by Waris Fayaz
Zurimanz, a small village on the banks of Wular Lake, is steadily emerging as a tourism destination, with shikara rides creating new livelihood opportunities for residents who have traditionally depended on fishing and water chestnut cultivation.
Popularly known as the “Bangladesh of Kashmir“, located between the towns of Sopore and Bandipora, the village post development of scenic attractions, including a selfie point and a broadwalk, has become a favourite stop for both local and non-local visitors, many of whom enjoy shikara rides that offer panoramic views of the lake and its surroundings.
Residents said that tourism has begun transforming the local economy. While fishing and water chestnut cultivation remain the primary occupations for hundreds of households, shikara rides have emerged as an additional source of income for at least two dozen families.
The growing tourist footfall has also created opportunities for local youth, many of whom have set up food stalls and small businesses around the tourist site.
According to locals, the village receives an average of over 300 visitors daily, while the number crosses 1,000 on weekends and public holidays.
Despite the encouraging growth, residents said poor road connectivity continues to limit the village’s tourism potential.
Mohammad Aamir, a resident, said the existing road has remained in poor condition since it was constructed around 2001.
“Tourists are coming, but many hesitate because of the road conditions. Better connectivity will bring more visitors and strengthen the local economy. We request the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora and our MLA to improve the road and provide basic infrastructure so that this place can become a major tourism and livelihood hub,” he said.
Tourists visiting the village praised both the natural beauty of Wular Lake and the hospitality of residents.
Balvinder Singh, a tourist from Punjab, said he discovered the destination through social media and was impressed by the peaceful atmosphere.
“This is my first visit here. The place is beautiful, and the weather is much more pleasant than many parts of the country facing intense summer heat. People from across India should visit and experience the beauty of Wular Lake,” he said.
Another visitor, Anmol Singh from Amritsar, who has been touring Kashmir for the past 15 days, described Zurimanz as one of the most peaceful places he visited during his trip. “The environment here is calm and refreshing. People should come here and enjoy the beauty of Wular and the shikara ride,” he said.
Locals, however, believe improved roads and better public amenities can help Zurimanz realise its full potential as a sustainable rural tourism destination while creating more employment opportunities for the communities living along the shores of Wular Lake.
