Tasaduq Hussain
Kupwara, Dec 16: Known for its stunning springs, natural beauty and historical significance, Lolab Valley in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district is gaining popularity among tourists.
Recently, it received the Gold award for Best Offbeat Destination in India at the prestigious Outlook Traveller Awards 2023. On Friday, J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha congratulated Team Jammu Kashmir, District Administration Kupwara and the people of Lolab Valley for the feat.
Often referred to as the ‘Land of Love’, Lolab Valley, located over 110 kilometres from Srinagar, has been a hidden gem, attracting both locals and outsiders alike.
The valley assumes historical significance as the birthplace of a noted Islamic scholar Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri. It also gained attention in the early 1980s when a portion of a Bollywood movie starring Abhinav Chaturvedi was filmed in Chandigam. Over the last couple of years, concerted efforts have been made to enhance the valley’s infrastructure and develop new tourist places as part of a facelift plan.
An official from the tourism department said that under the J&K administration’s initiative to revitalise all tourist destinations and explore opportunities in lesser-known places, Lolab Valley has witnessed improvements in its tourist facilities. He said serious efforts are made to attract tourists to unexplored places.
Known for its diverse fruit production, natural beauty and dense forest cover, the valley boasts famous tourist spots such as Kalaroos Caves, Khurhama, Sever, Chandigam, Warnow, Aafan, Machil, Kairwan and Diver.
The old house of Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri at Shah Abad Warnow has become a popular attraction. Local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, have seen increased bookings and attendance from tourists across the valley and the country.
Owais Shah, a restaurant owner in Sogam, acknowledged the growing tourism prospects, saying hotels and restaurants are witnessing an increase in visitors. The popularity of government tourist huts and homestays has also contributed to the positive experiences of tourists exploring the Lolab Valley, he said.
Shahid Wani, a local resident said, “The growing number of tourists to Lolab Valley is a blessing for Kupwara district as the tour itinerary usually involves other places like Keran and Bangus Valley.”
He said homestays are also increasing; however, specialised markets and tour guides could have taken tourism to a whole new level. “I have handled quite many tourist groups from various parts of the country and they have returned very happy and satisfied. I requested all of them to be ambassadors of Kupwara district which they happily agreed to,” he said.
The Forest Department’s efforts, particularly the introduction of the homestay concept in remote areas like Machil and Kumkadi, along with the establishment of Eco-Parks in Lolab Valley, have played a crucial role in attracting enthusiasts seeking offbeat destinations.
The locals have expressed optimism about the road connectivity with Ajas, Bandipora, saying it will further boost tourism in the region.
Following the opening of border areas for tourism-related activities, Kupwara district has experienced a significant rise in tourist footfall.
