Monday, November 11, 2024 In a bid to further boost the tourism sector in Kashmir and create new economic opportunities for its local population, the region is set to introduce five new tourist villages around the iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar. These villages—Kachri Mohalla, Sofi Mohalla, Tinda Mohallah, Akhoon Mohalla, and a vegetable market—are part of the Tourism Villages Development programme, an initiative under Mission Youth. The goal of this project is not only to enhance the tourism infrastructure of the region but also to provide locals with improved livelihoods through homestay accommodations and support for local handicrafts.
A Unique Approach to Sustainable Tourism The initiative aims to turn the area surrounding Dal Lake into a more sustainable tourism hub by emphasizing the development of local villages with unique cultural offerings. Each village will highlight its own distinct features, showcasing the region’s rich heritage while providing visitors with authentic experiences. These new tourist villages will be promoted as potential film shooting sites as well, making them appealing for the growing interest in shooting in Kashmir’s scenic landscapes.
The strategic plan behind these developments is to balance the influx of tourists with the preservation of local culture, offering a more immersive experience for visitors. These villages will offer homestays, where tourists can stay with local families, giving them the opportunity to experience Kashmiri life.