Nestled amidst the mighty Pir Panjal range, Peer Ki Gali is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful and lesser-explored destinations in Jammu and Kashmir. Located at an altitude of around 11,000 feet above sea level on the historical Mughal Road, it connects the Poonch and Rajouri districts with the Kashmir Valley and is considered the highest point on this ancient route. Peer Ki Gali is known for its pristine meadows, snow-draped peaks, and the spiritual energy that surrounds the shrine of the revered saint Peer Baba.
History and Significance
The name “Peer Ki Gali” translates to “The Pass of the Saint”, and it holds immense spiritual significance among the locals. It is believed that the saint Sheikh Ahmed Karim, also known as Peer Baba, meditated here for several years. Devotees from all religions visit this place to seek blessings and leave behind offerings as a mark of respect.
This ancient pass was once part of the Mughal Road, a historic trade and travel route used by Mughal emperors to access the Kashmir Valley. Emperor Jahangir himself is said to have traveled through this route on his way to Kashmir and was so captivated by its beauty that he had a tomb built for himself nearby at Verinag, where he eventually passed away.
Geography and Weather
Peer Ki Gali is surrounded by pine and deodar forests, vast stretches of alpine meadows, and steep cliffs offering panoramic views of the entire valley. Due to its high altitude, the area experiences cold temperatures for most of the year. In summer, it becomes a perfect escape from the heat, with cool breezes and blooming wildflowers. In winter, the region is often blanketed with snow, making the pass inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
Places to Visit and Things to Do
Peer Baba Shrine – The central spiritual attraction, the shrine of Peer Baba, welcomes travelers of all faiths. The aura is serene and peaceful, often covered in mist and snow, giving it a divine feel.
Mughal Road Drive – One of the highlights is the drive itself. The road offers sweeping views of the valley below and mountains above, making every turn postcard-worthy.
Photography & Nature Walks – The untouched natural beauty of Peer Ki Gali is a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. From wildflowers to grazing sheep and the occasional fluttering of prayer flags near the shrine, the visuals are serene and calming.
Picnic in the Meadows – The lush green meadows surrounding the area make for perfect picnic spots. You can sit down with your loved ones and soak in the tranquil vibes of this Himalayan paradise.
Short Treks – Adventure seekers can explore nearby trails that lead to hidden waterfalls, small mountain streams, and scenic viewpoints.
Shopping
Peer Ki Gali is a remote and pristine destination, so it doesn’t have bustling markets. However, you might find local shepherds selling natural herbs, handcrafted woolen items, or even dried wildflowers if you’re lucky. Most shopping can be done in nearby towns like Shopian, Rajouri, or Poonch.
Food
There are a few small tea stalls and roadside dhabas near the shrine that offer Kashmiri kahwa, tea, maggi, and sometimes local specialties like makki ki roti and sabzi. Carrying your snacks is advised if you’re planning to stay longer or hike around the area.
Lodging
Being a high-altitude pass and not a town or city, Peer Ki Gali doesn’t offer lodging directly on-site. The nearest stay options are in Shopian or Rajouri, which have a range of budget to mid-range hotels. However, day visits are ideal, and travelers often combine Peer Ki Gali with a road trip from Srinagar or Jammu.
Travel Tip
- Best time to visit: May to October
- Don’t forget warm clothes even in summer as it can get chilly suddenly.
- Carry water, snacks, and a camera to capture the scenic glory.
- Respect the shrine and local customs while visiting.
