Achi news desk-
The Kashmir Valley is now experiencing a remarkable increase in tourism, with all the houseboats in the Dal Lake and surrounding areas fully booked. Also getting fresh bookings in budget hotels is not easy for tourists. This unprecedented influx of tourists requires increased hotel capacity and infrastructure development to accommodate the growing number of visitors. To address this problem, the J&K government must take action to further boost tourism infrastructure in the region. First and foremost, the government should encourage private investment in hotel infrastructure, offer more incentives for building hotels at affordable prices and home hospitality. This will not only increase the availability of accommodation but also create new job opportunities for the locals. The homestay industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with 1,485 homestays registered across the Union territory, offering a total of 13,000 rooms to tourists. This incredible surge is a direct result of the J&K government’s innovative initiative to bridge the tourist accommodation gap, which is now paying fruitful dividends. By encouraging locals to convert their properties into homestays, the government has not only provided a platform for tourists to experience authentic Kashmiri culture, but has also generated a lucrative source of income for the locals. Launched with the aim of increasing tourism and providing diverse accommodation options for visitors, the homestay initiative has proven to be a resounding success. Locals can now list their homes to host tourists, offering them a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s rich culture, traditions and warm hospitality. Tourists can indulge in the local cuisine, explore the wilderness of nature and experience the authentic charm of Kashmir, all while contributing to the local economy. According to officials from the J&K tourism department, homestays are revolutionizing the tourism landscape in rural and tribal areas. With over 1,485 registered homestays, offering more than 13,000 rooms, this initiative has proven to be a game-changer for the region. The government’s efforts to promote homestays not only created employment opportunities for the locals but also helped preserve the cultural heritage of the region. To further boost this initiative, the government should consider implementing similar programs in the future, and provide more incentives for locals to convert their properties into homestays. By doing so, Kashmir can continue to thrive as a tourist destination, offering a unique and authentic experience to visitors while empowering locals to benefit from the tourism boom. In addition, the government must develop a comprehensive tourism infrastructure development plan, focusing on upgrading existing facilities and creating new facilities. This plan should prioritize sustainable tourism practices, and ensure that the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage are preserved. Finally, the government should collaborate with local stakeholders, and involve them in decision-making processes to ensure inclusive growth and community benefits. This will ensure that the tourism boom will benefit not only hoteliers and tour operators but also local communities and artisans. The current tourism boom in Kashmir is a golden opportunity for the government to invest in tourism infrastructure and promote sustainable tourism practices.
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