The department of tourism Kashmir today organized a Travel Show at Kolkata which saw participation from over 150 travel agents from West Bengal, here.Travel Show was organized in collaboration with Kashmir Hotel and Restaurant Owners Federation to further strengthen the state’s relationship in tourism with West Bengal.On the occasion Director Tourism Kashmir Mahmood, A Shah, spoke at length about state’s landscape besides its heritage, culture, art and craft and food. He said that J&K receives good tourist footfall from West Bengal especially Kolkata and we need to strengthen that bond between two states.Shah informed that visitors from Kolkata favor the month of October for visiting the state but J&K’s appeal extends to all seasons, with snow in winter, flower blossoms in spring, endless meadows in summer and crimson chinars leaves in autumn. He extended invite to the people of Kolkatta to experience J&K year-round.He also appealed corporate sector to make Kashmir as their MICE destination. “We are probably the best place for MICE tourism. We have the world class conferencing facilities where corporate houses can host their business meetings while also enjoying the natural wonders of the state,” he said.
He further said that hospitality is state’s USP which attracts tourists to Kashmir besides offering safety to tourists, especially women travelers. J&K is the only state in India which has zero crime record against tourists he added.Regional Director East Region JP Shaw said he would promote Kashmir under incredible India campaign.President KHAROF Abdul Wahid Malik announced 30 percent discounted offer for the spring and summer season from the hotels in Kashmir associated with the Federation in order to attract tourists.He said KHAROF members have finest properties with state of the art infrastructure in place for comfort and convenience of our valued guests. KHAROF is one of the largest hotel organizations in Kashmir having over 600 members who have been providing exemplary services to the guests.Tourism department also held a separate press conference at Kolkata Press Club with leading media houses of Kolkata. Director tourism Kashmir, President KHAROF, Past President KHAROF Javed Burza, Secretary General KHAROF Maqsood A Misri addressed the media and apprised them about the tourism products and the measures put in place for the safe and comfortable journey of the tourists.The department also participated in the Indian International Travel Mart in Kolkata.