Kashmir, February 2025: Rising Kashmir reports that the Kashmir tourism industry is facing an unprecedented slowdown this year due to extremely low snowfall. Winter tourism in Kashmir, which is a key contributor to the region’s economy, has been severely impacted. Rising Kashmir has been closely monitoring the situation, bringing exclusive updates and insights on how the tourism industry is coping with this crisis.
Decline in Gulmarg Tourism – Rising Kashmir Analysis
Gulmarg (Google Maps: View Location), the crown jewel of Kashmir’s winter tourism, is witnessing a significant drop in tourist footfall. Due to the lack of snow, skiing and snowboarding activities have suffered, leading to a decline in visitor numbers. Rising Kashmir sources report that hotel occupancy rates in Gulmarg have dropped to nearly 20%, compared to 60-70% in previous years. This has resulted in massive revenue losses for hoteliers, tour operators, and local businesses.
According to Rising Kashmir, the lack of snowfall is attributed to weak Western Disturbances, which typically bring precipitation to the region. Climate change and El Niño have further exacerbated the situation, raising concerns about long-term sustainability. Read more about the impact of the snow deficit on Kashmir in our exclusive coverage.
Pahalgam and Sonamarg Struggle Amidst Tourism Slump – Rising Kashmir Reports
Pahalgam (Google Maps: View Location) and Sonamarg (Google Maps: View Location), usually bustling with tourists in the winter, are also feeling the impact of this dry season. With no significant snowfall, these destinations have lost their winter charm, leading to mass cancellations of hotel bookings. Tourists who typically visit for sledding, snow treks, and photography have turned to other destinations offering better snowfall conditions.
To counteract the decline, residents of Ganderbal are advocating for new tourism circuits. Rising Kashmir covered the story on how Mamer, Thune, and Yechama should be included in the J&K tourism map to boost alternative tourism options. Expanding Kashmir’s tourism potential beyond snow-based attractions can help sustain the industry in future years.
Hotel & Houseboat Sector Faces Economic Struggles – Rising Kashmir Insights
The hospitality sector in Kashmir is experiencing one of its worst downturns in recent years. Hotel occupancy rates in Srinagar (Google Maps: View Location), Gulmarg, and Pahalgam have declined drastically, with some establishments seeing a 50% drop in revenue. Rising Kashmir reports that houseboats, a unique attraction in Kashmir’s tourism ecosystem, have also suffered from major booking cancellations.
Despite these challenges, the government is pushing forward with infrastructure projects under PRASHAD. Read more about the development of tourism infrastructure in Kashmir as part of efforts to revive the sector.
Ladakh’s Tourism Strategy Offers Lessons – Rising Kashmir Analysis
While Kashmir’s tourism industry struggles, Ladakh (Google Maps: View Location) is actively promoting adventure and cultural tourism. Rising Kashmir recently covered how Ladakh showcased its tourism potential at OTM 2025 in Mumbai. Experts believe that Kashmir must adopt a similar strategy, diversifying tourism to include heritage, eco-tourism, and adventure sports beyond winter activities.
The Way Forward for Kashmir Tourism – Rising Kashmir’s Perspective
The tourism industry in Kashmir is at a critical juncture. While winter tourism has suffered due to the lack of snowfall, opportunities exist to pivot toward cultural tourism, heritage experiences, and adventure travel beyond the traditional winter season. Rising Kashmir will continue to provide updates on government initiatives, business strategies, and community efforts to revive tourism in the region.
For the latest news, exclusive reports, and expert insights on Kashmir tourism, stay connected with Rising Kashmir, your trusted source for real-time updates on Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism industry.
