Srinagar, Sep 7: Tourism is steadily changing the face of several border areas in North Kashmir, with more than 4.30 lakh visitors travelling to destinations along the Line of Control this year, according to official figures cited in a recent report.
The tourism surge covers areas of Kupwara, Bandipora and Uri, including Keran, Lolab, Machil, Teetwal, Tangdhar, Gurez, Tulail and Uri. These destinations, once largely associated with security concerns and limited access, are increasingly attracting visitors for their landscapes, local culture and quieter mountain settings.
Kupwara recorded the highest footfall, with nearly three lakh tourists visiting the district. Uri received around 70,000 visitors, while Gurez recorded approximately 60,000 tourist arrivals.
The rise in visitors has also created opportunities for residents. Homestays, transport services, local guides, handicrafts and other small businesses are benefiting from the growing tourist movement.
Improved security conditions have played an important role in opening these areas to tourism. The reaffirmation of the India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement in February 2021 brought greater stability along the LoC and reduced cross-border incidents in several areas.
The improved environment has encouraged travellers to visit places that were earlier considered difficult to access. Border communities are now increasingly presenting their natural surroundings, traditional lifestyles and cultural heritage as tourism assets.
Keran has emerged as one of North Kashmir’s prominent offbeat destinations. Situated along the Kishanganga River, the valley attracts visitors with its mountains, greenery, riverside scenery and village life.
Gurez has also recorded strong tourist interest, with around 60,000 visitors this year. Known for its alpine landscape and Dard-Shina heritage, the valley offers opportunities for nature, adventure and cultural tourism. The opening of the Shin-on-Me cultural centre has further added to the region’s cultural appeal.
Lolab, Machil, Tangdhar and Teetwal are also gaining attention. Lolab was recognised as the Best Offbeat Destination at the Outlook Traveller Awards in 2023, while Machil and Tangdhar are drawing visitors seeking remote Himalayan experiences.
In Uri, the historic Kaman Bridge, also known as Aman Setu, is being developed as a potential tourism attraction.
Infrastructure and promotional activities by district administrations, the J&K Tourism Department and the Indian Army are further supporting the growth.
The expansion of border tourism is giving North Kashmir’s remote communities new economic opportunities while bringing previously less visited destinations onto the region’s tourism map.
