SRINAGAR: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday said that the Tourism Department will assess the need for establishing a Tourism Development Authority (TDA) for Gurez.
Addressing the Legislative Assembly, Omar, said that Jammu and Kashmir has recently gained recognition as a tourist destination.
“In 2022, Gurez Valley received the ‘Best Destination’ award, highlighting its appeal as a unique and emerging tourist spot. Additionally, in September 2023, Dawar village in Gurez was honoured with the ‘Best Tourism Village’ award in the gold category by the Union Ministry of Tourism. This recognition underscores the village’s cultural richness and tourism potential,” he said.
To promote Gurez as a tourist destination, Omar stated that the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has undertaken several initiatives. “In 2024, commercial rafting was introduced in Gurez for the first time. Additionally, during the current financial year, the department has included the upgradation of Gurez as an offbeat destination under the 2024-25 Capex budget.”
He reiterated that the Tourism Department will examine the need for establishing a Tourism Development Authority for Gurez.
