To promote and keep up the adventure tourism quotient in Jammu, the Directorate of Tourism, Jammu conducted a three-day trekking expedition from Sanasar to Shankpal for adventure enthusiasts. The group, comprising thirty participants from the state and other cities like Delhi and Hyderabad, made their 14 kilometre-long journey to Shankpal and back. The Shankpal Temple is located at the highest point on the Shankpal ridge at an altitude of 2897 metres.

Om Prakash Bhagat, the director tourism, Jammu, said that the participation of trekkers from other states is a welcome step as they would spread the word about the place. He said, “These events promote lesser-known beauty spots, historical and religious places of Jammu.”

Activities like rock climbing/rappling and ground running with paraglides were also conducted for the trekkers. On the second day, the trekkers were flagged off by Nagendra Singh Jamwal (KAS), chief executive officer, Mansar Surinsar Development Authority, and the trekking was conducted under the supervision of Ansuya Jamwal (KAS), deputy director tourism, Publicity and Adventure Tourism, Jammu. The Himalayan Bagpipers group accompanied the trekkers adding to the liveliness and vibrancy of the surroundings.

They also experienced cultural programs during a bonfire evening depicting local folk culture of Sanasar and Ramban. The varied dance forms like Kud, Thali dance, Flute dance among others were performed. It was a reflection of enthusiasm and gaiety associated with the social events and sense of celebration together.

The program culminated with a certificate distribution ceremony. Other officers who were present at the occasion were Ambika Bali (KAS), assistant director tourism, NHW Batote, Sheena Sahni (KAS), assistant director tourism, Jammu, among others.

The initiative by the Jammu Tourism Department is being regarded as a big step towards promotion of adventure tourism in the region and in bringing these places on the tourist map of Jammu and Kashmir.