Tourism in Kashmir has always thrived on its natural beauty, yet destinations with immense potential often remain neglected due to poor infrastructure. One such place is Drang, near Tangmarg, a site marked by a stunning waterfall and scenic surroundings that could easily become a year-round attraction. Its proximity to Gulmarg makes it an ideal extension for visitors, offering both winter charm with snow-covered landscapes and summer allure with lush greenery and flowing waters. However, the road leading to the destination is in deplorable condition, turning what should be a short, pleasant drive into an ordeal that discourages tourists and isolates locals from opportunities.
The lack of a proper access road is not just a logistical inconvenience; it is a barrier to development. Tourists expect comfort and accessibility, and when a destination is difficult to reach, it loses its appeal no matter how beautiful it may be. This neglect undermines the promise of tourism as a driver of local livelihood. Residents who hoped to benefit by opening guest houses or small businesses find themselves blocked by bureaucratic hurdles and heavy-handed restrictions. Instead of enabling community participation, authorities appear more focused on control than on empowerment, leaving locals frustrated and voiceless.
Drang’s potential lies not only in its natural beauty but also in its ability to diversify Kashmir’s tourism map. It can complement established destinations like Gulmarg, offering visitors an additional experience within a short distance. Developing the road infrastructure would immediately enhance accessibility, encourage longer stays, and spread economic benefits to surrounding villages. A clear action plan is needed: repair and widen the Tangmarg–Drang road, introduce regulated but supportive policies for homestays and guest houses, and ensure that local communities are stakeholders in tourism growth rather than bystanders. Transparent systems must replace the culture of bribes and arbitrary restrictions, so that residents can invest in their own futures without fear of harassment.
Tourism in Kashmir cannot be sustained by a handful of marquee destinations alone. It requires a network of accessible, well-developed sites that together create a richer experience for visitors. Drang is a perfect example of a place that can flourish if given the right attention. The government must recognize that infrastructure is the backbone of tourism and that empowering locals is the key to sustainable growth. A repaired road, a supportive policy framework, and a commitment to community involvement would transform Drang from an overlooked gem into a thriving destination. The time has come to move beyond promises and deliver tangible development that ensures Kashmir’s tourism potential is fully realized.
As autumn approaches, the urgency to act becomes even greater. This season, with its golden hues and crisp air, draws visitors eager to witness Kashmir’s landscapes transform. Soon after, winter will blanket Drang in snow, turning it into a natural wonderland ideal for skiing, trekking, and winter photography. Yet without a reliable road, the destination risks being cut off precisely when its appeal is at its peak. Tourists who might otherwise extend their stay in Tangmarg or Gulmarg to include Drang will simply bypass it, depriving the region of both visibility and revenue.
The upcoming months present an opportunity to push for greater tourism by ensuring accessibility before snowfall sets in. Repairing the road now would allow visitors to experience Drang’s dual charm; its autumnal beauty and it’s winter spectacle; without hardship. A timely intervention could transform this season into a turning point, showcasing how infrastructure development directly fuels tourism growth. By prioritizing road connectivity and community participation, Drang can emerge as a destination that thrives across seasons, strengthening Kashmir’s tourism map and offering locals a fair chance to benefit from the region’s natural wealth.
