The border tourism initiative launched by the Jammu and Kashmir Administration, in collaboration with the Tourism Department, is bringing about significant changes in the region, particularly after the implementation of the ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan a few years ago. A key part of this effort is the development of the famous Baba Chamliyal Temple in the Ramgarh sector of the Samba district, a move that aims to promote border tourism and capitalize on the prevailing peace in the area.
The Baba Chamliyal Temple has long attracted thousands of devotees. It is particularly popular during its annual fair in June, where lakhs of people gather to pay their respects. The temple holds a special place in the hearts of the local population, especially after the 2018 ceasefire, which has allowed tourists and devotees to visit without the fear of cross-border conflict.
Samba Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Sharma highlighted the tourism potential along the district’s 55-kilometer-long international border, which is home to a number of significant sites. “There are many places along the international border that have the potential to attract a large number of tourists, such as the Chamliyal Temple, the 300-year-old Bamu Chak temple, Baba Bali Karan Ji temple, and Baba Sidh Goriya,” Sharma said.
To address the growing influx of visitors, especially at the Baba Chamliyal Temple, local authorities are working to improve infrastructure and expand accommodations. “Tourists coming to Chamliyal Temple face accommodation problems, so we are making all-out efforts to develop more homestays,” Sharma told IANS, underscoring the administration’s focus on providing better facilities for tourists.
Billu Choudhary, head of the Baba Chamliyal Temple Committee, shared how the ceasefire has positively impacted tourism. “Devotees keep coming here, but during the annual fair in June, lakhs of people visit this temple. After the ceasefire between India and Pakistan in 2018, tourists come here without any fear. Before that, we were even afraid to visit this temple,” Choudhary explained.
