Nestled in the Kamraj forest division in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, a series of eco-tourism parks has emerged as the epitome of sustainable development and biodiversity conservation in the area.
Developed by the Forest Department under the visionary schemes of Green India Mission and CAMPA, these parks have become a resounding success, attracting a significant influx of visitors and providing much-needed livelihood opportunities for rural households. Leading the pack are the Nagriwari Eco Park at Hatmulla, Kairwan Eco-Park at Dever, and Satbaran Eco-Park at Lastiyal Kalaroose. These destinations have quickly become the preferred choice for eco-tourism and biodiversity exploration in the region.
As the summer tourism season takes flight in Kupwara district, these prominent eco-parks are seeing a remarkable surge in activity.
Thousands of locals, families, students, and environmental enthusiasts flock to these parks on a daily basis, seeking solace in the lush greenery and cool temperatures offered by the foothills of the Kamraj forest.
Forest Department officials estimate that an average of 50,000 local visitors explore these eco-parks every month, creating a thriving ecosystem for over 110 rural families residing in the vicinity.
Nagriwari Eco Park, which is spread across 7 hectares in Compartment 82/M, Nagriwari Eco-Park, boasts meticulously landscaped conifer trees, medicinal plants, ornamental flora, and native shrubs.
Offering a natural forest setting and equipped with open classrooms and educational signage, Nagriwari Eco-Park provides an ideal retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy leisurely nature walks, birdwatching, and photography, immersing themselves in the beauty and serenity of the park. Established under the Green India Mission, this park sees an average footfall of 15,000 visitors per month, providing direct livelihood opportunities for 65 families.
Kairwan Eco Park, encompassing 18 hectares of dense forests in Anderbugh Lolab, Kairwan Eco-Park, is a haven for those seeking breathtaking landscapes and lush green meadows. Adventure camps, featuring activities such as zip-lining and wall climbing, enthrall visitors, while guided nature walks, birdwatching, and photography allow for nature-based recreation. Kairwan Eco-Park, established under the CAMPA scheme, attracts an average of 10,000 visitors per month during the summer season, offering dignified livelihoods to 20 families.
