Categories: Travel

Jammu Tourism to invite EOI from trekking experts to boost adventure tourism, ET TravelWorld

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In an effort to bolster adventure tourism and tap into the potential of the region, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, is inviting expressions of interest (EOI) from trekking experts to improve the adventure tourism experience for visitors.

According to Vivekanand Rai, the Director of Tourism Jammu, the departments has been holding extensive consultations with experts to bring in more engaging products that would attract more people to adventure tourism.

This collaborative approach has yielded a feasibility report, with a special focus on expanding adventure activities with minimal investment. “The primary aim of this is to create job opportunities and engage the region’s youth in the flourishing tourism sector,” said Rai, adding that Jammu holds exciting possibilities as a hub for adventure tourism, particularly with the interests of the youth.

The Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, plans to host international paragliders on a FAM (Familiarisation) tour and paragliding event in Jammu. The paragliders will offer recommendations after their trials. The introduction of paddle boating at Gatha has garnered a positive response, as per the directorate. Also, the plans are in place to conduct a Paragliding Professional Training Course in Arunachal Pradesh. For this, 38 new trekking routes have been identified to enhance adventure tourism offerings in the region.

Under the new policies, the first 100 homestays will get INR 2L grant and up to 20L for caravan infra. Additionally, the initial 100 Bed & Breakfast establishments that have successfully completed one year and are registered with the tourism department can claim reimbursement of INR 1,000 registration fee. Property and road taxes will also be subject to reimbursement. The new Carvan policy allows the private operators to establish standalone caravan parks at scenic locations.

Additionally, in collaboration with the Indian Kayaking & Canoeing Association (IKCA) and Jammu Adventure Sports Association (JASA), the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu, has conducted water surveys across all districts of the Jammu Division. These surveys have led to recommendations for specific locations for various adventure activities. As per the directorate, the notable locations and activities include Paragliding at Aitham, Dhanwa, Billo ki Paudi, and Mokhri; Water-based activities at Jammu (Kattal – Battal) including shikara rides, flatwater rafting, kayaking, and more. Besides, Surinsar and Mansar Lake (Samba) offer similar adventure water sports and also, whitewater adventures can be done at Doda (Prem Nagar – Doda).

Additionally, the directorate of tourism has put focus on Ramban’s Bhagliar dam backwaters, Shiv Mandir – Karara/Kundal, Sanasar Lake, Reasi (Chenab), Baradari and Serli Pond (Katra), Udhampur (Dalsar Lake), Poonch (Buffliaz town to Poonch), and the Rajouri region (Tawi from Rajouri to Hidayatpura) which provide various adventurous experiences.