Sarthal Meadow

Sarthal Meadow is a high-altitude alpine meadow near Bani in Kathua District, Jammu and Kashmir, situated at an elevation of around 2,100 metres. Located about 20 kilometres from Bani town and surrounded by forested hills and snow-capped peaks, it features expansive grasslands that remain snow-covered in winter and lush green in summer. Traditionally used as grazing land, it is now known as an offbeat nature and camping destination.

Visitors can expect a wide open grassy meadow surrounded by pine forests and hills, with views of snow-covered slopes in winter and green pastures in summer. The area is largely open and undeveloped, with seasonal tented accommodation and small food stalls. Visitors can walk across the meadow, enjoy photography, picnic spots, and short nature walks, and experience a quiet, rural mountain environment with limited built structures.

Traditionally used as a dhok (seasonal grazing ground) by Gujjar-Bakarwal pastoral communities during summer migrations

Associated with the seasonal pastoral culture of the Bani region and local reverence for the nearby Sarthal Devi shrine visited by residents and shepherds