https://indianmasterminds.com

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT

Kashmir on the Fast Track: How Adventure and Green Tourism Are Rewriting Its Story

Jammu & Kashmir is rapidly transforming into a global hub for adventure, rural, and green tourism—with initiatives like F4 racing, award-winning homestays, and eco-friendly projects that blend thrill, tradition, and sustainability.
Indian Masterminds Stories

Jammu & Kashmir, once known primarily for its tranquil valleys and postcard-perfect landscapes, is now boldly rebranding itself as the adventure capital of India. From the roar of Formula 4 race cars to the echo of marathon runners across alpine trails, the region is redefining what it means to be a modern tourist destination. With a strategic focus on adventure, rural, and green tourism, J&K is not only attracting thrill-seekers and culture lovers but also making waves globally with its sustainable and inclusive approach to travel.

“Our vision is to position Jammu & Kashmir as one of the world’s most sought-after travel destinations while ensuring sustainable and responsible tourism. We are expanding beyond popular locations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar to develop lesser-known yet equally mesmerizing places,” says Yasha Mudgal, IAS (2007 batch), Commissioner Secretary Tourism, J&K to Indian Masterminds.

ADRENALINE IN THE HIMALAYAS 

Kashmir’s adventure tourism calendar has been buzzing with high-octane events. In March 2024, the region hosted the much-anticipated F4 Car Road Show, where motorsports enthusiasts witnessed Formula 4 racing cars blazing through scenic routes in the valley. The event combined the elegance of motorsport with the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir’s terrain, signaling that the region is ready to host world-class, high-energy tourism experiences.

In October 2024, the Kashmir Marathon brought together over 2,135 runners, including 59 international participants from 13 countries. The marathon, set against the stunning backdrop of Kashmir’s natural beauty, was more than a race—it was a celebration of peace, unity, and environmental awareness.

Around the same time, Jammu showcased its golfing credentials with the PGTI Jammu Open 2024, featuring 126 professional golfers from seven countries. With growing interest from corporate sponsors and global media, Jammu is swiftly establishing itself as a hotspot for golf tourism.

AUTHENTIC KASHMIRI HOSPITALITY 

J&K’s push for rural tourism is bringing travelers closer to the heart of Kashmiri culture. Through government-led initiatives, local communities are being empowered to showcase their traditions, crafts, and lifestyles.

The First Edition of the Rural Homestays Competition 2024 brought national recognition to three exceptional homestays:

  • Jaroka Wake in Lake Homestay, Ganderbal: Awarded Best Homestay Cluster, this floating homestay offers guests a rare experience on Kashmir’s pristine waters.
  • Village Walk Guest House, Keran, Kupwara: Named Best Homestay Cottage, this scenic retreat blends untouched natural beauty with rich cultural roots.
  • Tribe Homestay, Budgam: Honored as Best Heritage Homestay, this destination offers a deep dive into Kashmiri architecture and traditional living.

Another rising gem is Aru Village, crowned as the Best Rural Tourism Village for Adventure Tourism on World Tourism Day 2024. With treks to Kolahoi Glacier, Tarsar-Marsar Lakes, and Katrinag Valley, along with adventure sports like paragliding, rafting, and skiing, Aru is the perfect blend of nature and adrenaline. Importantly, tourism in Aru is also creating local jobs and supporting the community economy.

BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE 

Environmental sustainability is at the core of J&K’s tourism policy. Several eco-conscious projects are setting a precedent for how travel and conservation can go hand-in-hand.

One such project is Skyview by Empyrean, which won the Destination Management Category under the Travel for Life Case Study Competition. A remarkable example of green engineering, the ropeway was constructed without felling a single tree. Over its lifetime, it is expected to prevent 254,721 tons of CO₂ emissions, making it one of the greenest tourism projects in the country.

Equally inspiring is Sagg Eco Village, awarded in the Green Tourism Category for its outstanding work in organic farming, cultural preservation, and sustainable living. The village promotes handmade, eco-friendly products and hosts workshops for skill development, positioning itself as a model for future-focused tourism.

CHARTING THE ROAD AHEAD 

Jammu & Kashmir is rapidly evolving into a year-round travel destination for diverse traveler profiles—be it adventure enthusiasts, cultural explorers, or eco-conscious tourists.

“From adventure sports to eco-friendly projects, we are integrating sustainability with tourism growth. Our goal is to ensure that every traveler who visits J&K leaves with unforgettable memories while contributing to the region’s economic and environmental well-being,” adds Yasha Mudgal.

With stronger public-private partnerships, robust infrastructure development, and targeted promotion of hidden gems, the region is paving the way to become a global example of responsible tourism.

Whether it’s the thrilling roar of F4 engines, the soul-soothing calm of a lakeside homestay, or the gentle sway of a cable car above lush forests, Jammu & Kashmir is offering unforgettable experiences that go far beyond the conventional. This is not just tourism; this is transformation—and it’s only the beginning.


Indian Masterminds Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Related Stories
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
NEWS
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC on Implementation of Safeguards for Scheduled Tribe Employees
MP CM Collector Award Niti Aayog
Sampurnata Abhiyan: Madhya Pradesh Leads NITI Aayog Campaign; Collectors from 8 Districts Win Gold
Mohan Yadav
MP CM Mohan Yadav Pushes for Sustainable, Community-Driven Rural Water Policy; Targets 100% Tap Coverage by March 2027
Ajay Bhadoo IAS
IAS Ajay Bhadoo Gets Extended Term as DGFT - What It Means & His Career Journey
THDCIL_Receives_ABMS_Certification_for_Integrity_and_Transparency
THDC India (THDCIL) Awarded ISO 37001:2016 Anti-Bribery Certification by BIS - Details Inside
Ministry of Environment
Environment Ministry Clarifies Petrol Vehicle Tender, Cites E-Vehicle Flexibility
Bokaro Steel Plant
PESB Selects Priya Ranjan to Head Bokaro Steel Plant, SAIL’s Key Production Unit
REC Limited wins ‘Best Design Thinking Award’ at 5th Distinguished NBFC (DNA) Awards
REC Limited Bags ‘Best Design Thinking Award’ at 5th Distinguished NBFC Awards
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
Dr
Resisted Flawed Schemes, Transferred Thrice In Three Months, Found Solace In Writing
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-11 at 4.48
IAS SVR Srinivas on Mumbai Trans Harbour Link, Tough Calls, and the Real Power of IAS Officers | Video Interview
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-08 at 5.25
Dharavi Redevelopment: IAS Minds Turning 100-Year-Old Slum into a Modern City | Video Interview
ADVERTISEMENT
UPSC Stories
IAS Minnu P M
“Lazy, Sleepy, Yet Determined”: Minnu P M’s Honest Take on Cracking UPSC
Minnu PM, once a clerk in Kerala Police, cleared UPSC with AIR 150 after five years of struggle. Her...
IPS Ashish Tiwari
From IIT and Investment Banking to Public Service, Meet IPS Ashish Tiwari 
Ashish Tiwari, IIT graduate and former investment banker, chose public service over global finance. As...
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-12 at 7.27
First Attempt IRS, Fourth Attempt IPS: The Relentless Pursuit of Jitendra Kumar Yadav Who Cracked UPSC 3 Times
IPS Yadav is originally from Chhattisgarh. He was first selected for the IRS through UPSC and later for...
Social Media
Masahiro Hara
From Go Board to Global Use, How QR Codes Changed the World: IRAS Officer Ananth Rupanagudi Spotlights Masahiro Hara’s Vision
IRAS officer Ananth Rupanagudi shared a video on Masahiro Hara, the inventor of QR codes, highlighting...
IFS Susanta Nanda Video
A Mother’s Duty: Tigress Watches Over Cubs Splashing in Waterhole — Heartwarming Video Shared By Retd. IFS Officer Susanta Nanda
A tender wildlife video shared by Retd. IFS officer Susanta Nanda shows a tigress keeping watch over...
Mohanmala
Kaziranga Mourns: Beloved Elephant Mohanmala Passes Away After Five Decades of Service
Kaziranga National Park mourns the loss of Mohanmala, a beloved elephant who served over 50 years as...
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Latest
IFS S Krithiga
Eco-Friendly Cottages, Tribal Cuisine, and Conservation: Inside Tamil Nadu’s Pachamalai Project
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC
NCST Holds Review Meeting with NHPC on Implementation of Safeguards for Scheduled Tribe Employees
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Videos
Dr
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-11 at 4.48
WhatsApp Image 2025-08-08 at 5.25
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT