M. Aijaz Malik
In the heart of the majestic Pir Panjal Range, nestled in the tranquil and ecologically rich belt of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, lies an unexplored paradise – Shakarmarg Darhal. This breathtaking destination remains one of the most captivating yet underdeveloped gems of the entire Jammu region. For trekkers, nature enthusiasts, adventurers, researchers, and spiritual seekers alike, Shakarmarg is not just a destination – it is an unforgettable experience where pristine nature, cultural heritage, and ecological diversity converge in spectacular harmony. With its numerous lakes, high-altitude meadows, cascading waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, and towering snow-capped peaks, Shakarmarg Darhal holds enormous untapped potential to become one of India’s most iconic eco-tourism and adventure tourism hubs.
For far too long, this region has been overlooked despite its immense natural bounty and strategic relevance. The growing global demand for eco-tourism, trekking, offbeat travel, and wellness-based tourism is at an all-time high. It is a golden opportunity for the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir, the UT Tourism Department, the Union Ministry of Tourism, and the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways to recognize and act upon the immense socio-economic and cultural potential that lies hidden within the meadows of Shakarmarg.
What makes Shakarmarg truly special is its unmatched biodiversity and natural charm. This region boasts a cluster of high-altitude alpine lakes, including yet-undocumented glacial lakes that rival those in Kashmir Valley and Ladakh. These lakes, tucked within the folds of Pir Panjal, reflect the sky like mirrors and offer a surreal trekking experience. The lush green meadows that stretch over vast acres are carpeted with vibrant seasonal wildflowers, aromatic herbs, and medicinal plants, creating a natural tapestry of colors and scents that few places in India can rival.
Moreover, Shakarmarg is home to a diverse range of bird species, many of which are rare and endemic to the Himalayas. From the melodic Himalayan Monal to migratory birds crossing from Central Asia, this region offers tremendous potential for birdwatchers and ornithologists. Botanists and environmentalists will also find the unique flora in this region scientifically and economically important. Beyond its natural assets, the peaks surrounding Shakarmarg offer world-class opportunities for mountaineering, rock climbing, camping, and paragliding – making it a hotspot for adventure tourism.
Equally important is the socio-cultural and historical fabric of Darhal and the surrounding villages. The people here are warm, hospitable, and deeply connected with their land and traditions. Promoting tourism in this region would not only boost the local economy but also empower tribal and rural communities through homestay programs, eco-tourism jobs, handicraft markets, and local entrepreneurship. It would help preserve indigenous knowledge systems and traditional ecological practices passed down through generations. Additionally, the region has spiritual significance, and many locations in the higher reaches are revered by the local population, offering potential for spiritual and wellness-based tourism.
Despite this immense promise, Shakarmarg suffers from severe infrastructural neglect. The lack of a proper motorable road, insufficient marketing, lack of base camps, trekking infrastructure, digital connectivity, tourist rest houses, and security arrangements keep this paradise hidden. The current road connecting Rajouri to Darhal and beyond towards Shakarmarg remains single-laned, patchy, and underdeveloped. Tourists, researchers, and even locals face great difficulty in accessing this region. It is imperative that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways prepares a Detailed Project Report (DPR) on an urgent basis for the upgradation and double-laning of the Rajouri-Darhal-Shakarmarg Road, including blacktopping, safety measures, drainage systems, and scenic viewpoint stops.
A world-class road, once constructed, will open up the entire upper Pir Panjal belt to tourism, trade, and development. This will not only serve Shakarmarg but also facilitate connectivity to nearby villages, border tourism circuits, and winter sports zones. The improved infrastructure will attract national and international tourists, generate employment, and enhance the region’s inclusion in the UT’s overall tourism policy. The introduction of proper signboards, helipads, mountain rescue teams, eco-camps, and solar-based eco-lodges will ensure both safety and sustainability.
I also request the Union Ministry of Tourism to include Shakarmarg in its list of priority destinations under schemes such as PRASHAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) Parvat Mala and Swadesh Darshan, focused on promoting eco and cultural tourism circuits. A focused marketing campaign under “Incredible India” and “Visit Jammu” should be launched, including digital videos, short documentaries, Instagram reels, and adventure travel blogs highlighting Shakarmarg’s natural allure.
Furthermore, I urge the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to organize an annual Shakarmarg Adventure Festival, featuring trekking expeditions, bird-watching tours, village fairs, cultural performances, and photography contests to bring this region into the national spotlight. Collaborations with private travel firms, academic researchers, NGOs, and international conservation groups will bring in further visibility and accountability.
I also appeal to the LG Administration and UT Tourism Department to establish a Shakarmarg Tourism Development Authority (STDA), with a focused mandate to plan, promote, and manage tourism in the area through a sustainable lens. This authority can ensure long-term planning, waste management, land use regulation, eco-lodge certification, and the preservation of fragile ecosystems. With responsible and inclusive planning, Shakarmarg can become a model for how untouched Himalayan regions can be opened for tourism without compromising their environmental and cultural sanctity.
Hon’ble LG Sir and Respected Ministers, this is not just a call for development-it is a plea to recognize a forgotten paradise. The economic upliftment, national integration, ecological conservation, and strategic value of Shakarmarg Darhal are immense. With just the right infrastructural push and administrative attention, this jewel of Pir Panjal can transform into a global tourism destination, bringing prosperity not only to Rajouri district but also to the entire Jammu region.
I hope and trust that your esteemed offices will take this passionate appeal with utmost seriousness and initiate immediate steps toward making Shakarmarg Darhal – The Valley of Seven Lakes – a reality on the world tourism map.
