By: Sadaket Malik
Located in the Chirala and Joura area of Doda district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, lies a serene and untouched hill station known as JantroonDhar or Jantroon Top. This location, situated 15 kilometers away from Thathri, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, solitude, and cultural charm. While it might not be as famous as some of the more renowned hill stations in the country, JantroonDhar has the potential to become a thriving hub for tourists, contributing to the local economy, preserving the rich culture, and fostering a greener future.
The place that seems to be straight out of a dream. The meadows, surrounded by lush greenery, are a sight to behold. In the winter, a pristine layer of snow blankets the landscape, transforming it into a winter wonderland. The dense vegetation that envelopes the area adds to the charm of this hidden gem. The contrasting beauty of the meadows, snow, and vegetation is what makes JantroonDhar a truly enchanting destination.
Every year, thousands of local tourists flock to this place to witness a unique cultural event – wrestling match. This event not only showcases the physical prowess of the local youth but also highlights the rich cultural heritage of the region. It’s an opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the local traditions and witness the competitive spirit of the people.
Situated in the tehsil of Chiralla and Kahara, which was previously a part of the Thathri tehsil in Jammu and Kashmir. One remarkable feature of this area is that it remains un-inhabited, devoid of any population or households in its vicinity. This isolation adds to the serene and untouched aura of the place.
The remoteness of Jantroon is, however, both a blessing and a challenge. It is approximately 5 kilometers away from the nearest road. Plans have been discussed by the district administration Doda to connect it to the road network, which could significantly boost its tourism potential.
The potential of Jantroon as a tourist destination is immense. With its natural beauty, cultural significance, and the possibility of road connectivity, this hidden gem is waiting to be discovered. The development of JantroonDhar for tourism activity can bring about numerous benefits. The influx of tourists can stimulate the local economy. It can create job opportunities in the hospitality sector, handicrafts, and other related industries. Moreover, the revenue generated from tourism can be reinvested in the local infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Tourism can play a vital role in preserving the rich culture and traditions of the region. Visitors have the chance to learn about the local way of life, art, music, and cuisine. This cultural exchange can be mutually enriching, ensuring that the traditions are passed down to future generations.
Jantroon is a pristine location with minimal human interference. Developing it for tourism can be done in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner. The focus should be on preserving the natural beauty and ensuring that the local ecosystem remains unharmed.
To unlock the full potential of JantroonDhar, several steps need to be taken. First and foremost is the road connectivity, which is crucial for easy accessibility. Once the road network is established, other infrastructure, such as accommodations, restaurants, and recreational facilities, can be developed.
A responsible and sustainable approach to tourism development is essential. Strict guidelines and regulations should be in place to protect the environment and the cultural heritage of the area. Additionally, the local community should be actively involved in the decision-making process to ensure that their interests are taken into account.
With the right approach to development, this serene place can become a thriving hub for tourists, contributing to the local economy, preserving the rich culture, and fostering a greener future.
It’s a place where nature and culture coexist, waiting to be explored and appreciated by the world.