Srinagar, July 20. In a bid to revive tourism in Kashmir, the state’’s tourism department has introduced nature safaris, trekking and nature camps, which are becoming a major attraction among the tourists.

Ever since the valley was gripped by insurgency, the once hot destination amongst tourists has been losing its charm. But the introduction of the nature safaris seems to be rejuvenating tourism in the valley.

Nature safaris and nature camps are innovative measures to explore the abundance of adventure in the valley.

The tourists are thronging the Dachigam National Park in Srinagar as part of the nature safaris. The park spread over an area of 140 sq. kms which is a habitat to the Kashmir stag (Hangul), black and brown bear, musk deer, leopards and large variety of migratory birds.

“This is a different experience, we have seen zoos in Delhi and Gurgaon but this is different. It is in a natural environment,” said Sangeeta, a tourist.

While the Dachigam National Park is already fuelling the adrenaline amongst visiting tourists, the state government plans to set up campsites at a number of new places where nature lovers would be able to enjoy the scenic beauty.

“We have got a really good response. The safaris in the Dachigam reserve park are attracting a lot of tourists. The main attraction is the Hangul or the Kashmir stag, apart from the wildlife, we have several species of plants and animals and birds. It’’s a paradise for anybody who likes nature ,” said Sarmad Hafiz, joint director tourism.

After the Gurez valley was thrown open for tourists last year, several new tourism destinations are set to open this year.
 

........Back