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Tourists will soon be able to visit snow-bound areas in J&K via helicopters
Reports have it that a proposal has been made to make helicopter service available to the snow-bound areas, which can turn into hot spots of winter tourism.Places like Gurez and Karnah in Bandipora and Kupwara districts respectively which are near the Line of Control (LoC) have been luring tourists from far and near. And reportedly, from this year, the government has decided to start special helicopter services to these areas for tourists.
If reports are to go by, Sonamarg, Karnah and Gurez will remain open for tourists in the winter months for the first time in the past 70 years. Further, the government is also planning to include adventure sports and other activities in these areas to attract visitors, whereas new ski slopes will likely be developed in snow-bound areas.
While Gulmarg has always managed to attract tourists during winter, Doodhpathri in Central Kashmir's Budgam district is the latest addition to the list, as both these spots can be reached by road.
Although for many years, tourists skipped visiting Kashmir even during the summer season due to various reasons, time has changed now. Tourists now are visiting the valley even in winter, and the government is also taking all the possible steps to facilitate the travel of visitors. Moreover, tourist spots have also been revamped, while the infrastructure has been strengthened to ensure that guests enjoy a comfortable stay in scenic locations.
As per the latest reports, the concept of promoting winter tourism in the Himalayan region is all set to touch new heights with the introduction of helicopter services to snow-bound areas, thereby also adding a new dimension to the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
Referring to this development, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha stated that the various scenic destinations in the Himalayan region were witnessing year-round tourist influx, and that Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to boost the heli-tourism market.
Source : Times Travel
