Tithwal is small hamlet located on banks of Kishanganga River and in close proximity of Line of Control. Tithwal is famous for its historic Crossing Bridge which was built on Kishanganga River during times of Maharaja Hari Singh in 1931. In recent years, Tithwal has developed as paradise of tourists, its scenic beauty and plesant climate have made it a sought after destination. Nestled in foothills of Shamshabari Mountains, its luxurious chinars, slender poplars, delicious fruits, placid Kishanganga river, murmuring streams swarming with Himalayan trout, and above all heartwarming people, Tithwal has everything for visitors. It is a paradise on earth. The land of Tithwal connects a visitor to the very rawness of the area. Its close proximity to the Line of Control makes it even more exciting for adventure enthusiasts. Two lands divided by the mighty Kishanganga River are joined by the Crossing Bridge, which was first built-in year 1931 by forest department under the rule of Maharaja Hari Singh. The bridge has seen tough times since independence. Broken and tested by time again and again and eventually built up again by both the countries. And today this Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kashmir.
In 2021, devotees of the Sharda Temple came to Tithwal to take a holy dip in the Krishanganga River. The villagers of Tithwal showed them the way to the land where the temple and gurudwara existed before 1947. Thereafter, a committee was formed which started working on restoring the spiritual glory of Sharda Yatra Temple. The people of Tithwal exhibited a philanthropically act by leading from the front while working towards the construction of the temple. The construction of the temple made a historical transformation in the hearts and minds of the people of Kashmir. The restoration of Sharda Yatra Temple has made a huge impact on the lives of the locals. An increase in border tourism has led to an economical amelioration in the region. ‘Mera Kashmir Badal Raha Hai’ Slogan makes complete sense in Tithwal. It is a new Kashmir where a Muslim is leading the construction of a temple and gurudwara, where people are providing Home-stays for the pilgrims from other religions, where everyone believes that we are humans first and Hindus and Muslims later. There are 26 Home stays available where one can experience hospitality of local people of Tithwal at economical rates ranging from 700 – 1000 Rupees per person for one night. The blissful morning on the bank of the Kishanganga River where you can hear the sound of water colliding against the rocks and birds chirping all around is a perfect spot for an individual to meditate. Sitting on the Zadara gap and imagining you moving along the waves of the water help in finding the meaning to this beautiful life. Starting from the Nashta Chun Pass moving along the valley leading to Tithwal and further to the westernmost village of India, this road offers a great expedition along the mighty mountains of Kashmir. Recently this ride has been very famous among the tourist making it a luxury in paradise.
Fishing plays an important role in boosting the economic condition of the locals. Running from Amrui to Tithwal the Katha Kazi Nar provides ample amount of fishing points which help people earn their bread and butter. This is also an attraction for tourists who want to hone their angling skills. Walking on the road from Crossing Bridge to Tithwal, gives a nostalgic view of the grownups of 80s and 90s where one can see children playing in the Tithwal stadium and elders sitting at one shop playing cards. One cannot resist himself from entering the stadium and relive the good old days when childhood only meant playing and playing. On 23 May 1948, the Pashtun tribal militia had crossed the border and occupied the strategically important village of Tithwal on Indian side which was fought over and claimed by both sides on number of occasions. The attacker’s primary aim was to capture the Richhmar Gali located in south of Tithwal and Nasta Chun pass, east of Tithwal which was held by Indian Army. A massive attack was launched by Pakistan Army on 13 Oct 1948, hoping to capture the post held by Indian troops but this failed miserably with heavy causality due to immense courage and valour displayed by Indian troops. Indian Army thus retained the village of Tithwal. During this war, the brave civilians of Tithwal fought alongwith gallant Soldiers of Indian Army against the Pak raiders.
In memory of our fallen heroes, a war memorial has been constructed at Tithwal which fills everyone with pride and patriotism. In nutshell, Tithwal has been served with a history to remember and beauty to enjoy. The Crossing Bridge itself represents the true determination and courage to stay strong in the difficult times and to rise again even after falling down. With upcoming structure of Sharda Yatra Temple, the village is growing popular among the tourist and has become a must visit place in Kashmir. Nevertheless, it is truly a hidden gem of Kashmir being brought in front of the world by the people and for the people.
realy tithwal is a real gem of kashmir