In a move to enhance tourism in the border villages of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, the Tourism Department has successfully registered 367 homestays in the districts of Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora. A total of 433 applications were received, with 13 applications rejected and 367 homestays approved, according to the Directorate of Tourism.
An official from the department stated, “The registered homestays offer a total of 1468 rooms with a bed capacity of 2936.”
In popular tourist spots like Gulmarg and Tangmarg, 255 out of 275 applications were registered, providing a bed capacity of 2040 with 1020 rooms. Areas like Mundaji, Kitterdaji, and Ecopark in Baramulla have 12 registered homestays with 48 rooms and 96 bed capacity.
In Bandipora’s Watlab and other regions, 50 homestays with 200 rooms and 400 bed capacity have been registered. In the border areas of Kupwara, including Lolab, Bangus, Keran, Machil, Tangdhar, and Teetwal, 50 homestays are registered, with 41 under progress, offering 200 rooms and a bed capacity of 400.
Officials highlighted the minimal registration fee of Rs 250 for homestay registration, aiming to boost the local economy in the border regions of north Kashmir. The Tourism Department, especially the Directorate of Tourism Kashmir, plays a significant indirect role in the local economy.
Raja Sajad Hussain Khan, a local homestay owner in Ladua Ladoora village of Rafiabad, expressed gratitude for the tourism boost. He reported hosting over 600 people in 2023, including 7 foreign tourists, 13 from other states, and around 500 locals. Sajad acknowledged the positive impact on the local economy and thanked the administration and tourism department for their initiatives.
Suhail Ahmad Khan, another homestay owner in Keran, Kupwara, highlighted increased revenue and employment opportunities due to rising tourism. Around 1500 tourists stayed at his homestay during the season, contributing to the economic progress of the area.
The success of homestays is seen as a significant step in promoting border tourism and generating income for locals in the border areas, appreciating the efforts of the LG administration and the Tourism Department.
