Kolkata, Jan 6: Minister for Tourism and Culture,   Nawang Rigzin Jora inaugurated the tourism festival of Bengal at Kolkata today, an official statement said.
 The festival is being jointly organized by West Bengal and J&K Governments and is aimed at promoting tourism in the J&K.
 Secretary, Tourism, Ms. Tanveer Jehan, Directors, Tourism, Kashmir and Jammu, MD, JKTDC, members of tour and travel trade, business community and a large number of people attended the inaugural function.
 Addressing the gathering, the Minister said J&K presents a unique variety of scenic destinations for the visitors. He said Kashmir is a treasure of lush meadows and green pastures while Ladakh is the capital of adventure tourism and Jammu continues to be an attraction for pilgrim tourism.
   Jora said, the Government continues with its efforts to further promote tourism and upgrade tourism infrastructure. He said new destinations like Noorichumbh in Poonch, Bungus valley in Kupwara; Bhaderwah etc are being developed as tourist destinations. He said Mughal Road, on its completion, is expected to give boost to heritage tourism in the area with a number of saraies being preserved.
   Jora said recently the Central Government threw 104 peaks in Ladakh region open for trekking and expeditions which would pave the way for adventure tourism and attract foreign tourists in a big way.
 Recalling the strong ties of Bengali tourists with the State, the Minister asked them to come to the State in large numbers. He said the Government has declared 2010 as Visit Kashmir to attract more and more tourists. He said road connectivity and transport to tourist destinations and lodging facilities to tourists are being improved and further incentives being offered.

Lastupdate on : Wed, 6 Jan 2010 21:30:00 Makkah time
Lastupdate on : Wed, 6 Jan 2010 18:30:00 GMT
Lastupdate on : Thu, 7 Jan 2010 00:00:00 IST