By: Mohammad Akram
Known as the “Gateway of Kashmir,” Baramulla’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, combined with its strategic location on the Jhelum River, render it vital for regional economic development and tourism. Recent initiatives, supported by both central and UT administrations, aim to improve connectivity, enhance tourism, and empower local communities, thereby establishing Baramulla as a pivotal element in Jammu and Kashmir’s advancement.
Road infrastructure constitutes the foundation of this progress. The Srinagar-Baramulla four-lane highway project, under the Bharatmala Pariyojana scheme, is transforming regional connectivity, with significant advancements reported in 2023. This project seeks to facilitate transportation, diminish travel durations, and improve access to markets, healthcare, and educational facilities. The 100-kilometre Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri highway, sanctioned in 2022 with a budget of ₹823.45 crore, encompasses bypasses and flyovers to alleviate traffic congestion and improve safety standards. These upgrades connect Srinagar with rural regions, thereby supporting economic activity and tourism.
The Baramulla-Gulmarg National Highway (NH-701A), upgraded at a cost of ₹84.62 crore, holds critical importance for tourism, linking Baramulla to Gulmarg, noted for its skiing facilities and the world’s highest green golf course. Furthermore, the government announced an allocation of ₹336 crore for road projects under the PMGSY scheme in 2025 to enhance last-mile connectivity. These infrastructural improvements are instrumental in promoting tourism, trade, access to essential services, and employment, thereby contributing to the broader objectives of India’s economic development.
In order to foster tourism, Baramulla is establishing facilitation centres near prominent scenic sites such as Gulmarg, Wular Lake, and Parihaspora, designed to provide visitors with a secure and memorable experience. In June 2025, Deputy Commissioner Minga Sherpa reviewed the tourism infrastructure in Gulmarg, inspecting the gondola system, ticketing arrangements, and sanitation facilities, with an emphasis on safety, tourist management, and cleanliness. Initiatives such as 24/7 Help Desks, traffic management systems, and transparent ticketing mechanisms aim to enhance visitor convenience, aligning with the recommendations of the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, to augment India’s tourism competitiveness.
Resources from the Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation and local authorities support these centres, catering to diverse travellers ranging from families to adventure enthusiasts. The reopening of Kaman Post, referred to as the Bridge of Peace, has strengthened border tourism, attracting visitors and promoting cultural exchanges. These projects elevate Baramulla’s standing as a tourist destination and bolster local businesses and artisans.
Homestay schemes also serve a vital role in the region’s tourism economy, offering sustainable incomes to local communities and fostering cultural immersion. These schemes generate employment opportunities for youth, particularly in conflict-affected areas, thereby promoting peace. They also promote eco-tourism and adventure tourism, showcasing Kashmiri traditions. With government support for training and funding, these initiatives have led to increased entrepreneurial opportunities, especially for women and young people, and contribute to retaining tourism revenue within the region. Such sustainable schemes also promote eco-friendly practices, including waste management using local resources.
The collective impact of road enhancements, facilitation centres, and homestays is transforming Baramulla’s socio-economic landscape. Improved connectivity diminishes rural isolation, enhances access to education, healthcare, and markets, and creates employment opportunities. Tourism initiatives have empowered marginalised communities and fostered local pride.
Border tourism, particularly in 2025, contributes to peace-building by transforming conflict zones into economic hubs. Looking forward, Baramulla’s development aligns with India’s Vision 2047, emphasising high-speed corridors and world-class amenities. Projects under schemes like PM Gati Shakti promote seamless multi-modal connectivity, supporting both tourism and trade. Nonetheless, challenges such as project delays and environmental concerns persist, necessitating coordination among agencies and active community engagement. Overall, Baramulla’s infrastructural initiatives are fostering growth and prosperity. By augmenting connectivity, enriching the tourist experience, and empowering local populations, these efforts are transforming Baramulla into a flourishing centre for tourism and economic activity. The ongoing projects promise a brighter, more inclusive future, reinforcing its role as a gateway to Kashmir’s cultural and natural heritage.
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