Demand for heritage town status for Baramulla gains momentum
Baramulla, Mar 2: The demand for granting heritage town status to Baramulla has gained fresh momentum after a private member’s resolution was moved in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, with many locals asserting that the historic town deserves formal recognition for its rich past and cultural legacy.
The resolution was introduced by Baramulla MLA Javid Hassan Baig during the Budget Session. It was among the 14 private member resolutions selected through balloting for consideration in the House.
Historically known as the “Gateway of Kashmir,” Baramulla occupies a strategic location along the banks of the Jhelum River. For centuries, the town served as the Valley’s primary entry point for traders, travellers and rulers arriving from the West.
Before 1947, Baramulla’s Old Town functioned as a bustling commercial hub. Goods transported via the Jhelum River would first reach Baramulla before being distributed to other parts of the Kashmir Valley. This strategic position shaped the town’s cosmopolitan character and distinctive architectural landscape.
Baramulla also holds deep religious and spiritual significance. It is home to the revered shrine of Syed Janbaz Wali and has historic links with Guru Hargobind Singh Ji, who is believed to have visited the area. Historical accounts further suggest that Mughal emperor Jahangir passed through Baramulla during his journeys to Kashmir, underlining the town’s prominence during the Mughal era.
The town’s religious diversity is reflected in its numerous historic sites, including the ancient Shankaragaurishvara Temple, the Sikh shrine Gurudwara Chatti Patshahi Sahib, several Islamic shrines and mosques, and nearby Buddhist archaeological remains at Ushkur, in addition to ancient Hindu temples.
Archaeological interest in the region has grown further following the recent discovery of ancient Buddhist remains in the Zehanpora area of Baramulla. The finding has reinforced claims about the region’s deep historical connection with Buddhism and added another layer to Baramulla’s rich civilisational heritage.
Supporters of the resolution argue that granting heritage status under suitable central government schemes would ensure structured protection of Baramulla’s historic neighbourhoods, monuments and traditional architecture, many of which are facing neglect and unplanned urbanisation.
“Baramulla is one of the oldest districts. The town had a glorious past during the pre-Partition era. It houses revered religious places of different faiths. Heritage status would certainly do justice to its vibrant past,” said Fayaz Ahmad, a resident of Baramulla.
Experts believe that heritage recognition could pave the way for scientific conservation of old structures, revival of traditional markets and more sensitive urban planning that respects the town’s historical fabric.
“The heritage status could position Baramulla as a distinct cultural and religious tourism destination in north Kashmir, complementing existing tourism circuits and attracting visitors interested in history, architecture and spirituality,” said a retired professor.
