Shiv Khori registers 30 per cent increase in pilgrim rush

Jammu, May 16 (UNI) More than 1.53 lakh pilgrims have visited Shiv Khori, the third largest shrine after Vaishno Devi and Amarnath, upto May 15 this year as against 1.18 lakh pilgrims during the corresponding period last year, thus registering an increase of 30 per cent.

Besides Shiv Khori, situated at Reasi district, other places in the circuit such as Sirah waterfalls and Baba Dhansar are also witnessing heavy tourist rush due to promotion packages being provided by the Tourism Department, sources said.

The tourism department is making concerted efforts to develop the Shiv Khori tourist circuit emanating from Katra and touching places like Agar Jitto, Nau Pindias, Baba Dhansar, Dera Baba Banda, Reasi, Siarh water falls, Thanpal, which are situated enroute Katra to Ransoo, the base camp of Shiv Khori.

Massive infrastructure development programmes are being undertaken by the department besides promoting the circuit through publishing of new tourist literature to generate awareness among the pilgrims.

The department is working in close coordination with tour operators both within and outside the state to create packages for the Vaishno Devi yatra which includes visits to Shiv Khori Shrine thereby also extending their stay in the state.

UNI