Suhail Khan
Srinagar, December 27: The Winter Wonderland of Kashmir is buzzing with excitement as tourists flock to the region on the eve of the New Year celebration.
With the season’s fresh first snowfall in the plains, the anticipation has doubled, with expectations for a bumper business ahead of the New Year holiday.
A tourism official told Kashmir Despatch that the winter wonderlands of Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg are receiving overwhelming attention, resulting in all hotels being fully booked.
The official noted that the local hospitality industry is booming as hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg prepare to accommodate the surge in tourists. He added that the fully booked status reflects not only the popularity of these destinations but also the unwavering confidence that travelers have in Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty and warm hospitality.
Since the abrogation of Article 370, the surge in tourism has brought hope and relief to the local economy. The thriving tourism industry provides employment opportunities for numerous locals, supporting their livelihoods and contributing to the overall growth of the region.
In 2024, the region has already broken all previous records, hosting 3 million tourists in just the few remaining days of the year, alongside significant growth in the number of foreign visitors.
Director of Tourism Raja Yaqoob Farooq earlier this week informed Kashmir Despatch that around 3 million tourists have visited Kashmir this year, highlighting the notable increase in foreign tourist numbers as especially encouraging. He reported that approximately 36,000 to 37,000 foreign tourists visited last year; however, up until December 20, 2023, around 43,000 foreign tourists have already arrived in Kashmir.
He stated, however, that the winter months would be highly successful for Kashmir’s tourism industry.
Speaking to Kashmir Despatch, a civil official mentioned that various activities, including musical evenings, firework shows, night skiing, and torch skiing, have been planned for New Year’s Eve to enhance the experience for visitors.
The official emphasized that the winter season is a core focus area, and this time, besides Gulmarg—one of the country’s premier winter destinations—the tourism department is aiming to promote locations like Sonamarg and Doodhpatri as well.
Talking to Kashmir Despatch, Rouf Ahmad, a manager at a hotel in Gulmarg, noted that there is a growing momentum of both domestic and foreign tourists. He stated, “All our rooms are already booked ahead of the New Year celebrations.”
Rouf further commented that this year is set to be record-breaking for Gulmarg, with a significant influx of tourists not only from India but also from abroad. He mentioned that preparations for the New Year celebrations have been exceptionally busy over the past week.
He informed Kashmir Despatch that they have planned various activities for visitors at their hotel, including a musical evening and a firework show.
Winter in the Kashmir Valley consistently shows positive signs for all tourism players, as hotels and restaurants remain open throughout Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg. All three tourist destinations are currently experiencing heavy snowfall during this harsh winter period, providing tourists with the joy of enjoying snowfall throughout the season.
Kashmir is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist destinations in India and features on the travel wish lists of many. However, parts of the valley often remain closed during winter due to harsh weather conditions and heavy snowfall, which can complicate travel.
Earlier this month, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, stated that the administration is proactively preparing for winter tourism and major events in the valley. He assured that preparations for the upcoming winter season are being managed efficiently, highlighting the administration’s commitment to ensuring a seamless schedule for the Khelo India Games in Gulmarg. “While snowfall delayed last year’s schedule, we are optimistic about hosting the games as planned this time,” he said.
Shifting focus to Kupwara’s tourism potential, Bidhuri underscored the significance of events like the Bungus Festival, reflecting on his participation in last year’s festival, during which he observed, “Bungus offers great potential for eco-tourism, and we are exploring innovative ways to promote it as a key destination in Kupwara.”
Regarding winter preparedness, Bidhuri outlined the administration’s efforts to provide improved services compared to previous years. “Daily reviews are being conducted to ensure that all necessary arrangements are in place. We are determined to make this winter better in every way,” he added.
Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Minga Sherpa, chaired a crucial meeting at Gulmarg to review facilities related to winter tourism. The Deputy Commissioner emphasized the need to ensure the round-the-clock availability of critical services such as electricity and water supply, which are essential for the comfort and safety of tourists.
Minga Sherpa reiterated that the success of Gulmarg as a premier winter tourism destination depends on modern infrastructure, safe travel conditions, and efficient services. He stressed that all these elements must be in place during the winter season to provide tourists with a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
