud houses known locally as “Kotha,” where herders used to live during the grazing season.
Situated in the heart of central Kashmir’s Budgam district, Doodhpathri shares its glory with other famous spots such as Yousmarg and Charar-e-Sharief, the shrine of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA). Another gem in Budgam’s landscape is Tosamaidan, an emerging tourist destination rich in scenic meadows, alpine forests, and hidden trails. Surrounding villages like Ich-Gam, Kremshora, Khansahib, and Yarikhah can be reached through Doodhpathri, while alternative routes from Magam, Beerwah, Arizal, Raiyar, and Raithan-Mujhpathri also lead to this magical valley.
Places to Visit
Sochal (Sotchal) Pathri
Just a short distance from Doodhpathri lies Sochal Pathri—a serene and restful spot for travelers. The landscape is a breathtaking blend of rolling meadows, pine trees, and gurgling streams. It is a perfect example of nature’s divine artistry, offering both calm and charm to weary visitors.
Sukhnag River
The Sukhnag River, nestled in the lap of the Pir Panjal Mountains near Doodhpathri and Sitaharan Khag, is another jewel of Budgam. The name Sukhnag originates from two Kashmiri words—“Sukh,” meaning calm, and “Naag,” meaning spring. True to its name, this serene river provides water to numerous villages, including Arizal, Zanigam, and Beerwah, before merging into the Jhelum River. As one of Jhelum’s major tributaries, Sukhnag holds immense ecological and cultural significance.
Originating from the upper mountain slopes of Tosamaidan, particularly from places like Dammam Sar, the river nourishes the surrounding forests and meadows, making them verdant and lively. With proper attention from the administration, Sukhnag can become a prominent addition to Kashmir’s tourism map, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The river has vast potential to generate employment and revenue for the region. Interestingly, it lies just a 40-minute walk from the Tourist Reception Center (TRC) Raiyar-Ich, Tangnar—making it easily accessible to visitors.
The District Administration Budgam and the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department deserve appreciation for their ongoing efforts to uplift the region’s tourism infrastructure. However, much still needs to be done. Despite housing some of Kashmir’s most renowned tourist attractions—Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, and Tosamaidan—the district still lacks several basic facilities crucial for sustainable tourism. Assistance from the central government is essential to unlock the full potential of these destinations, ensuring that visitors can enjoy them throughout the year.
Raiyar–Ich: A Mystic Hamlet
Raiyar–Ich, another beautiful hamlet near Doodhpathri, serves as a resting haven for tourists from around the world. The name Raiyar is derived from two Kashmiri words: “Rai,” meaning “lost,” and “Yaar,” meaning “friend.” According to local legend, the name was bestowed by the revered Sufi saint Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (RA) himself. When he reached the village through the dense forests of the Pir Panjal, he sent his companions in different directions across Kashmir to spread the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and continued his own spiritual journey alone toward the cave of Dreygam.
This mystical tale adds a layer of spiritual charm to Raiyar–Ich, making it not just a scenic stop but a place of reflection and peace.
As we look toward the future, one can only hope that Almighty Allah eradicates all global calamities like the COVID-19 pandemic and blesses us with health, peace, and prosperity. Insha’Allah, I will continue to bring more fascinating insights and untold stories about the mesmerizing natural treasures of Kashmir—especially about the calm and captivating Sukhnag River—in my forthcoming writings.
