Maiden ‘Mahu Festival’ elicits overwhelming response from trekkers, locals

RAMBAN  : The maiden winter festival in the picturesque Mahu valley of district Ramban took off today amidst overwhelming participation of locals and trekkers arriving from across the country.

The trekking expedition was flagged off from Mahu by Dr. Shamshad Shan, DDC Chairperson Ramban and Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Dr. Raghav Langer, in presence of Vice Chairperson Ramban, DDC Rabiya Beig, Deputy Commissioner, Ramban Musarrat ul Islam, and Managing Director, JKTDC, Syed F. Hamid, and senior officers from civil administration, police and army.

Another highlight of the event is that during the festival the trekkers will be offered home stay by locals providing them an opportunity to enjoy the local cuisine, culture and hospitality.

Speaking on the occasion, the DDC Chairperson appreciated the novel initiative taken by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation, in collaboration with District Administration and Indian Army to tap tourism potential of virgin places full of natural beauty like Mohu Valley and promote adventure tourism in Jammu division with an aim to boost rural economy.

The Divisional Commissioner Jammu lauded the efforts of District Administration and JKTDC for the initiative.

While highlighting the role of young entrepreneurs in the tourism sector, the Divisional Commissioner informed that the government is committed to develop offbeat tourism destinations in Jammu and Kashmir for which the department of Tourism has taken a lot of initiatives. He also complimented the PRIs for their effective role in developmental activities and organizing such events.

General Manager JKTDC, Sukriti Sharma informed that the trekkers from across the country are participating in the 3 night 4 day event which was flagged off from Mahu and after snow trekking, it will reach Mori where they will enjoy adventure activities like skiing & night camping.

On Day 3, the trekkers would trek from Mori to Trijbalan and come back to Mori for night halt.

The inaugural function was marked by a grand, colourful cultural bonanza highlighting the rich culture and heritage of the region.

A number of students and local cultural groups participated in the program, which received huge applause by the audience. Zaheer Abbas, Sub Divisional Magistrate presented vote of thanks.

The Div Com also inaugurated the Home Stay facilities for tourists at Mahu to boost the local economy by providing services to tourists.

He also inspected the stalls established by the different departments including Horticulture, AYUSH, NRLM, Animal and Sheep Husbandry and some locals. The Div Com directed all the concerned departments to implement all job and beneficiary oriented schemes effectively especially in rural and far flung areas.