The villages of Uri nearLine of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir’s Baramulla division that were targets of constant shelling from across the border are now a new habitat for trekkers and tourists from across the valley and outside states.
Few years back, the villages of Baba Fareed, Kandi, Rustom Nambla ( TV Tower),Copra Peak, Dudran, Dana Dudran, Chotali, Zulfiqar View Point were the constant target of shelling from Pakistan side which had forced the locals to migrate.
However, the current ceasefire between the two nations has brought some respite to the locals as dozens of tourists and trekkers are visiting the villages on a daily basis and enjoying the night camping.
Irshad Nabi, a trekker from Uri subdivision said that border tourism has brought a smile on the faces of locals here and they are expecting peace to prevail.
“The locals were missing the entertainment part here in Uri but with the guns falling silent on LoC, the locals are enjoying the moment. It is soothing to explore our own lands and spend a few days and nights trekking and camping inside the dense forests away from a busy schedule,” Irshad added.
He has visited around ten camping sites and stayed there for nights which otherwise were no entry zones due to heavy shelling from across the border.
Another trekker Nadeem said that after years of traumatic events on LoC in Uri, finally the locals here have some breathing space and time to enjoy a day out with their family.
“ We are finding solace in trekking. Earlier, the possible roaring of guns on the LoC used to prevent us from such adventure, however, the ceasefire has generated enthusiasm among us. Now the groups of young people can be seen trekking in the upper reaches of the area without any fear,” Nadeem added.
There are several places in the Uri area of Baramulla district which have potential for tourism, however, the hostility between the two neighboring countries would keep these areas from achieving their tourism potential. The tourist destinations like Baba Fareed, Kandi, Rustom Nambla ( TV Tower), Dana Nambla, Nambla Waterfall, Bosiya, Copra Peak, Dudran, Dana Dudran, Chotali, Zulfiqar View Point, Bilal Abad Garkote, Machichurand, Lachipora Wildlife sanctuary, Limber Wildlife sanctuary, Ghati, Gabaywar and Vijee Top in Uri subdivision are the top sought after tourist destinations for trekkers in the recent months.
India and Pakistan in February this year agreed to ceasefire along the LoC and all other sectors.
