| Chiranbal | |
|---|---|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 2,595 m (8,514 ft) [1] |
| Coordinates | 33°34′27″N 74°50′26″E / 33.57417°N 74.84056°E |
| Geography | |
| Location | Kulgam district, Jammu and Kashmir, India |
| Parent range | Pir Panjal Range |
Chiranbal is the largest sub-alpine meadow in the Kashmir Valley, located in the Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, India.[2] Situated at an altitude of approximately 2,595 metres (8,514 ft), it is characterized by its vast emerald grasslands, dense pine forests, and the Zajinar River which flows through its center.[3]
Geography[edit | edit source]
The meadow is naturally bifurcated into two sections:
- Haer Chiranbal (Upper/Small): Located at a higher elevation, offering a panoramic view of the **Brahma Sakli** mountain peaks.
- Bon Chiranbal (Lower/Big): A sprawling expanse of grassland that serves as a primary grazing ground for local shepherds.[4]
Tourism and Activities[edit | edit source]
Chiranbal is a burgeoning hub for adventure tourism and is often described as a "hidden gem" compared to the nearby Aharbal waterfall.
- Trekking: It serves as the base camp for high-altitude treks leading to alpine lakes such as **Bramsar**, **Chirsar**, and **Indarsar**.[1]
- Angling: The Zajinar River is a known habitat for wild trout. Angling is permitted between April and September with a valid permit from the Department of Fisheries.
- Camping: The riverbanks are popular for night camping, though mobile network connectivity is currently unavailable in the area.
Access[edit | edit source]
Chiranbal is approximately 75 km (47 mi) from Srinagar and 25 km (16 mi) from Kulgam town. The route involves driving to the village of **Hallan** (Manzgam), which is the final motorable point. From Hallan, the meadow is accessible via a 4 km to 6 km trek or by 4x4 vehicles.[4]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "CHIRANBAL, KULGAM: Route and Coordinates". Himalayan Travel Group. November 11, 2022.
- ↑ "CHIRANBAL District Kulgam, Government of Jammu and Kashmir". Retrieved April 7, 2026.
- ↑ "Why Should We Start Looking Beyond Kounsarnag?". Kashmir Life. July 19, 2020.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 "Tips on exploring the unexplored Chiranbal". Kashmir Reader. June 20, 2021.
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