Introduction

A path of some six kilometers and an ascent of some six hundred meters from Gulmarg will take you to the flower-strewn little highland dale of Khilanmarg. The narrow bridle path is lined by grassy knolls and a variety of trees and shrubs that include masses of daises, mulberry, berberis and walnut among others. Should you prefer riding to walking, ponies may be hired for this little hike. Nature’s index of the air quality is also there in the numerous lichens that may be found on the rocks and trees – these only grow at high altitudes with negligible carbon gases and which are rich (despite the height) in oxygen. In winter, this path serves as a ski run. In spring, with the thaw, this track is like a little mountain torrent of melting snow with squelchy patches of mud that seem to be preparing the soil for the burst of life and the fresh green that will soon follow. While the ascent is focused on the path ahead, once you are at the top – and on a clear day – an absolutely magnificent vista unfolds.

Clearly visible is the western marker of the Himalayan chain, the Nanga Parbat (the eastern end of these magnificent mountains is the Namche Barwa peak in Myanmar). At 8,126 meters (26,660 feet), the Nanga Parbat is one of the highest mountains on earth and was first climbed by Hermann Buhl in July 1953. This immense mass of rock rises dramatically from the surrounding areas and lies just south of the river Indus. The Great Himalayan Axis runs southeast from the Nanga Parbat to the twin peaks of Nun Nun (7,135 meters/ 23,408.7 feet) and Kun (7,077 meters/ 23,218.5 feet). This axial range marks the northern boundary of Kashmir. Between the Nun and Kun, there is a high snow covered plateau that ends in a icefall and tapers down to become a branch of the Parchik glacier. The first attempt to climb the Kun was made by the Italian, Count Piacenza in 1913; the Nun was climbed in 1934 by J. Waller.

Special Attributes

Attractive highland dale with excellent views

Nuisance

During the spring thaw, the path may be a little difficult to negotiate in places and horse litter can be a nuisance in places.

Dressing restrictions

Comfortable, but conservative

Connectivity

Walking and on pony back.

Enjoyed by

Nature buffs, walkers and general interest

Exposure

Yes. One would need protection against high levels of UV rays. Sunglass and sun screen lotion (especially for Caucasians) recommended.

Avoidable Season

When the path becomes impossible to negotiable in heavy snow

Facilities

Limited

Things Not Allowed

None as such

Tip

Try and leave in the early morning and pack a snack along.

Type of site

Small highland glade