Opinion | Your guide to unexplored tourist destinations of North Kashmir

The North Kashmir Gazette – Let’s Show You the Way, an initiative of the Kashmir Writers’ Association, is a neatly compiled travel document about uncharted tourist destinations of the northern twin districts of Kupwara and Bandipora; composed, edited, and presented by the authors working with the association. The inaugural edition of the Gazette was launched in a simple, yet elegant function at Raj Bhawan by the Honourable Lt. Governor, Shri Manoj K. Sinha on the 16th of January 2024. The launch function, besides the core members of the KWA, was graced by the top rung officers of the Tourism Department and the Indian army. The magazine has been printed using excellent-quality photo paper and the inaugural cost has been fixed at INR 500.

In his message, the Honourable LG, Shri Manoj Sinha describes the KWA as “an energetic assembly of young intellectuals…”. Living up to the expectations, the KWA authors have thoroughly researched, before putting out the artistically crafted information into this magazine. To this, every single piece of information, whether historical perspectives, geographical locations, or scenic ambience presented before the readers bears the testament. While praising the efforts of the KWA team, Lt. Gen Rajiv Ghai, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding, Chinar Corps, says, “The initiative, led by a group of young intellectuals from the valley, holds immense promise in promoting the cultural richness and diversity of North Kashmir…”. This statement vindicates my above placed argument about the KWA and its authors. Major Gen Girish Kalia, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Vajr Division in the foreword to this magazine describes the work as, “weaving together the threads of creativity…”. The Secretary Tourism and Culture, Jammu and Kashmir, Dr. Syed Abid Rasheed Shah in his gratitude message to KWA labels this magazine as “The meticulous work of the association in curating content that not only informs but also promotes unique tourism offerings of North Kashmir…”.
Fida Firdous, Editor-in-Chief, The North Kashmir Gazette, in his inaugural message defines this meticulous piece as “a journey through captivating landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable experiences…”. While praising the efforts of his KWA team, who have tirelessly captured the essence of North Kashmir from majestic mountain vistas to tranquil lakeside moments; the Editor-in-Chief, in his unique style, appeals to the readers to read this magazine and explore these tourist destinations, while touring

Kashmir, “As you turn the pages of this edition, you’ll find yourself at the heart of North Kashmir, whether you’re a seasoned traveller or an armchair adventurer”.
“In our vibrant travel magazine, the fusion of eloquent storytelling and breath- taking visuals is what defines our journey into the world’s most captivating destinations. The well skilled travel photographers lie at the core of these visuals….”, says Adv. Tahir Majeed, Content Director, NKG, while thanking the efforts of all contributors.
After reading, I found this magazine informative, as far as the historical perspectives and geographical descriptions are concerned. Apart from meticulously researched facts, the authors have added scenic ambience to the stories that nudges the readers towards imaginative fulfilment. Being a local, I could visualise the scenic beauty through the canvas presented by the authors. Whichever story you pull out, the poetic presentation, and attractive sceneries shall hook you on till the end. For example, Bungus – A Divine Dwelling by Fida Firdous, where the author opens by his unique poetic presentation, “being here in its lush green meadows, spread over miles, surrounded by rolling hills of evergreen conifer forests, you feel you have come far from the earth’s polluted spheres…”, takes you to the childhood memories of a fantasy world. In Charismatic Chemistry -Kishanganga, Keran and Karnah, Adv. Tahir Majeed, opens his discourse with, “It is not just a geographical entity but a spiritual force that weaves together the fabric of faith and reverence.” The story, not only attracts your heart, but equally appeals to your soul. Similarly, Adv. Mosin and Faizan Qureshi in Springs of Liquid Mercury – Wadi-e-Lolab, while describing the beauty of Lolab Valley say, “Lolab Valley is a region where beauty is not just admired but envied by beauty itself.” The statement in itself nuances natural craftsmanship and generates an impulsive urge to visit.
Yet, in another chapter, ‘Unveiling Paradise’s Best kept Secret – Gurez Valley’, Mr. Khan Sikander Bashir, describes the spot as, “Mother nature herself has lavished her blessings upon this hidden gem, often referred to as the Gateway to the Fabled Silk Route”. This statement compels the traveller in us to explore the destinations to witness what is being claimed. In Monabal Village, the authors, Javid Abdullah and Sheikh Nazir, describe the cultural and scenic journey to meadows in Handwara region through the following opening lines, “there lies a village that seems plucked from a dreamscape – Monabal”. Such articulations incline the readers towards nature’s bounties and generate an appetite for journeys, even if one is born homesick. In Spud’s own Haven
– Machhal Village by Mariya Noor, while capturing the picturesque journey to
the village, the author says, “Explore beautiful Machhal….., follow the scenic route…… a visual symphony of forests and picturesque vistas….., Zamindar Gali reveals a 360-degree spectacle, featuring Nanga Parbat….”, thereby creating a musical peaceful environment in a reader’s reading room. While summing up the story of Kupwara District, Mr. Khan Sikander, takes us to the roots of history and culture through his artistic story telling method. He says, “…a heavenly district Kupwara emerges as a kind of mystical realm,

akramiiim@gmail.com