High-altitude meadows, picturesque trekking trails, and untouched natural springs are rapidly turning Kirla Top into one of the most breathtaking emerging eco-tourism destinations in the upper reaches of Doda District. Far away from crowded tourist hubs and commercialized landscapes, this hidden paradise rests quietly among rolling green meadows, dense forests, and towering mountain peaks. Many local explorers consider Kirla Top to be among the most tranquil and secluded destinations in the region.
A Rare Experience of Raw Beauty
Surrounded by thick pine forests, crystal-clear streams, and panoramic mountain vistas, Kirla Top offers a rare experience where nature continues to exist in its purest form. For trekkers, photographers, campers, and adventure enthusiasts, the destination feels like a hidden paradise waiting to be discovered. Despite its growing popularity among local travelers, the meadow has remarkably preserved its raw beauty and environmental purity—qualities that have gradually disappeared from many commercial tourist destinations.
The Journey: Stepping into Another World
The journey toward Kirla Top is far more than ordinary travel; it is an immersive experience deeply connected to the rustic culture and simplicity of mountain life. Travelers approaching from the Kahara side first arrive at Tanta village, located nearly 12 kilometers away via a well-connected black-topped road.
Visitors can comfortably rest in the village, where locals are widely known for their warmth and hospitality. Small roadside shops offer tea, refreshments, and essential supplies for travelers preparing for the uphill journey. From Tanta, the route continues toward Kirla village through a partially rough stretch of nearly 2 to 4 kilometers. Vehicles can reach the area, but beyond that point begins the true adventure—a breathtaking trekking trail of approximately 5 to 6 kilometers leading toward the summit of Kirla Top.
A Cinematic Escape
The trekking trail itself becomes one of the most memorable parts of the journey. Along the route, visitors witness flowing natural springs, open grasslands, ancient mud houses, and peaceful mountain scenery untouched by urban noise. The sound of flowing water, combined with the cold mountain breeze, creates a deep sense of calmness rarely experienced in modern city life. Every turn of the trail offers breathtaking landscapes that feel almost cinematic.
Horses grazing in the lush meadows
Alternatively, Kirla Top can also be accessed through the Bhallesa–Gandho route, allowing travelers to approach the destination directly by vehicle while enjoying dramatic valleys, dense forests, and panoramic mountain views throughout the journey.
The Call of “Sukoon”
Photography enthusiasts often describe Kirla Top as a dream destination because nearly every corner of the meadow appears visually stunning. From the upper ridges, visitors can witness endless mountain ranges stretching toward the horizon, many of them covered with snow during the winter months of February and March.
“The first thing one feels after reaching the top is sukoon (peace),” says local visitor Asif Hussain. “You don’t just see nature there — you feel connected to it.”
Preserving the Fragile Highlands
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Visit | May to September (lush green meadows) |
| Winter Highlights | February and March (snow-covered peaks) |
| Eco-Responsibility | Avoid littering, reduce plastic usage, and preserve natural cleanliness. |
For now, Kirla Top remains a living postcard — a silent paradise resting peacefully in the mountains of Doda.
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Contributor, The Chenab Times
