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Key Points

A special heritage walk was organized in Katra to celebrate World Tourism Day. The event aimed to promote the traditional pilgrimage route to the Vaishno Devi shrine. Officials highlighted the walk's role in reviving awareness and encouraging sustainable tourism. Local residents welcomed the initiative for its potential to boost the area's economy.

Key Points: Katra Heritage Walk Revives Traditional Vaishno Devi Pilgrimage Route

  • SDM Katra Piyush Dhotra flagged off the walk with officials and pilgrims in attendance
  • Participants retraced the historic spiritual path used by devotees for centuries
  • The event aims to boost sustainable tourism and local economic activity in Katra
  • The Ministry of Tourism celebrated the day with a focus on sustainable transformation
2 min read

World Tourism Day: Heritage walk organised at Katra to promote traditional route of Vaishno Devi

SDM Katra flags off World Tourism Day heritage walk to promote the traditional Vaishno Devi path, boosting sustainable tourism and local economy.

"This initiative will revive awareness about the old route and encourage heritage-based tourism. - SDM Katra Official"

Katra, September 27

Marking World Tourism Day, a Heritage Walk was organised on Saturday in Katra to promote the traditional route leading to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

The walk was flagged off by SDM Katra, Piyush Dhotra, in the presence of the officials, locals residents, and pilgrims.

Participants retraced the historic path that has been followed by devotees for centuries, highlighting its spiritual, cultural, and heritage value.

Speaking on the occasion, the official stressed that the initiative would not only revive awareness about the old route but also encourage sustainable and heritage-based tourism in the region.

Local residents and traders welcomed the event, expressing hope that it would bring renewed attention and boost economic activity in the town.

World Tourism Day was celebrated globally, with various activities organized by tourism offices in India.

Earlier in the day in Mumbai, the Ministry of Tourism, along with local communities, students, and staff from various ministries, participated in a Swachhata Abhiyan (cleanliness drive) at Dadar Beach.

Participants, including Mohammad Farooq, the Regional Director for the Ministry of Tourism, took a pledge to maintain cleanliness, emphasising the importance of personal responsibility in keeping the environment clean.

Students and community members joined the initiative, highlighting the need for continuous efforts throughout the year to promote cleanliness and civic sense. The event underscored the significance of collaboration and individual action in achieving a cleaner environment.

The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, celebrated World Tourism Day 2025, with a focus on "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation". The event brought together distinguished stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society, reaffirming India's commitment toward fostering cultural exchange, driving economic growth, and advancing sustainable practices in tourism, a Ministry of Tourism release said.

The celebration was graced by Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson, NITI Aayog as Chief Guest. Suresh Gopi, Minister of State for Tourism, Petroleum & Natural Gas, presided over the event, Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, delivered the welcome address.

Reflecting the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) theme, the event highlighted tourism's role in sustainable transformation and its significance in India's journey towards "Viksit Bharat 2047".

The World Tourism Day 2025 celebration reaffirmed India's resolve to make tourism a movement for building a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future, demonstrating leadership on the world stage while embracing innovation, cross-sectoral synergies, and people-centric development.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great to see focus on sustainable tourism. The traditional route has such historical significance - my grandparents used to talk about their pilgrimage through that path. Hope this brings more economic opportunities for local businesses in Katra.
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Sarah B
As someone who visited India last year, I'm impressed by these efforts. The cleanliness drive at Dadar Beach is particularly important - clean surroundings make tourism experiences much better. India has incredible heritage that deserves to be preserved sustainably.
A
Arjun K
While the initiative is good, I hope they maintain the traditional route properly. Sometimes these heritage projects start with great enthusiasm but lack proper maintenance. The government should ensure continuous upkeep and facilities for pilgrims.
M
Michael C
The Viksit Bharat 2047 vision aligning with sustainable tourism is commendable. India has tremendous potential to lead in heritage tourism. The involvement of local communities is key to making these initiatives successful long-term.
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Kavya N
Jai Mata Di! 🚩 So happy to read this. The traditional route has its own charm and spiritual significance. Hope they install proper signage and resting points for elderly pilgrims. This will make the yatra more accessible for everyone.

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