Shopian, Jan 11: In a bid to showcase the breathtaking beauty of Shopian district, a first ever Winter Carnival organized by the District Administration Shopian commenced today at Dubjan Meadows, along the banks of Giant Rambaira.
The two-day event, named after the folk tale of Heemal and Naegrai, witnessed much fanfare and excitement among people along the snow clad slopes of Dubjan, under the lap of mighty Pir Panjal mountains.
An aura of celebrations and festivities filled the air, which saw participation of thousands of people, coming from across the UT.
The festival was inaugurated with ribbon cutting and Pigeon Releasing Function by Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Shopian, Shabir Ahmad Kullay; Deputy Commissioner Shopian, Mohammad Shahid Saleem Dar and DIG, South Kashmir, Javid Ahmad Matoo in presence of SSP, Shopian, Anayat Ali, ADDC, Dr. Nasir Ahmad Lone and other district officers.
The festival hosted a litany of adventurous snow activities including demonstration of Skiing & ATVs, snow games viz. snow cricket, snow sculpting competitions at the venue among other enjoyable activities.
Dubjan Meadows, located along the expansive Rambaira River is surrounded by snow-decked peaks and towering alpine type vegetation.
This picturesque area hosts mesmerising potential tourist hotspots of Hirpora Wildlife Sanctuary (known for Markhor), historic Sarai of Mughal, Aliabad, Heerpora Sarai’s, Hot & Cold water Sulphur Springs having therapeutic features, and the High Altitude Pir Ki Gali and famous shrine.
The area is a Tourist Circuit, ready to be promoted as an offbeat destination with road connectivity even in the harshest period of winter, mobile connectivity and other amenities coming up soon along the Road.
Additionally, an exhibition showcasing local cuisine and crafts was also an attraction along with Photographic exhibitions depicting different shades of Shopian. Agri allied and employment generation departments had also set up stalls at the venue.
The winter fest provided a platform to local businesses to set up stalls providing different sorts of services to the public who enjoyed their fullest.
Cultural and Artistic performances were also displayed.
“This festival is aimed to highlight the beauty of the area besides the vast scope of tourism potential,” the Deputy Commissioner said.
