The first tourist village, Panchari, in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur, was launched today by Divisional Commissioner Jammu Raghav Langer at the Sankari Devta ground in Meer Panchari.
“This tourism initiative will strengthen the rural economy and community entrepreneurship, empowering youth and women by providing direct and indirect employment opportunities,” said Mr Langer.
“I have enjoyed the natural beauty of Panchari, I have come here for the first time. I will definitely tell my friends and relatives to come to Panchari,” said Shafali, a tourist from Delhi.
Homestay facilities are also available in Panchari to boost tourism and generate income for the local youth.
“While holidaying, tourists often look for a place which is located amid natural surroundings but at the same time gives them a feeling of home away from home. The facilities of homestay in the village will fulfil this requirement of visitors besides adding to the income of villagers,” said a resident of the village.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha launched the Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Village Network under Mission Youth in September 2021.
The initiative is aimed at transforming 75 villages of the Union Territory that are known for their historical relevance, picturesque beauty, and cultural significance
Jammu and Kashmir has the highest tourist influx in the whole country. In the month of July, around 10.5 lakh tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir, and the figure reached 11.22 lakh in August.