Suhail Khan
GULMARAG, Dec 24: Kashmir is once again regaining its position as a globally recognized tourism hotspot, with a significant rise in tourist arrivals, including foreign visitors, said Director Tourism, Raja Yaqoob Farooq, during an event at the picturesque health resort of Gulmarg.
Speaking exclusively to Kashmir Despatch, Farooq highlighted that the region’s tourism figures for 2023 have shown remarkable growth, exceeding last year’s numbers by over 10%. “Last year, we recorded a total of 2.7 million tourists, including visitors for the Shri Amarnath Yatra. This year, we’ve crossed the 3 million mark,” he stated, expressing optimism about the resurgence of Kashmir’s tourism industry.
Farooq emphasized the encouraging trend in foreign tourist arrivals. Last year, approximately 36,000 to 37,000 foreign tourists visited Kashmir. However, as of December 20, 2023, this year’s figures already stand at 43,000, with an additional 1,000 foreign visitors arriving in just the past four days.
“This increase is a clear indicator that Kashmir, once famed for its breathtaking landscapes and hospitality, is steadily regaining its global appeal. Improved law and order over the past five years, along with enhanced tourism infrastructure, has contributed significantly to this positive shift,” Farooq remarked.
Farooq credited the growth to the department’s focused investments in tourism infrastructure and publicity campaigns. “Our efforts in showcasing Kashmir’s unparalleled beauty and serenity are now paying off. We’ve worked tirelessly to ensure that visitors, both domestic and international, feel safe and welcomed,” he said.
At the same time, Farooq underscored the department’s commitment to sustainable tourism. “While we are working hard to boost tourism, any attempt to harm the region’s ecology will not be tolerated. Protecting our environment and ecosystem remains a top priority,” he affirmed.
The tourism official said that to further enhance the region’s appeal, the Department has expanded its New Year celebrations to include three new locations this year. In addition to the traditional festivities in Gulmarag, Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and the Clock Tower at Lal Chowk, Srinagar, will also host grand events.
“The decision to add these destinations aims to convey a message to tourists worldwide that Kashmir is a peaceful and welcoming destination, ready to host guests from across the globe,” Farooq further added.
Suhail Khan is a filmmaker, content writer, and freelance journalist.
