Tosa Maidan is not only famous as a pasture but also for its historical background. Bounded by dense forests, it is situated about 10 kms from Khag in the mountains of the Himalayan range. After crossing the upper mountain reaches of Drang, Zakhora and other small villages, one reaches the pasture of Tosa Maidan. It is said that Tosa Maidan is one of those pastures which the shepherds of other neighbouring countries also used to visit in ancient times. The Mughals used to go to Poonch using this route. It is said that they had constructed a seven-storeyed building – Dam-Dam – here.
The Basmai Gali(13,000 ft) is the pass which leads into Tosa Maidan. Another pass – Poonch Gali – on its right side leads to the valley of Poonch. This pass was deemed to be the safest, easiest, and nearest to reach Punjab in ancient times. From here, a path also leads to Nilnag. Tosa Maidan is the largest pasture in its surrounding areas, 3 miles in length and 1.5 miles in width. Sky-touching deodars fence this pasture presenting a view of a green carpet in summer. During the summer, the camps of the Gujjar community and shepherds with theirgrazing sheep in the pastures present a riveting picture. Also, the fragrance of wild flowers refreshes the whole environment.
Tosa Maidan is located in the Pir Panjal mountains, about 10 kilometres from Khag, and is surrounded by dense forests. The picturesque Tosa Maidan valley has long been a popular destination for travellers. Visitors swarm the area in droves due to its stunning terrain and refreshingly mild air in the summer. One arrives at the meadow of Tosa Maidan after passing via the upper mountain regions of Drang, Zakhora, and a few tiny settlements. A trail may be taken from here to Nilnag, where there is a beautiful lake bordered by thick pine trees. The largest grassland in the vicinity, Tosa Maidan, is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide. This pasture is surrounded by deodar trees that reach the sky, giving a glimpse of a green carpet in the summer. A captivating scene may be seen in the summer when the Gujjar population camps out and shepherds tend to their flocks of sheep in the pasture.
This fascinating location is well-known for its historical history in addition to its status as a meadow. This path was once utilised by the Mughals to get to Poonch. They allegedly also built a seven-story structure (Dam-Dam) at this location. The route that leads into Tosa Maidan is the Basmai Gali (13,000 feet). On its right side, Poonch Gali, another pass, leads to the Poonch valley. In the past, this pass was seen to be the safest, simplest, and closest way to go to Punjab. The main hiking path from Yousmarg leads to this well-known location and continues on. Mountains covered in snow cover much of Tosa Maidan’s perimeter. Additionally, a variety of natural flowers adorn the surroundings.
The atmosphere is revitalised by the aroma of wild flowers, which has a special effect on the guests. There are many springs in the area, but the one at Khag, close by, is well known for its healing powers. From Yousmarg, one may either hike the distance or take a Sumo jeep from Srinagar. Roads link the region to locations like Gulmarg and Poonch. The months of May through September are the finest for visiting this serene meadow. The valley receives significant snowfall for the remaining months, severing all the connecting lines.
