Tourism is the lifeline and mainstay of the economy of Jammu and Kashmir and it pays a pivotal role in the economic development of the union territory .Tourism is a wide term and it also includes religious, cultural and heritage tourism and the government of the UT should promote and encourage the heritage tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. Jammu and Kashmir is the crown of India .It is the northern most state now UT of India sharing its borders with Pakistan, China and Afghanistan .Nature’s best gift to the world is the beauty of Jammu and Kashmir and it includes the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir and there is great need to promote ,encourage and develop the heritage tourism of the UT .The four commandments assigned to a Hindu in our culture are Matrudevo Bhava,Pitrudevo Bhava, Archaryadevo Bhava and Atithidevo Bhava (in reverence to mother, father ,guru and gust) have become essential behavior patterns and ethics of life. Countries all over the globe are giving tremendous importance to the cultural tourism and heritage tourism in the perspective growth plans of the country .Naturally ,promotion of cultural and heritage tourism used to boost local culture ,foster and alliance and also used to understanding aid to seasonal and geographical spread of tourism .The exposure and popularity of tourism and cultural heritage with tourist can increase the economic benefits to a lot to the local people’s and it is also a means of enhancing culture and creating benefit to strengthen cultural production, creativity and development. Cultural tourism is clearly depicted as an essential element of development in the UT of J&K which embraces rich and unique values in relevance to culture. Historical or heritage tourism means travelling with primary purpose of exploring the history and heritage of a place. It may mean simple sightseeing of renowned historical architecture ,visiting local museums that document the past through artifacts ,art, and literacy remains or even something as quaint as sampling authentic historical recipes in their place of origin. So places that have a rich heritage and have ,at the same time ,designed a fine tourists get rated the highest in terms of popularity as tourist destinations .There is great scope for the promotion ,encouragement and development of the heritage tourism and the government of Jammu and Kashmir should take serious and concerted steps to promote and popularize the places of heritage tourism so that these tourist spots become the sources to contribute to the economy of Jammu and Kashmir as these have enough potential for accelerating the economic development of the UT ,besides contributing to the livelihood of the people. The ancient sculpture and Monuments hold an utmost National significance for the historical backdrop of India.
Let me give some places of heritage tourism in Jammu and Kashmir which the government should promote and develop for the interest of the economy. Hari Parbat is one of the popular monuments in Srinagar Kashmir which not a single tourist wants to miss their visit. Hari Parbat is also a pilgrimage site for Sarika Devi devotees and that is why it is mostly visited by tourists every year. The panoramic views of Srinagar city can be explored by the hilltop of Hari Parbat. Leh Palace - Ladakh is prevalent as ‘Lhachen Palkhar’ and it is the impeccable example of medieval Tibetan architecture, One can enjoy the outstanding panoramic views of Ladakh mountains and stock Kangri along with its serene surroundings. The grand entrance of this palace is garlanded by wood carved figurines .This is one of the real vacation spots in Leh-Ladakh where people come to see old paintings. Mubarak Mandi Palace of Jammu is one of the most attractive heritage tourists destinations which were once a royal residence of Dogra Kings. It is one of the noteworthy heritage places in Jammu that indicates the 160 year’s old history. The architecture of this palace is a perfect amalgamation of Rajasthani architecture ,Mughal styles and the European Baroque .Its complex consists of multiple buildings and palaces like Rayol Courts ,GOI Ghar complex, Rani Charak Palace,Hawa Mahal,Pink Palace, Sheesh Mahal, etc. Do not forget to visit Dogra Art Museum which is another major highlight located within the Pink Hall of this structure where you can see a rich collection of old paintings ,a miniature of Jammu and Kangra arrow of Mughals, etc. Pari Mahal Srinagar situated at the top of Zabarwan mountain range ,is also known as the Palace of Fairies . It is the perfect example of Islamic Architecture that holds the ancient beauty of Kashmir region. . Poonch Fort of Jammu and Kashmir is another magnificent landmark in the rundown of historical places and monuments frequently visited by the people. This is a standout amongst the most attractive forts to visit by Indian and foreign tourists This is one of those places where Mughal architecture in Kashmir can be viewed. These splendid structures are a complete blend of Muslim, Sikh and Dogra rule. Besides these places there are many other spots of heritage which needs to promoted and developed as they can contribute to the economy of the Jammu and Kashmir. The government of Jammu and Kashmir should take steps to develop, encourage and promote the heritage and cultural tourism so that these become the places of attraction and are frequently visited by the people besides becoming the tourist sports that generate money for the local people.
(Vivek Koul)
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