Jammu and Kashmir had been a place famously described as ‘heaven on earth.’ With surreal geography, cool climate, and beauty in every lane you visit, Jammu and Kashmir can offer any traveller a wealth of an experience. However, COVID-19 did ply s spoilsport to the tourism in the snowy valley. But things are starting to change, and the local government is trying its best to attract more travellers to this beautiful land.
Winter Carnival, Dogri Food Festival & More Awaits You In Jammu & Kashmir
A senior officer of the Union Territory spoke to Outlook and claimed that the number of tourists has increased manifold in the last month. Now the government also ensures to increase this confidence by announcing a slew of measures. Jammu and Kashmir tourism secretary Sarmad Hafiz said that several activities would be organized. This includes the national winter games at Gulmarg in February 2021, Jammu cultural festival and ethnic Dogri food festival. The winter games will be conducted under the ”Khelo India” initiative.
Also Read: Kashmir Police Set Up Unique Wall Of Kindness To Help Needy; People Donate Clothes & Food
Tourist Arrivals Increased In J&K By 15 Times
Speaking to Outlook, Sarmad Hafiz said, “Confidence is returning among the tourists whose numbers are steadily increasing both in Kashmir and at the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Jammu… we are expecting a good turnout of tourists in winters.”He also mentioned that less than 100 tourists arrived in Kashmir by air due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But now the arrivals has increased more than 15 times. Hafiz also mentioned organizing the famous Patnitop near Jammu besides the Jammu cultural festival and ethnic Dogri food festival. Speaking about this initiative, he said that it is the government’s effort to link tourism with culture. It will help the visitors have a good cultural experience.
Also Read: 5 Classic Kashmiri Drinks You Must Try To Experience The Warmth Of Kashmir
Hafiz mentioned that the youth services and sports department is organizing skiing courses in Gulmarg regarding sports activities for youth. It is the first initiative to involve all the youth. He also added that the first batch of hundred children is undergoing skiing courses at Gulmarg. Speaking about the pandemic, he said, “COVID is a fact, and it will stay unless there is a vaccine. We have to learn to live with it and follow all protocols… We have to give confidence to people to travel.” So, until you visit Jammu & Kashmir, here’s a video of our Chief Editor, Kamiya Jani’s personal experience in Srinagar.