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15 May, 2013

Kashmir Festival Being Held Until May 29

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Ministry of Tourism, 13-May, 2013 – As a major initiative to promote Tourism in Kashmir Valley the Union Minister Tourism Mr K Chiranjeevi announced here today that “Kashmir Festival 2013” will be held for a fortnight from May 14 to May 29 at different places in the State of Jammu & Kashmir. The Minister said his Ministry is providing financial support for this. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department will organize this Festival at various venues in Kashmir.

In Srinagar, main venue for the event is Kashmir Haat where the Festival will be inaugurated tommorow by Shri Ghulam Ahmad Mir, Minister for Tourism, J&K. At the Kashmir Haat, stalls have been set-up for display of handicraft, handloom, agro products etc, while the traditional cuisine (Wazwaan) would also be available for visitors. Daily cultural programmes will also be organized for entertainment of the visitors.

Apart from Srinagar, events are also slated at tourist resorts of Pahalgam, Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Yousmarg, Verinag, Kokernag, Daksum, Aharabal and Manasbal with a special Qawali programme by Aslam Sabri and Party at Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), Srinagar on the May 15 as one of the highlights. Other main events of the Festival include a Jehlum River Cruise, Shikara Race on the Dal Lake, Photography Exhibition at SKICC, Painting Competition at Nigeen Club/Martand Sun Temple, Golf Championship at Kashmir Golf Course, Polo Match at Sonamarg, Horse Races at various resorts, Adventure Activities – Cycle Race, Roller Skating, Paragliding, Trekking Expeditions, Rafting Competition, All Terrain Vehicle Demonstrations etc.

Local service providers such as hoteliers, Guest House owners including House Boat owners of Kashmir Division have already offered discount of 20-30% as a special case for the tour packages/tourists during the forthcoming tourist season.

During the Festival, the tourist hub areas of the Boulevard will wear a festive look as Houseboats, Shikara Ghats, Hotels are being illuminated. Tourist visiting Kashmir during the Festival will be able to savour the local culture/traditions and also witness the above events.