Doodhpathri

Doodhpathri is a high-altitude alpine valley and hill station in Khansahib Tehsil of Budgam District, Jammu and Kashmir, about 42 km from Srinagar at an elevation of around 2,730 metres. Known as the Valley of Milk, it features expansive green meadows, pine and deodar forests, and the Shaliganga River flowing through the valley. Developed as an offbeat tourist destination, it is noted for pastoral landscapes, snow-covered winters and meadow trekking routes.

Visitors can expect wide rolling meadows carpeted with grass and wildflowers in summer and snow in winter, surrounded by dense pine forests and low hills. The Shaliganga River and its tributary Shaliganga Nallah flow through the valley with small boulders and clear water. Areas to explore include the main bowl-shaped meadow, Tangnar, Mujpathri and Palmaidan. Pony rides, short walks along the river, photography and picnicking are common. Basic food stalls, parking and pony stands are available near the meadow entrance.

The name Doodhpathri translates to Valley of Milk, linked to local tradition that the water of the meadow was once milky. The place is associated with the revered Kashmiri saint Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (Nund Rishi), who is said to have prayed here and struck the ground to turn milky water into clear water, giving rise to the Shaliganga River.

Doodhpathri reflects the pastoral culture of Gujjar and Bakarwal communities who graze livestock in the meadows during summer. The valley is culturally linked to Kashmiri Sufi traditions through Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali and is valued as a seasonal grazing ground and community picnic destination for residents of Budgam and Srinagar.