Tourism and Tradition at Crossroads

By Peer Mohammad Amir Qureshi

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, the legendary Sufi poet Amir Khusro once beautifully encapsulated Kashmir’s essence in his words: ”Gar firdous baraye zameen ast, hami astov hami ast”—“If there is a paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here.” But beneath its breathtaking beauty lies a land at a crossroads—where the allure of tourism clashes with the sanctity of tradition. This is the story of Kashmir, a land of contrasts, where the promise of progress meets the weight of preservation.  

The breaking point came during Ramazan, when an ‘obscene’ fashion show was held in Gulmarg. Models from around the world walked the snow-covered ramp in ‘revealing’ attires, igniting a firestorm of criticism. As images and videos of the event cascaded across social media, the outcry grew deafening. Kashmiris, already grappling with the delicate dance between preserving their heritage and embracing economic progress, now find themselves united in fury. “Is this the price of tourism?” They ask, their voices trembling with indignation:“Are we to trade our identity for fleeting moments of entertainment?”

Kashmir is more than just a destination; it’s an emotion. Its cool, crisp air offers respite from the scorching heat of the plains, while its landscapes—ranging from lush meadows to rugged mountains—paint a picture so perfect it feels surreal. From the gondola rides in Gulmarg to the tranquil waters of Dal Lake, every corner of Kashmir whispers tales of wonder.  

Adventurers flock to its trails, like the challenging trek to the Seven Great Lakes, while spiritual seekers embark on sacred pilgrimages to Amarnath and Vaishno Devi. The region’s archaeological gems, such as the ancient springs of Kokernag and Verinag, add layers of history to its natural charm. And let’s not forget the Mughal Gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, where terraced lawns, cascading fountains, and vibrant flowerbeds create a symphony of beauty. Nishat Bagh, the “Garden of Joy,” offers panoramic views of Dal Lake, while Shalimar Bagh, the “Abode of Love,” whispers tales of Mughal emperors and their romantic escapades.  

But Kashmir isn’t just a playground for tourists—it’s a living, breathing culture. Its soul is woven with the threads of Sufi mysticism, ancient traditions, and a deep reverence for nature.  

One of Kashmir’s most enduring treasures is its people. Known for their warm hearts and boundless hospitality, Kashmiris welcome visitors with open arms and a steaming cup of kahwa—a traditional saffron-infused tea served in a samovar, a beautifully crafted brass kettle that symbolizes the region’s rich cultural heritage. 

In the upcoming spring, the government will throw open the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar for a visual feast for visitors.  

However, the garden’s popularity has become its Achilles’ heel. Overcrowding during the blooming season has turned this serene escape into a chaotic maze of selfie sticks and jostling crowds. The narrow pathways are jam-packed, leaving little room to sit and soak in the beauty. While the tulips continue to bloom, the experience of witnessing them is often marred by the sheer volume of tourists.  

Similarly, Dal Lake, as well as, other lakes like Manasbal Lake and Wular Lake also face the threat of pollution and over-tourism. They are not just beautiful but also cardinal to the ecological landscape of Kashmir. 

As Kashmir’s beauty gains global recognition, the wheels of tourism begin to turn. The government, eager to tap into this potential, recently inaugurated ambitious projects to make the valley more accessible. The recent inauguration of the Sonamarg Tunnel by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a game-changer, ensuring year-round connectivity and opening doors to winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.  

But the engineering marvels don’t stop there. The Chenab Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, stands as a testament to human ingenuity. Towering over the Chenab River at a height of 359 meters, this architectural wonder connects Jammu to Kashmir, offering breathtaking views of the valley below. The Zojila Tunnel, once completed, will be India’s longest road tunnel, providing all-weather access to Ladakh and further integrating the region with the rest of the country.  

The government’s investment in infrastructure—amounting to crores of rupees—has transformed the journey from Jammu to Kashmir into a seamless experience. The winding roads, cutting through mountains and valleys, are a testament to the relentless efforts of engineers and workers who braved harsh terrains to connect this paradise to the world.  

For a while, it seemed like Kashmir was on the brink of an economic renaissance. Hotels sprung up, jobs were created, and the promise of prosperity glittered on the horizon. But with progress came problems—problems that threatened the very essence of what made Kashmir special.  

The surge in tourism has brought with it a wave of challenges that Kashmir was ill-prepared to handle. 

Once-pristine destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam are now teeming with tourists, leaving behind trails of litter and stress on local ecosystems. The Tulip Garden, once a serene escape, is now a chaotic sea of selfie sticks during its blooming season.  

Additionally, Kashmir’s rich heritage, shaped by Sufi saints and ancient rishis, is under threat. The influx of tourists has introduced practices that clash with local values—like public drinking near mosques and shrines, sparking outrage among the deeply religious population.  

A Plea to Visitors: Respect the Soul of Kashmir

To those who visit this paradise, a humble request: tread lightly. Respect the religious values and sentiments of the Kashmiri people. Remember that the mosques, shrines, and sacred spaces you encounter are not just tourist attractions—they are the heartbeats of a community. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of behavior that may offend, and take a moment to understand the culture you are stepping into.  

Kashmir doesn’t have to look far for inspiration. Countries like Bhutan and Oman have shown that tourism and tradition can coexist. Bhutan’s “High Value, Low Impact” policy ensures that tourism benefits the economy without overwhelming the culture. Oman, with its pristine deserts and historic forts, has struck a similar balance, preserving its heritage while welcoming visitors.  

Even closer to home, Aceh in Indonesia has implemented strict measures to align tourism with Islamic values, proving that development doesn’t have to come at the cost of identity.  

A Vision for Kashmir: Quality Over Quantity

The path forward for Kashmir is clear: it must prioritize quality over quantity. Instead of chasing mass tourism, the focus should be on sustainable practices that protect the environment and respect local traditions. Policies that limit visitor numbers, promote eco-friendly tourism, and celebrate Kashmiri culture can ensure that the region remains a paradise for generations to come.  

Kashmir’s future lies in striking a delicate balance—where modern infrastructure supports economic growth without overshadowing the spiritual and cultural heartbeat of the valley.  

Conclusion

Kashmir is more than just a destination; it’s a legacy. Its beauty has the power to heal, inspire, and transform. But as the world flocks to its valleys, it’s crucial to remember that this paradise is fragile. The choices we make today will determine whether Kashmir remains a sanctuary of peace or becomes a casualty of unchecked development.  

Let’s not just visit Kashmir—let’s protect it. For in its snow-clad peaks and shimmering lakes lies not just the soul of a region, but the heartbeat of humanity. And as Amir Khusro so eloquently said, if there is a paradise on Earth, it is here, it is here. Let’s ensure it stays that way.  

Views expressed in the article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Kashmir Observer 

• The author, Peer Mohammad Amir Qureshi, is a columnist and feature writer based in Kashmir. He X’s on @peermohdamir

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