U'khand to organise high-altitude ultra marathon to boost tourism
on Monday directed officials to launch a high-altitude ultra marathon to promote tourism in the remote and scenic regions of the Himalayan state. During a high-level meeting at his official residence, the CM proposed that the event be organised from Gunji to Adi Kailash in the Kumaon region, and from Niti-Mana to Malari in the Garhwal region.
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Dhami emphasised that the marathon should be institutionalised as an annual feature in the state's tourism calendar, with a fixed date each year to attract athletes, adventure enthusiasts, and tourists from across the country and abroad. He also asked officials to ensure timely execution and proper branding of the event to showcase Uttarakhand's natural and spiritual heritage.
The initiative is expected to give a major boost to border tourism in high altitude areas – including Gunji, Adi Kailash, and Niti-Mana – which are strategic and culturally significant locations near the Indo-China border, known for their pristine landscapes, spiritual importance, and increasing appeal among adventure tourists.
In the onset of monsoon, the CM also reviewed disaster preparedness and instructed officials to strengthen relief mechanisms and ensure timely compensation to affected individuals. He also called for a comprehensive plan to protect crops in border and hill areas through fencing or solar barriers.
Senior officials at the meeting included principal secretary RK Sudhanshu, R Meenakshi Sundaram, state home secretary Shailesh Bagauli, and additional secretary Bansidhar Tiwari.
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Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga – Maharashtra 9 / 15 Origin of the Sacred Godavari River Trimbakeshwar, near Nashik, is the origin of the Godavari River. It houses three lingas representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. During Sawan, special rituals and holy dips are believed to remove all sins and grant long life. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga – Jharkhand 10 / 15 The Divine Healer Known as Baba Baidyanath, this Jyotirlinga is associated with healing and health. Devotees walk barefoot in Sawan (Kanwar Yatra) to offer holy Ganga water to Shiva, seeking relief from diseases and suffering. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga – Gujarat 11 / 15 Protector Against Evil Forces Situated near Dwarka, Nageshwar represents protection from poison and negative energy. Visiting during Sawan is believed to safeguard devotees from spiritual and physical harm, invoking Shiva's protective powers. 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