By JR. Toseef R Ganai
Poonch – Tucked away in the lap of the Pir Panjal range, Peer Ki Gali is one of the most breathtaking yet overlooked spots in Jammu and Kashmir. Located at 3,484 metres on the historic Mughal Road, this place blends natural beauty, spiritual peace, and historical importance — all in one.
A Heaven Untouched by Development
Peer Ki Gali offers stunning landscapes: lush green meadows, snow-covered peaks, crystal-clear springs, and sparkling waterfalls. Whether it’s spring wildflowers or winter snow, every season brings a unique charm. The clean air carries the scent of pine trees, and the silence here is often described as soul-soothing.
But despite its growing number of visitors, the area lacks basic facilities. No public toilets, no shelters, no garbage bins, no mobile network, and no emergency services — making it tough, especially for families and senior citizens.
“This place is paradise,” says a tourist from Bengaluru. “But the lack of toilets and shelters makes it incredibly difficult for families, especially women.”
A Spiritual and Historical Powerhouse
The name Peer Ki Gali means “Saint’s Pass.” It’s named after Hazrat Sheikh Ahmed Karim (RA), a Sufi saint who meditated here. His humble shrine draws pilgrims and travellers who stop to pay respects and sip traditional salty tea made with roasted barley (sattu).
This pass also carries historical weight — it was part of the route used by Mughal emperors, including Emperor Jahangir, who is believed to have passed away near this area. The Mughal Road still connects Poonch and Shopian, echoing with stories from centuries past.
A Tourist Spot Without Support
In recent years, Peer Ki Gali has seen more tourists — bikers, trekkers, families, and spiritual seekers. But with zero government support, the place struggles. There is no tourist facilitation centre, no parking, no guides, and no system to manage crowds or protect the environment.
Locals from Poonch and Shopian are disappointed.
“We have been requesting authorities to develop this area as a proper tourist spot. It can create jobs and promote local culture, but no one listens,” says a civil society member from Surankote.
What Needs to Be Done
Peer Ki Gali doesn’t need five-star hotels or large buildings. With minimal and eco-friendly development, it can become a major attraction. Here’s what the government and tourism authorities can do:
- Install eco-friendly mobile toilets and dustbins
- Build wooden or stone shelters for visitors
- Deploy medical and emergency teams during peak seasons
- Set up mobile connectivity towers for safety
- Train local youth as guides and conservation volunteers
- Create a small cultural centre showcasing Mughal history and Sufi traditions
- Promote local food and crafts through stalls or kiosks
Why It Matters
Jammu and Kashmir is investing crores to boost tourism. But leaving Peer Ki Gali out of the picture is a missed opportunity. It represents the perfect blend of nature, history, and spirituality — and it deserves better.
Tourism is not just about business; it’s also about identity, environment, and inclusive growth. Peer Ki Gali has all the ingredients to become a model of sustainable and responsible tourism.
Let us not wait until it’s too late. With care, vision, and respect, Peer Ki Gali can become not just a destination — but a symbol of how nature, culture, and faith can coexist in harmony.
