STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: Secretary, General Administration Department (GAD), Dr. Piyush Singla on Saturday flagged off ‘Pancheri to Patnitop adventure trail’, fourth trek of ‘Visit Patnitop’ series from historic Sankri Temple here.
The adventure trail is being organised by Patnitop Development Authority in collaboration with Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) and Department of Excise, J&K. The trekkers will traverse from Pancheri to Nathatop famous for adventure quotient and scenic beauty.
DDC member, Pancheri-Moungri, Jasvir Singh; BDC Chairman Chenani, Parkash Chand; Registrar SMVDU, Nagendra Singh Jamwal; CEO PDA, Thakur Sher Singh and other officers were also present during the flagging off ceremony.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Singla appreciated the continuous efforts of PDA to promote its unique destinations, activities and other offerings of tourist interest. He added that it is delightful to see that large number of students from across the country have got an opportunity to explore Patnitop Circuit in the ongoing series.
“I congratulate Patnitop Development Authority and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University who have taken an initiative to expose the youngsters to the rich natural and cultural beauty of Jammu Division as well as encourage a healthy lifestyle,” Dr. Singla said.
DDC member, Pancheri-Moungri while speaking on the occasion, urged the UT Administration for providing the road connectivity from Pancheri to Nathatop and Sanasar, so as to complete the tourism circuit Krimchi-Pancheri-Nathatop-Sanasar.
CEO, PDA on the occasion highlighted that ‘Visit Patnitop’ series has amplified the tourism in the Patnitop Tourism Circuit. He added that the Pancheri to Nathatop Trek is now our annual feature and attracts large number if nature enthusiasts.
Speaking on the occasion, Registrar, SMVDU said that the University undertakes several activities to imbibe the culture of healthy lifestyle in students. He added that such treks will help them move away from the sedentary lifestyle, be more active and closer to the nature.
Pertinently, in this trek trail, around 40 trekkers belonging to States/UTs like J&K, Delhi, Bihar, and Rajashthan trekked from Pancheri to Nathatop. Established in a spectacular natural setting, this trek is at an altitude of 8500 ft, around 22 kms long and is much sought after by trekkers and avid photographers for beautiful sunsets and clear blue skies owing to pollution free environment.
The trekkers during the trek will also learn about more than 500 years old Sankri temple associated with the legend Sankri Devta, and other local deities.
