The quaint and serene plateau of Sanjichhat is located in the town of Katra in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled among the triumphant peaks of the Himalayas, Sanjichhat is renowned for its picturesque beauty and its significance as a pivotal stopover for pilgrims on their journey to the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi.
The history of tourism in Sanjichhat is closely intertwined with the pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi Temple. For centuries, the temple has been a beacon of faith, pulling in devotees from all corners of the world. The treacherous terrain and the lack of modern amenities did not deter the spirits of these pilgrims. Initially, the journey was purely taken on foot or on horse/mule-back, with makeshift accommodations dotted along the way, including Sanjichhat.
The real boost in tourism, however, came with the gradual development of infrastructure in the late 20th century. The construction of a proper walking path, known as the Ban Ganga route, guesthouses and eateries at regular intervals, and the development of Sanjichhat as a helipad location all contributed to a safer and more comfortable pilgrimage experience.
Growth and development of tourism in the area were catalyzed with significant investments in better roads, shelter, and facilities for pilgrims and tourists alike. The establishment of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in 1986 played a pivotal role in organizing and modernizing the pilgrimage. This helped in fostering a more structured tourism approach, integrating environmental concerns with public amenities.
In recent years, Sanjichhat has gained additional importance due to the introduction of helicopter services that operate between Katra and Sanjichhat, offering an alternative to the arduous hike for devotees who are short on time or unable to undertake the strenuous trek. This has not only boosted tourism but has made the pilgrimage accessible to a larger demographic.
In addition, the development of a cable car system, linking the base of the trek to the higher points, is also noteworthy. This comfortable ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley below and has become an attraction in itself.
The area around Sanjichhat continues to evolve as a tourist destination. While it still maintains its primary role as a spiritual sojourn, it offers visitors a range of experiences from trekking, sightseeing to nature walks. Embracing eco-friendly practices, there is a push towards sustainable tourism in order to preserve the natural beauty of the region for future generations.
As the world faces unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic, tourism trends in Sanjichhat and Katra are shifting to prioritize safety and hygiene. There is a notable trend towards private and small-group tours, as well as wellness tourism, with visitors seeking out destinations that offer tranquility and a break from the crowds to rejuvenate both physically and spiritually.
Sanjichhat, with its pristine environment and spiritual ambiance, is poised to continue its legacy as a prime destination that seamlessly blends faith, natural beauty, and the enduring power of human resilience and spirit.
