CHOWGAN- KISHTWAR

Chowgan is the name of a large natural pasture within the heart of city of Kishtwar existing naturally since centuries. This pasture is full of herbs and nutritious grass which also produces a good quality of mushrooms.

Situated about 1,500 meters away from the main bus stand, Chowgan is a huge ground measuring 165 acres. It is surrounded by Chinar, Deodar and other trees. On the north is a small airport used by helicopters and small aircrafts and the Gaurishankar Temple. On the south exists a shrine named Asrar-Ud-Din-Bagdadi and famous Kishtwar saffron fields on its west.

The surrounding villages add a definite charm and beauty to this playground. On the north-western corner is a place called “Char Chinar”. Four tall Chinar trees have enclosed it and some of them are said to be over 200 years old. The spot has got historical importance.

Travelers’ Delight
The travelers and trekkers could visit the Nagisheer peaks which overlook the famous Padder valley and Virgin Brahma peaks. Many trekkers set up their makeshift tents here on this ground.
The slopes above this Chowgan are apt for Paragliding and other aerial sports and many enthusiasts try flying over this ground amusing the local populace.

This continues till the town experiences its first bout of snow.

A Skiing & Sledging Paradise
With the on the onset of winter the scene around Chowgan changes with the first snowfall which makes this large pasture into an abode of snow. As the ground is located centrally, people from everywhere including locals throng the place with their sports and electronic tools to capture pictures and ski on the sledges. At this point of time Kishtwar is no less than a Gulmarg or Switzerland of west.