Museum at Kashmir's Zabarwan Park

Srinagar, Oct 2 (ANI): A gaming zone, a heritage museum and special vegetarian food, add to the charm of the famous Zabarwan Park situated on the banks of the famous Dal Lake.

The tourism department has introduced all these in order to entertain the tourists visiting Srinagar. The park now features a recreation hall, an indoor games zone for children, 'Faraaz' Food Court, a kitty party hall, a Tulip museum and Heritage museum.

The park was recently inaugurated by Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad.

"I am extremely happy that the phase two of Zabarwan is complete, there is Kashmir history that has been put on display. There are also modern games for children. It's a small start, it's not something great but it will only spread. And I hope that such programs will carry on," Azad said while talking to reporters on the occasion.

Azad also said that in order to boost tourism in the state, the cenrat government has set up 22 Tourism Development Authorities (TDA) across the State.

A budget of Rupees 20 crores has been allotted to each TDA and this amount will be spent under the Prime Minister's Reconstruction Programme to provide better facilities to the tourists.

Farooq Ahmed Shah, director Tourism, Kashmir, said that even a movie on the history and culture of the state had been shot and also there is a variety of vegetarian food that will now be served at the restaurant, unlike before.

"We have created something like a peep into the history, so that the tourists get to know about the history of Kashmir. We have also made a film on the culture and history of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh. It is for the people who haven't seen Jammu or Ladakh or some other parts of the state. We have made video presentations and are creating awareness regarding our tourism products," he said.

Zabarwan Park is already attracting a good number of locals and tourists.

"It is good that this place has a museum, and it also has a gaming section downstairs. It's good for families. For tourists and locals, it is going to be great entertainment for them, said Adil Ahmed, a resident.

Kashmir has been among the top Asian tourism destinations, particularly for the honeymoon couples, nature lovers, skiers and rekkers. (ANI)