Celebrating the National Tourism Day, the Tourism department today organized a host of events including ATV, Snow Bike rallies, skiing and Cross-country run at Doodpathri to promote it as one of the best winter tourist destinations.Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC), Budgam, Akramullah Tak flagged off the events in presence of Member DDC Khansahab, Bashir Ahmad Bhat, SDM Khansahab Syed Ahmad and CEO Doodpathri, Dr Suraya Tak.The ATV rally started from TRC and passed through the Snow covered meadows of Parhaiz Madaan towards the Doodpathri, while as the place also remained abuzz with tourists both local and domestic enjoying snow bike rides at TRC.
Speaking on the occasion, ADDC said that the Doodpathri has huge potential to be developed as a best winter tourism spot. He said that both Tourism and District Administration Budgam is giving special focus to the destination to promote it as next to the Gulmarg for winter tourism.He said that it was first time that road up to Doodpathri remained through for hassle-free arrival of tourists. He said that activities like snow skiing, snow- boarding, snow cycling, ATVs facility and other snow related activities which shall be held every winter here has helped in increasing the tourist footfall to this destination.Speaking on the occasion, CEO Doodpathri, Dr Suraya Tak said that efforts are on to promote the tourist footfall and provide as much facilities to them and create more employment resources for locals.
Emphasizing on Doodpathri promotion, She said that the promotion of this destination would also facilitate hand holding of local youth who can earn their livelihood.She further said that all efforts are afoot to provide all required facilities to the tourists and make this as one of the best tourist spots for both summer as well winter tourist arrival. “This was just a beginning and it has yielded good results as we are witnessing good tourist footfall during winter season, from next year more events shall be held on regular basis for its promotion,” she added. Upbeat about their visit to the Doodpathri, tourists said that the destination was more beautiful and serene than they have imagined.Among others, Tehsildar Khansahab, Abid Gani Wani, AD Tourism, Zeeshan, SDPO Khansahab, GH Mahiddin were also present on the occasion.