The Integrated development of tourist facilities, construction of a Tourist Facilitation Centre, and the inner approach road to this place are important.
Doda district, which has enchanting valleys, waterfalls, picturesque uplands, and historical valleys in every nook and corner of it, offers a potential to be unlocked. Beyond the beautiful Bhaderwah to the lush green uplands of Bhalessa, Chilly Pingal, Kahara, and Hans Raj peak to Devigol embrace the natural lovers. Bhalessa, comprising the trio tehsils of Kahara, Chilly Pingal, and Gandoh, with 42 offbeat sites, needs fleeting attention. One of such beautiful and most visited places we can see in Doda is Jantroon lying in the Chiralla and Joura Kahara area of Subdivision Thathri in Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is an unexplored hill station and is being gauged by the efforts of the District Administration Doda.
Jantroon is situated 15 kilometers away from Thathri and offers unique natural beauty, solitude, and cultural charm. While it might not be as famous as some of the more renowned hill stations in the country, Jantroon Dhar has the potential to become a hub for tourists, contributing to the local economy, preserving the rich culture, and fostering a greener future.
The place seems to be straight out of a dream. The meadows, surrounded by lush greenery, are a sight to behold. In the winter, a pristine layer of snow blankets the landscape, transforming it into a winter wonderland. The dense vegetation that envelops the area adds to the charm of this hidden gem. The contrasting beauty of the meadows, snow, and vegetation is what makes Jantroon Dhar a truly enchanting destination.
Every year, thousands of local tourists visit this place to witness a unique cultural event – a wrestling match. This event not only showcases the physical prowess of the local youth but also highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region. It’s an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local traditions and witness the competitive spirit of the people.
Jantroon lies between Chiralla and Kahara, which was previously a part of the Thathri tehsil in Jammu and Kashmir. One remarkable feature of this area is that it remains uninhabited, devoid of any population or households in its vicinity. This isolation adds to the serene and untouched aura of the place.
The remoteness of Jantroon is, however, both a blessing and a challenge. It is approximately 5 kilometers away from the nearest road. Plans have been discussed by the District Administration Doda to connect it to the road network, which could significantly boost its tourism potential.
The potential of Jantroon as a tourist destination is immense. With its natural beauty, cultural significance, and the possibility of road connectivity, this hidden gem is waiting to be discovered. The development of Jantroon Dhar for tourism activity can bring about numerous benefits. The influx of tourists can stimulate the local economy. It can create job opportunities in the hospitality sector, handicrafts, and other related industries. Moreover, the revenue generated from tourism can be reinvested in the local infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Tourism can play a vital role in preserving the rich culture and traditions of the region. Visitors have the chance to learn about the local way of life, art, music, and cuisine. This cultural exchange can be mutually enriching, ensuring that the traditions are passed down to future generations. The place with minimal human interference. Developing it for tourism can be done in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner. The focus should be on preserving the natural beauty and ensuring that the local ecosystem remains unharmed.
To explore Jantroon Dhar, several steps need to be taken. First and foremost is the road connectivity, which is important for easy accessibility. Once the road network is established, other infrastructure, such as accommodations, restaurants, and recreational facilities, can be developed.
A responsible and sustainable approach to tourism development is essential. Strict guidelines and regulations should be in place to protect the environment and the cultural heritage of the area. Moreover, the local community should be actively involved in the decision-making process to ensure that their interests are taken into account.
With the right approach to development, this serene place can become a thriving hub for tourists, contributing to the local economy, preserving the rich culture, and fostering a greener future.
It’s a place where nature and culture coexist, waiting to be explored and appreciated by the world.
The snow festival 2024 organized under the patronage of the District Development Commissioner Doda will pave the way to exhibit its beauty and will attract more visitors.
What we need is the implementation of strategic schemes i.e., Integrated development of tourist facilities, Pilgrimage Rejuvenation And Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD), construction of a Tourist Facilitation Centre, and the inner approach road to this place is important so as to bring it under the map of the country’s tourism.
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Sadaket Malik is a Research Scholar in Centre for Research and Development LPU Punjab, He is based in Bhalessa (Doda) and can be mailed at sadaket.lpu@gmail.com
