Gurez Valley: People, Life, and Culture

The valley of Gurez is located at a distance of 123 KMs from the capital city of Srinagar in the north high Himalayas. At an altitude of 2400 meters above the sea level, Gurez is an apt reflection of the art, culture, and architectural heritage. The people of Gurez speak Shina language including Kashmiri and Urdu, Gurez is located towards the south of Gilgit Baltistan. The inhabitants are ethnic Dards/Shinas. Dawar is the central township in the area. The population of the area is estimated to be about 30,000 and is scattered among fifteen villages. Due to heavy snowfall (around 2 meters (7 ft) and closure of Razdan Pass in winter, the valley remains cut off for six months of the year. The people lack most of the amenities.