At just 25, Shabnam Bashir has done what few imagined possible. Born into a nomadic Gujjar–Bakarwal family in Bandipora, Kashmir, she chose mountains over societal pressure - and turned solo trekking into a mission.

For eight years, Shabnam explored and documented 16 hidden valleys around Harmukh, including Chandaji and Nagmarg. With just a backpack and notebook, she mapped trails, recorded water sources, studied ecology, and shared detailed reports with tourism officials.

Her work helped bring these forgotten destinations onto Kashmir’s tourism map.

The real impact? Nearly 40 homestays now operate in these villages. Over 60 locals earn seasonal income as guides, cooks, and hosts - with families making up to ₹60,000 per season.

Through her book Unexplored Kashmir and her advocacy for eco-friendly tourism, Shabnam is not just promoting travel - she’s protecting fragile ecosystems and empowering her community.

“Exploring was my passion, changing lives was my purpose,” she says.