Why is it in the news?

Kaobal Gali-Mushkoh Valley, previously a battlefield during the Kargil War, has been opened for tourists.

About

• The valley connects the high-altitude passes of Gurez in north Kashmir with Mushkoh Valley in Kargil’s Drass Sector, Ladakh.
• A 130-km road has been established to facilitate tourist access.
• Kaobal Gali, the highest pass at 4,166.9 meters in Gurez, serves as the connecting point.

Gurez Valley:

• Gurez Valley is located near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir, at an elevation of about 2,400 meters above sea level.
• It boasts diverse wildlife, including ibex, musk deer, marmots, Himalayan brown bears, and snow leopards.
• The Kishanganga River flows through this valley.
• Gurez is known for its unique log houses, devoid of urban concrete materials, making it distinct from other habitations in Kashmir.

Mushkoh Valley

• The Mushkoh Valley is situated in Dras, Ladakh.
• It is known for its vibrant wild tulip flowers and is home to the endangered Himalayan yew.