Kalyanpur
Akhnoor, Jammu & Kashmir
- Description
Kalyanpur (Jhiri) village, located 20 km from Jammu city on the Jammu-Akhnoor road, is renowned for its annual Jhiri Mela held during Kartik Purnima. This vibrant festival, also known as the Farmer's Festival, attracts over 2.2 million tourists annually, making it one of India's most attended fairs after the Pushkar fair in Rajasthan. The fair celebrates the legendary farmer Baba Jitto, embodying courage and compassion, drawing pilgrims and tourists alike. The village thrives on agricultural activities and promotes social inclusion through economic opportunities during the fair, where local farmers showcase their produce and artisans display traditional crafts. Supported by sustainable practices like no plastic zones and community-driven initiatives, Kalyanpur (Jhiri) village exemplifies how rural tourism can foster economic growth, preserve cultural heritage, and sustain environmental integrity in harmony with local traditions.