Talking about tourism in Kashmir, will generally take you to Srinagar, Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam. No doubt that they are the gems of the valley, but there is still a lot besides these four top spots. Lot many places to see and admire and lot beyond the regular natural beauty spots. Naranag is one of them and it was an altogether different experience for me to visit an archaeological site in such a scenic surroundings. Naranag is also known for its scenic meadows. It is also base camp for trekkers Naranag is in Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. While going to Sonamarg from Srinagar on the Kargil-Leh highway, just before Kangan there is a diversion to west. It takes us to Naranag valley and Naranag village. Naranag-Gangabal-Trek expedition is the only trek in Kashmir which remains open most of the year.
The trek passes through pine forests, meadows and reaches its destination at the twin alpine lakes situated at the foothills of mount Haramukh (5300M).Though it is one of the lesser visited places among the tourist destinations in Kashmir, but one who once visits the place will love to visit again.A distance of nearly 50 Kms from Srinagar, while on a visit to Naranag one feels spellbound to witness this wonder of nature. The trek from Sonamarg to Gangabal, culminating at Naranag is very popular. There are innumerable places which are not any less in beauty.
Tourism department and Ministry of tourism must make various videos about the hospitality of Kashmiri people to tourists and they must advertise the Kashmiri tourist destinations on social media. To develop potential new and emerging markets through targeted marketing strategies based on tourist profile. Visitors and tourism department, needs to do much work to upgrade the infrastructure.
(Author is a student at Law Department Kashmir University. He has mailed this article to “Kashmir Horizon”. Views are his own)
