Best Time
Apr–Oct
Altitude
2,396 m
Summer
12°C–25°C
Winter
-5°C–5°C
About Yousmarg
Yousmarg, meaning 'Meadow of Jesus,' is one of Kashmir's best-kept secrets. Nestled 47 km southwest of Srinagar at 2,396 meters, this untouched pine-forested meadow sits in the foothills of the Pir Panjal range. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Gulmarg and Pahalgam, Yousmarg offers solitude and raw natural beauty in abundance.
The vast emerald meadows are surrounded by towering deodar and pine forests, with the Doodh Ganga river flowing through the valley. Shepherds still graze their flocks here as they have for centuries, lending the landscape an idyllic, timeless quality. Yousmarg is the gateway to stunning treks to Sang-e-Safed, Nilnag Lake, and the Sunset Point, offering panoramic views of the Pir Panjal peaks.
Things to Do
Nilnag Lake Trek
A moderate 4 km trek through pine forests to a pristine alpine lake at 2,553m, surrounded by meadows and peaks.
Doodh Ganga River Walk
Stroll along the milky-white Doodh Ganga river that cascades through the valley — perfect for relaxation and photography.
Sang-e-Safed Trek
A scenic ridge trek offering breathtaking views of the Kashmir valley and the distant Pir Panjal range.
Pony Rides
Gentle horseback rides through the meadows and surrounding pine forests, suitable for all ages.
Charar-i-Sharief Shrine
Visit the revered 600-year-old shrine of Sheikh Noor-ud-din Noorani, just 20 km from Yousmarg.
Bird Watching
The dense forests are home to Himalayan woodpeckers, kingfishers, and various raptor species.
How to Reach Yousmarg
By Air: Srinagar Airport is 50 km away (approximately 1.5 hours by road). Taxis available from the airport.
By Road: Connected to Srinagar via Chadoora and Charar-i-Sharief. The scenic drive passes through apple orchards and villages.
By Rail: Nearest railway station is Budgam (30 km). From Jammu Tawi, reach Srinagar first and proceed by road.
Travel Tips
- Yousmarg has very limited commercial infrastructure — carry your own snacks, water, and supplies.
- There are only a handful of guesthouses; book accommodation in advance during peak season.
- Start treks early morning for the best weather and views — afternoon clouds are common.
- The road from Charar-i-Sharief to Yousmarg is narrow — drive carefully, especially during rains.
- Yousmarg is a plastic-free zone — please carry all waste back with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yousmarg worth visiting?
Absolutely! Yousmarg offers untouched natural beauty without the crowds of Gulmarg or Pahalgam. It's ideal for travelers seeking peace, short treks, and authentic Kashmiri pastoral landscapes.
Can I visit Yousmarg as a day trip from Srinagar?
Yes, at 47 km (1.5 hours) it makes a comfortable day trip. However, spending a night lets you experience the magical tranquility of the meadow at dawn and dusk.
Are there hotels in Yousmarg?
Options are limited — a J&K Tourism bungalow and a few private guesthouses. Most visitors come as day-trippers or camp in the meadows with proper permissions.
Is Yousmarg safe for solo travelers?
Yes, it's very safe. The local shepherds and villagers are friendly and hospitable. However, inform someone of your plans if trekking to remote areas like Nilnag.
Packages Including Yousmarg
Explore curated packages that include Yousmarg in the itinerary.