Renuire: A Hidden Paradise

Renuire is a hidden paradise nestled in the Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary, surrounded by the stunning snow-covered mountains of the inner Himalayas.

The sanctuary is located in the foothills of the Pir Panjal Mountain Range, bordered by Lake Gumsar to the north, Rupri to the east, Suransar to the south, and Pir Panjal and Hirpora Village to the west. Administered by the Shopian District in the Kashmir Valley, the sanctuary covers an area of 341.25 sq. km, with diverse landscape including forests, pastures, wastelands, and alpine lakes.

Established in 1987, the sanctuary aims to protect various species such as snow trout, markhor, musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan black bears.

It features deciduous sub-alpine scrub forests and western mixed coniferous forests, and its altitude of 2546 meters makes it home to a variety of plants and animals. The temperature ranges from -15 oC to 25 oC throughout the year.

During a visit to Renuire, I was elated by its breathtaking scenery and overall charm, surpassing all expectations. I highly recommend everyone to explore this captivating destination and appreciate the beauty of nature. Accessible within the sanctuary, reaching Renuire requires proficient tracking skills, and the recommended trails are either through Choorgali or starting from Dobjan Bridge, with the latter being the optimal choice.

Historical Background:

Renuire has a rich history associated with Nuire, meaning good grass for animals and natural beauty. Conversations with locals revealed interesting stories, and the place is known for its friendly people. Setting up tents for camping, we experienced the hospitality of the Chenab Valley residents who shared traditional Lassi and essentials for our stay. The legacy of Mian Bashir Sahib Peer, a respected figure, is deeply ingrained in the tales of this place.

Beautiful Experiences:

Our visit to Renuire was marked by the genuine kindness of its inhabitants. Exhausted upon arrival, we found refuge with a gracious individual who became a part of our group, offering tea and Lassi. The abundance of buffaloes in the region contributes to high-quality dairy products, enhancing our experience. A local vendor provided dairy delights at fair prices, and evenings were spent enjoying dinner and the picturesque night scenery of Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary. Renuire offers a unique view of Mughal Road lights in south Kashmir and the visibility of Hirpora village during the nighttime.

To enhance the beauty of Renuire, I suggest promoting eco-tourism within the Wildlife Sanctuary. This would not only benefit the local dairy industry, offering products like buffalo milk, pure ghee, curd, cheese, Kudaan, and more, but also contribute to the conservation of this remarkable natural spot.

Rameez Rasool Mir is a passionate writer with a background in Social Work.