Kupwara

Kupwara is a city, District headquarter and a municipal council in Kupwara district in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.Municipal council Kupwara is an Urban Local Body with elected members which administers the city Municipality.It is an administrative district of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir in the disputed Kashmir region. It is one of the 10 districts located in the Kashmir Valley Division of Indian administered Kashmir. The Pohru River (originating in Lolab Valley and flowing from east to west) and Mawar river are two main rivers in the district. Both of them meet Jhelum river in Baramulla district.
The dominant religion in Kupwara is Islam, followed by over 98% of the people living in Kupwara. Other religions include Hinduism, and Sikhism followed by 2%

History and Heritage  
District Kupwara was a part of erstwhile District Baramulla. Before the creation of a separate District, there were three courts functioning in Kupwara i,e. Sub Judge Court at Handwara, Munsiff Court at Kupwara and Munsiff court at Karnah. All these courts were under the control of District Court, Baramulla. A separate District “Kupwara” was created in the year 1979. The Court of Principal District and Session Judge started its functioning from 1st of March, 1980. The first Presiding Officer of the District Court was Mr. G.N. Gowher. On the creation of the District, the Sub Judge Court which was functioning at Handwara was designated as Sub Judge/ Chief Judicial Magistrate Court. Later on the Munsiff Court which was functioning at Kupwara was upgraded to the Court of Sub Judge and the Munsiff Court at Karnah, which was established in the year 1968, is still functioning as such.

Thereafter in the year 2001, three more Fast-tract courts of Munsiff, one at Sogam, second at Kupwara and third at Handwara were established in the District. In this way, District Kupwara has at present one District Court, One CJM Court at Handwara, One Sub Judge Court at Kupwara, One Munsiff Court at Karnah, One Munsiff Court at Sogam, One Munsiff Court at Kupwara and One Munsiff Court at Handwara.

Geography and Climate
Kupwara district has a total area of 2,379 square kilometers (919 sq mi). The district is bordered by Bandipora district in the east, Baramulla district to the south and Pakistan administered Jammu and Kashmir to the north and west. The district is mostly rural/agricultural.
The district's yearly temperature is 13.91ºC (57.04ºF) and it is -12.06% lower than India's averages. Kupwara typically receives about 33.85 millimeters (1.33 inches) of precipitation and has 49.47 rainy days (13.55% of the time) annually.

Flora and Fauna
Kupwara is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, thanks to its lush green valleys and dense forests. The region is known for its vibrant wildlife, including species like the Himalayan black bear, snow leopard, and musk deer. The forests of Kupwara also boast a rich variety of flora, with numerous medicinal plants and herbs growing abundantly in the region.

Tourist Attractions
Seemab Valley: Located around 4 kilometers from the Kupwara Tourist Reception Centre, Seemab Valley is a charming destination that serves as the gateway to the enchanting Lolab Valley. It offers visitors a serene environment with its lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. The valley is an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventurers looking to explore the natural beauty of Kashmir.
Lolab Valley: Named after Maharaja LOLO, Lolab Valley is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, including lush green forests and expansive pastures that stretch over approximately 25 kilometers. The valley is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Himalayan ranges and a peaceful ambiance for those seeking a retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Bangus Valley: Bangus Valley is a hidden gem in Kashmir, relatively unknown but with vast tourism potential. Nestled within the majestic Himalayan ranges, Bangus Valley boasts unspoiled natural beauty and a serene atmosphere. The valley is perfect for nature lovers and adventurers looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in Kashmir.
Sadhna Pass View Point: Sadhna Pass is a mountain pass in Jammu and Kashmir that connects Karnah tehsil of Kupwara district with the rest of the valley. The pass offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, especially during the winter months when it is covered in snow. The Sadhna Pass ViewPoint provides visitors with an opportunity to witness the stunning beauty of the region and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers.

How to Reach
By Air: The nearest International airport is Sheikh-ul-Alam International Airport (93 Km).

By Rail: The nearest railway stations are Sopore and  Baramulla.

By Road: To reach this place from Srinagar, buses/ Cabs  are available at Srinagar bus/Cabs stand.