Bandipora, Jan 03 (KNO): Blanketed in massive snowfall, Gurez Valley in north Kashmir's Bandipora district shows potential as a winter sports tourism hub, with locals urging the government to support infrastructure development in the area.
With its snow-covered terrain, the residents believe Gurez Valley can rival other prominent winter sports destinations such as Gulmarg. The locals have been organizing snow cricket tournaments for years, which have become a hallmark of winter activities in the valley.
These tournaments, held on makeshift snow grounds, attract participants and spectators from neighboring areas.
“Gurez has everything needed for winter tourism—snow, open spaces, and the enthusiasm of the people. If Gulmarg can host winter games, why not Gurez?" asked Imran Ahmad, a local resident as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
The snow cricket tournaments, often conducted by local youth groups, are seen as an attempt to bring attention to the valley’s potential.
Zahid Lone, another resident and an organizer of these tournaments, said, “We have been holding these tournaments every winter. It’s not just about cricket; it’s about showing the world what Gurez can offer in terms of winter sports and tourism.”
Despite the enthusiasm of the locals, infrastructural and logistical challenges remain. The valley's remote location and harsh weather conditions often hinder accessibility during winter months. Residents believe government intervention could alleviate these issues and put Gurez on the winter tourism map.
“We need better roads and facilities to host visitors and players," said Mushtaq Ahmad, a resident, who actively participates in local tourism initiatives. “If the government invests in developing Gurez as a winter sports destination, it can create jobs and improve the economy here.”
“This place is no less than a paradise in winter. We just need the right support and exposure to bring tourists here,” said Shahid Qureshi, a local school teacher.
The residents also point out that Gurez Valley has immense potential for snow skiing. The valley’s vast, snow-covered slopes and natural contours provide an ideal setting for both beginner and advanced skiers.
They believe that with proper infrastructure, such as ski lifts, training facilities, and equipment rental centers, Gurez could attract skiing enthusiasts from across the country and beyond.
“Our slopes are untouched and perfect for skiing. If developed, they could become a major attraction,” said Bashir Khan, a local adventure enthusiast. “We have the natural terrain; we just need the infrastructure to make it accessible and safe for visitors,” he said.
Meanwhile, the residents urged MLA Gurez and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to prioritize winter sports in Gurez on a large scale, aiming to boost tourism in the area—(KNO)