The short answer
Tosamaidan: what visitors should know first
Consider it only if you want a wilder, quieter alternative to Yusmarg and have a driver who knows the route. Check road and access conditions locally, go between April and September, and carry food and water.
History and context
The story behind Tosamaidan
The Indian Army leased the meadow in 1964 for 50 years as an artillery firing range. The lease was not renewed after local protests, was terminated in 2014, and the meadow has been open to visitors since 30 May 2016.
Before that, it was a summer pasture and a historic route across the Pir Panjal range into and out of the valley.
Useful facts
Tosamaidan facts at a glance
- Location
- Khag tehsil, Budgam district
- Experience type
- Pasture visit, picnic, photography
- Known for
- Deodar-fringed pasture and Gujjar camps
- Open to visitors
- Since 30 May 2016
- Best time
- April to September
Why it matters
Why Tosamaidan is worth your time
Tosamaidan has been a pasture and a route over the Pir Panjal for generations, and Gujjar families still graze their flocks here each summer. For decades the army used it as an artillery range, leaving danger for nearby villagers; local protests ended the lease in 2014.
Its opening to visitors in 2016 gave Budgam a second large meadow beyond Yusmarg. It remains lightly developed, so visits should be respectful of herders and the landscape.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The large pasture
A broad meadow roughly 3 by 1.5 miles, edged by tall deodar trees.
- 02
Gujjar camps
In summer, herders and their flocks give a glimpse of a working pastoral life.
- 03
Pir Panjal backdrop
Peaks rise above the meadow, giving good photographs on a clear day.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Tosamaidan is reached by a separate route from Yusmarg, through Khag and a string of villages, so treat it as its own outing rather than an add-on. Hire a driver who knows the road and confirm current access before you leave. It is a long, rough drive and the facilities at the meadow are minimal.
The pasture is about 3 by 1.5 miles, bordered by tall deodar trees, and in summer you will see Gujjar herders' camps and flocks of sheep. Walk the edges, enjoy the view of the Pir Panjal and bring a picnic. Please keep a respectful distance from herders' camps and do not photograph people without asking.
Because it was long used as an artillery range, stay on established paths and follow local guidance on safe areas. Start early, carry your own food and water, and leave in time to return before dusk.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm current access and road conditions before you go
- Hire a driver who knows the Khag route
- Carry food and water; facilities are minimal
- Stay on established paths
- Ask before photographing herders and their camps
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Khag tehsil, Budgam district, reached through Khag and villages such as Drang
- Time needed
- A full day from Srinagar
- Best time
- April to September
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The meadow is open ground, but the route is long and rough and there are almost no facilities or seating. Better for fit and adventurous travellers; older visitors should check conditions first.
- Tickets and access
- No formal entry fee is known. Access and any local rules can change, so confirm current conditions with local authorities or your driver before travelling.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Tosamaidan
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
The meadow is open ground, but the route is long and rough and there are almost no facilities or seating. Better for fit and adventurous travellers; older visitors should check conditions first.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Tosamaidan open to visitors?
Yes, it has been open since 30 May 2016 after the army lease ended; check current access before travelling.
How is it reached?
By a separate route through Khag and villages such as Drang, not directly from Yusmarg.
When should I go?
April to September is generally recommended; roads can be hard in other months.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
