Jammu, March 28 – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced on Saturday that the government plans to develop Karnah in the Kupwara district as a border tourism hub, citing its vast potential for adventure and nature-based tourism.
In response to a question in the assembly, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah stated that Karnah offers immense opportunities for trekking, hiking, and eco-tourism, which can be utilized to boost tourism and the local economy in the region.
He said that the government is working to harness the untapped potential of border areas like Karnah to promote sustainable tourism and create livelihood opportunities for local residents.
The Chief Minister stated, "We still have a lot to do in remote areas to promote tourism. Perhaps we haven't done as much as we could have for tourism promotion."
Border tourism in Kashmir is an emerging initiative that opens previously restricted Line of Control (LoC) areas such as Karnah, Gurez, Keran, Teetwal, and Uri to visitors.
These destinations offer stunning landscapes, cultural experiences, and scenic, high-altitude views of the border, aimed at boosting local economies and providing unique offbeat experiences.
Key border tourism destinations in J&K are Keran & Teetwal in the Kupwara District, located on the banks of the Kishanganga River. They offer close views of the LoC, with Pakistani villages visible across the river.
Teetwal is notable for the Sharda Temple, a site of immense religious significance for Hindus.
The Gurez Valley is a formerly secluded region known for its scenic beauty, dramatic mountain scenery, and the towering Habba Khatoon peak.
Uri & Kaman Post, also known as Kaman Aman Setu, is a popular spot in Uri where visitors can observe the historic cross-border route.
Machil is a scenic, forested border area popular for adventure and nature lovers.
The Karnah Valley features the historic Teetwal and Tangdhar villages.
