To encourage the adventure tourism quotient in Jammu, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu conducted a three day trekking expedition from Sanasar to Shankhpal, which concluded today.
The participants consisted of young adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, bloggers, vloggers, etc from within Jammu and Kashmir, and also from outside.
Raj Kumar Katoch, Director Tourism, Jammu had flagged off the expedition from Jammu on Thursday.
Pankaj Anand, Dy Director (Adventure and Registration), and Anil Kumar Chandail Dy Director (Publicity) along with Dr. Umesh Shan, Assistant Director Tourism (NHW) led the participants, while adventure experts of the department, Amar Paul Singh, Rakesh Koul and Meenakshi accompanied them.
The group traversed the route which is part of the world renowned trek from Pancheri to Sanasar to Patnitop to Sudh Mahadev to Mantalai, which provides spectacular views of Lesser Himalayas on one side and Greater Himalayas on the other side.
The Shankhpal temple, believed to have been originally built nearly 400 years ago, is located at an altitude of 2897 metres, which is the highest point on the Shankhpal ridge.
All trekkers were happy to be part of the trek, and found it an enlivening experience. They recognised the eco-tourism potential of the region and termed it as a rewarding trek.
“This trek has been a great experience, taking back a lot of memories. With majestic views and beautiful trails, this has been a lifetime experience. I am now resolved to explore Jammu region more,” says Akrithi Jain, a blogger from Tamil Nadu.
Jammu based trekker and biker, Preeti Chaudhary says, “I really enjoyed being a part of the trek. It was well organized, especially given the COVID19 SOPs. I am looking forward to being a part of more such events in the future.”
Vikas Manhas, an avid trekker, says, “Had wonderful two days with the administration and staff of the Directorate of Jammu Tourism at Sanasar, who had organised a well managed trek. Looking forward to more such initiatives by the department.”