Aru villagers thrilled over best village tourism award, bat for adventure tourism hub

Anantnag, Sep 27: The villagers of Aru, a picturesque tourist destination nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, are elated after their village was declared a winner in the Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024.

“This is a proud moment for us, as the tourism potential of our village has been acknowledged on the national stage,” said Muzaffar Ahmad Sheikh, a local of Aru who runs a trekking and adventure tourism business.

Sheikh hopes that this recognition will further boost the village’s tourism appeal.

“Aru is already a trekker’s paradise, and now we hope the government will introduce more adventure sports like zip-lining, zorbing, paragliding, and rock climbing to enhance the tourist experience,” he said.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, declared Aru as one of the winners of the Best Tourism Villages Competition 2024 on World Tourism Day.

The award celebrates the village’s success in preserving its natural beauty while sustainably promoting adventure tourism.

The village has a population of around 4000 people.

“Aru is not just about adventure, it is a perfect example of how villages can blend traditional life with modern tourism,” said Irfan Ahmad, a resident.

Aru has the potential to attract visitors year-round.

In summer, it serves as a base camp for trekkers, campers, and rafters.

During winters, the meadows of Aru offer magnificent slopes for skiing and snowboarding.

“It is an opportunity for the Tourism Department to establish Aru as another sought-after winter destination for snow lovers,” Ahmad said.

He emphasised the importance of promoting Aru as a major eco-tourism hub rather than merely a sightseeing spot.

Situated at an altitude of 9500 feet and just 12 km north of Pahalgam, Aru is a favourite destination for trekkers.

It is the starting point for famous treks to the twin lakes of Tarsar and Marsar, as well as the Kolahoi Glacier via Lidderwat.

Unlike other tourist destinations that have suffered from overdevelopment, Aru has remained untouched by the surge in construction, retaining its serene countryside charm reminiscent of a European village.

From Lidderwat, trekkers can take a route through Sekiwas and Kulan to reach Sonamarg, while a week-long trek from Pahalgam via Chandanwari, Sheeshnag, Hampet, and the Cholang glaciers leads adventurers to Panikhar in the Suru Valley of Ladakh.

With this recognition, the villagers are hopeful that Aru will evolve into a premier adventure and eco-tourism destination while retaining its unique charm and natural beauty.