A skiing and adventure sports node was inaugrated today here at Zarla close to NC pass (also known as Sadhna pass) in Karnah tehsil. The node has been conceptualised and brought into effect by the Shakti Vijay Brigade of Indian Army with an aim to promote tourism and adventure sports in the remote area of Karnah (Tangdhar). Feasibility trials of skiing in the area were carried out on 1st March last year by a team of experts invited from Gulmarg by the Indian Army and Capt lliyas Mohd (retired) a renowned mountaineering and ski expert who belongs to Tangdhar. It is also highlighted that Arif Khan, the renowned ski player who represented India in the recently conducted Beijing Winter Olympics has played key role in identifying the node.
The node was inaugrated by Brigadier SP Consul, Commander Shakti Vijay Brigade. Tens of skiers showcased their skills in skiing during the inaugration event including few from Gulmarg.
The Adventure Sports Node will focus on promotion of adventure sports like skiing, mountain terrain biking, trekking and car/jeep/bike rallies. Of late, Tangdhar has received lot of attention by car, jeep and bike riders with Tithwal becoming a centre of tourist attraction with last one by ‘Valley Wonderers’ carried out yesterday. Plans are afoot to combine adventure tourism and sight seeing with cultural tourism so that rich Pahari and Gojri culture is made more popular. With upcoming Sadhna tunnel and double laning of road from Baramula to Karnah, the reach of tourists to Tangdhar Valley will increase thus resulting in upliftment of local economy. Additional factor which will contribute to the influx of tourism in Karnah is reconstruction of historic Sharda Mutt Temple and Gurudwara at Tithwal, located close to the line of Control.