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From conflict to calm, from infiltration to peace, from terrorism to tourism, this is how the Indian Army turned border zones into tourist havens. Restoring peace, rebuilding trust, and reviving tourism in Kashmir’s forgotten frontiers, it is a journey from infiltration routes to cultural and ecotourism hubs.
The last four to five years have witnessed a changing scenario in Kashmir, with the borders opening up for tourism. These areas have, in fact, become more popular than the traditional tourist destinations in Kashmir. When visiting these previously unseen and unexplored places, one truly feels, if there is paradise on earth, it is here, it is here. At the same time, we realize how Pakistan-sponsored terrorism had misused these beautiful locations that were meant for peace, tourism, and prosperity. Today, places like Bangus, Monabal, Tootmar Gali, Teetwal, Tangdhar, Keran Valley, Gurez Valley, and Machil have become accessible and meaningful not just for the locals but also for tourists from across the country. This transformation has been made possible due to the continued and unwavering efforts to combat cross-border terrorism by Indian army.
The Indian Army has played a pivotal role in transforming Kashmir from a conflict zone into a hub of tourism and development. Beyond securing borders, the Army has acted as a peacebuilder, constructing roads, setting up transit facilities, organizing cultural events, and supporting livelihoods through homestays and training programs. Through Operation Sadbhavana and civil-military cooperation, it has brought stability and safety to even the remotest areas.
Where decades of cross-border shelling and militancy once kept tourists at bay, places like Gurez, Keran, Tangdhar, Machil, Teetwal, and Lolab have now become symbols of hope. These areas, once notorious infiltration routes, are now flourishing offbeat tourist destinations. Their transformation would not have been possible without the Army’s success in curbing infiltration and ensuring peace along the Line of Control.
Gurez, located 125 km from Srinagar, is a shining example. The Indian Army facilitated road access, established transit camps, and organized cultural festivals, drawing thousands of visitors. Locals have turned their homes into homestays, offering authentic Dawar hospitality. Similarly, Keran, once marred by conflict, now boasts promenades, riverfront decks, and handicraft markets, all supported by Army initiatives. In Gurez, the Indian Army set a remarkable record by constructing the Shenan Meras in just 90 days, transforming it into a vibrant cultural hub of the Dard-Shin community. Once a prominent infiltration route, Gurez is today a thriving tourist destination.
Teetwal-Kupwara, often referred to as the paradise of North Kashmir, gained national attention when the Indian Army supported the construction of a replica of the historic Sharda Peeth temple. This initiative has attracted pilgrims and strengthened interfaith harmony. Tangdhar and Karnah, once active infiltration corridors, now host trekking expeditions and adventure tourism events, supported by improved infrastructure.
Machil and Lolab, once synonymous with fear, are being rediscovered for their scenic beauty. Army-led development of medical camps, trekking routes, and sustainable tourism initiatives has opened them to visitors. The Kalaroos caves in Lolab and the pristine landscape of Machil are now accessible, thanks to connectivity brought by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
These developments are not just geographic. Women in border towns now run food stalls and handicraft units; youth have become certified guides and trekking coordinators. The Homestay Guidelines of 2022 and Army-supported skill development programs have empowered locals economically and socially.
Infrastructure has played a vital role. Roads widened under BRO supervision, the Vande Bharat Express connecting Srinagar to Katra, and improved air services have made border tourism a reality. Tourist inflow reached over 2 crores in 2023, with more than 30,000 international visitors, a 700% increase from the previous year.
These places have not only opened the hearts of the Kashmiri people but also renewed their hopes. Previously unused for anything beyond military significance, border residents had long endured cross-border shelling and had never seen a visitor. But the Indian Army made tourism possible in these areas through various efforts and initiatives.
Adventure and eco-tourism now flourish in places like Aharbal, Doodhpathri, and Bangus Valley. Solar-powered tourist huts, waste management systems, and eco-trails promoted by the Army and civil bodies showcase Kashmir’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Indian Army’s role extends far beyond conventional defense. By eliminating threats, building trust, and providing modern facilities, the Army has made possible what once seemed unthinkable, peaceful tourism in former war zones. These transformations underline a greater message: that stability leads to prosperity, and where once there were bunkers, today there are bazaars full of life and hope. We hope that the recent curb of these places will be taken-off by the authorities, we do understand that these curbs are for the people of this nation.
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