Srinagar: The border village of Keran in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district has recorded more than 55,000 tourist arrivals till November this year, with the administration targeting over one lakh visitors, including foreign tourists, in the near future.
Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, Abhishek Sharma, according to the news agency KNO, said that tourist footfall in the scenic Line of Control (LoC) village has been rising steadily year after year, reflecting its growing popularity as an emerging tourism destination.
Speaking at the inauguration of a heritage cafe and flag site in Keran, Sharma said the administration is focused on strengthening tourism infrastructure while preserving the village’s natural beauty and unique character.
“Keran has already crossed 55,000 tourist arrivals till November this year, and we are aiming for a footfall of over one lakh, including foreign tourists. The increasing number of visitors every year is encouraging,” he said.
The DC said the goal was not only to attract tourists but also to create an experience that encourages them to return and share their memories with others.
Highlighting the Indian Army’s contribution to promoting tourism in the border area, Sharma said it has consistently supported efforts to develop Keran and improve visitor facilities.
“Facilities are being created so that tourists leave with beautiful memories. This requires collective effort, and the Indian Army has always played its role in that direction,” he said.
Sharma said Kupwara’s border areas hold immense tourism potential, which can be fully realised through coordinated efforts by civil society, the Indian Army, local entrepreneurs and the administration.
“We have tremendous potential and numerous opportunities. With a joint effort, we can make Keran one of the world’s finest tourism destinations,” he said.
He also urged travel enthusiasts to visit Keran and experience its scenic beauty, heritage and distinctive border-village charm. (KNO)
