Kashmir was once dubbed the Switzerland of the east. It was once a mecca for climbers, skiers, honeymooners and film-makers drawn to the state's soaring peaks, fruit orchards and timber houseboats bobbing on Dal Lake in Srinagar, the summer capital. As many as 60 per cent of Kashmiris are dependent on income from tourism.But the number of visitors began falling after a revolt broke out in 1989, and the separatist rebellion has killed more than 47,000 people over the past two decades
Pakistan and India have fought two wars over Muslim majority Kashmir, which is divided between the South Asian neighbours who both claim it in full. India accuses Pakistan of backing separatist militants fighting its forces. Pakistan says it only offers them political backing.
The peaks to be opened for trekking and mountaineering are situated at an altitude ranging from 9,842 feet to 7,800 meters 25,590 feet, mostly in the Eastern Karakoram mountain range of Ladakh.
"This summer 104 peaks in Ladakh region will open for trekking and expeditions which would pave the way for adventure tourism and attract foreign tourists in a big way," Nawang Rigzin Jora, Kashmir's tourism minister, told Reuters.
"The defence ministry, which had earlier expressed reservation on throwing open the peaks, has given its nod."
The mountainous Ladakh region along India's border with Pakistan and China, which has been largely free of rebel violence, is a heavily militarised zone.
"The situation is fast improving in the state and tourism is picking up, we hope a very good (tourist) season ahead," Jora added.
Officials say violence involving Indian troops and separatist militants has declined since a peace process began in 2004 between India and Pakistan.
But people are still killed in daily shootouts and occasional bomb attacks.
Many foreign governments still advise against travel to Kashmir, where six Western tourists were abducted while trekking in 1995. Of the six, a Norwegian was beheaded, an American escaped and the rest are presumed dead.
Tourism operators say opening new peaks will help Kashmir tourism but they remain sceptical about a lasting peace in the region.
"Climbers will definitely find plenty to love in this remote and stunningly beautiful region, and this will help our business in a big way," Umar Tibatbakal, a tour operator said. "But Kashmir is unpredictable, violence can break out any time."
The Telegraph 9-4-10
Post Title
→Kashmir peaks to be opened to foreign tourists
Post URL
→https://national-grid-news.blogspot.com/2010/04/kashmir-peaks-to-be-opened-to-foreign.html
Visit National-grid-news for Daily Updated Wedding Dresses Collection
