Srinagar, Jan 30 (KNO): Fifty-nine-year-old Noor Muhammad Ganaie of Pahalgam, had a passion for trekking since his childhood.
As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), such was his interest in this adventure that he would spend most of his time during his childhood exploring mountainous ranges in the south of Kashmir.
Least did he knew that this passion would turn into his profession, especially after trekking started gaining popularity in Kashmir.
Ganaie’s knowledge about various trekking routes has made him the go-to person for most explorers, including foreigners and locals, who hike to greater lakes and mountain peaks.
“I have been exposed to mountaineering since I was a little child. I have always been enthralled with the splendor of mountains, so I decided to make hiking management my career,” he said.
Ganaie is not just a mountaineer but a guide who has enough knowledge about various plant, animal, and bird species and of safe routes to the greater lakes.
“I have been a guide for more than 25 years. I am familiar with all the routes to the high-altitude lakes, such as Chunsar, Harnag, Tarsar, and Marsar. In addition to providing them with information about the history and other details of these routes, hikers adore using my services,” he stated.
After observing the enthusiasm of both residents and visitors for hiking, Ganaie founded his trekking firm, "New Mountaineering Adventures" to introduce people to the secret paradise found above mountain peaks.
“In addition, I collaborate with many reputed trekking firms. For the trekkers, my company offers services like meals, tents, and guides," he stated.
Ganaie is also educating young trekkers to assist them in developing mountain skills.
“My three kids are associated with hiking. They serve as guides for both foreign visitors and local hikers. To encourage people to participate in this sport, I even teach the locals about trekking,” he said.
Ganaie said he typically leads groups of seven to fifteen people to the larger lakes during the season.
“Earlier, only foreigners used to explore these locations. Now, fellow Indians constitute almost 90 percent of people who go trekking in the valley. It is an emerging sport, and youth are motivated to explore these sites,” he added—(KNO)