Drung, a place where nature’s artistry meets human reverence, offers a unique and captivating travel experience. It offers exceptional visuals to visitors during winters when the waterfall freezes and also in summers when it unleashes itself with a roar. Umaima Reshi writes about the lace that has emerged as a key selfie point in the mountains
Drung, a village nestled at the foot of Gulmarg, stands as a testament to nature’s artistry. Merely three kilometres from Tangmarg town, this picturesque hamlet lies cradled by the nulla Ferozpur basin, a lifeline that nourishes the region. The basin, fed by the melting snows of towering peaks, sustains Gulmarg and its surroundings, its waters coursing through the landscape, breathing life into the very soil.
The journey to Drung unveils a world painted in hues of emerald and sapphire. Verdant forests, dominated by the towering presence of fir trees, cloak the hills, their hushed stillness broken only by the murmur of the wind whispering secrets through the leaves. The air, crisp and cool, carries the scent of pine, a heady fragrance that speaks of untamed wilderness.
At the heart of this natural amphitheatre, the Ferozpur flows, its clear waters a mirror reflecting the azure sky above. Smooth, polished pebbles line its bed, testaments to the river’s patient artistry, their surfaces worn smooth by the ceaseless caress of water. Visitors, drawn to this sanctuary of tranquillity, often find solace on the banks of the river. Some capture its beauty through the lens of their cameras, while others engage in playful water fights, their laughter echoing through the stillness. Yet others, seeking respite from the world’s cacophony, simply dip their feet into the refreshing coolness, allowing the current to wash away their worries.
A Power Plant
Above this scene of idyllic beauty, perched atop a nearby hill, stands a small hydropower station. A testament to human ingenuity, it also plays a role in shaping the landscape. From its reservoir, water cascades down the mountainside, giving birth to the famed Drung Waterfall, a spectacle that draws countless visitors each season. The roar of the falling water, a symphony of nature’s power, reverberates through the valley, a stark yet harmonious counterpoint to the gentle murmur of the basin below.
Drung’s allure, however, extends beyond its natural splendour. History whispers through the trees, echoing from ancient monuments that dot the landscape. These structures, believed to be Shiva temples and known locally as Pandavlary, stand as silent sentinels, their timeworn stones bearing witness to centuries of human history.
This confluence of natural beauty and historical significance is further enriched by the presence of an ancient shepherd route. This path, etched into the very fabric of the region, once served as a vital artery for travellers journeying from the distant lands of Central Asia to the verdant valleys of Kashmir. Today, it continues to connect Drang to Poonch, a tangible link to the region’s vibrant past.
Activities
Drung, a destination that has increasingly captivated adventure enthusiasts, offers a myriad of activities that make it a favourite among those who seek to immerse
in nature. During the winter season, the area transforms into a paradise for snow sport aficionados, who flock to the region to engage in snow skating and snowboarding. Many of these visitors opt to stay overnight, allowing them to fully appreciate the stunning natural panorama that Drung provides.
The experience of spending a winter night in Drung is often described as enchanting. Travellers gather around bonfires, singing songs and watching the gentle snowfall under the serene night sky. These moments, filled with camaraderie and the beauty of nature, leave lasting impressions on those who visit.
The Cascade
The allure of Drung is further enhanced by the mesmerising sight of the Drung cascade. Although the cascade is not a natural formation but rather the result of water being released from a nearby powerhouse, its beauty is undeniable. The phenomenon that unfolds when the temperature drops below freezing and the spurting water solidifies is truly breathtaking. This spectacle has been a key factor in Drung’s rise as a popular tourist destination.
It happens usually in sub-zero temperatures when the waterfall freezes, it offers a backdrop for fascinating memory clicks. This has resulted in the emergence of Drung as a vital selfie point during peak winters.
Over recent winters, photographs of the waterfall have circulated widely, showcasing the frozen landscape and captivating even more visitors. Previously, the river and the temple were the primary attractions in the area. However, the frozen waterfall has added a new dimension to Drung’s appeal, drawing in tourists from everywhere.
Close to the waterfall stands an ancient Hindu temple, believed to have been constructed by the Pandavas. This temple is not only a place of worship but also a site of great historical and architectural significance. Visitors come to pray, pay their respects, and marvel at the temple’s incredible ancient architecture.
Reaching Drung
To reach Drung, travellers can choose between several options. Some prefer to drive their cars along the forest roads that span the Drung area, while others opt to hire all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) that are better suited to navigate the rugged terrain. For those seeking a more traditional and leisurely approach, riding ponies is also a viable option to reach the Drung waterfall.
Each mode of transportation offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of Drung from different vantage points. Whether by car, ATV, or pony, the journey to Drang is as much a part of the experience as the destination itself.
Drung Waterfall, a jewel nestled within this winter wonderland, lies forty-two kilometres from Srinagar and sixteen kilometres from the hill station of Gulmarg. Its strategic location makes it an ideal stopover for those embarking on a journey to Gulmarg. The route from Srinagar to Drung, characterised by well-maintained roads and a notable absence of steep inclines, ensures a smooth and comfortable drive. Along the way, travellers will encounter charming, small dhabas, and traditional eateries that offer respite from the journey. Here, one can savour a hearty meal or enjoy a quick snack, immersing oneself in the local flavours and hospitality.
For those seeking overnight accommodation, Tangmarg, a town located nearby, provides a range of well-established markets and hotels.
However, navigating the valley during this time requires caution. The roads, often slick with ice and snow, can pose a challenge even for experienced drivers. It is therefore advisable to avoid using private vehicles during this season and instead opt for alternative modes of transportation.
Summer Time
Drung offers a refreshing and equally enchanting escape during the summer. As the snow recedes, lush greenery emerges, cloaking the landscape in vibrant hues. The waterfall, no longer frozen in time, cascades down the mountainside, its roar a symphony of nature’s power and beauty. This verdant transformation makes Drung Waterfall in Tangmarg a popular destination for families and friends seeking solace in nature’s embrace. It is a place where one can unwind, rejuvenate, and create lasting memories amidst the tranquillity of the great outdoors.
“I had never heard of this place before,” Faisal Javaid, a student who recently had the opportunity to visit Drung on a school excursion, remarked, “It came as a delightful surprise.” Faisal’s experience resonated with a sense of wonder and discovery, a testament to the hidden treasures that his homeland holds. “Being a Kashmiri,” he continued, “I feel like I discover new things and places every year.” Each discovery, it seemed, deepened his appreciation for the natural beauty that surrounded him. “This visit made me realise just how much of a paradise my homeland truly is,” Faisal reflected, “and it leaves me wondering what more there is yet to explore.”
Anita, a visitor experiencing Kashmir for the first time, shared her unique perspective on Drung. “This is my first visit to Kashmir,” she began, her voice tinged with a mixture of wonder and delight. “Friends had always recommended the popular destinations – Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, and the well-known sights of Srinagar. However, coming to Drung has been an incredible experience. I can only imagine,” she continued, her voice filled with a growing sense of anticipation, “if this village is so beautiful, how exhilarating the other tourist spots must be.”
Anita’s fascination with Drung stemmed from the captivating spectacle of the Drung Waterfall. “I was attracted by the pristine flow of the water,” she explained, “which somehow manages to be both powerful and soothing at the same time.” The duality of the waterfall – its raw, untamed energy tempered by a sense of tranquillity – left a profound impression on her. “It’s amazing to think,” she mused, “that a power plant has transformed into such a stunning waterfall.”
For those seeking to witness the enchanting frozen waterfall, winter, from December to January, is the ideal time. During this season, the waterfall becomes completely encased in ice, transforming into a breathtaking natural sculpture. The frozen cascade, a testament to nature’s artistry, draws visitors who seek to experience the beauty of Drung in its most dramatic form.
For those who prefer to see the waterfall in its flowing glory, surrounded by lush greenery, spring, from March to May, is the perfect season. The waterfall is at its fullest during these months, its waters cascading down the mountainside with a symphony of sound and motion. The meadows surrounding the waterfall burst into vibrant bloom, creating a tapestry of colours that enhances the already stunning natural beauty of the area.
Baba Reshi
Beyond the allure of the waterfall, Drung offers a wealth of nearby attractions that beckon the curious traveller. One such destination is the revered shrine dedicated to Saint Baba Payam-Din Reshi, a highly esteemed Sufi saint. Constructed in the 13th century, the shrine stands as a prominent pilgrimage site for the people of Kashmir. Its historical significance, combined with its spiritual aura, draws visitors who seek solace and inspiration.
Adjacent to the shrine, a lively square-shaped market unfolds, its atmosphere a vibrant blend of commerce and community. A myriad of shops, eateries, and tea stalls fill the market, offering visitors a taste of local life and the opportunity to indulge in a variety of culinary delights. The shrine of Baba Reshi, as the shrine is known, marks the final resting place of this revered figure, providing a space for reflection and spiritual connection.
Drung, a place where nature’s artistry meets human reverence, offers a unique and captivating travel experience. Whether one seeks to witness the frozen majesty of the waterfall in winter immerse oneself in the verdant beauty of spring, or perhaps explore the historical and spiritual significance of the shrine, Drung promises a journey that will linger in the memory long after the journey’s end.
