Katra, January 24, 2026: The Hotel and Restaurant Association (HRA), Katra today unveiled its specially designed, visually rich calendar for the year 2026 at a function held here, marking a significant initiative aimed at promoting tourism across Jammu. The calendar will be distributed across India, particularly among tourism stakeholders including travel agents, tourism offices, government departments, and media houses.
The calendar was unveiled by HRA President Rakesh Wazir, Chairman Shyam Lal Kesar, Senior Vice President Virender Kesar, Vice President Vivek Sharma, along with renowned designer and cartoonist Chander Shekher and other office bearers of the Association.
Speaking on the occasion, Rakesh Wazir said the calendar is not merely meant for date reference but has been conceptualised as a meaningful promotional tool to highlight tourist destinations in and around Katra. He said the main objective is to encourage pilgrims visiting Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji to extend their stay and explore other scenic and spiritual destinations in Jammu, thereby strengthening the local tourism economy.
He informed that the 2026 calendar focuses exclusively on presenting the beauty, spirituality, and immense tourism potential of Jammu through large, high-quality photographs. Each page has been carefully curated to inspire pilgrims and tourists to discover new destinations throughout the region.
The calendar opens with divine visuals of Maa Vaishno Devi Cave and Darbar, followed by full-page depictions of Baba Dhansar showcasing its sacred cave, natural streams, and serene surroundings. Patnitop has been featured with panoramic views of lush green meadows and snow-covered landscapes, reflecting its year-round tourist appeal.
Bagh-e-Bahu has been highlighted through images of its historic fort and landscaped gardens, portraying Jammu’s cultural heritage along with sweeping city views. Mansar Lake features prominently with visuals capturing its tranquil waters and scenic beauty, while Bhaderwah has been showcased through expansive photographs of valleys, mountains, and winter snowfall
The calendar also features several other major tourist and pilgrimage destinations including Shiv Khori, the world’s highest bridge over the Chenab, Sudh Mahadev, Sanasar, Amar Mahal Museum and other prominent attractions of the region. Each destination has been given full visual importance, making the calendar engaging and informative throughout the year.
Chairman Shyam Lal Kesar said a special QR code has been incorporated in the calendar, allowing viewers to easily access information about HRA Katra, its role, and services offered to visitors. He added that the calendar has been designed in a large display format suitable for hotels, offices, reception areas and public spaces to continuously promote Jammu tourism.
Senior Vice President Virender Kesar informed that the calendar has been designed by internationally acclaimed designer from Jammu and Kashmir, Mr. Shekhar, popularly known as “Bunty Cartoonist,” who has previously worked for global platforms such as G20 and BRICS and with several foreign embassies.
Vice President Vivek Sharma said the calendar also conveys a strong message that service to pilgrims is worship to Maa Vaishno Devi Ji, reflecting the values and commitment of the Hotel and Restaurant Association Katra. He said the initiative presents Jammu as a welcoming, memorable and culturally rich destination for tourists from India and abroad.
