Srinagar, Aug 16 (KNO): Aripal Naag, a picturesque freshwater spring nestled in the Tral area of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district, has quietly emerged as a favourite picnic spot in recent years.
Despite attracting hundreds of visitors daily, locals lament that the government has failed to harness its tourism potential or provide even basic facilities.
Known for its crystal-clear waters, Aripal Naag supplies drinking water to dozens of villages in the area. “This spring originates from the famous Tarsar-Marsar lakes and is located around 11 kilometres from Tral town. It also lies on the Narastan route, an alternative pathway to the tourist hub Pahalgam,” Mushtaq Ahmad, a local, told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO).
Set against the backdrop of the Wasturwan mountains and lush green forests, the spring offers breathtaking views. The site is also rich in trout fish, which generates significant revenue for the government, locals pointed out.
“Every day, hundreds of people visit here to escape the summer heat. Yet, they often return disappointed because the place lacks even basic amenities like seating, washrooms, or proper embankments,” said Waris Ahmad, another local.
Residents believe that if Aripal Naag is properly developed and promoted like other tourist spots in Kashmir, it could attract thousands of visitors and create livelihood opportunities for the local population.
“This place has the potential to be a major attraction, but unfortunately, it has been ignored by the authorities,” Ahmad added.
Locals said they have repeatedly approached officials, urging them to develop the site and construct protective embankments around the spring, but their pleas have gone unheard.
They have once again appealed to the government to recognise Aripal Naag’s importance not only as a natural treasure but also as a potential revenue-generating tourist destination for the region—(KNO)