Sarbal – Kashmir’s unique vegetable village – is a new trekkers’ haven

Ganderbal, Aug 9: Sarbal village, nestled at the far end of the valley in this central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, has carved out its unique identity through potato and vegetable cultivation.

Situated around 10 kilometers beyond Sonamarg, the village stands as the final hamlet within Kashmir. Its inhabitants comprise a blend of Kashmiris and the Shina community, known as Dards, who contribute to the region’s rustic charm.

Sarbal village distinguishes itself as the sole region in Ganderbal that is dedicated to cultivating premium-quality potatoes and a variety of edible vegetables.

Beyond its agricultural significance, Sarbal is also a captivating tourist spot, alluring visitors with its picturesque beauty.

The village and its residents continue to embrace a traditional way of life. The local populace sustains itself primarily through farming, tending to crops like potatoes, carrots, and radishes.

Potato farming has become the cornerstone of the region, partly due to the rising demand for this vegetable in the market.

While agriculture remains the primary focus, the villagers yearn for government support in promoting their locally grown potatoes, turning their dedication into fruitful success.

However, Sarbal’s residents are not permanent occupants. They dwell here for only three to five months, retreating to their native villages like Gagangeer, Ganiwan, and Kangan when winter arrives. The heavy snowfall renders it not just difficult, but virtually impossible to endure.

Despite its remote location, Sarbal manages to provide basic amenities to its inhabitants. Facilities such as sub-centre, sumo service, and sheep husbandry department’s healthcare centre cater to the community’s needs.

Talking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Abdul Rasheed Lone, the village head, said, “Sarbal is a trekkers’ haven, offering explorers a chance to embark on a journey.”

Located along the banks of the Sindh river, the trekkers set forth from Sarbal village, conquering the challenging trails of Durinar and Barafsar.  “These peaks present an awe-inspiring panorama of the entire Kashmir Valley,” Lone said.

—(KNO)