With more than 2 lakh tourist footfall, Bhaderwah hoping for bonanza

Amir Karim Tantray

Tribune News Service

Bhaderwah, July 8

Peaceful atmosphere, unexplored scenic sites and better hospitality is making Bhaderwah a hot spot for tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. The destination has already witnessed a footfall of over 2.1 lakh tourists this season.

The tourists belonged to various parts of the state, neighbouring Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and other parts of the country, especially Gujarat.

The holiday season in plains has added to the flavour. The gushing water of streams, red meadows of Jai valley, snow-clad mountains of Padri and hills of Khellani top were the main attraction for the tourists.

“The area is clean and green. There was not much disturbance and locals offered every support, be it opening their homes as guest houses, preparing good-quality food, helping locate places or offering other kind of assistance,” said Pankaj Kumar, a tourist from Punjab.

The area provides various facilities, including adventure tourism, and visitors were allowed to install their own tents on roadside to enjoy.

“We found everything here in one package and did not need to go anywhere in search of different things. I came here for the first time but surely it will not be the last,” said Saniya, a Class XI student from Jammu.

Last year, Bhaderwah had witnessed the arrival of around 1.75 lakh tourists and overall, the number had touched 5.75 lakh in the season. But this time, just in the first couple of months, the number has crossed 2.10 lakh and the hotels, guest houses and private properties are already booked.

“There were some shortcomings last year, which annoyed the tourists. But this time, we have ensured that every possible facility is provided to them. There was a complaint regarding food but we have now renovated all our restaurants and ensured that tourists get quality food everywhere,” claimed Rajinder Khajuria, chief executive officer of Bhaderwah Development Authority (BDA).

He saidonce the tourists arrive, officials of the BDA keep a track of them so that they do not feel discomfort at any place. “Our officials are everywhere to assist and provide help and this has sent a positive message around,” he added.