Bandipora, July 18: After the success of Gurez Valley as a tourist destination, Tulail Valley of North Kashmir’s Bandipora district is basking in the glow of a booming tourism industry as local and national tourists are flocking to the valley, much to the delight of the locals
The locals of Tulail valley, overwhelmed with joy, expressed their happiness at witnessing their valley’s rise as a sought-after tourist destination.
“The tourism boom in Tulail has brought smiles to our faces”, said Ishaq Ahmad, a local adding that they have always known that their valley is a hidden gem, and now the world is discovering its magic which is a proud moment for all of them.
With the growing tourist footfall, locals also called for the organization of a tourism festival this year in Tulail Valley. “The organisation of Tourism Festival in Tulail valley would not only showcase our valley’s beauty but also provide a platform for cultural exchange and economic opportunities which would further cement Tulail’s status as an emerging tourist hotspot” Mohd Ayoub, another local told Rising Kashmir.
The local also emphasized the need for the further development of infrastructure, particularly roads and tourism-related facilities.
The better road connectivity, improved accommodations, and enhanced recreational activities would create a more welcoming environment for tourists, they added.
“We are grateful for the influx of tourists, but we need better infrastructure to support this growth,” said Amin Ahmad , a local Shopkeeper. “We need more hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities to cater to the increasing number of visitors.”
Lone Arshid, a social activist, told Rising Kashmir that as Tulail Valley is witnessing huge tourist influx, opening of the Chakwali-Mushko Valley road should be prioritized.
He said that this road, connecting Gurez to the Drass area of Kargil, holds immense potential for boosting tourism and trade. It would not only provide easier access for tourists but also facilitate trade between the two valleys, bringing economic benefits to the local communities.
Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Dr Owais Ahmed told Rising Kashmir that Plans are underway to further develop essential amenities, including accommodations, transportation networks, and recreational facilities, to cater to the needs of the growing number of tourists while ensuring the preservation of the valley’s delicate ecosystem.
