Homestays are gaining momentum in Gurez, a renowned offbeat destination in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district, to meet the increasing demand for accommodation of tourists and local visitors.
These homestays were established under the ‘Umeed’ scheme of the Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission last year. The initiative aims to “reduce poverty in the region by establishing robust grassroots institutions for the poor, providing them with viable livelihood opportunities, and ensuring sustainable growth in their income”.
The picturesque villages surrounding Gurez, once shadowed by the threat of conflict along the Line of Control (LoC), are now witnessing a flourishing tourism industry. The decades-old tourist spots near the LoC have reawakened and are being embraced by trekkers, tourists, and locals, marking a return of visitors after nearly three decades.
“The residents of the border areas have embraced the homestay concept to accommodate the growing influx of tourists, thus generating employment opportunities for the local community. Their warm hospitality and cultural experiences are cherished by visitors who seek an intimate connection with the area,” an official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Last year, Manzoor Ahmad from Dawar in Gurez started the homestay concept in his house. He believes that the government infrastructure isn’t enough to accommodate all the tourists, so locals in the border areas have transformed their homes into welcoming havens for travelers.
Abdul Majeed, another resident, shares Manzoor’s vision, aiming to put their regions on the tourism map. He is optimistic that their dreams of development and prosperity are coming true.
“As a homestay owner, I take pride in welcoming travelers to experience the beauty and warmth of our region. It is heartening to witness our efforts contributing to the growth of tourism and providing a unique cultural experience to our guests,” he said.
Similarly, Mohammad Ashraf acknowledges the tourism potential of his area, seeing it as a beacon of hope for employment opportunities despite the challenges they have faced over the years.
“We opened our home as a homestay with the hope of showcasing the hidden gems of our region to travelers. Seeing our guests leave with smiles and unforgettable memories makes it all worthwhile,” he said.
Another official said the government is actively contributing to the revival of tourism in the region by organizing various cultural events at Gurez to attract more tourists. He said the improved atmosphere and enhanced security situation have created a conducive environment for visitors, further encouraging locals to embrace and welcome tourists.
The official said the homestay culture in Gurez is not only enriching the lives of the local people through economic growth but also fostering mutual understanding and cultural exchange between travelers and residents.
“As more tourists discover the beauty and charm of these once-neglected areas, the dreams of development and prosperity are taking flight, turning Gurez into an inviting and thriving tourism destination,” the official added
