BeyondHeadlines Staff Reporter
Srinagar: It’s a new beginning for Kashmir’s tourism industry as Taj Hotels began operations of its first hotel in the Valley.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurated the five-star hotel located on a hilltop, overlooking the Dal lake and Asia’s largest tulip garden.
The Valley’s economy that heavily depends on tourism, has been badly hit due to the violence in the past two decades. But now, the opening of Vivanta by Taj, that has world class facilities, could bring in more business from outside.
“I believe today a start has been made, and a very important start. I hope others follow on from this example,” Abdullah said.
The first no smoking hotel in the state is located on the Kralsangri hill overlooking the Dal Lake and Asia’s largest tulip garden.
The resort, set up in collaboration with Saifco Hillcrest hotels, is spread over six acres and has 89 rooms and six suites each giving a breathtaking view of Srinagar.
Eighty per cent of the hotel’s employees will be residents of J&K. So far, 80 people have got jobs.
“Their coming to Kashmir I think is a very positive step. I hope it will provide more confidence to traveller who comes to Kashmir,” said Amit Amla, a hotelier in Kashmir.
“We also want to play an important role in seeing that we promote tourism in Jammu and Kashmir,” said Veer Vijay Singh, Chief Operating Officer, Taj.
There are two joys of living in Srinagar – its history and its beautiful seasons from spring to winter. Standing here at Vivanta by Taj, you celebrate both the shades of this city.
