Bandala

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Bandala is one of the most beautiful valleys of Jammu & Kashmir. It is located about 26 kilometres from Bhimber. The valley is stretched from river Tawi in the east to the Samahni valley in the west. The Reech Pahari(bear mountain) runs parallel on the northern side and the Baghsar mongehjkuntain on the southern side. The valley is about 10 kilometres long and about 1.5 kilometres wide. It joins the valley of Samahni at Sara e Saadabad and Chitti Mitti. Many streams flow through the valley producing extremely beautiful cascades, rapids, falls and natural swimming pools. These pools are very popular among the local youths not only for the swimming but also for fishing. Especially in the summer these beautiful clear water pools become hub of recreational activities of the local youth. The fertile land and mild climate can produce any crga goops or trees but the valley looks like a huge mango field. Farming is still the major source of staple food for the area with two crops grown annually i.e wheat and Corn. The high literacy rate has improved the overall living standards of the people. With most of the people working for the government or going overseas especially to the Middle East and Europe, dependence on farming for income has greatly reduced. But people still cultivate the land for the food. Many beautiful birds and animals are found in the valley including Peacocks, Partridges, Quail, Birds of Paradise, Falcons and Eagles etc. The enclosing Reech Pahari serves as the sanctuary for many animal species like Tiger, Hyena, Wolf, Jackal, Foxes, Python, Monkey, Deer, Stag and Impala etc. The valley is home to many hamlet, of which Bandi, Piana, Parati, Ghawalian are more famous.