Srinagar, Dec. 14: The Kashmir valley is known as the “mirror of heaven,” on earth and every place here is loved by people across the world.
Every year, tourists across the world visit the Kashmir Valley, and in this ensuing year, Gulmarg remained their best destination, with 14.5 lakh tourists visiting this place to date.
This year, people love to travel to offbeat destinations and explore new destinations. Doodhpathri has been the best offbeat tourist destination this year, with 8.6 lakh visitors so far.
Doodhphatri was followed by another offbeat destination, Kokernag, where 7.4 lakh tourists visited this year, and it was followed by Pahalgam, where 7.3 lakh tourists have visited, and similarly, 7 lakh tourists visited Sonamarg in this current year, according to a senior tourism official.
A large number of people also toured Sonamarg, which is located on the bank of Nallah Sindh and lies about 87 kilometres to the northeast of Srinagar. At 2,800 metres above sea level. The place is also known as the “meadow of gold” and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains against a deep blue sky.
Doodhphatri, over time, this lesser-known destination in Kashmir, previously hardly received any tourism, but now it is gaining huge popularity as a tourist destination. It is a quiet, sleepy place with immense natural beauty and plenty of peace, about 40 kilometres from Srinagar.
The ski resort of Gulmarg witnesses a huge rush of tourists every year, and all the major adventurous sports activities are held here. Also, visitors love to take Gondola rides, and such things aren’t available anywhere else except this place, which also attracts a huge number of tourists.
According to the senior tourism officer, the number of tourists is expected to reach an all-time high this winter because many winter destinations will be kept open for the first time.
Also, the ski lift installed at Sonamarg gives an adventure atmosphere to visitors here. Furthermore, basic ski courses will be introduced at all the locations, which will be kept open.
Kokernag is another offbeat tourist destination that has seen a surge in popularity. The place has a splendid natural beauty that is serene and calm. The place is blessed with some gorgeous natural beauty. Various rare varieties of plants and flowers are found here.
Since trout may be found here, fishing is a popular activity at this tourist destination. In the little pools that the agency has set up, trout are raised. These fish are regarded as one of the best species and have a superb flavour.
In Kokernag, there is also a botanical garden, which is particularly well-liked by both visitors and locals. There are numerous plants, flowers, and trees in the garden. High alpine forests, home to some unique creatures, serve as the scene’s backdrop.