The short answer
Razdan Pass: what visitors should know first
Yes, you cross it anyway, so stop for ten to twenty minutes. The summit has views toward Harmukh and a small army-maintained shrine; check the weather and road before you leave Srinagar.
History and context
The story behind Razdan Pass
A road tunnel under the pass has been discussed since 2009, when Project Beacon proposed it to the Border Roads Organisation. A detailed project report was submitted in 2016 and preliminary approvals followed in 2018, with a planned length of about 18 km. We could not verify current progress, so do not rely on a tunnel for year-round access.
The pass is also spelled Rajdhan in some sources.
Useful facts
Razdan Pass facts at a glance
- Location
- Between Bandipora and Gurez
- Elevation
- About 3,556 m (11,667 ft)
- Experience type
- Mountain pass with a shrine and views
- Known for
- Only road link into Gurez; winter closure
- Time or schedule
- Usually open from about May or June to October
Why it matters
Why Razdan Pass is worth your time
Razdan Pass is the only road that connects Gurez with the Kashmir Valley, which is why a closure matters more here than almost anywhere in the region. Heavy snow shuts it for several months each year, leaving the valley largely cut off for about six months. That isolation shapes the local economy, the school year, healthcare and even the short tourist season.
It is also a landscape in its own right, a high crossing with views of Harmukh, among the best-known mountains of the region. Understanding that the pass opens and closes with the weather helps you plan flexibly.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Harmukh view
On a clear day the summit looks towards the Harmukh massif.
- 02
Peer Baba shrine
A small shrine at the summit kept up by the army.
- 03
Forest ascent
The climb from Bandipora via Tragbal is part of the experience.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat the pass as a pause in the drive, not a destination. The road climbs from Bandipora through forest, usually with a tea stop at Tragbal, then opens into high meadow and grazing sheep at the summit. Walk a few steps from the car, take in the view towards Harmukh and the valleys on both sides, and allow time for your ears and head to adjust.
The small Peer Baba shrine at the summit is maintained by the army and is a place many drivers pause at. Visit respectfully and ask your driver about any local customs. Photograph the scenery, not the checkpost.
Check weather before crossing. Fog, rain or fresh snow can make the road slow, and late afternoon crossings are best avoided. If you are travelling out of season, ask in Bandipora whether the pass is open.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check road status before leaving Srinagar
- Carry original photo ID for checkposts
- Cross in daylight and avoid fog or rain
- Keep warm layers in the car
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Between Tragbal and Gurez, Bandipora district
- Time needed
- 15–30 minutes at the summit
- Best time
- Mid-morning on a clear day, July to September
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- The summit stop is level and you rarely need to walk far. The height of about 3,556 m can cause headaches or breathlessness, and wind and cold are strong even in summer. Do not rush here; sit in the car if anyone feels unwell.
- Tickets and access
- No ticket. There are army checkposts on the route, so carry original photo ID. Closure dates vary with snow, so check road status before leaving.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Razdan Pass
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The summit stop is level and you rarely need to walk far. The height of about 3,556 m can cause headaches or breathlessness, and wind and cold are strong even in summer. Do not rush here; sit in the car if anyone feels unwell.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
When is Razdan Pass open?
Usually from around May or June to October, but dates differ from year to year with snow. Sources disagree, so ask locally before booking.
How high is Razdan Pass?
About 3,556 m (11,667 ft).
Is there a tunnel?
A tunnel has been proposed for years but we could not verify any completed tunnel. Do not plan on one.
Sources and further reading
- Wikipedia: Razdan Pass
- TrekGo: Top things to do in Gurez Valley
- Kashmir Reader: A trip to scenic Gurez Valley
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
