Bhaderwah, Jan 14: In a bid to draw more tourists, the authorities in Doda district, Jammu and Kashmir, have launched skiing activities at the snow-laden Guldanda meadow in the scenic Bhaderwah sub-division, officials announced on Tuesday.
The introduction of skiing, a prime attraction for adventure enthusiasts, was facilitated by the tourism department in partnership with the Bhaderwah Development Authority (BDA).
Currently, a skiing training program is in progress, appealing to numerous tourists and local youth on the stunning slopes of Guldanda meadow, positioned at an elevation of 10,000 feet on the Bhadarwah-Pathankot highway.
“To promote tourism, our department has initiated snow skiing at Guldanda, and the enthusiastic response from local youth and visitors has been encouraging. This new skiing venture will enhance Guldanda’s appeal and serve as a key asset for attracting adventure seekers, significantly boosting tourism in the Union Territory,” said Aniza Mushtaq, the training program coordinator.
Skiing experts and instructors have highlighted that the slopes at Guldanda, nestled between the Ashapati and Kailash glaciers, are well-suited for adventure sports.
“Guldanda possesses all the necessary elements to become a ski resort, featuring slopes that cater to both beginners and experienced skiers,” remarked Manzoor Ahmed Lone, a skiing instructor from Gulmarg. He added that the breathtaking snowy landscapes and stunning views position Guldanda as a promising hub for winter sports and a go-to destination for thrill-seekers.
“I have been training both tourists and locals over the past five days… if marketed effectively, Guldanda could rise to prominence in the realm of snow sports within Jammu and Kashmir,” he expressed.
A notable portion of the participants includes local youth, with a significant representation of women, reflecting their increasing interest and involvement in winter sports.
“This is the first time we have been introduced to skiing here, and we are grateful to the authorities for this opportunity. For me, it’s a dream come true—I have always been fascinated by snow skiing while watching it on TV. I hope this activity continues,” shared Danish Ayaz (21), a trainee from Bhaderwah.
