States » NorthPosted at: Nov 4 2026 9:45PM


Keran Heritage Centre inaugurated at Pharkian Gali as tourist footfall crosses 55,000 this year

Srinagar, Nov 4 (UNI) In a major push to promote tourism and boost economic activity in North Kashmir, the Indian Army's Chinar Corps, in collaboration with CBC Corporation India Pvt Ltd and the Umang Foundation, inaugurated the Keran Heritage Centre at Pharkian Gali in Kupwara district on Wednesday.
The inauguration comes as tourist footfall in Keran Valley has crossed 55,000 this year, marking a significant milestone for the frontier region, which opened its doors to tourists in 2023 after remaining largely inaccessible due to its proximity to the Line of Control (LoC).
Set against the backdrop of the Kishanganga Valley and surrounded by pine forests, the heritage centre has been developed to showcase the region's history, cultural identity and natural beauty while promoting Keran as an emerging tourism destination.
Defence Ministry spokesperson Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said the complex brings together heritage, hospitality and national attractions to offer visitors a glimpse into the valley's history and its association with resilience, sacrifice and service.
The National Flag site forms the centrepiece of the complex, featuring a Tricolour above a fort-inspired gateway flanked by twin domed towers. Commemorative walls carrying the inscriptions 'Sacrifice, Service, Unity' and 'Higher Grounds, Stronger Bonds, A Greater India' have also been installed.
The centre houses a dedicated heritage gallery showcasing the history, landscapes and cultural identity of Keran Valley. An artillery gun display and landscaped pathways have also been developed within the complex.
A café, named Keran Café–Pharkian, has been established to serve Kashmiri Kahwa, coffee, hot beverages and refreshments, allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and pine forests.
Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Abhishek Sharma,lauded the initiative, saying it would strengthen tourism infrastructure and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for local residents.
Ashish Goyal, Founder and Managing Trustee of the Umang Foundation, Mumbai, and Durgesh Sharma of CBC Corporation India Pvt Ltd were also present at the inauguration.
The initiative aims to attract more visitors to the lesser-explored frontier region while encouraging local participation, entrepreneurship and economic activity.
The project is part of a broader effort to develop border areas as centres of tourism, cultural exchange and socio-economic opportunities.
UNI MJR BM
Tags: #Keran Heritage Centre inaugurated at Pharkian Gali as tourist footfall crosses 55#000 this year
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