70-Year-Old Revives Traditional Tonga Rides in Srinagar, Keeping Kashmir’s Heritage Alive

IIOJK: An interesting effort has emerged in Indian-administered Kashmir to revive the traditional mode of transport, the tonga, on the streets of Srinagar. A 70-year-old resident, Ghulam Rasool Kumar, is offering rides to passengers around areas near Dal Lake on his beautifully decorated horse carriage.

This initiative not only rekindles nostalgia but also presents a unique sight amid modern traffic. Once a common means of transportation across Kashmir, tongas had largely disappeared with the rise of cars, auto-rickshaws, and other modern vehicles.
Now, Ghulam Rasool Kumar can be seen warmly interacting with his horse, providing pleasant rides to passengers while passing through Srinagar’s traditional architecture. His effort is being viewed as a positive step toward preserving Kashmir’s cultural heritage.

Importantly, this service has not been launched due to any shortage of petrol or fuel, as fuel availability in Srinagar remains normal. Instead, Kumar started the service as a personal initiative following the loss of his sons, finding solace in his love for horses and a desire to revive old traditions.

Locals and tourists alike have widely appreciated the move, saying it not only brings the past to life but also offers a calm and culturally rich experience in today’s fast-paced world.