Bandipora, July 18(KNS): The remote Tulail Valley in north Kashmir's Gurez is witnessing an unexpected tourism-driven revival of its centuries-old culinary traditions, with the humble combination of Maki ki Roti (corn bread) and Nun Chai (traditional salted pink tea) emerging as one of the biggest attractions for visitors exploring the border region.

 

As tourist arrivals continue to rise following the government's decision to allow travel up to the border village of Chalwali, residents say the growing footfall has not only improved their livelihoods but has also helped preserve food traditions that have nearly disappeared from many parts of the Kashmir Valley.

 

Small roadside eateries across Tulail are witnessing brisk business as travellers stop to savour freshly prepared corn bread served with steaming cups of Nun Chai. Many tourists are also purchasing extra rotis to carry home as a reminder of their visit.

 

"We never imagined that our traditional food would become such a major attraction. Every day, tourists stop here specifically to taste Nun Chai and Maki ki Roti. It has become an important source of income for our families," said a local food vendor.

 

For decades, residents of the snow-bound valley depended largely on seasonal opportunities and assistance during the harsh winter months when heavy snowfall cuts off the region from the rest of Kashmir for nearly six months. However, the recent tourism boom has opened fresh avenues for employment through small eateries, homestays and local tourism services.

 

Homestay owners in Sheikhpora and nearby villages say visitors are increasingly looking beyond scenic landscapes to experience the unique culture, traditional architecture and local cuisine of Gurez.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

 

"Our guests want to understand our way of life. They stay in traditional wooden houses, eat local food and interact with families. Tourism has become a bridge between cultures," said a homestay operator.

 

Tourists from different parts of the country describe the experience as unlike any other destination in Kashmir. Many say the hospitality of residents, the traditional wooden houses overlooking the Kishanganga River and authentic local cuisine make Gurez one of the most memorable places they have visited.

 

The rapid increase in tourist arrivals has also prompted the district administration to focus on environmental protection. During a recent visit to Gurez, Deputy Commissioner Bandipora Indu Kanwal Chib directed strict enforcement of waste management regulations, warning that the ecologically fragile border valley cannot sustain irresponsible tourism practices.

 

The administration has already established a plastic check post at Tragbal to restrict the entry of single-use plastics and is planning to install heritage signboards, information displays and awareness murals to encourage responsible tourism and preserve the valley's cultural identity.

 

While the tourism season will eventually give way to the long winter isolation, residents believe the growing popularity of Gurez's traditional cuisine has provided a sustainable source of income and renewed pride in their rich cultural heritage, ensuring that age-old customs continue to thrive for future generations. (KNS)