Bhal Padri

Bhal Padri is a mountain destination in Poonch district that sits at 1800 meters and features rolling green meadows bordered by dense forest areas. The site overlooks mountain ranges and sits where different ecological zones meet.

The area served as a strategic observation point during the Indo-Pakistani conflicts, where military forces set up temporary camps between 1947 and 1948. This military history shaped the region's geopolitical importance.

Local shepherds continue age-old grazing traditions here and share stories about the mountain's past with visitors who pass through. These practices shape how the land is used and perceived by communities.

Visitors reach the location through a hiking trail from Surankote, with guided tours available between May and September when weather allows access. The warmest months offer the most comfortable conditions for exploration.

The location offers views of both the Kashmir Valley and the Poonch region from a single vantage point, creating a rare perspective on the area's geography. Few places in the region provide this dual perspective of adjacent valleys.