Extending the tourism landscape

Exploring newer destinations is always an exciting endeavour as one experiences diversity: be it the linguistic diversity, topography, food , culture or unique nature of social interactions. Understanding these aspects and relating them with one’s own society can truly add to the knowledge horizon and can be a learning curve as one comes in direct interaction with the people of these regions. The first hand experience ensures better communication  to the rest of the world regarding these areas and thus becomes a brand ambassador in promoting these newer destinations on the tourist map.

Like minded friends mostly from SED (School Education Department) made a plan to visit the northern border areas of Kashmir on the Kupwara frontier. The group included people from across the districts of Kashmir division. Everyone was excited for the planned visit. The group had some renowned persons in the various walks of life like the great educationist Ruheed Gul Baldev, Tariq Manzoor Khan - the renowned kindergarten teacher and famous You-tuber of the valley, Naveed Gull - the experiential science educator known for his unique pedagogical approach and other state and national award winning educators. After detailed discussion and meticulous planning, the itinerary for the proposed visit was finalized and Karnah and Keran were zeroed in as the places to be explored.

From Kralpora Kupwara  to Karnah ( Tangdhar-Teetwal- Semari) :The surface distance from Kralpora to Tangdar ( part of tehsil Karnah)  is roughly 54 km and is a drive of two and a half hours as the route is hilly and zig-zag. After leaving from Kralpora, we had a brief halt at TP. At TP the road bifurcates and on the left side is relatively lesser known Bangus valley, which is  12 km from the TP and is motorable. Bangus valley seems to be least explored tourist spot, although it holds immense tourism potential. The road on the right side of TP leads to Tangdhar through the mountainous pass known as Sadhna top. The road to Tangdhar from Kralpora Kupwara is a macadamized road which passes through the breathtaking vistas of the Drangyari meadows and the Sadhna top, located at an elevation of 10600ft. Sadhna top previously referred as Nastachun pass connects Karnah tehsil of Kupwara district with the rest of the Kashmir valley. It is roughly 34 kms away from the Kralpora Kupwara. From Sadhna top onwards the road is steep and one has to exhibit utmost caution while driving on this stretch.

Finally we reached Tangdhar Karnah and halted for a night at a locally established home stay guest house. The next place in the itinerary travel list was  Teetwal and Semari. Individuals aspiring to venture further have to secure a fresh permit from the Tangdhar police station. Those wishing to reach the last village of Semari, have to obtain permission from the sub-divisional magistrate. This region operates under a permission based system due to its proximity to the LoC. Roughly 15 kilometers from Tangdhar town, Teetwal village rests as a quaint hamlet in a unique position on the world map. The Kishanganga river, coursing through Teetwal, forms LoC between India and Pakistan occupied Kashmir. On one bank resides Teetwal, while just at a stone’s throw across the water way, known as the Neelam river to Pakistanis , lies the village of Chilhana. Teetwal foot bridge, one of the five bridges on LoC that connects the two parts of Kashmir permitted families separated by the divide to reunite and interact. As of now the bridge stands in silence.

Kralpora Kupwara to Keran valley:

We reached Kralpora Kupwara to initiate our second leg of the visit to Karen valley and it is compulsory to acquire permission from the authorities to explore Karen valley as a tourist destination. The distance from Kralpora Kupwara to Keran valley is roughly 52 km and by car it takes 2 to 3 hours to reach the destination as large tract of road is dilapidated and one needs to exhibit utmost care and diligence while driving on this route. The drive from Kralpora Kupwara to Keran valley is picturesque, with lush green forests and winding mountain roads along the way. A high altitude pass called Pharkian top provides sweeping view of the surrounding himalayan ranges and Karen valley. Every bend in the trail is graced with stunning wild flowers, thick woodlands and mesmerizing views. This gorgeous valley, which is located along the line of control, provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for nature lovers, adventure seekers and anyone interested in learning about the distinctive culture of the area. The region’s rich architectural legacy is reflected in the traditional wooden houses with their elaborate carvings. Interacting with the local people provides a profound understanding of their customs and way of life. When it comes to accommodation at Keran valley, the options are limited. Basically there are two options, one is to stay at a guest house and the other to reside in a tent. We stayed for a night in a guest house and the hospitality of the service provider was truly magnificent and will remain etched in the memory for a considerable period of time.  The Kishanganga river, meanders through its center. Stunning views can be experienced along the banks of the Kishanganga. On the other side of the Kishanganga river, Neelam valley with enchanting and majestic beauty is settled.

 Dr. Mushtaq Rather is an  educator