Idrees Bukhtiyar
Srinagar, May 14: Tucked away in the lush green landscapes of Uri along the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, three scenic waterfalls – Nambla waterfall, Noorkhah waterfall and Mithwan waterfall in Limber village are rapidly emerging as new tourism hotspots, drawing local and non-local visitors every week.
Once known only to nearby villagers, these waterfalls have now become social media sensations, especially on Instagram, where travel bloggers, influencers and tourists are posting reels and short videos showcasing the pristine beauty of the sites.
The growing online popularity has significantly increased footfall in the border town and is giving a fresh push to border tourism in Uri.
Surrounded by dense forests, rocky cliffs and gushing streams, the waterfalls offer visitors a refreshing escape from the summer heat. Families, youth and adventure lovers from different parts of Kashmir and outside the valley are making their way to the scenic spots, many describing them as “hidden gems” of Uri.
Local residents said the sudden tourism boom has brought new economic opportunities for villagers, including transport services, eateries and small roadside stalls.
“We never imagined that these waterfalls would attract so many people. Earlier only locals visited these places, but now tourists from Srinagar, Jammu and even outside J&K are coming here after watching videos on Instagram,” said Farhan Lone, a resident of Babagail village.
Another local from Garkote village said the region has immense tourism potential which remained untapped for years due to lack of promotion.
“These waterfalls have changed the image of Uri. People are now seeing Uri not only as a border area but also as a beautiful tourist destination,” he said.
Visitors expressed admiration for the untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the waterfalls.
“I came here after watching a reel on Instagram and honestly the place is even more beautiful in real life,” said Yasir Ahmad, a visitor from Srinagar. “The water, mountains and greenery make it a perfect picnic spot.”
The rise in popularity of these waterfalls is also being seen as a positive sign for the revival and expansion of border tourism in Uri, a region that has witnessed increasing tourist movement in recent years due to improving road connectivity and peaceful conditions.
As reels and videos from Nambla, Noorkhah and Mithwan continue to trend online, Uri’s hidden natural treasures are steadily carving a place on Kashmir’s tourism map, bringing renewed attention and economic hope to the border region.