Promotion of tourism in AJK is Govt’s top priority
MUZAFFARABAD: The Azad Government of the State of Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) is striving to transform the destiny of the people of the region by promoting tourism, with several projects in the pipeline.
The AJK government is mulling over a large project to make the area a tourism corridor, which, according to the high-ups, will change the fate of the region. The indication in this regard came from not less than the Prime Minister of AJK Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq, who during a ceremony few months back, said that the government was planning to promote tourism in Poonch. He said the promotion of tourism in Poonch is part of the government’s larger plan to turn the area into a tourism hub.
Haq stated that a tourism festival will be organised in Poonch. “Through the tourism festival, the world will be able to witness the beauty of the region.” he said as the standard of living improves, the deprivation faced by the people can be alleviated. He was of the view that hindering tourism in the name of rights would create difficulties for future generations, which, he added, is not fair at all. “A large project is being launched to make the area a tourism corridor, which will change the fate of the region,” he said and added the region’s current infrastructure is already in good shape.
AJK govt’s initiative
Tourism in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is rapidly growing due to the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and improved infrastructure. The government initiative may transform the destiny of the people, significantly change the course of people’s lives. It can lead to a positive shift towards better conditions, opportunities, and overall well-being that benefits the wider community.
What to see
Neelum Valley: A popular valley with forests and scenic views. Neelum Valley is located in Azad Kashmir and is known for scenic views, forests, and rivers. Neelum River, Ratti Gali Lake, and Keran are the attractions of the area.
Gurez Valley: The valley is a nature and wildlife area with scenic drives. It is known for nature, wildlife, and scenic drives. Attractions include Gurez River, Kishan Ganga River, and Habba Khatoon Peak.
Arang Kel: It is located in the Neelum Valley; a neighborhood with a chair lift ride, horses, and scenic views. Attractions include Arang Kel Chair Lift, and nearby trekking routes.
Toli Pir: It is known for the scenic views and trekking routes while attractions include Toli Pir Peak, trekking routes, and nearby villages.
Darbar E Aalia Khari Sharif: It is a religious site located in Khari Sharif, Azad Kashmir and known for the sufi shrine and its spiritual significance. Attractions include Shrine of Hazrat Baba Peer-e-Shah Ghazi, nearby mosques, and spiritual gatherings.
Ramkot Fort: It is a historic castle known for scenic views. Attractions include Ramkot Fort, nearby villages, and scenic views of the surrounding area.
Sharda Peeth: It is an ancient religious site and ruin located in Sharda, Azad Kashmir. It is known for the ancient Hindu temple and spiritual significance. The attractions include Sharda Peeth Temple, nearby ruins, and scenic views of the surrounding area.
Mangla Fort: The fort is a historic site located in Mangla, Azad Kashmir. It is known for historic fort and scenic views. Mangla Fort itself is an attraction worth visiting.
Red Fort: The historic site is located in Muzaffarabad. Nearby markets, and scenic views of the surrounding area are the few attractions of the area.
Mirpur Old City Ruins: The ruins area a historic site located in Mirpur.
The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has improved the roads infrastructure to make it easier for tourists to travel. The AJK Tourism and Archaeology Department has also introduced transport services for tourists.
