Srinagar, June 0: Strawberry fields in Batoo and sprawling cherry orchards in Warapora and Mullabangil villages of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district are emerging as popular agri-tourism destinations, attracting a growing number of visitors during the ongoing harvesting season.
Batoo, often referred to by locals as the “Strawberry Valley”, has witnessed an increase in tourist footfall as visitors arrive to experience fruit harvesting and explore Kashmir’s rural landscape. The neighbouring villages of Warapora and Mullabangil, known for large-scale cherry cultivation, are also drawing tourists from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir and beyond.
The growing interest in these villages has renewed calls for promoting agri-tourism as a means of diversifying Kashmir’s tourism sector and creating additional sources of income for farming communities.
Recently, Gulmarg MLA Farooq Ahmad Shah advocated developing Batoo, Warapora and Mullabangil as dedicated agri-tourism villages, saying the initiative could help combine agriculture and tourism while generating employment opportunities for local youth.
Local residents said tourists have been visiting orchards and farms to witness harvesting activities and purchase fresh produce directly from growers.
Jahangir Bhat, Youth Congress president, said the increasing tourist arrivals reflected the potential of the area as an agri-tourism hub.
“These villages have a unique identity because of their strawberry and cherry cultivation. Improved infrastructure, better road connectivity and focused promotion can help attract more visitors and benefit local communities,” he said.
Residents said agri-tourism offers tourists an opportunity to experience village life, interact with farmers and learn about traditional cultivation practices.
They expressed hope that government support and sustained promotional efforts would help establish Batoo, Warapora and Mullabangil among Kashmir’s emerging tourism destinations.
With picturesque landscapes, thriving orchards and growing recognition among travellers, the villages are steadily carving out a niche in Kashmir’s tourism sector, locals said.(KNS)
