Calling for a more organised and environmentally responsible approach to adventure tourism in Kashmir, Nasir Shah, Chairman, IATO J&K Chapter and Co-Convener, Tourism Committee, PHD Chamber of Commerce, said that adventure tourism in the region had suffered due to unregulated and unprofessional practices in the past.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 17th ATOAI Convention in Srinagar, Shah pointed out that unorganised operators from across the country had been operating in Kashmir without adequate concern for nature, ecology and local sensitivities, leading to long-term environmental stress.
“Adventure tourism was not running in the most professional way over here. Unorganised operators were coming pan-India to Kashmir and exploring our mountains without taking care of nature, environment and ecology,” Shah said.
He said the presence of ATOAI in Kashmir is a timely and positive step, as it opens doors for collaboration with the Department of Tourism to introduce clear guidelines, technical standards and structured modalities for adventure tourism operations. According to him, this will help promote organised adventure activities not only in popular trekking routes such as Great Lakes and Kolahoi, but also in lesser-known regions of South and Central Kashmir.
Shah emphasised that while there is strong potential for adventure tourism to grow again in the Valley, sustainability must remain the top priority.
“We are looking forward to adventure tourism coming back to its glory, but sustainability has to be the priority,” he stated.
Commenting on participation at the convention, Shah said that exhibitors and delegates have arrived from across India, particularly from Himalayan regions such as Sikkim, Darjeeling and Uttarakhand, along with participants from Maharashtra, Gujarat and Central India, reflecting pan-India interest in Kashmir’s adventure tourism potential.
Sharing his message for the global tourism community, Shah urged stakeholders to promote adventure tourism responsibly, with deep respect for nature and local culture.
“Promote adventure in a very sustainable way, with care for nature and culture. Only organised tourism should be encouraged in the mountains of Kashmir,” he said.
