Govt actively working to promote offbeat tourist destinations: Div Com

Srinagar, Apr 13: The Jammu and Kashmir government is actively working to promote offbeat tourist destinations across the Valley to boost tourism and generate livelihood opportunities for locals, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, V.K. Bidhuri, said on Sunday.
Speaking to media persons here, Bidhuri said the administration has planned a series of tourism promotion programs at scenic but lesser-explored destinations in the valley. “Our aim is to bring places like Yousmarg, Bangus Valley, Doodhpathri, Keran and others into the tourism spotlight,” he said.
Bidhuri informed that promotional events have already been held at some destinations while similar programs are scheduled to be organized at Yousmarg and Bangus Valley, Doodhpathri and Keran, in the coming days.
“The government is making all efforts to highlight these beautiful places and offer tourists more choices beyond the traditional spots of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg,” he added. He also mentioned that an event is scheduled to be held at the iconic Lal Chowk in Srinagar as part of this broader tourism promotion campaign on April 16.
Bangus Valley is one of the most pristine and lesser-explored meadows of the valley. Surrounded by thick pine forests and snow-capped peaks, the valley offers breathtaking scenery dotted with freshwater streams and diverse wildlife. The rolling grasslands of Bangus remain untouched by mass tourism, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts seeking peace away from the crowds.
Similarly, Doodhpathri also known as “Valley of Milk” has long been a favorite of trekkers and local tourists but is now being actively promoted to attract wider attention.
Keran, situated along the Line of Control (LoC) in Kupwara district, has recently gained popularity as a peaceful and scenic border destination. Known for the meandering Kishanganga river and its traditional wooden houses, Keran offers visitors a unique blend of nature, history, and rustic charm. Once largely inaccessible, the area is now opening for tourism and is drawing interest from both local and outside travelers, especially after improved road connectivity.
Bidhuri stressed that promoting these destinations will not only diversify the tourism sector but also uplift local economies by creating jobs and business opportunities for the youth.