DARDISTAN
Dardistan is the country of Dards or the Dardic people. Historically, it was a region comprising the parts of Pakistan, of Jammu and Kashmir, and regions of northeastern Afghanistan. Dardistan literally means, is the land of Dards.
GUREZ VALLEY
Gurez is located about six hours from Srinagar, and is part of the larger teritory of Dardistan. People here, speak the Shina Language and the region is known for its Shina-Dardic culture.
Gurez Valley is a beautiful place with many natural wonders of the high-altitude naturescape.
artwork : gurez tapesty, 2023
Gurez Valley has long been a ‘grazing area’ for cattle, sheep, and horses. During the summer, many prople and their animalis relocare to the valley. They discover wide open pastures that provide sustainace for the animals and a peaceful atmosphere for the pople to live in temporary tents in wich they make their homes. Gujjars and Bakarwals use the high altitude grazing grounds to raise their livestock. Locally, some of these individuals are known as khanabadosh, while their cattle, sheep and other livestock are known as maal-maveshii.
The name Gurez, Gorais or Guraai (in the Shina Language1) has its origins in the act of grazing as well.
The region has picturesque landscapes, lush pastures, rustic homes and gigantic mountains.
The many little villages contain quaint spaces and quite scenes. They make you feel like you are in another time.
Dawar, a place situated in the heart of the Gurez Valley, is a friendly neighborhood with warm people. Where most people (espcially the seniors of the region) ask you : “Khush Ho!?“
GALLERY
Wholesome Woodwork, Whisping Clouds | Traingular Terrains, Towering Trees.
Triangles in the Valley.
more to come
From Gurez visits in 2023.
- Shina, a language spoken in the Gurez Valley and in the nearby regions of Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Drass. It is predominantly a spoken language. ↩︎
प्रा 