The short answer
Mughal Road and Pir ki Gali: what visitors should know first
Take it if you are travelling on to Kashmir and the road is open, or as a scenic day drive towards the pass. It is a high, remote road that closes in winter, with few facilities. Check status before you set out and carry food, water and warm layers.
History and context
The story behind Mughal Road and Pir ki Gali
The route over the Pir Panjal between Poonch and Hirpora was in use from ancient times, and Akbar developed it as an imperial road. The modern Mughal Road was begun in 2005 after earlier attempts stalled and opened to light vehicles in 2012. In 2025 the government approved upgrading the road to national highway standard and building a Pir ki Gali tunnel.
Useful facts
Mughal Road and Pir ki Gali facts at a glance
- Location
- Between Poonch and Shopian over the Pir Panjal
- Experience type
- Scenic mountain drive
- Known for
- Crossing at about 3,500 m at Pir ki Gali
- Length
- About 80 to 84 km of road; about 126 km Poonch to Shopian
- Time or schedule
- Seasonal; closed or restricted in heavy snow
Why it matters
Why Mughal Road and Pir ki Gali is worth your time
The road follows a very old route between the plains and Kashmir, developed under the Mughals as part of the imperial road from Lahore, which is where the modern name comes from. The present highway was built in the 21st century and opened to light vehicles in 2012.
It matters to Poonch because it links the district to Kashmir without going through Jammu, cutting the distance from Poonch to Shopian to roughly 126 km. Plans for a tunnel at Pir ki Gali were approved in 2025 to make the route all-weather, so conditions may change.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Pir ki Gali
The high pass at about 3,500 m, higher than Banihal, with wide views and cold air.
- 02
Behramgalla and Rattan Peak
A plateau and peak on the Poonch side, good for a first stop.
- 03
Imperial history
The road follows an old Mughal route, with roadside ruins like the sarai at Aliabad.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat the Mughal Road as a journey. The road leaves Poonch and climbs through forest and meadow, passing Behramgalla and the plateau near Rattan Peak before the long ascent to the pass. Plan a start soon after dawn so that you cross the high stretch with the day still ahead of you.
At Pir ki Gali the road tops out at roughly 3,500 m and the air is thin, cold and often windy. Step out for a few minutes, but do not rush: if you feel dizzy, go down. Phone signal is patchy and fuel and food are scarce on the way, so fill up in Poonch and carry snacks.
If you are only visiting from Poonch, you do not have to go all the way over. A drive to the early viewpoints and waterfalls gives a taste of the road with an easy return the same evening.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Check road status and convoy rules before you leave
- Fill the tank in Poonch
- Carry water, food and warm layers
- Go slowly at altitude and turn back if unwell
- Avoid driving after dark
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- From Poonch via Behramgalla towards Pir ki Gali and Shopian
- Time needed
- Full day for an out-and-back drive; the through journey is a full day
- Best time
- Late spring to early autumn, when the road is usually open; closed or restricted during heavy snow
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Most of the experience is from the vehicle. The altitude and the winding road can cause headaches and nausea, and there are few toilets or places to sit. Older travellers should break the journey and avoid the road in poor weather.
- Tickets and access
- There is no entry fee, but the road is subject to weather and security closures. Check the latest advisory with local authorities or traffic police before travelling. Vehicles may need to travel in convoys at set times.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Mughal Road and Pir ki Gali
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Most of the experience is from the vehicle. The altitude and the winding road can cause headaches and nausea, and there are few toilets or places to sit. Older travellers should break the journey and avoid the road in poor weather.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
When is the Mughal Road open?
Usually in the warmer months; it is closed or restricted during heavy snow. Check the latest advisory.
How high is Pir ki Gali?
About 3,500 m, higher than the Banihal pass.
Is it a good alternative to the Jammu-Srinagar highway?
It is shorter for Poonch and Rajouri travellers but less reliable and with fewer facilities.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.