BARAMULLA, KASHMIR — For travelers venturing beyond the popular slopes of Gulmarg to explore the rugged beauty of North Kashmir and the burgeoning “border tourism” circuit, a new challenge has emerged on the horizon. While the expansion of the Srinagar-Baramulla-Uri Highway (NH-01) promises a future of seamless connectivity, the current reality involves a bit more patience and a keen eye on the weather.
In recent weeks, recurring landslides near the popular Eco Park in Baramulla have turned a scenic drive into a logistical hurdle. If you are planning a road trip to Uri or the Kaman Post in early 2026, here is the essential briefing for your itinerary.
The Bottleneck: Why Your Journey Might Take Longer
The stretch of road near Eco Park has become a focal point for disruptions. As part of a massive infrastructure push to double-lane the highway toward the border town of Uri, heavy drilling and excavation are underway. However, these “growing pains” of progress have led to loose rocks and debris frequently blocking the path.
Just this past week, traffic was suspended for several hours, leaving commuters and tourists stranded as crews worked to clear the mountainside. While authorities are quick to restore one-way traffic, the unpredictable nature of the “mountain cutting” means that delays are becoming a routine part of the North Kashmir travel experience.
A Journey of Two Halves
For those booking Kashmir car rentals or planning a self-drive, it is important to distinguish between the sections of the highway:
- Srinagar to Baramulla: This section is largely a success story. With four lanes nearing completion and new flyovers at Pattan and Delina, this leg of the journey is smoother than ever.
- Baramulla to Uri: This is where the caution begins. This section is under active construction and is not expected to be fully stabilized until 2027. The terrain is sensitive, and the road expansion while vital for the region—requires travelers to be alert.
Travel Tips for the “Border Tourism” Path
If your heart is set on visiting the historic sites of Uri or the pristine landscapes of the border areas, follow these “Pro Traveler” tips to stay safe and on schedule:
- Check the “Traffic Plan” Daily: Before leaving your hotel in Srinagar, ask your host or driver for the latest Kashmir Traffic Police update. They release daily advisories on whether the NH-01 is fully open or restricted to one-way movement.
- The Golden Hour: Aim to pass the Baramulla-Uri stretch during midday. Early morning and late evening can see increased moisture, which, combined with ongoing drilling, makes the slopes more prone to sliding.
- Buffer Your Itinerary: If you have a flight to catch from Srinagar in the evening, do not schedule a trip to Uri for that same morning. Build in a 4-hour “safety buffer” to account for potential road clearances.
- Stop at Eco Park (With Caution): The Baramulla Eco Park remains a beautiful pitstop, but try to park in designated areas away from the steep mountain faces where active construction is visible.
The Future of North Kashmir Travel
While the current disruptions are a headache for the modern explorer, the long-term vision is clear. The NH-01 expansion project is a flagship initiative aimed at opening up the hidden valleys of North Kashmir to the world. Once completed, the drive from Srinagar to the LoC will be cut significantly, making “border tourism” as accessible as a trip to Pahalgam.
For now, the Baramulla-Uri highway remains a path for the adventurous those who don’t mind a bit of a wait if it means seeing a side of the valley that few others have explored. Just remember: in the mountains of Kashmir, the journey isn’t just about the destination; it’s about navigating the path with a sense of wonder and a healthy dose of caution.
