5- Day ‘Vibrant Bhaderwah Winter Festival’ starting from Dec 27

Film Festival among delightful events planned at Bhaderwah Fort, Jae Valley, Guldanda, & Gatha Park  

BHADERWAH, DECEMBER 19: To give district Doda, particularly Bhaderwah its due share and place in the tourism map of the county and to promote district’s rich culture, tap the potential of adventure activities, religious and eco-tourism, District Administration, in collaboration with Tourism department and private stakeholders, is going to host a 5-day Vibrant Bhaderwah Winter Festival from December 27 to 31^st.

 Delightful activities have been planned at picturesque destinations like Qilla (Fort), Jae Valley, Guldanda, & Gatha Park where the visitor would also have a taste of local cuisines.

In this regard, District Development Commissioner (DDC), Harvinder Singh today chaired a crucial meeting with the stakeholders in the meeting hall of Dakbunglow Bhaderwah and finalised the activities and arrangements for the Gala event.

It was informed that 5-day festival will be celebrated at different locations, giving visitors a chance to enjoy in the full length and up to the level of contentment. On the 27th of December, the festival shall take-off from Bhaderwah Fort, where cultural activities, performance by local artists, music, sports activities, local food and stalls showcasing local products shall be centre of attraction. On day 2- December 28 , the picturesque Jae Valley will come alive with music, fun and adventure sports activities like Zipline, Paragliding, ATV ride, Horse ride, Zorbing, Trekking etc.

On the third and fourth day (29th and 30th of December) the scene will shift to Guldanda to give tourists a different taste amid snow and fun. There visitors can enjoy snow skiing, snow games, snow scooter ride, music, local food and zorbing, etc. The last day of the year 2023 and the fifth day of festival on 31st of December will have never before pleasure at Gatha Park in Bhaderwah, where Celebrity Artists and Singers will perform throughout the day till mid night to welcome new year 2024 with renewed energy, enthusiasm, and resolution. A parallel Film Festival has been planned at Community Centre Bhaderwah, where latest Bollywood movies and stories of local heroes shall be screened for the locals and the tourists during all days of the festival ( 27th to 31st of December).

Bhaderwah, an emerging tourist destination is witnessing the arrival of a huge number of tourists from across the country and abroad, throughout the year reflecting its huge potential to become the most favoured destination in the country. Asikini Bhaderkashi Utsav, New year celebrations, Yoga Festival at Jae Valley, Lal Draman Summer Festival, and Youthon-2023 have proved the worth and potential of the district, when thousands of visitors converged in these festivals. This year more than 6.5 lakh tourists have visited Bhaderwah Valley, which speaks a lot about its potential in the tourism industry.

DDC Harvinder Singh has issued directions to ensure safety and convenience, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to deliver a memorable and hassle-free experience to the visitors during the festival. The anticipated winter festival aims to draw a significant number of tourists, providing a platform to promote local talent, craftsmanship, and cuisine. The event is poised to feature diverse cultural performances, adventure sports, local handicraft exhibitions, and enticing food stalls. DDC Doda expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming winter carnival. He urged both locals and tourists to actively participate and contribute to its success. He further encouraged the tourism department and local stakeholders to make necessary arrangements, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees.