Doodhpathri Trek

Doodhpathri Trek: The Meadow Loops of Budgam

The Doodhpathri trek covers a distance of 25 kilometers, starting and ending at the Doodhpathri tourist center in Budgam. The trail climbs gently through pine forests and follows the Shaliganga River upstream to the high-altitude pastures of Palmaidan at 10,500 feet (3,200 meters). The trek takes 3 days.

Day-by-Day Route Breakdown

Day 1: Doodhpathri to Mujpathri (8 km, 4 hours)
The trek begins at the main Doodhpathri parking area (elevation 8,957 ft). You will follow a forest trail through deodar trees, descending briefly to cross the Shaliganga River. The trail climbs to the meadow clearing of Mujpathri (9,500 ft) where you will camp.

Day 2: Mujpathri to Palmaidan (9 km, 5 hours)
You will follow the ridge trail through pine forests. The path climbs past local nomadic kothas to Palmaidan (10,500 ft), a flat alpine pasture bordered by mountains. The campsite is pitched near a fresh-water stream.

Day 3: Palmaidan to Doodhpathri (8 km, 4 hours)
Trace your steps back along the forest trail, crossing the Shaliganga River, to terminate the trek at the Doodhpathri tourist center.

Trek Difficulty & Fitness Reality

The Doodhpathri trek is classified as Easy-Moderate. The inclines are gentle, and the trail is wide and well-marked. It is suitable for beginners and families. The main challenge is crossing the Shaliganga River, which must be done over wooden logs or by wading through shallow water. Wear water-resistant hiking shoes.

Best Time for Doodhpathri Trek

The best season is from June to September. During this period, the grasslands are green, and local shepherds are present in the meadows. In winter (December to February), the trail is covered in deep snow, and the road to Doodhpathri can close, making the trek inaccessible.

How to Reach the Starting Point

Drive from Srinagar through Budgam and Khansahib to Doodhpathri (42 km). The drive takes 90 minutes. Hire a private cab from Srinagar or take a shared taxi from the Parimpora stand to Khansahib, then transfer to a local cab to Doodhpathri.

Permits and Guide Requirements

You must obtain an entry permit from the forest office near the Doodhpathri gate. Carry photocopies of your Aadhaar card. Hiring a local guide or horse handler is recommended to help carry baggage and assist with river crossings.

What Makes Doodhpathri Trek Different

This trek runs through wide, flat grasslands (maidans) that are less rocky than the passes of Gulmarg or Pahalgam. It is a quiet route that offers views of local shepherd life without the tourist crowds.

Practical Tips

• BSNL Connectivity: Postpaid BSNL signal works near the tourist bungalows but ceases past the first river crossing.
• Local Food: Purchase basic supplies or tea at the Doodhpathri parking lot. There are no shops in Palmaidan.
• River Wading: Bring a small towel to dry your feet if you need to wade across the Shaliganga River on Day 1.