Peerzada Zubair
Tangdhar (Kupwara), Aug 3: The Shaurya Gatha Complex and Sadhna Cafe at Sadhna Top, located at an altitude of nearly 10,500 feet along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district, are fast emerging as major tourist attractions, drawing visitors with their unique blend of military history, Pahari cultural heritage and breathtaking Himalayan landscapes.
Inaugurated by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on May 14, 2026, the Shaurya Gatha Complex houses the Shaurya Gatha War Museum, a grand War Memorial and the Pahari Culture Centre, while the adjoining Sadhna Cafe has become a popular stop for tourists visiting the border region.
The War Museum showcases weapons, military equipment, war memorabilia and exhibits documenting the 1947-48, 1965 and 1971 wars, besides highlighting the role of the Indian Army in counter-insurgency operations. The Pahari Culture Centre preserves and promotes the language, traditions, music, customs and cultural identity of the border region.
Local residents said the project has not only preserved the region’s history and culture but has also opened new avenues for tourism and economic growth in Karnah.
“This is a proud moment for the people of Karnah. Earlier, very few tourists visited this area, but after the inauguration of Shaurya Gatha, people from different parts of the country are coming here. It has given our region a new identity and created livelihood opportunities for local residents,” a local resident said.
Another resident said the complex allows visitors to understand the sacrifices of the armed forces while experiencing the unique cultural heritage of the border region.
“Tourists can witness the history of our brave soldiers, learn about the Pahari culture and enjoy the breathtaking natural beauty of Tangdhar at one place. We appeal to people from across the country to visit Shaurya Gatha and explore this beautiful destination,” the resident said.
Aadil Ahmad, a tourist, said he had long wanted to visit Sadhna Top after watching videos of the destination while living abroad.
“I was truly impressed after visiting Sadhna Cafe and witnessing the breathtaking views. Kashmir is incredibly beautiful and deserves more tourism development. I appeal to tourists to visit Kashmir as it is completely safe, and I also request people to maintain cleanliness and avoid littering,” he told the reporter.
He said the development of Sadhna Cafe and other facilities has attracted a large number of visitors and encouraged tourism in the remote border region.
Isma Fareed, a tourist guide at the Pahari Culture Centre, said the facility has become a major attraction for visitors while helping preserve and promote the region’s rich cultural heritage.
She said she briefs tourists about the history, traditions and lifestyle of the Pahari community, enabling them to understand the region’s unique cultural identity. According to her, tourist footfall has increased significantly since the establishment of the complex, with visitors from within and outside Jammu and Kashmir arriving in large numbers.
Expressing gratitude to the Indian Army, she said the project has boosted tourism, created livelihood opportunities and helped preserve traditions that are gradually disappearing from everyday life.
“The complex includes the Pahari Culture Centre, War Museum, Sadhna Cafe and the War Memorial dedicated to soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. Visitors can experience our culture, history and scenic beauty at one place,” she said.
Shagufta Maqbool, a visitor from Handwara, praised the tourism infrastructure developed at Sadhna Top, saying the cafe, War Museum and Pahari Culture Centre have significantly enhanced the visitor experience.
“The cafe offers good food and a pleasant atmosphere. The museum and culture centre provide an opportunity, especially for the younger generation, to learn about the region’s history and heritage. The natural beauty of Sadhna Top is breathtaking, and I request everyone to visit this place. The initiative taken by the Indian Army deserves appreciation as it is helping boost tourism in this remote border area,” she told.
The Shaurya Gatha Complex and Sadhna Top are increasingly being seen as symbols of patriotism, resilience and cultural pride, with locals expressing hope that the growing tourist footfall will further strengthen the local economy and establish Karnah as a leading offbeat tourism destination in North Kashmir.
