By: MOOL RAJ
Lal Draman in Doda enchanting Site which needs National recognition.
Erstwhile Doda owing to its natural uplands and tourism sites is a beautiful valley which boasts the tourism and attracts the majority of the tracker and adventurers. The entire erstwhile District is full of awe aspiring mountains right from the Hans Raj top to lush green meadows to Bhaderwah, Bhalessa, Kishtwar, Padder, Davigol, Pogal Paristan. The entire valley of chenab for which Frederick Drew called Pahari Dwellers speaking indigenous languages is full of meadows. One such enchanting meadow is Lal Draman which awaits national recognition.
The place has recently been visited by a large number of natural lovers.
Lal Draman means the “Red Meadow,” is a pretty place in Doda. The area is filled with colorful flowers, creating a beautiful sight. It’s a great spot for people looking to enjoy nature and have a peaceful getaway, close to the charming Sazan village. It serves as a versatile tourism destination, attracting visitors both in winter and summer. Its appeal spans across seasons, offering a diverse range of experiences for tourists throughout the year.
Located 21 kilometers northwest of Doda Town, Its proximity to the town makes it accessible, providing an opportunity for both locals and visitors to easily enjoy the beauty of the “Red Meadow” without venturing too far.
The place offers a diverse experience throughout the year, with pleasant weather in summer and a snowy landscape in winter. Its local fame stems from being an ideal destination for picnics, camping, and a variety of adventure activities. During the summer, the mild climate makes it perfect for outdoor pursuits like horse riding and trekking. In winter, the snowy terrain transforms Lal Draman into a hub for winter sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for skiing and zorbing ball activities. Whether it’s the warmth of summer or the snowy charm of winter, Lal Draman beckons adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
This place has interesting facts as it acts as a symbol of communal harmony, where a mosque and temple peacefully coexist side by side. This unique characteristic reflects the spirit of brotherhood, showcasing amity and diversity and fosters unity among its people. The sight of both religious structures in close proximity highlights the shared values and peaceful cohabitation, making Lal Draman a beacon of peace.
The place is surrounded by many tourist spots, including meadows like Makhan Baggi, Allah Kanda, Bal Padri, Rohari Dhar, Talaie, Kanthi Dhar, Dagan, Gasheer Top, Bhrami Top, Nargowari, Naglotan, Sarola Top, Kota Top, Bach Dhar, Jitota Meadows, Khurnal Meadows, Pangas, Dulchi, Dhanasu, Naglotan, Beerchow, Nagni, Dhosa, and Lamhote Meadows, Chandrain, Kilmil Gurmal Galla, Basam Galla, Dal Draman, Loni Draman, Chapnari, Saiba Wali Marg, Choundi Sira, Elali Shiva, Udyanpur, and Bharath. Each of these locations offers a unique charm, contributing to the overall appeal of the region. Each of these locations contributes to the diverse appeal of Doda, offering a range of experiences from serene meadows to panoramic mountain views. The tourism potential in Doda lies in its scenic beauty, cultural significance, and the opportunity for various outdoor activities.
Lal Draman and its surrounding areas, including Bhalessa, provide a plethora of activities for visitors. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking, zorbing ball experiences, and horse riding, making the most of the scenic landscapes. For those seeking a more active engagement, marathons offer a thrilling way to explore the natural beauty.
Moreover, the presence of art and craft stalls showcases local talents and adds a cultural show to the tourists. The cultural performances contribute to the vibrant atmosphere, making Lal Draman a not just scenic destination but vibrant hubs of activity and cultural exchange. The annual snow festival in Lal Draman is a much-anticipated event, offering a diverse array of activities for everyone. From the enchanting art of snow sculpting to engaging in competitive sports like volleyball, kabaddi, and badminton, the festival caters to various interests. Additionally, the cultural performances add a captivating touch, creating a festive and lively atmosphere. The snow festival becomes a celebration of both winter delights and the vibrant spirit of Lal Draman, drawing locals and visitors alike to partake in the festivities and create lasting memories.
The snow festival in Lal Draman is a joyous occasion where people enjoy themselves in a day filled with snow games, cultural activities, local cuisine, and traditional games. The enthusiasm is particularly joyous among children, who reveled in the snow activities, adding an extra layer of joy to the festival. The festive atmosphere, marked by laughter and excitement, created an unforgettable experience for everyone involved, fostering a sense of community and cherished memories that will linger for years to come.
Lal Draman hosts cultural programs in languages such as Sirazi, Bhaderwahi, Kashmiri, and Urdu. The festivities include a variety of activities, from traditional performances to sports like volleyball, kabaddi, horse racing, daku dances, and animal shows. The proximity of a small mosque and temple, built side by side, symbolizes unity between Muslims and Hindus, contributing to the inclusive spirit of the place.
The cultural programmes performed in Sirazi, Bhaderwahi, Kashmiri besides horse racing, daku dances, animal shows, and other activities are performed on these day. The small mosque and temple built next to each other in Lal Draman, are said to be symbols of unity between Muslims and Hindus.
The commendable efforts of the tourism department and District Administration in Doda are evident in the success of the Annual Snow Festival 2024, drawing a significant number of participants. Their dedication has played a pivotal role in making the event a memorable and well-attended celebration which can boast lal Draman as a National hotspot for the adventurers and mountaineers.
The complete national recognition of Lal Draman is imperative to highlight its significance as a tourism destination and foster support for its cultural and natural assets on a broader scale. This recognition can lead to increased preservation efforts, infrastructure development, and promotion, ultimately benefiting the District and attracting more visitors across the country.
