Transforming War Zones into Tourist Destinations

FROM CONFLICT TO CALM, FROM INFILTRATION TO PEACE, FROM TERRORISM TO TOURISM, THIS IS HOW THE INDIAN ARMY TURNED BORDER ZONES INTO TOURIST HAVENS. RESTORING PEACE, REBUILDING TRUST, AND REVIVING TOURISM IN KASHMIR'S FORGOTTEN FRONTIERS, IT IS A JOURNEY FROM INFILTRATION ROUTES TO CULTURAL AND ECOTOURISM HUBS.

- SYED SHOWKET

The last four to five years have witnessed a changing scenario in Kashmir, with the borders opening up for tourism. These areas have, in fact, become more popular than the traditional tourist destinations in Kashmir. When visiting these previously unseen and unexplored places, one truly feels, if there is paradise on earth, it is here, it is here.

At the same time, we realize how Pakistan-sponsored terrorism had misused these beautiful locations that were meant for peace, tourism, and prosperity. Today, places like Bangus, Monabal, Tootmar Gali, Teetwal, Tangdhar, Keran Valley, Gurez Valley, and Machil have become accessible and meaningful not just for the locals but also for tourists from across the country. This transformation has been made possible due to the continued and unwavering efforts to combat cross-border terrorism by Indian army.

The Indian Army has played a pivotal role in transforming Kashmir from a conflict zone into a hub of tourism and development. Beyond securing borders, the Army has acted as a peace-builder, constructing roads, setting up transit facilities, organizing cultural events, and supporting livelihoods through homestays and training programs. Through Operation Sadbhavana and civil-military cooperation, it has brought stability and safety to even the remotest areas.