Banihal, March 06, 2025 – In a bid to boost adventure tourism and winter sports in Jammu and Kashmir, the District Mountaineering Association Ramban, in collaboration with the Indian Army’s Rashtriya Rifles, successfully completed a three-day snow trekking expedition in the picturesque, snow-laden high-altitude meadows of Banihal. The event, which concluded today, showcased the region’s potential as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and highlighted the synergy between local organisations and the armed forces in promoting community-driven initiatives.
A Trek Through Winter Wonderland
The expedition, launched earlier this week, took participants through the rugged and breathtaking terrain of Banihal, a town nestled in Ramban district known for its scenic beauty and challenging landscapes. The high-altitude meadows, blanketed in fresh snow, provided an ideal setting for the trek, attracting adventurers eager to explore the region’s untapped potential. Organized jointly by the District Mountaineering Association Ramban and the Rashtriya Rifles, the event aimed to foster a spirit of adventure while drawing attention to the area’s suitability for winter sports and tourism.
Participants navigated through snow-covered trails, experiencing both the thrill of the ascent and the serene beauty of the surrounding Himalayan vistas. The trek not only tested their endurance but also offered a unique opportunity to connect with nature in one of Jammu and Kashmir’s lesser-explored regions.
Boosting Adventure Tourism
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to position Ramban district as a hub for adventure tourism, a sector seen as vital to the local economy. By showcasing Banihal’s natural assets, the organizers hope to attract domestic and international tourists seeking authentic outdoor experiences. The collaboration with the Rashtriya Rifles, a counter-insurgency force of the Indian Army deeply embedded in the region, underscores the dual focus on security and development, reinforcing the message that peace and prosperity go hand in hand.
A spokesperson for the District Mountaineering Association Ramban emphasized the event’s significance, stating, “This trek is a stepping stone toward establishing Ramban as a go-to destination for adventure seekers. The partnership with the Indian Army has been instrumental in ensuring safety and success, and we look forward to more such collaborations.”
Indian Army’s Role in Community Engagement
The Rashtriya Rifles, known for their operational prowess in Jammu and Kashmir, played a key role in facilitating the expedition. Beyond providing logistical support and ensuring participant safety, the force’s involvement reflects its commitment to community engagement and nation-building. This is not the first time the unit has partnered with local bodies for such initiatives; similar trekking expeditions and youth-oriented programs have been organized in the past, strengthening ties between the military and civilians.
An Army official involved in the event remarked, “Our participation in this trek is about more than just adventure—it’s about inspiring confidence, promoting fitness, and showcasing the beauty of this land. We’re proud to work alongside the District Mountaineering Association to make this a success.”
Looking Ahead
The successful completion of the three-day expedition has sparked optimism about future events in the region. Plans are already underway to expand the scope of such activities, with potential inclusions like skiing workshops, mountaineering courses, and longer trekking routes. Local authorities, including the Deputy Commissioner of Ramban have expressed support for these efforts, recognizing their potential to create jobs and boost tourism revenue.
As the sun set over the snow-capped meadows of Banihal , participants and organisers alike celebrated not just the end of a trek, but the beginning of a new chapter for adventure tourism in Ramban. With its pristine landscapes and growing infrastructure, the district is poised to carve out a niche in India’s burgeoning outdoor recreation scene.