Kashmir's three major tourist destinations Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg witness unusual rush of tourists

Jammu and Kashmir's world-famous tourist destinations, Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg, are witnessing an unprecedented rush of tourists these days. With the onset of winter, the light snowfall in the Kashmir Valley has attracted tourists from across the country.

According to the tourism department, the number of tourists visiting Kashmir since the beginning of the new year is much higher than the same period last year. The horse track in Gulmarg, the Kungdoori Gondola point, Pahalgam, and the Thajiwas glacier in Sonmarg are seeing an unusual influx of tourists. Most hotel bookings are already complete.

Although Gulmarg has not seen large-scale snowfall yet, the presence of snow on the hills and the icy weather has attracted tourists. In Gulmarg, queues for the gondola were seen for several hours, while enthusiasts were experiencing skiing on the snow track.

Ravi Sharma, a tourist from New Delhi, said, "We thought there might not be much snow, but the atmosphere in Gulmarg is so beautiful and winter-like that we are thoroughly enjoying ourselves. The gondola ride here is one of its kind in the world." Another tourist, Hanan Fatima, who came from Mumbai with her family, said, "Coming to Gulmarg feels like being in a European country. The clean air, beautiful views, and the hospitality of the locals have won our hearts."

Mohammad Ashraf, a hotel owner in Gulmarg, said, "This year's tourist rush is unprecedented. The New Year celebrations filled Gulmarg, and our rooms were booked a month in advance. If tourists keep coming at this rate, this season will break the record of the last ten years."

Pahalgam, which has been called the 'Valley of Kings' for centuries, becomes even more beautiful in winters. In the last few days, Pahalgam's Aru and Betaab Valley have seen a rush of tourists, which is usually seen in summers. Rouheel Khan, a tourist from Lucknow, said, "We have come to Kashmir for the first time. The serenity of Pahalgam, the music of the Lidder River, and the majesty of the mountains have mesmerized us. Those who come in summers do not know how magical Pahalgam is in winters."

The horse owners in Pahalgam have also expressed satisfaction with the rush. Local horse owner Abdul Ghaffar said, "This season has brought new hope for us. Employment is improving, and God willing, this rush will continue."

Sonmarg, also known as the 'Golden Meadow', has become the first choice for tourists due to its beautiful valleys and snow-capped peaks. Although Sonmarg usually remains closed during winters due to harsh weather, this year, the favorable weather and better road facilities have made it easier for tourists to reach.

On the Thajiwas glacier, groups of tourists are seen making snowmen, snow-sledging, and capturing memorable moments on their mobile cameras. Amit Chawla, a tourist from Punjab, said, "Sonmarg is like a film location. We have not seen such beauty anywhere else. The snow, glacier, and golden light - everything is magical."

Shabir Ahmed, a local shopkeeper in Sonmarg, said, "Business is much better this year. In December, the valley used to be deserted, but this time, hotels are full, guest houses are full, and employment has increased." Experts associated with tourism say that such a rush of tourists in Kashmir during winters is extremely important for the state's economy. The hotel industry, transport, handicrafts, and thousands of people associated with food and drink depend on this season.

An official of the tourism department said on the condition of anonymity, "We have introduced several new winter festivals. Along with this, Kashmir's new brand image through social media and digital marketing has also played a crucial role. If this trend continues, tourism can break all previous records this year."

The increasing footfall of tourists has also brought happiness among locals. Latif Shah, a businessman from Srinagar, said, "The arrival of tourists is a symbol of peace, prosperity, and stability in Kashmir. We want the world to know Kashmir for its beauty, culture, and hospitality, not for the negative news of the past." The administration has made special plans for snow clearance on roads, traffic control, rescue teams, and medical facilities during winters. Additional traffic police personnel have been deployed on the highway to ensure that tourists reach their destinations safely.

A senior officer said, "We have set up special control rooms in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg. The weather situation, traffic movement, and hotel facilities are being closely monitored." The unprecedented rush of tourists in winters, seen after years, has once again highlighted the beauty of Kashmir's winters to domestic and foreign tourists. Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg are currently captivating tourists with their snow-covered valleys, golden mountains, and blue skies.

The laughter of tourists echoing in the skies of Kashmir, the snow vehicles running on the glacier, and the crowd capturing the scenic views on their cameras are proof that the valley is welcoming the winter season with full vigor - and not just that, but the increasing tourist activities are also giving a glimpse of a better future for Kashmir.