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Sarthal Valley Winter Snow Festival 2026: A Cultural & Adventure Extravaganza

The District Administration and Tourism Department will organize a grand Winter Snow Festival at the Sarthal tourist destination on February 8, 2026. The event aims to establish the high-altitude valley as a premier winter tourism hub, featuring cultural performances, local handicraft stalls, and adventure activities. Exciting attractions like snow sledging, snowball games, and campfire events are planned to enhance the visitor experience. The festival is expected to significantly boost local tourism, hospitality, and the regional economy.

Key Points: Sarthal Winter Snow Festival 2026: Date, Events, Tourism Boost

  • Promotes winter tourism in Sarthal Valley
  • Features cultural shows by artists like Saras Bharti
  • Includes snow sledging and adventure activities
  • Boosts local economy and handicrafts
2 min read

Sarthal Valley to host grand Winter Snow Festival on February 8

Sarthal Valley in Kathua to host a grand Winter Snow Festival on Feb 8, 2026, featuring cultural shows, adventure sports, and local handicrafts.

"The festival will be organised on February 8 in the Bani Circle area, creating excitement among locals and tourists alike. - Dr. Rameshwar Singh, MLA"

Bani, January 28

The District Administration and the Tourism Department on Wednesday announced that a grand Winter Snow Festival will be organized at the Sarthal tourist destination in February. The festival is part of a broader initiative to establish the high-altitude Sarthal Valley as a sought-after winter tourism hub.

The District Administration and the Tourism Department will organise a grand Winter Snow Festival on February 8 at the Sarthal tourist destination, aiming to promote winter tourism and showcase the region's rich cultural heritage.

However, no official notification has been issued so far. The MLA, Bani Dr. Rameshwar Singh, has shared the information on his official social media handle, confirming that the festival will be organised on February 8 in the Bani Circle area, creating excitement among locals and tourists alike.

Sarthal, a popular hill destination in the Jammu Division of Kathua District, is located around 35 kilometres from Bani town and approximately 175 kilometres from Lakhanpur, the main entry point to Kathua District. Known for its snow-covered landscapes, dense deodar forests, and serene environment, Sarthal attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers during the winter season.

The Snow Festival will be held from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, during which various government departments will set up dedicated stalls. Local residents will also install stalls featuring traditional products, handicrafts, and local cuisine, providing livelihood opportunities and promoting regional culture.

According to official sources, the festival will feature a grand cultural programme, including performances by renowned Jammu singer Saras Bharti and other artists. Local performers will also present traditional dances and folk music, highlighting the region's cultural diversity.

In addition, exciting winter activities such as snow sledging, snowman activities, snowball games, campfire events, and other adventure-based attractions will be organised to enhance the visitor experience.

With the Snow Festival 2026, Sarthal is emerging as a key winter tourism destination in the Jammu Division, expected to boost local tourism, hospitality businesses, and the regional economy.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great initiative, but I hope the administration ensures proper infrastructure. The road to Sarthal can be tricky in winter. Need adequate snow clearance, medical facilities, and proper waste management for such an event. Planning is key.
A
Aman W
Saras Bharti performing? Wow! She's a legend in Dogri folk music. This festival sounds like a perfect blend of nature and culture. Hope they stream the cultural programme online for those of us who can't make it to Kathua district.
S
Sarah B
As someone who visited Sarthal last year, it's breathtakingly beautiful but felt a bit underdeveloped. A festival like this could really put it on the map. The local cuisine stalls are what I'm most excited about – the food in that region is incredible.
V
Vikram M
Respectfully, the article mentions no official notification has been issued yet. While the MLA has shared it, the administration should release a formal circular soon. Clarity on arrangements and safety protocols is needed for tourists planning to attend.
K
Kavya N
This is exactly what our hill stations need – structured festivals that create seasonal employment. The stalls for local handicrafts will provide a direct market for artisans. Hope it's promoted well on social media and travel sites!

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