Srinagar, Feb 13: The North Kashmir’s Bandipora District which has been in limelight for having best offbeat places and Asia’s largest fresh water lake will have its first 5-star hotels soon.
Official sources told Rising Kashmir that in a recent meeting chaired by the Secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, discussions were held with senior officials from the Tourism Department, Development Authorities, and Deputy Commissioners with one of the key points on the agenda was the prospect of setting up 5-star hotels in the district.
They said that District Bandipora, taking a proactive step, has initiated the process of identifying suitable government-owned land for the construction of these upscale hotels. The focus is on strategic locations, particularly along the Wullar Lake and in the Gurez Valley, they added.
Gurez, a border valley located 85 kilometres from District Headquarters Bandipora, once considered a no-go zone due to its proximity to the border, has now emerged as a thriving destination, attracting a massive influx of tourists and igniting hope for a brighter future for its residents.
The valley’s transformation is evident in the steady influx of tourists that have graced its landscapes since 2020. As per official data accessed by the Rising Kashmir, one lac tourists have visited Gurez which signifies the valley’s growing popularity and the restoration of peace and stability.
The abrogation of Article 370 opened up new possibilities for Gurez, once deemed inaccessible due to security concerns along the border with Pakistan illegally occupied Kashmir. The lifting of restrictions has allowed travellers to explore the valley’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and hospitable communities.
In response to the rising tourist footfall, the authorities have invested in upgrading Gurez’s infrastructure. Modern amenities have not only facilitated travel but also made the valley more attractive to tourists seeking a tranquil escape from urban life.
As per the locals, the construction of a 5-star hotel in Gurez holds the potential to redefine tourism in the border valley.
A local social activist, Lone Arshid told Rising Kashmir that the introduction of luxurious accommodation will not only enhance the overall tourism experience but will also attract a higher-profile audience which will contribute to the economic growth of the border valley.
He said that the move will elevate Gurez as a sought-after destination and will boost both local and international interest, ultimately positioning it prominently on the tourism map.
Wular lake, Asia’s largest fresh water lake which was once struggling to survive has witnessed significant transformation from last five years due to the proactive approach of govt not only to clean it but to bring it on tourism map.
Wular lake is set to have Boulevard look soon as its transformation is going on in full swing with an “eco-friendly” Boulevard Project along its periphery.
Before, the locals primarily relied on fishing and chestnut production as a means of income, with the tourist potential that the administration has created around the lake with its transformation which is going on large scale, the locals have started generating livelihood by introducing shikaras in the lake and by many other ways.
In a bid to cater to the growing number of tourists visiting the Wular lake, local youths last year took the initiative to set up tent accommodations to provide a comfortable stay option for tourists.
The locals living along the Wular lake associated and dependent on the lake believe that the move to have 5 star hotel along Wular lake will be a significant development as it will enhance the hospitality infrastructure thereby will attract more tourists to the region.
A local social activist from Bandipora, Advocate Mudasir said that the impact of introduction of luxury accommodation on tourism is multifaceted. Firstly, the introduction of a high-end hotel will elevate the overall tourism experience, catering to tourists seeking luxury and comfort.
This could attract a different demographic of visitors, including those who may have previously overlooked Gurez Valley and Wular Lake due to limited upscale lodging options, he said.
Mudasir said that secondly, the prestige associated with a 5-star hotel can enhance the destination’s image, making Bandipora more appealing on both national and international tourism circuits. The unique landscapes and cultural heritage of Gurez Valley and Wular Lake coupled with luxurious accommodation can create a distinctive allure, setting them apart from other tourist destinations, he added.
Mudasir further said that the construction of such hotels is expected to generate employment opportunities for the local population.
From hospitality and service roles to supporting businesses, the ripple effect of increased tourism can contribute to the socio-economic development of Gurez valley and Wular lake, he added.
