27/10/2025
Katra & Bhaderwah Join Hands to Boost Tourism in Jammu Region
Katra, Oct 27
In a landmark move to strengthen regional tourism ties, a high-level meet and greet was held today in Katra — the gateway to the revered Mata Vaishno Devi shrine — aimed at integrating Bhaderwah’s scenic charm into Jammu’s expanding tourism network.
The event brought together top officials from the Tourism Department, including Mr. Vikas Gupta, Director of Tourism Jammu; Mr. Ajaz Qasar, Joint Director Tourism; and Dr. Rajesh Raina, Assistant Director Tourism, Katra. Their presence reaffirmed the government’s commitment to developing new tourism circuits and promoting emerging destinations across the Union Territory.
Representing Bhaderwah were members of a newly formed joint venture between its three leading organizations — Bhaderwah Adventure & Tourism Association (BATA), Travel Trade Tourism Association Bhaderwah (TTTAB), and Bhaderwah Guldandana Taste & Trek Association (BGTATA). Together, they presented an engaging showcase of Bhaderwah’s tourism potential, highlighting adventure sports, scenic trekking trails, and its famed wild delicacy — Guldandana (wild strawberries).
The interaction also saw active participation from Katra’s local tourism stakeholders, including hoteliers, travel agents, and tour operators, who have long been pivotal to the region’s pilgrimage-driven economy.
The discussion focused on creating a shared tourism framework — one that allows Katra’s massive pilgrim inflow to extend their journey towards Bhaderwah, often described as ‘Jammu’s Mini Kashmir.’ Plans include developing integrated tour packages, improving connectivity, and ensuring smoother travel experiences for visitors.
Speaking on the occasion, Director Tourism Vikas Gupta said,
> “Katra stands as a powerful spiritual magnet, but the future of Jammu’s tourism lies in diversification. Bhaderwah, with its unmatched natural beauty and adventure potential, perfectly complements Katra’s pilgrimage appeal. Our goal is a win-win situation — where Katra’s success drives growth for the entire region.”
A spokesperson from the Bhaderwah delegation added,
> “We are not just two destinations — we are two chapters of the same beautiful story. A pilgrim’s journey for spiritual peace in Katra can seamlessly turn into an adventure in Bhaderwah. This collaboration is the bridge that connects both experiences.”
The meeting concluded with a collective resolution to form working groups, launch joint marketing campaigns, and enhance infrastructure — marking the beginning of what many believe could be a transformative alliance in Jammu’s tourism landscape.
With this collaboration, Katra and Bhaderwah are poised to script a new chapter in regional tourism — one that blends spirituality, adventure, and nature into a single, unforgettable experience.
