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Once remote, now thriving: Keran rides the tourism-could-fuel-european-rent-hikes-of-up-to-e250-a-2/” title=”Booming air tourism could fuel European rent hikes of up to €250 a…”>tourism wave
Around 2,000 tourists visit daily, as homestays, restaurants, transport services flourish l Locals seek dedicated Tourism Development Authority
29 Jun 2026 05:08 IST
The picturesque valley, nestled along the banks of the Kishanganga River and surrounded by lush green mountains, has emerged as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in north Kashmir, attracting a steady stream of visitors from across the country
Residents told Greater Kashmir that the growing tourist influx over the past few years has led to a surge in homestays, restaurants, transport services and other tourism-related businesses, enabling many local families to earn a sustainable livelihood without having to migrate in search of work
The tourism boom has encouraged many young people to convert their homes into homestays to cater to the increasing number of visitors. Several others have started restaurants, taxi services and other small businesses, significantly improving their economic prospects
“The tourist footfall has not only increased our income but has also given us a dignified means of earning a livelihood. Earlier, due to limited employment opportunities, our youngsters had to move outside the area in search of work. Today, tourism has opened up new opportunities, and many people are earning well while staying in their own village,” National Conference youth leader Shahrukh Khan told Greater Kashmir
Locals attributed Keran’s emergence as a major tourist destination to the prevailing peaceful atmosphere and the sustained efforts of the Indian Army and the district administration in promoting tourism in the border region
According to local estimates, nearly 2,000 tourists visit Keran every day during the peak tourist season, providing a significant boost to the local economy
“We are thankful to the Indian Army for playing a positive role in promoting tourism in Keran. It has generated employment opportunities for local youth and contributed immensely to the economic development of the area,” said Ferhad, a resident
Tourists visiting Keran were equally impressed by the village’s breathtaking landscapes and the hospitality of its people
“I have visited Kashmir several times, but this was my first trip to Keran. It felt like stepping into another world. The lush green meadows, the Kishanganga River flowing alongside the village and, above all, the warmth and hospitality of the local people make Keran one of the most beautiful places I have visited in Kashmir,” said Anil, a tourist from New Delhi
Another visitor, Sourabh from Mumbai, said he decided to visit Keran after watching videos on social media
“I had seen several videos of Keran on social media, but the place exceeded my expectations. I chose to stay in a homestay and the experience was wonderful. The locals were extremely hospitable and made us feel at home. I will definitely visit Keran again,” he said
While expressing satisfaction over the rapid tourism growth, residents said much more needs to be done to strengthen infrastructure in the border destination
They demanded the establishment of a separate Tourism Development Authority for Keran to ensure planned development and better facilities for visitors. They also urged the authorities to construct public washrooms at different locations along the Kralpora-Keran road, saying the absence of basic amenities causes inconvenience to tourists
Locals said timely investment in tourism infrastructure would help sustain the momentum and firmly establish Keran as one of Kashmir’s premier border tourism destinations
