Background of Neel: Neel is a quaint little town in the Tehsil Banihal district of Ramban, surrounded by towering mountains, green valleys, and meadows. This pristine land is relatively unknown. Banihal Tehsil, one of the six tehsils in the Ramban district in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, is quickly catching the attention of the tourists. The incredible topography of the region around Banihal is giving an edge for adventure tourism and herbal tourism in this Pir Panchal town since this town is rich in many herbs and shrubs medicinally beneficial. Many hidden beauties do attract huge picnics from various places of Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, motivated by its splendid beauty and amiable climate during the scorching summer months. This place also serves as the gateway to Kashmir, with domestic and international tourists driving through this lovely town that is commonly marked-a natural beauty of pleasing weather and striking geographical features to be appreciated.
Now, let us describe this write-up: Neel Top-a very scenic destination-is almost about 25 kilometers from Banihal town in the Ramban district of J & K, India. Located between 1,800 meters to 2,000 meters above sea level, it consists of very large green meadows from which magnificent views of shrieking snow-covered peaks of the Pir Panjal range are visible, including the recognizable and lofty Hans Raj Peak, at 3,998 meters.
How to reach out to this place:-
By Road: Neel Top is reached from Banihal itself via the Chamalwas village and a motorable road directly leads to the destination. About 25 kilometers distance from Banihal. For those coming from Jammu, it takes around 180 kilometers along NH 44 to reach Chamalwas, and from there it is on a link road to Neel Top for about 18 kilometers.
By Rail: The closest railhead is in Banihal, which lies approximately 40 kilometers from Neel Top. This has connections to many areas of the Jammu and Kashmir regions for easy access for the visitors.
By Air: The closest airport is in Srinagar, situated around 120 kilometers from Neel Top. From the airport, travelers have the option to hire taxis or utilize public transportation to reach their destination.
Here are some glimpses I captured:
Neel Top is known for its tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal location for a picnic, trekking, and walking in nature. Resplendent meadows and wooded terrain provide excellent opportunities for camping and adventure activities. Being a local getaway for peace-seeking tourists, it witnesses a tremendous influx of local visitors during the summer months. The Neel Top Summer Carnival in June 2023 offered local cultural performances, trekking programs, and a variety of recreational activities that celebrate the area's exalted cultural heritage and natural beauty. The summer months from May to August are ideal for a visit. In winters, it receives heavy snowfall and becomes a charming picnic spot.
Accommodation:
At the moment, there are few accommodation facilities in Neelm Top. The PWD Community-cum-Guest House is one such facility. Therefore, overnight visitors should either pre-arrange or find shelter in Banihal town.
Proper road connectivity and construction of adequate tourism infrastructure at these unexplored and fine tourist spots may help boost the economy of Jammu and Kashmir, benefiting especially the local people. The tourism potential of Banihal is immense, and its beautiful terrain deserves to be fully developed and included in the country's tourism map to woo ancient and international travelers to Kashmir passing through Banihal Town.
(Vivek Koul)
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