Recently, Eurasian otters (Lutra lutra) were sighted in Gurez Valley for the first time in over 25 years, indicating ecological improvement.

• Gurez Valley is located in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district and lies near the Line of Control (LoC).
• It is known for its scenic beauty, meadows, and high-altitude passes.
• The valley was historically a part of the ancient Silk Route connecting Kashmir with Central Asia.
• The Kishanganga River, a tributary of the Jhelum, flows through the valley, providing water resources and supporting biodiversity.
• Kaobal Gali, at an elevation of 4,167 meters, is the highest pass in Gurez and connects it to the Mushkoh Valley in Drass, Ladakh.