Country Inn rated No 1 Hotel of Jammu Kashmir

Trip Advisor, the world's largest travel website, selected Country Inn and Suites By Carlson, as number 1 hotel of J&K in its 2012 Travellers' Choice awards. The said hotel was rated number third in India and fifth in Asia.

Sanjeev Pahwa, vice president, Country Development and Management Service, India congratulated entire team at the Unit for this milestone. He has further said that it will help us in positioning of the brand in India.

The annual TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice awards honour the world's best hotels, earning their distinction from those who know them best real travellers. Unlike any other hotel honours, TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice winners are based on millions of valuable reviews and opinions from travellers around the world.

"With the help of millions of travellers around the globe, TripAdvisor is thrilled to recognise the World's most outstanding hotels with the Travellers' Choice Awards," said Christine Petersen, president, TripAdvisor for Business.

Cruise Service in Jehlum

Highland Journeys launches cruise service in Jehlum

 A private tour company, Highland Journeys today launched this year’s cruise service by operating the first cruise ride between the Peerzoo Island and Chattabal Weir this afternoon.

The people who were part of the Cruise service were exalted to learn about the rich heritage of the Srinagar by taking the ride that culminated in almost two hours. They got to know about the importance of the banks along the river Jhelum during the ride and also witnessed some of the important temples and shrines located on the banks of the river.

During the journey some of the important bridges located on the river Jehlum like Amira Kadal, Budshah Bridge, Habba Kadal, New Fateh Kadal, Old Fateh Kadal, New Zaina Kadal, Old Zaina Kadal, Aali Kadal, Nawa Kadal and Safa Kadal were seen by the people.

Sharing his views, Rauf Tramboo, Owner Highland Journeys said that the service has been started to provide a glimpse to both the locals and tourists about the rich heritage that the summer capital of the state possesses. He said people should come and enjoy the service so that the message is passed on to the others.

"We wish and hope that tourists would come over here and enjoy the cruise service. This is more than important since Srinagar is linked with the rich heritage and tradition of the state. Some of the architectural marvels are located along the banks of river Jhelum and these can be seen only when a person undertakes a cruise ride," said Rauf.

He said that last year 60 groups of visitors availed the services of the cruise and enjoyed the magnificence of Srinagar. He said that advisories issued by the various European countries have taken a toll of the tourism in jammu kashmir the state.

"The advisories need to be removed so that foreign tourists come over here. The foreigners are the real lovers of heritage and architecture and they can see during the Cruise ride. Hopefully this time more groups of both the domestic and foreign tourists come to Kashmir and enjoy this ride," said Rauf.

Mohammad Saleem Beigh, Jammu and Kashmir convener for INTACH said that river Jhelum depicts the life of the Srinagar city more so as many shrines and temples are located on its banks. He said that there are 44 banks on the river Jhelum from Zero Bridge to Maharaj Gunj area located near the Zaina Kadal bridge.

The cruise can be enjoyed at the rate of Rs. 350 per ride for an adult while as it is Rs. 250 per child. The ride is completed within two hours and it passes through some of the important areas of the old Srinagar city.

Places to Visit in jammu Kashmir

Kashmir Valleys almond trees lure tourists

Hundreds of tourists, both domestic and foreign, have thronged the Kashmir Valley to enjoy the experience of watching almond trees bloom. 

 Ajay Roath, a tourist, said watching almond trees bloom was a thrill. 

 "During my last visit, I wasn''t able to enjoy the blossoming of almonds that takes place during this season but this year when I am viewing it, it seems that I am in a paradise. We also visited Pahalgam, Sonmarg and Gulmarg. The view of those places was spectacular. We enjoyed a lot. It is said that one should visit Switzerland to view the snow and enjoy the natural beauty but we believe that if paradise exists anywhere in the world then it exists in Kashmir," said Roath. 

 The view in the spring season is very impressive as the purple and crimson mixed flower-laden almond trees hold attention of the visitors. 

 A good number of students visited the almond orchards known as Badam Vaer, in the vicinity of Srinagar. 

 "We have come here to enjoy the picturesque beauty and we all are enjoying a lot," said a student, Mariya Jan. 

 Almonds are known for its nutritious and delicious nuts that grow up to a height of 15 metres. It blossoms during the spring season, which starts from March and ends in May. 

 Even though the almond trees trace their origin to the Mediterranean region, these have adapted well to the cool climate of Kashmir. 

 Almonds are known for high protein content.

Omar underlines preservation of State's unique fauna

MHA gets tough on misuse of pre paid mobile connections

Class 12th Result Declared Kashmir

Sonamarg Still Inaccessible

 With the improvement in the weather conditions, the picturesque Sonamarg here in district Ganderbal is still inaccessible with authorities doing nothing to clear the snow on the Srinagar-Sonamarg National Highway. Due to the non-clearance of snow, the tourists and hoteliers are miffed at the concerned authorities.

The tourist, residents of Sonamarg area, hoteliers and the businessmen have demanded immediate restoration of Srinagar-Sonamarg road. They said change in weather has increased the number of tourist visiting different tourist resorts in Kashmir, but world famous Sonamarg wears a deserted look and it is still cut-off from rest of the world.

The authorities are trying their level best to clear the snow from the Srinagar Sonamarg highway, which was closed in November last due to heavy snowfall.
According to the businessmen and tourists, the closure of Sonmarg road has made both the tourists and traders disappointed as the tourists are not allowed to go beyond Gagangeer from where Sonamarg is just eight kilometers away.
One of the tourists from Gandhi Nagar, Rajesh Sharma said that he and his family are in Kashmir for the last one week and have visited almost every tourist place except Sonamarg. They said their vehicle was not allowed to go beyond Gagangeer due to snow on the road.

“We are really very disappointed as we could not visit ‘golden meadow’ Sonamarg," said Rajesh.

One of the hotel owners Bashir Ahmad Mir told Jk News over phone that they have build a hotel at Sonamarg after taking the loan from the bank and now they have to pay interest without any earning as the road is still under snow which does not allow visitors to reach Sonamarg.

“I am suffering huge losses and if the road is not cleared within few days, I may approach to the judiciary for compensation and justice," he said.
A shop owner Shabir Ahmad Lone termed it "very unfortunate" on part of government for keeping this world famous tourist spot closed for six months.
“Need of the hour is to take immediate steps for making Sonamarg accessible to the whole world throughout the year," he said.

Meanwhile, a senior official of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in an interaction with media persons said that they intend to start snow clearance process from two sides in second week of March to make vehicular movement possible up to Sonamarg.

“We have deputed two bulldozers in Sonamarg in November last year for which fuel and drivers will be airlifted to reach there to start snow clearance process from Gagangeer as well as Sonamarg at a time and we are trying our level best to restore Srinagar-Sonamarg road functional as early as possible," he said.

He further added that BRO has decided to construct 6.5 kms long tunnel between Gagangeer and Sonamarg to make Sonamarg motorable for round the year, and the foundation stone of the proposed tunnel will be laid in September this year.

JKGB organises awareness programme 

Beeta Lautata Hai awarded

International Seminar on Tourism Inaugurated

The Business School, University of Jammu (JU) in collaboration with Department of Tourism organized 2-day international seminar on "Sustainable Practices in Trans-Himalayan Destinations ", here today.Minister for Tourism and Culture Nawang Rigzin Jora inaugurated the function while Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Mohan Paul Singh Ishar presided over the function.

Addressing the function, Jora, appreciated the efforts initiated by The Business School and Tourism Department and said that Government has taken several steps for the exploration of the new destinations and conserving the cultural heritage for growth of tourism sector in the State. He emphasized that in order to promote sustainable tourism few key factors such as benefit to local people, respect for environment and ecology, and conservation of the distinct culture of the place should be given due consideration.

Prof. Mohan Paul Singh Ishar in his presidential address hoped that International Seminar would go a long way in promoting the tourism sector in the State. He talked about the devastation of the environment and its harmful impact on the sustainability of tourism. While stressing upon preserving the ecology of the Trans- Himalyan tracks he quoted many examples and encouraged the students to explore the beauty of Himalayas.
Prof. Lorant David, of Karoly Robert College Gyngyos Hungry, in his keynote address, highlighted the importance of ecotourism through his presentation on ‘Tourism Ecology: A Key for the Future’. He discussed the relation of natural environment, alternative forms of tourism and sustainable tourism.

Earlier, Prof Ashok Aima in his welcome address focused on the objective of the international seminar being organized under the aegis of UGC SAP (DRS-1). Prof. Aima dwelt on the need for an integrated approach for promotion of tourism in Trans- Himalyan region of the country and neighboring regions as well besides, making the consorted effort for rediscovering silk route. Prof. Aima elucidated upon various issues related to contemporary practices and innovations in tourism industry so as to evolve and formulate strategic policy for the promotion of sustainable tourism.

Prof Neelu Rohmetra, Director, The Business School and ICccR and HRM, University of Jammu, spoke on the Major achievements and initiatives of the Department and stated that the present conference is one such initiative taken by The Business School under UGC- SAP (DRS-1). She also announced the launch of ‘Management Connect’ – A new management journal in a short span of time.

On the occasion two books were released edited by Prof Ashok Aima, Dr. Parikshat Singh Manhas and Dr Jaya Bhasin, based on previous UGC (SAP) seminar papers as well as present seminar papers.

Dr Parikshat Singh Manhas, Organising Secretary talked about the constant unstated support provided by the State Government especially Ministry of Tourism, J&K in promotion of Tourism and tourism related activities and imparting tourism education. He also appreciated the efforts of University of Jammu in launching new tourism related courses and thanked the faculty, students and research scholars for their contribution.

Later, during the day, technical tracks were conducted which were chaired by S.M.Sahni, Prof Neelu Rohmetra, Prof. Deepak Raj Gupta, Prof Versha Mehta, Prof. B.C. Sharma , Dr. Parikshat Singh Manhas and Co-chaired by Dr Prashant Gupta,Dr. Rajinder Mishra, Dr. Sameer Gupta, Dr Vinay Chauhan, Dr.Amisha Gupta,and Dr. Rachna. Saloni, Ramjit, Zubair Ahmed, Kitty Raina, Jeet Dogra, Swati gupta and were the coordinators for the technical tracks.

Places to visit in kashmir

GULMARG

Gulmarg's legendary beauty, prime location and proximity to Srinagar naturally make it one of the premier hill resorts in the country. Originally called 'Gaurimarg' by shepherds, its present name was given in the 16th century by Sultan Yusuf Shah, who was inspired by the sight of its grassy slopes emblazoned with wild flowers. Gulmarg was a favourite haunt of Emperor Jehangir who once collected 21 different varieties of flowers from here. Today Gulmarg is not merely a mountain resort of exceptional beauty- it also has the highest green golf course in the world, at an altitude of 2,650 m, and is the country's premier ski resort in the winter.

 

The journey to Gulmarg is half the enchantment of reaching there-- roads bordered by rigid avenues of poplar give over to flat expanses of rice fields interspersed with picturesque villages. Depending on the season, nature's colours could be the translucent green of spring, summer's rich emerald, or autumn's golden hues, when scarlet chillies festoon windows of village homes. After Tangmarg, the climb to Gulmarg begins through fir-covered hillsides. At one point, known simply as View Point, travellers generally stop their vehicles for a few minutes and look out a spectacle of snow-covered mountains, almost within touching distance

PAHALGAM - The Valley of Shepherds.

Situated at the confluence of the streams flowing from Sheshnag Lake and the Lidder river, Pahalgam (2,130 m) was once a humble shepherd's village with breathtaking views. Now it is Kashmir's premier resort, cool even during the height of summer when the maximum temperature does not exceed 250C. A number of hotels and lodges cater to all preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to unpretentious trekkers' lodges, including J&K TDC's huts.

Around Pahalgam are many places to visit in kashmir interest, and because the resort is set between fairly steep hills, it is worth hiring a pony rather than walking. Pony fares are posted at prominent locations.

The most beautiful of these is the huge, undulating meadow of Baisaran, surrounded by thickly wooded forests of pine. Hajan, on the way to Chandanwari, is an idyllic spot for a picnic. Filmgoers will recognize it instantly as it has been the location of several movie scenes

SONAMARG - The Meadow of Gold.

The drive to Sonamarg is through the Sindh Valley which presents yet another spectacular facet of countryside in Kashmir. Situated at an altitude of 2730 m, Sonamarg (‘The meadow of gold’) has, as its backdrop, snowy mountains against a cerulean sky. The Sindh River that meanders through the valley abounds with trout and mahaseer. Ponies can be hired for the trip up to Thajiwas glacier, which is a major local attraction during the summer months.

 

Sonamarg is the base of a major trek that passes along several mountain lakes –Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal. Sonamarg is also the take off station for the drive to Ladakh across the Zojila, a major pass in the Great Himalayan Range, through which the Srinagar-Leh Road passes.

Amarnathji Yatra - a journey into faith

"The Himalayan pilgrimages are the oldest organised travel system, evolved over time by Hindu sages and embodying the spirit of wander, adventure and spirituality"

One of the holy trinity, Shiva is a living god. The most ancient and sacred book of India, the Rig Veda evokes his presence in its hymns. Vedic myths, ritual and even astronomy testify to his existence from the dawn of time.

Shiva is known to have made his home in the Himalayas. He built no house nor shelter, not for himself or his bride. He was an ascetic, and yet married; he could be both for "he was the wild god sporting in the forest or taking his ease on a cloud."

Legend has it that Shiva recounted to Parvati the secret of creation in the Amarnathji cave. Unknown to them, a pair of mating pigeons eavesdropped on this conversation and having learned the secret, are reborn again and again, and have made the cave their eternal abode. Many pilgrims report seeing the pigeons-pair when they trek the arduous route to pay obeisance before the ice-lingam (the phallic symbol of Shiva).

Aadhaar UIDAI initiative in Jammu and kashmir
Attention Haj Pilgrims
Power Crisis in Jammu

Bollywood Promoting Kashmir Tourism

It seems Bollywood is on mission Kashmir to help promoting Kashmir tourism and the other dependent sectors which get benefited from the tourism sector.

After Bollywoods superstar, Amir Khan’s visit to famous Dal lake and other parts of the valley, it was international famed director Rahul Dholakia who came directly from Mumbai to New Delhi’s Pragati Maidan today exclusively to JK Pavilion to interact and boost the morale of the Tourism department and other private sector people who are participating in South Asia’s biggest travel mart SATTE in which there are hundreds of participants from all over the globe besides most of the domestic tour and travel players both from the public and private sector.

Rahul Dholkia was received by Director Tourism, Farooq Ahmed Shah and other senior officials of SKICC and JKTDC. The famed director enjoyed interaction with the houseboat people and representatives of the Tourist bodies from the all the three regions of the state.

Rahul Dholakia while recalling his shooting days in Kashmir said that Kashmir should be promoted globally.

“Its locations can be the best shooting frames for Hollywood,” he said.

He was served Kashmiri kehwa and a traditional Kashmiri dance rauf was played for him.Rahul praised the Kashmiri hospitality and said it was unparalleled in the whole world. He said he will come again to shoot a film which will showcase Kashmiris’ friendliness, hospitality and Sufi culture.“These things have to be projected in the global arena so that people would come to know about it,” he added.

Omar underlines preservation of State's unique fauna

Highlighting the State's rich bio-diversity and uniqueness of being land of rich fauna and flora, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Friday emphasized the need for protection and preservation of this individuality of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism.

Chairing the 2nd meeting of State Board for Wildlife (SBW), the Chief Minister, who is also its Chairman, said that measures should be in place to minimize wild animal-human conflict.

"While moving forward on development front the protection of environment, forests, wetlands, water bodies and wildlife should be underlined as compulsory requirement", he added and said that greening policy should be factored in every development project.

"We have to preserve the treasure God has bestowed to us and protect it for future generation", he said calling for coordinated and holistic approach to strike balance between development and protection of environment.

The Chief Minister said that the conditions put by the Forest and Environment Department while granting permissions for some necessary development works should be adhered to in letter and spirit. He said any laxity in this direction is not acceptable.

Omar Abdullah directed for shifting of Sheep Farm from Dachhigam to some suitable area within next three to four months. He said a Committee of the officers of State Sheep and Animal Husbandry Ministry should urgently identify the place for the Sheep Farm and the shifting should take place within the fixed time frame.

This issue was hanging in balance for many years despite the Cabinet decision in this regard. The Chief Minister's direction for its shifting would give boost to the conservation and protection of 'Hangul'.

The Chief Minister said that preservation of the natural wealth of the State should be prime concern to all of us. "In this connection Government agencies and public should be fully aware of their roles. We have to be fully sensitized for its importance", he said, adding that his Government has flagged this aspect as an important concern in its policy planning.

The meeting was attended by Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology, Mian Altaf Ahmad, Legislator, Ravinder Singh, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Commissioner Secretaries, Shantmanu and Atal Duloo and Shaleen Kabra, Chief Wildlife Warden, A. K. Singh, the presidents and chairpersons of Wildlife Trust of India, Wildlife SoS, Worldwide Fund for Nature India, Wildlife Tours in India representatives from Command, Wildlife Institution of Dehrandun, Botanical Survey of India, Zoological Survey of India and public representatives.

The meeting discussed matters relating to the enhancement of ex-gratia compensation for loss of life, livestock and crop in case of wild animal-human conflict, handling and prevention of man-wild animal conflict, constitution of standing committee, setting up of solar telescope, identification and notifying of critical wildlife habitats and strengthening Wildlife Protection Department.

Lack of infrastructure for Winter Tourism

The heavy snowfall that cut-off Kashmir valley from rest of the world by snapping all its road and air links, and left everyone fighting for survival in absence of essentials including heating aides is raising serious doubts about the Jammu and Kashmir government’s ability to host tourists in winter.And by the look of the things the doubt seems quite well placed.

At a time considered peak of winter tourism in Kashmir, the lack of facilities, more than the harsh winter, is forcing away the tourists present in the valley while those likely to visit in the forthcoming weeks have already cancelled the trips.

The situation is creating an impression that the state may not be ready for winter tourism, besides threatening to keep away the tourists in the coming years.

“We have been successfully marketing all seasons in the previous years, but it seems we are not yet ready to sell the winter season,” the president Tour Agents Association of Kashmir, Rauf Tramboo, told JK news.

“The roads here are blocked; the flights are not operating and now the prices of air-tickets are sky-rocketing; and we did not even have electricity and gas supplies. All this is resulting in majority of groups and families cancelling trips to the valley. It has sent a bad signal outside,” he said.

The heavy snowfall left tourists stranded due to valley’s blocked connectivity with the outside world.  The resulting shortage of electricity, cooking gas, essential supplies, however, made the matters worse.   

If the president Houseboat Owners Association, Azim Tuman, is to be believed, the occupancy in the houseboats has come down to zero for the tourists have rushed out due to lack of essential supplies and basic amenities.

“I saw a tourist who was crying literally. He was left without electricity, gas and other essential supplies, and was forced to live on potato and onions. Added to this, the air tickets were so expensive that he could not afford to move out,” shared Tuman, “Naturally under such circumstances, the tourists are running away, leaving the houseboats empty.”For the similar reasons, the occupancy in the hotels is down to 25 to 30 per cent.

“When electricity was not available, we required firewood and kerosene to keep the tourists warm, but it was not available. It has sent a wrong signal outside and it proves that we lack infrastructure for winter tourism,” Siraj said.

Losar Festival Welcomes New Year

Fighting the biting cold, over thousand Ladakhi students today thronged the celebrations of Losar-a traditional festival, the Ladakhi way of welcoming the New Year with dominating Tibetan and Buddhist overtones.

An impressive colourful programme in this connection was organized by All Ladakh Students Association Jammu (ALSAJ) at Bhagwati Nagar. Nawang Rigzin Jora, Minister for Tourism and Culture was the chief guest on the occasion while Rigzin Spalbar, CEC, LAHCD was guest of the honour.

On the occasion, the students presented a colourful traditional programme depicting the rich cultural ethos of the region. The presentations mesmerized the audience winning great applause from one and all.

Nawang Rigzin Jora greeted people, especially the Buddhist community on the eve of Losar. He highlighted the rich traditions of amity and brotherhood prevailing in Ladakh region. 

Jora advised the students to take full benefit of congenial academic atmosphere and achieve excellence in their streams of interest. He said "Youth are the future builders of a nation and they have to prepare themselves fully to face the future challenges". 

Rabgias, President ALSAJ in his address thanked all the dignitaries, participants and spectators present on the occasion. Rabgias also presented a charter of demands to the Minister which included opening of University, JKPSC Nodal Cell and JKSSRB at Leh.

Earlier, the function commenced with the lighting of the traditional lamp by the Minister and other dignitaries. 

Narbo Gulsan, MLC Leh; Robin Singh Mehta, Director Tourism, Jammu; Director General Fisheries besides a large number of Ladakhi students, social, political activists of the region and prominent citizens were present on the occasion.

Peace in Kashmir is New Year eve hotspot for tourists

With unrests out of the way at least for the time being, Kashmir seems tourists’ new preferred destination for New Year eve celebrations.With the New Year eve-December 31-just round the corner, the tourists are flying in “exceptional numbers” only to welcome 2012 from the snow clad and chilly highlands and mountains. The occupancy in hotels and guest houses is already on a high, and counting.

“We are having an exceptional rush this winter. All flights arriving here today were fully percent booked with tourists and we have the same for tomorrow and Saturday,” the president tour agents association of Kashmir, Rauf Tramboo, told News Agency.The visitors include the ‘high end’ tourists specially flying in for the weekend.“Since this New Year falls on a weekend, we have high end tourists coming in just to be here on the New Year eve. They may stay for a couple of days,” Tramboo added.As per the estimates the hotels and guest houses are up to 60 percent occupied, but the highest rush is seen at snow clad Gulmarg and Pahalgam. The recent snowfall and cold weather is proving the added attraction.

“The hotels at Gulmarg and Pahalgam are almost full because tourists want to enjoy the snow. We have good rush in Srinagar hotels also,” the president Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Owners Federation (KHAROF), Faiz Ahmad Bakhshi, said.Kashmir has witnessed a relatively calm year after unrest consumed, almost completely, last three tourism seasons. The 2008, 2009 and 2010 all saw a good beginning to the tourist season, but later it turned ugly with unrest. As against 7.38 lakh tourists who visited Kashmir last year despite the unrest, the number this year has been an unprecedented 11 Lakh.However, it is after 1988 that Kashmir is witnessing rush.

“In comparison to previous years this has been the best in terms of the tourist inflow. It is after start of militancy that we are witnessing such rush,” Faiz said.While the typical New Year parties are avoided, the state tourism department and hoteliers have small time events lined up just to attract the tourists.And, for the winter tourists the tourism department has also has planned various adventurous events to woo both foreign and domestic tourists.“These will include normal skiing, ice skating, heli-skiing and snow carnivals to attract tourists,” a senior officials in the department said.

Readers Travel Award in Jammu kashmir

Jora conferred Readers Travel Award

Minister for Tourism and Culture Nawang Ragzin Jora was conferred "Readers Travel Award" for his outstanding contribution in promotion of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.

The award was given by Union Minister for Tourism Subodh Kant Sahai in the presence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at an impressive function, organized by Conda Nest Travellers, publishing a leading elite magazine at Leela Palace, Chankiyapuri. The organization in its survey declared Mr. Jora an efficient, dedicated and honest, who worked hard in promotion and showcasing the tourism potential of the State in and outside the country.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. Jora said that State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has taken exemplary initiatives to fully explore varied tourism potential of the State, with focused attention to develop destinations and creation of modern infrastructure. Development of golf courses, convention centres and water sports have received due attention, he maintained.

The Minister said that Government succeeded in bringing complete peace and normalcy in the State due to which this season State witnessed a huge influx of domestic and foreign tourists. He hoped that in future J&K would become a hub of tourist activities.

Mr. Jora said that tourist related infrastructure is being created and upgraded with sincere financial assistance of Centre. He thanked Union Ministry of Tourism for providing every possible support in showcasing the rich tourism potential of the State.

Mr. Jora hoped that J&K would enormously benefit with the visit of elite class tourists from the country and abroad in coming years, for which he said Government has launched a wide publicity campaign to aware the visitors of other countries about the peaceful atmosphere and rich varied tourism potential of the State.

Chandil Wanigam Baderkoot new Tourist Resorts

Minister for Agriculture,Ghulam Hassan Mir said that a number of steps are being taken for developing the tourism sector on the modern lines so that the problem of unemployment in the State could be solved. The Minister was addressing a public gathering at Chandil Wanigam in Tangmarg area. He said that educated youth can play a vital role to change the future of the nation. He said that peace is very vital for overall development of the J&K State. He said due to two decades turmoil, the state could not progress as much as compared to other states of the country.He said the coalition government has decided to recruit the educated youth of the far flung areas of the state under RT scheme for dealing the burning of unemployment problem in a phased manner. He appealed, the teaching fraternity for work with dedication and honesty for the betterment of education sector, so that our children can be able to compete with others on national and international level exams.

Referring the development of Tangmarg area, the Minister said a Mini Secretariat would be constructed here, where all offices of Tangmarg Tehsil would be accommodated. The complex would be constructed at a cost of Rs. 34 crore. He said Rs. 15 crore have already have been spent on the execution of various welfare and development scheme in Tangmarg constituency.He said that Tangmarg is being connected with Poonch and the work on this project will be started soon and hoped that the project will be completed within 5 years. Referring the local demands, the Minister assured the people that their problems would be solved on priority basis.

Good days of tourism

Asserting that tourism is an economic activity and should not be equated with the phenomenon of normalcy, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said that the visit of over 6 lakh visitors to the Valley this summer should serve a loud message for change of travel advisories issued by various countries regarding Jammu and Kashmir.

Expressing satisfaction over the modifications effected by some countries in this regard, he hoped that other countries would also follow the suit. He said that up till now 1.3 million visitors and yatris have visited the Valley indicating return of good days of tourism. "This should be a guiding observation for the countries to remove the travel advisories they have issued to their citizens regarding travelling to the State", he said.

Addressing the 4-day 9th Annual Convention of Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI) at SKICC here, the Chief Minister said that the concept of relating tourism activities with the normalcy needed to be changed and tourism regarded as a sheer economic activity.

Omar Abdullah said that Jammu and Kashmir possesses vast potential of adventure tourism which is gaining popularity and momentum globally over the conventional tourism. "Our mountains and rivers are great gifts of God and these offer unique and wide-ranging adventure interests for trekkers, mountaineers, river-rafters, para-gliders, skiers and others", he said, adding that the danger attributed to these activities is simply a misgiving.

"The lovers of adventure sports undertake these activities in a safe mode and the graph of its popularity is steadily on upward trend", he said, adding that the challenge before the State is to showcase this potential of the State in a befitting manner. He said that the concerned department should also produce generation of trained personnel and guides in this field.

The Chief Minister said that ATOAI can help the State to move forward in this direction and train local youth. He said that the State has also to concentrate on improving and upgrading capacities besides raising necessary infrastructure. He said that the local people associated with tourism especially the youth are required to learn from such conferences, understand the requirements and necessities of adventure tourism and also display their views regarding this activity.

Omar Abdullah said that the adventure tourism in the State can be harnessed in a big way to generate jobs and give boost to the economy across the State. He underlined the need for joint efforts by all the stakeholders to nurture this economically viable venture and open vistas for progress and development in the State.

Minister for Tourism, Nawang Rigzin Jora in his speech highlighted the tourist potential of the State, adding that adventure tourism has a great future here. He presented the resume of the measures put in place in the State for the holistic and integrated development of the tourism sector.

Among others the function was attended by Minister of State for Tourism, Nasir Aslam Wani, Union Secretary Tourism, Rajen Habib Khawaja, Secretary Tourism Department, Atal Dullo, President ATOAI, Tejbir Singh Anand, Convention chairman and founder president of ATOAI, Capt. Sudesh Kumar and Director Tourism, Kashmir, Farooq Ahmad Shah.

New Tourism destinations

Lolab, Bangus, Drangyari open new vistas of tourism

Bringing of Lolab, Bangus, Drangyari on the tourism map would open new vistas of tourism activities in the State and help to boost the local economy and provide a healthy environment for tourism trade in Kupwara district, which has been conferred a status of Tourism Development Authority.

The views were expressed by the Tourism and Culture Minister, Nawang Rigzin Jora while chairing maiden meeting of the Authority members held here on Thursday.

Minister of State for Tourism and Culture, Nasir Aslam Wani, who was also Vice Chairman of LBDDA was present in the meeting.

Mr Jora said creation of tourism related infrastructure at these destinations would remain priority. He said this fiscal year Rs one crore under State sector is being expended on creation of varied infrastructure in these destinations, adding the Government would soon submit Rs 5 crore project for creation of modern tourist facilities at Lolab and Drangyari spots to the Centre for approval. He directed the concerned authorities to formulate more projects reports for approval of the Centre under central schemes so that holistic tourism infrastructure building would be ensured in the area.

Legislators of Kupwara district, Ch Mohammad Ramzan, Haq Nawaz, Er. Abdul Rashid, Commissioner/Secretary Tourism, Atul Duloo, Director Tourism Kashmir, Farooq Ahmad Shah, Director General Finance, Mangotra, Special Secretary Tourism, Altaf Ahmad, Additional Dostrict Development Commissioner Kupwara, Itrat Hussain, Chief Executive Officer LBDDA, Mr Mohammad Yasin, besides senior officers of Forest, PHE, R&B, PDD were among others attended the meeting.

The meeting deliberated upon the modalities, jurisdiction and infrastructure development under the Authority.

The legislators gave their view points and suggestions for exploring fully the tourism potential of their areas.

Mr Jora assured the legislators that focused attention would be given for promotion of tourism activities in all potential areas of the district in a phased manner, adding the matters like upgradation of road connectivity, electricity and drinking water facilities, besides land acquisition and forest matters would be taken up with concerned Ministries to solve impediments confronting for creation of tourism infrastructure facilities in the area.

Aharbal project

Govt to submit Rs 9.56 cr Aharbal project to New Delhi

With a view to create added infrastructure facilities at Aharbal tourist destination, State Tourism Department is going to submit Rs 9.56 crore Detailed Project Report (DPR) to Union Ministry of Tourism for approval, under which besides construction of other tourism related infrastructure, 20-room bud-geted accommodation would be also constructed.

This was stated by Tourism and Culture Minister, Nawang Rigzin Jora while chairing 3rd meeting of Aharbal Development Authority (ADA) held here today to review physical and financial achievements of the Authority.

Chief Executive Officer ADA presented a power-point presentation depicting physical and financial achieve-ments registered by the authority for development of varied tourism infrastructure facilities in the area.

The meeting approved current years action plan of Rs one crore for the authority and action taken report on decisions of 2nd meeting of ADA were also confirmed in the meeting.The meeting was informed that the exercise for formulation of Master Plan has been completed and base plans prepared. Due to inclusion of some more areas, the exercise would take some more time and draft Master Plan of ADA would be ready by this year.The meeting was told that the construction of cafeteria, four huts have been completed, and are ready for inauguration. It was also told that work on Rs 2 crore TRC building is in progress and would be completed during this financial year.The Chief Executive Officers also informed the meeting that Red Accounts of the authority upto May 2011 have been cleared and contingent bills laying under objection from April 2006 till date have been got adjusted and cleared from the books of accounts of Principal Accountant General A&E.The Minister laid stress on completion of all ongoing projects with judicious use of funds and quality material for laying durable and attractive infrastructure for the tourists. He also directed all Chief Executive Officers of the authorities to register number of tourists visiting at tourist spots under their jurisdiction.Minister for Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, Minister of State for Tourism and Culture, Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner/Secretary Tourism and Culture, Atul Duloo, Director Tourism Kashmir, Farooq Ahmad Shah, Director General Finance, Mangotra, also attended the meeting.

Germany eases travel advisory

In a significant development, Germany has revised the travel advisory through its Federal Foreign Office for German nationals traveling to the Jammu and Kashmir.

Germany has issued a new travel advisory by stating, “Jammu and Kashmir was considerably calm and foreigners were generally not the direct target.”

Germany has become the first country to modify its travel advisory for tourists visiting Kashmir. "The travel advisory issued by the FFO (Federal Foreign Office) for German nationals traveling to the region (Kashmir) has been revised," German embassy spokesman Jens Urban on record has said.

Most of the stake holders here believe that the revisiting of the advisory by German Foreign office is expected to give a major flip to revive tourism in the state. Hailing the revision by Germany, Director Tourism Kashmir, Farooq Ahmad Shah told Kashmir Times that it was much need as far as tourism sector of Jammu and Kashmir is oncerned. “It is a great step, I am optimistic about the other European countries,” Shah added. 

Cheerfully, President Travel Agents' Association of Kashmir (TAAK) Rauf Tramboo said that it is a joyous moment for all the tourism related stake holders of the state. Echoing similar view on an optimism note he believes that other European and other western countries would follows the suit by revisiting their travel advisories for their nationals. 

While welcoming the move of Federal Foreign Office of German by easing the travel advisory for their national desirous to visit Kashmir, President, Kashmir Hotel And Restaurant Association (KHARA), Siraj Ahmad said that the hotel owners fraternity is happy over it. “The move would help the state in along way and this is a significant development for Kashmir tourism,” he adds.

It is the collective responsibility of us all to make the state a prosperous one as it has abundant tourism potential which needs to be tapped in a right way for boosting the economy, Siraj said.

Kashmir is not only famous for its leisure tourism but it has great tourism potential in other products, which being developed and showcased in a proper manner.  Besides, promotion of pilgrim tourism, golf tourism needs also to be promoted in a big way.

Worth mentioning, that the decision has been taken after the visit of Ambassador Thomas Matussek, to Kashmir in June 2011.

Jammu Kashmir Travel Advisories

J&K to take up travel advisories issue with foreign countries

Chief minister Omar Abdullah today said his government will take up with different countries through centre the issue regarding travel related advisories.

European countries had issued the advisories to their citizens not to visit Kashmir due to the disturbing conditions.

Omar was talking to reporters on the sidelines of sports function at Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Stadium here today. Chief minister said the situation in Kashmir has improved and things are returning to normal. “People from all the countries should visit Kashmir as they can now move freely given the improvement in the situation,” he opined.

Chief minister said the countries that had issued the advisories should think once again as the situation has improved a lot here. “Before some years a local was afraid to go to Aru-Pahalgam but these days tourists can go to every corner of valley without any fear,” he said.

Replying to a question about the work culture in valley, he said that work culture got a major setback during the last two decades but now the improvement is visible. “We are hopeful that this improvement will continue,” chief minister said.

“Our work culture has suffered a lot a for last 20 years but now the trend is changing and the improvement can be seen on the ground level,” Omar said adding that he was  waiting for one  good season, so that  remaining works are completed.

To a question as to why government did not organize any national event in valley three years before, chief minister said situation in Kashmir was not suitable to organize any tournament at that time.

“Before few years we were not having any law or order problem in valley but the militancy related incidents were prevalent in the state,” Omar said adding that tournaments could not be held in valley due to law and order problem.

Appreciating the players who are participating in table tennis championship, which is held after the gap of 24 years in the valley, Omar said, “It is just a beginning.”

Omar said that nobody might have thought that the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Stadium would be used again for the sports activities. But now time has changed and people are coming to valley to play.

“It was unfortunate that this stadium (Sher-i-Kashmir indoor) was occupied by the security forces in the past. Then it was converted into passport office but now it will be used only for sports activities,” he said.

He assured up gradation of sports stadium. “In coming time sound and lighting system would be improved further and players would not face any difficulty while playing in this stadium,” Omar assured.

Tourism sector neglected in Jammu

The vehicular traffic on ever busy Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remain disrupted for at-least an hour after members of Patnitop Development Association (PDA), hoteliers and some traders blocked the highway and staged protest against the state government for neglecting tourism sector in Jammu region.

Hundreds of vehicles remained stranded on both sides of highway and even after restoration of traffic there were reports of traffic jams due to double-laning of vehicles from both sides. Patnitop Development Association (PDA) and hoteliers observed complete shutdown in Patnitop also.

Earlier the members of PDA and Hoteliers and Restaurant Association, Patnitop, this morning observed complete bandh and blocked the national highway demanding fulfillment of their long-pending demands.

Alleging discrimination in development of tourist spots of Jammu region, especially the Patnitop, at-least 90 kilometers from here, which is one of the most visited tourist destinations in this hilly terrain, the members of PDA amid anti-government slogans, disrupted traffic on the highway.

“Jammu has always been discriminated and ignored by the state government in terms of development,” Kushal Magotra, president PDA and Hotel and Restaurant Association (HRA), Patnitop said, adding that the government had a plan of introducing Gandola project on the pattern of Gulmarg tourist destination but till date, the process is lingering on.

“Projects like Gandola, Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP), construction of Karnah Gorikund Road, Shopping Complex, setting up of full-fledged Fire and Emergency Services office, parking areas, were in the pipeline but they were dumped by the government,” he said.

He, however, alleged that out of the total funds released by the central government for the promotion of tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, more than 90 per cent was being spent in Kashmir and Jammu was being ignored.

A senior police officer said due to the protest traffic was affected for a brief period but later the vehicles were plying normally.

Tourists rush to Gulmarag

With soaring temperature outside state, tourist inflow to Kashmir is increasing to the world famous Dal Lake and Gulmarg which appears to be the main attraction for domestic and foreign visitors.

Thousands of tourists have thronged to gardens of Nishat Shalimar, Cheshma Shahi, Pari Mahal and Harwan along the periphery of Zabarwan hills overlooking the serene waters of the Dal lake.

Long queues of visitors were seen at the Botanical Garden which are witnessing huge rush of tourists as visitors enjoy visiting the garden to click pictures and make videos.

Hoteliers’, ponnywalas, and traders are hopeful of a good business now a day. Their only apprehension is that unlike summer last year, the summer ahead should remain peaceful.

“We are hopeful of a good business and so far tourist inflow to the valley is picking up. Visitors from foreign countries are in good numbers and almost every hotel here is doing a good business. We wish the summer this year remains violence-free and that will immensely multiply the rush of visitors in coming months too,” said an hotelier in Srinagar.

Like hoteliers, Shikariwalas and houseboat owners also expressed their satisfaction over the tourist flow and hoped that the rush will increase manifold in coming weeks. Cold winds blowing along the world famous Dal Lake in the evenings attract tourists to the lake.

Tourists take Shikara ride and many others prefer to stroll around Dal Lake in the evenings. The boulevard road witnesses huge flow of traffic especially in the evening as locals also move out to the banks of Dal Lake to pass leisurely time.

Public parks including the Zabarwan Park, Nishat and Shalimar garden also witness good flow of visitors and locals. Reports from Pahalgam said that good numbers of visitors were visiting the tourist destination and the hoteliers, traders and ponnywalas were doing a good business.

The state’s Tourism Department has also offered more programmes with added facilities to attract larger number of domestic and foreign tourists to the valley this year to boost the shattered economy through the major tourism industry.