Kashmir’s Gurez Sees Record Tourist Footfall After Border Calm

Bandipora, Aug 21, KNT: The remote Gurez Valley in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district is witnessing an unprecedented tourism surge following sustained calm along the border.

Official data released by the district administration states that 29,479 visitors, including 26,234 locals and 3,245 non-local tourists, have visited Gurez this year, making 2025 a record season for the valley. Once considered a tense border belt due to frequent cross-border shelling along the Line of Control, the region is now emerging as one of Kashmir’s fastest-growing tourist destinations.

Until recently, inhabitants were forced to spend nights in underground bunkers amid shelling, with markets shut and normal life disrupted. The prevailing ceasefire has restored stability, enabling socio-economic revival driven largely by tourism.

Visitors have been drawn to the valley’s snow-clad peaks, alpine meadows and the pristine Kishanganga River. Trekking routes, riverside camps and expanding homestay facilities have turned Gurez into a preferred destination for both adventure seekers and leisure travellers.

Tourists from different parts of the country have praised the hospitality of the locals and the improved food and accommodation facilities. Several visitors described the valley as a hidden gem and encouraged others to explore the region.

Locals expressed cautious optimism, stating that the return of peace has opened livelihood avenues after years of uncertainty. Many said tourism has begun to provide sustainable income opportunities, offering hope for long-term stability.

With visitor numbers rising steadily, Gurez appears set to consolidate its place on Kashmir’s tourism map, provided calm along the border continues. [KNT]