Description

Introduction to Village Kastigarh

Welcome to Kastigarh , a village and tehsil nestled in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. Surrounded by lush green  forests and mist-covered hills, Kastigarh is a hidden gem of the Jammu region, where the air is pure, and life flows in harmony with the rhythm of the mountains. Its picturesque landscape and close proximity to Doda – just 25 kilometers from the district headquarters – make it easily accessible and an ideal escape into nature's lap.

Geographical Location

Kastigarh lies approximately 25 kilometres from Doda district headquarters. It is accessible via local roads, with Tata sumo, mini buses and buses providing frequent connection to Doda headquarters. The area geographic coordinates are approximately 33.146479 Latitude and 75.548858 Longitude, situated at an altitude around 3,632 feet above sea level.

Demographics

The village has an estimated population of around 91,335 as of 2020 . The population density is 154 people per square kilometre. The male population is 47,560 and the female population is 43,775. Kastigarh is part of the Doda district and has a Pin code of 182147. Kastigarh is a part of the Doda West Assembly constituency. Spoken language are Kashmiri, Sarazi, Gojri and Urdu. Official language is Urdu.

Brief History of the Village

The name Kastigarh is derived from two words: “Kashi”, a type of grass once abundant in the area, and “Garh”, referring to a place where rulers during the reign of the Pandavas would visit and stay for extended periods. They also built the famous Nag Devta Mandir (Temple of the Snake Deity) here.

The village was officially registered in the revenue records in 1966. Before 2007, Kastigarh fell under the jurisdiction of Block Bhagwah, Tehsil Doda, in Doda district. However, with the creation of a new block and tehsil at Kastigarh in 2007–08, administrative control shifted accordingly.

Between 1989 and 2000, the village was severely affected by militancy, which hampered its economy, education, and overall development. As a result, the area is still categorized as backward. The village/tehsil was finally connected to District Doda headquarters by road in 2010, improving accessibility and opening up new opportunities for growth.

Now Kastigarh is a part of the Doda West Assembly constituency after decentralization. Spoken languages are Kashmiri, Sarazi, Gojri and Urdu. Official language is Urdu.

Cultural Heritage of the Village

The cultural life of Kastigarh reflects a rich blend of traditions and communal harmony. Festivals such as Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are celebrated with great enthusiasm by the local community. Old mosques are also present ,some of them have been renovated.

A significant religious and cultural event in the region is the Gala Dhar Yatra, a sacred pilgrimage dedicated to Shri Chound Mata. The yatra takes place annually in the month of June and follows a route from Ramban to Gala Dhar, passing through Bibrota and Kastigarh in the Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. Devotees undertake this pilgrimage to seek blessings and offer prayers to the deity.

The Gala Dhar Yatra holds deep spiritual importance and is considered a vital part of the cultural and religious calendar of the region, bringing together people from different walks of life in devotion and celebration.

Attraction and Tourism 

Gala Dhar is a scenic mountaintop destination known for its vast landscape covered with lush green grass that resembles a natural carpet. The site holds religious significance, attracting many pilgrims and visitors. However, due to its location in the trans-Himalayan terrain, there is no motorable road leading directly to Gala Dhar. Reaching the top requires a steep two-hour climb, which makes it less accessible for general tourists. Additionally, no night stay facilities are available, which further limits extended visits and overnight tourism.

Cuisine and Food 

 The traditional cuisine of Kastigarh reflects the simplicity and richness of rural life, deeply rooted in locally grown ingredients and age-old cooking methods. The most popular and commonly enjoyed dishes include Makki ki Roti, Sarson ka Saag, and Lassi.

Community and Lifestyle of Kastigarh Village :

The community life in Kastigarh is rooted in harmony, simplicity, and mutual support. People here lead a traditional lifestyle, closely connected with nature and agricultural practices. The village consists of diverse communities, living together peacefully and participating in each other’s festivals and daily life with mutual respect and unity.

The lifestyle in Kastigarh beautifully blends tradition with gradual modern development. The strong sense of community, respect for culture, and connection to nature make it a unique and vibrant part of the Doda district.

Livelihood and Occupation :

The primary source of livelihood is agriculture. Most families are engaged in farming, growing crops like maize, wheat, and pulses, along with seasonal vegetables. Livestock farming is also common, with villagers rearing cows, goats, and poultry for milk and other products.

Many people also depend on traditional skills such as carpentry, weaving, and blacksmithing, which contribute to the local economy. A few villagers are employed in government services, the Indian Army, or work in nearby towns and cities, sending back remittances to support their families.

Healthcare Facilities in Kastigarh

Healthcare facilities in Kastigarh are limited but gradually improving to meet the basic medical needs of the villagers. The village has an Ayushman Bharat Health & Wellness Centre, which provides primary healthcare services, basic checkups, and free medicines under government schemes. The center plays a crucial role in offering preventive care and promoting health awareness among the rural population. In addition to government support, there are a few private medicine shops in the village that supply essential drugs and first-aid items. For serious medical conditions or specialized treatment, residents usually travel to Doda town, where better-equipped hospitals and clinics are available. Though limited, the available healthcare services in Kastigarh are a vital lifeline for the local community.

Flora and fauna :

Kastigarh boasts rich natural biodiversity. The area is covered with pine, deodar, and oak forests, along with wild herbs and medicinal plants. It is known for rare and valuable mushrooms like gucchi, used for both food and medicine. The region also supports wildlife such as foxes, wild goats, langurs, and various bird species, including woodpeckers and hill partridges, making it a naturally vibrant and ecologically important village.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kastigarh is a village where culture, community, and nature come together in harmony. Surrounded by mountains and forests, it has preserved its traditions while gradually moving toward development in healthcare, education, and connectivity. Agriculture remains the backbone of its economy, while festivals, pilgrimages, and communal life reflect its rich cultural heritage. Though once affected by challenges, the people of Kastigarh have shown resilience and unity, keeping alive their values of simplicity, respect, and cooperation. Today, the village holds great potential for sustainable growth, eco-tourism, and community-based initiatives that can improve livelihoods while preserving its natural and cultural identity.

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