Central Kashmir’s Budgam district—renowned as the vegetable district and for its revered shrines—is home to some of the most serene and scenic locations in the Kashmir Valley. Among its crown jewels is Haijjan Branwar, a hidden gem surrounded by nature's splendor and rich cultural roots.

Budgam boasts iconic tourist destinations like Doodhpathri, a captivating expanse of meadows and pine forests, and spiritual sites like Charar-e-Sharief, the resting place of the mystic Sufi saint Sheikh Noor-ud-din Wali (RA), and the revered Shrine of Samad Mir at Nambalhar, Pakherpora. Yet, nestled quietly among these giants is Haijjan, a destination of raw, untouched beauty.

A Hidden Paradise

Located approximately 45 kilometers from Srinagar, Haijjan Branwar is one of the most luscious, peaceful, and enchanting locations in Budgam. The area is currently used by locals primarily for grazing, but its stunning landscape—carpeted in meadows, dense with coniferous forests, and echoing with the sound of chirping birds—makes it an ideal spot for recreation and tourism.
Locals from surrounding villages and students frequently visit Haijjan for leisure activities. On weekends and holidays, it becomes a hub of cricket games and social gatherings in the lap of nature. The region is safe and secure for visitors, with immense potential for tourism development.

Nature Meets Adventure

A short 20-minute walk across the Doodh Ganga River will lead you to its verdant valley, while a one-hour trek can take you to the famous Yousmarg—making Haijjan a prime trekking destination. The road from Jabbad to Haijjan, however, remains in a dilapidated condition and needs urgent upgrading to facilitate smoother and safer access for tourists and vehicles.
With its unique natural charm and accessibility, Haijjan is steadily emerging as a top trekking and picnic destination, holding potential to generate local employment and catalyze economic growth in the region.

What Makes Haijjan Special?

Haijjan is not just beautiful—it is resourceful. It serves as the main water source for the 7.5 MW Branwaar Hydroelectric Power Project, a major energy initiative in the region. The area is also dotted with small mud-hut-like structures called “kothas” in the Gojri language, used by nomadic herders as temporary shelters during summer grazing seasons.
The meadows, adorned with crystal-clear streams, lush greenery, and serene surroundings, make Haijjan an eco-tourism hotspot waiting to be fully explored.
How to Reach Haijjan
From Budgam:
Route – Budgam → Raithan → Watred → Nego Branwar → Jabbad → Haijjan
Via Chadoora:
Route – Chadoora → Surasyar → Branwar → Jabbad → Haijjan

Ideal for Educational Tours

Schools and educational institutions can plan eco-exploration trips to Haijjan. With proper safety guidelines, group formations of 8–10 students, and staff supervision, students can enjoy and learn from this natural setting. A guided visit to the Branwaar Hydroelectric Power Project can offer practical insights into hydropower generation, making it an enriching academic tour for science and environmental studies.

Conclusion

Haijjan Branwar is not just a spot on the map—it’s an experience waiting to be discovered. With its captivating landscapes, ecological significance, and potential for tourism and education, it deserves a prominent place on Kashmir’s tourist map. With proper infrastructure and promotion, Haijjan could become one of Budgam’s most visited and beloved destinations.

Email:----------------sahilmanzoor411990@gmail.com