229,000 record attendance At Aharbal Waterfall: Heat wave Changes Tracks Of Tourists In Valley

Srinagar: Kulgam, a district once famed primarily for its stunning Aharbal Waterfall, is quickly establishing itself as a prime destination for adventurers and backpackers seeking unique and offbeat natural experiences. Over the past week, the region has seen an influx of explorers venturing into its scenic woods and breathtaking landscapes.
The trek to Kousarnag has emerged as a particular favorite among nature lovers, with Kongwattan serving as the ideal base camp. Kongwattan, a vast meadow surrounded by towering trees and a gentle stream, provides an idyllic retreat into nature’s splendor. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it a preferred spot for those looking to immerse themselves in serene surroundings. Mohammad Maqbool , a dedicated trekker, recently shared his thrilling journey to Hoen Heng, a majestic mountain that necessitates a multi-day trek through expansive meadows and dense forests. s. “For families seeking offbeat destinations, Chiranbal, Panchanpathri, and Kongwattan are fantastic choices. For avid trekkers, trails leading to Badibehk, Hakwas, Zajimarg, and alpine lakes like Kousarnag and Brahansar are exceptional. Kulgam’s true beauty is best experienced off the beaten path, offering a distinctive natural adventure,” he said.
Another traveler, Susheel Ahmad, observed a noticeable increase in fellow trekkers along the Chiranbal route during his recent visit. He emphasized the critical need to preserve these natural areas by avoiding plastic and polythene, which can damage meadows and lakes. His call for environmental stewardship resonates with many who have recently discovered the area. Hurair Bhat, a local from Qazigund, shared his recent experience camping at Kongwattan, noting a significant rise in visitors. The once-quiet meadow now features dozens of tents, underscoring the area’s growing popularity. Bhat stressed the importance of protecting these pristine spots from environmental degradation to ensure they remain unspoiled for future visitors. Rohan Kumar, a tourist from New Delhi, compared it to the renowned Niagara Falls. “We had only heard about Niagara Falls before, but seeing Aharbal’s waterfall makes us feel we’re right there. Although our visit was brief, we plan to return for a longer stay next time,” Kumar said.
The influx of tourists to Kulgam is not just a trend but a reflection of the area’s growing allure. Ghalib Mohi-Ud-Din Shah, CEO of the Aharbal Development Authority, told Kashmir Horizon that Aharbal has seen a substantial surge in visitors, with 229,221 people arriving in the past six months. “This figure includes 143 international visitors and 26,650 from various Indian states. The increase in tourism highlights Kulgam’s charm as a destination rich in picturesque meadows and alpine lakes. These natural assets must be preserved,” he said. Visitors are also captivated by the sounds of the Veshaw River, a major tributary of the Jhelum, which flows through a rugged gorge. The river’s tumultuous roar and its abundance of trout fish add to the area’s allure. The Aharbal Waterfall itself is a major attraction, cascading down 25 meters through a narrow, seven-meter-wide gorge. The sheer volume of water creates a sparkling spectacle that rivals famous waterfalls around the world.
Beyond Aharbal, the region offers even more to explore. Trekkers can find delight in locations like Kousarnag, Mahinag, Indrasar, Cheranbal, and other alpine lakes. The Department of Tourism and the Kulgam district administration have been actively promoting these spots to attract more visitors. This year, Kulgam also hosted a winter tourism festival and launched a rural tourism plan at Tangmarg village of Aharbal. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Rural Development Department and Panchayat Raj Kulgam, focuses on promoting village home stays and providing an authentic local experience. The increased footfall is attributed to extensive campaigning over the past two years by the Kulgam district administration, the Tourism Department of Kashmir, the Aharbal Development Authority, and the Forest Division of Kulgam. Their efforts included summer, autumn, and winter carnivals, sports activities, and a robust social media presence. Deputy Commissioner of Kulgam, has played a pivotal role in promoting Aharbal. His initiatives have reportedly doubled the tourist numbers in the past year, with expectations to triple the figures this year. Kulgam is rapidly transforming into a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse trekking routes, and ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism, Kulgam is set to continue its rise as a must-visit location for those seeking natural beauty and adventure.