Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir | March 13, 2025– A surge of tourists has descended upon Guldanda meadow in Bhaderwah, Jammu and Kashmir, to revel in its snow-covered beauty following the recent restoration of the Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot National Highway. The scenic destination, nestled at an elevation of over 10,000 feet in the Doda district, has become a magnet for visitors seeking a winter escape, thanks to improved accessibility after heavy snowfall had previously disrupted travel in the region.
The Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot National Highway, a vital artery connecting Bhaderwah in Jammu and Kashmir to Pathankot in Punjab via Basholi, was reopened recently, allowing travelers to reach Guldanda meadow with ease. The highway’s restoration, credited to efforts by the Border Roads Organisation and local administration, has been a game-changer for tourism in the area. Earlier this year, in January 2025, the highway was also cleared of snow to facilitate access, with Doda Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh noting that over 2,000 visitors arrived at Guldanda within hours of its reopening. The latest restoration effort has sparked a similar influx, with tourists from across India praising the pristine snowfall and breathtaking landscapes.
“It’s like a dream come true,” said one visitor, echoing sentiments shared by many who have compared Bhaderwah’s charm to that of well-known hill stations like Manali. Another tourist, traveling with family, remarked, “Me and my five brothers were supposed to go to Kashmir, but we witnessed so much snow here that we don’t wish to leave this place.” Such testimonials highlight Guldanda’s growing reputation as a must-visit winter destination in the Jammu region.
The meadow, surrounded by the Ashapati and Kailash glaciers, offers not only stunning vistas but also opportunities for winter activities. Local tourism authorities have capitalized on this natural appeal, with initiatives like skiing programs introduced earlier this year to attract adventure enthusiasts. The recent surge in visitors is expected to further boost the local economy, which has seen a significant uptick in activity following the highway’s restoration.
The Bhaderwah-Basholi-Pathankot National Highway, officially designated as NH-44 (formerly NH-204), had faced closures due to heavy snowfall and challenging weather conditions in recent months. The region experienced severe weather in late February and early March 2025, with landslides and avalanches disrupting travel across Jammu and Kashmir. However, the timely intervention of the BRO, deploying advanced snow-clearance machinery, has ensured that Guldanda remains accessible as of March 13, 2025. Posts on X today reflect this excitement, with users noting the highway’s reopening as a key factor in the meadow’s sudden popularity.
While the influx of tourists is a boon for Bhaderwah, it also raises questions about sustainability and infrastructure. The highway’s history of closures suggests that maintaining consistent access during the winter season remains a challenge. Moreover, the rapid rise in visitor numbers could strain local resources if not managed carefully. Authorities have yet to release detailed plans addressing these concerns, though the success of past efforts—such as sprinkling salt and urea to combat icy conditions—offers some reassurance.
For now, Guldanda meadow stands as a testament to nature’s allure and human ingenuity. As tourists continue to throng its snow-laden slopes, Bhaderwah is carving out a niche as Jammu and Kashmir’s latest winter wonderland, rivaling even the more famous destinations in the Kashmir Valley. Whether this momentum can be sustained remains to be seen, but for the moment, the meadow’s magic is undeniable.