‘Three consecutive Golf Tournaments in Jammu reinforcing its reputation as leading golf hub in country’

Jammu emerging as premier tourist destination

STATE TIMES NEWS

JAMMU: The J&K Open golf tournament, organized by the Directorate of Tourism Jammu in collaboration with the Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI), continues to reinforce Jammu’s status as a premier golf tourism destination. Hosted at the scenic Jammu Tawi Golf Course, this year’s event exemplifies the harmonious integration of sports and culture, attracting 126 golfers from across India and six countries. Running from October 23 to 27, the tournament showcases Jammu’s vibrant cultural heritage through special features, including the Dogra Food Festival, captivating cultural performances, and displays of exquisite handicrafts, thereby leaving a lasting impression on all participants and spectators.

Yasha Mudgal, Commissioner Secretary Tourism J&K, was the chief guest for the event. She presented the winner’s prize to Shaurya Bhattacharya, the champion of this year’s J&K Open. He received the prestigious rolling trophy emblazoned with the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge(World’s highest railway bridge in District Reasi of Jammu region,) a symbol of engineering excellence and regional pride. Expressing his gratitude, he remarked that winning the J&K Open 2024 has been a transformative experience, truly unforgettable due to the support of J&K Tourism at the Jammu Tawi Golf Course.
Speaking on the occasion, Mudgal highlighted J&K’s emergence as a premier golf tourism destination, showcasing its world-class courses, including the Jammu Tawi Golf Course, Royal Springs Golf Course, and Pahalgam Golf Course. She commended the Directorate of Tourism Jammu, Jammu Tawi Golf Course, and PGTI for their outstanding collaboration in organizing the third edition of the J&K Open 2024, a tournament that celebrates the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and cultural richness. She also praised the JKTDC for providing an authentic taste of local cuisines to the participants, enhancing their experience of Jammu’s vibrant heritage. Golf serves as a crucial driver of tourism, attracting a diverse array of visitors. The J&K Open not only enhances the region’s visibility but also underscores its significance in India’s growing golf tourism sector by promoting local heritage and providing unique experiences for participants.
Vivekanand Rai, IRS, Director of Tourism, Jammu, informed that a Familiarization (FAM) trip was organized for participants at Amar Mahal and other key tourist destinations. He also emphasized that a key highlight of the event was the live telecast of Jammu’s breathtaking tourist attractions on *ABP Live and DD Sports, showcasing the region’s beauty to a wider audience.
Sunaina Sharma Mehta, JKAS, Joint Director Tourism, highlighted that the Dogra Food Festival provided participants with authentic culinary flavors of Jammu. She further added that exclusive souvenirs were crafted for the participants showcasing the region’s iconic tourist destinations.
Manav Gupta, JKAS, Secretary of Jammu Tawi Golf Course, asserted that the J&K Open exemplifies the confluence of sports and culture, establishing Jammu as a preferred golf destination.
Uttam Singh Mundy, CEO, PGTI, expressed gratitude to J&K Tourism and the Jammu Tawi Golf Course for their unwavering support, which has been pivotal to the tournament’s ongoing success.The J&K Open has emerged as one of the most anticipated tournaments of the season.
The tournament will culminate in a Pro-Am event on October 27, offering amateurs the exclusive opportunity to compete alongside seasoned professionals, thereby reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie and excellence that defines this distinguished tournament. Additionally, this day will feature the second day of the Dogra Food Festival.
The J&K Open 2024 stands as a celebration of not only sport but also Jammu’s rich cultural and culinary heritage, setting new standards for golf tourism in the region.
Also present at the event were Savita Chouhan, Deputy Director (Publicity), Jammu; Shoket Ahmed, Deputy Director (Administration); Sham Abrol, JKAS, General Manager, JKTDC; Arif Lone, JKAS, Assistant Director (NHW); Alka Misra, JKAS, Assistant Director, Katra; and Muzamil Hassan, JKAS, Assistant Director. Officials from PGTI and other distinguished members of the Department were also in attendance, underscoring the tournament’s significance within Jammu’s golf and tourism calendar.