Kulgam, Feb 21: The Kulgam administration has scheduled the two-day Aharbal Winter Carnival with the aim of boosting the tourist destination and attracting more visitors to this offbeat location, officials said.
An official said that the long-awaited event will take place on February 24 and 25, 2024.
He said that the two-day festival is intended to promote the true offbeat destination of Aharbal and enhance tourism in the region.
“The carnival will include cultural programs, trekking, snow games, and the installation of stalls by various departments for exhibition,” he added.
He said, in the past year Aharbal witnessed the surge in tourist footfall. With over 3 lakh visitors visiting the spot.
“Aharbal falls some 30 kilometres away from Kulgam district headquarters and that visitors see it a true offbeat destination which gives a different experience to visitors from traditional spots,” he said.
Shakir Ahmad, a local from Aharbal, told Rising Kashmir that they are eagerly awaiting the winter carnival and would love to host the visitors.
He said, Aharbal is a must-visit spot in winters, offering a different experience compared to summers. It remains a must-visit spot in winters too.
“With the promotion of the spot, it will help the local community and others to earn a living. The administration must build more infrastructure here so that more and more visitors can visit,” Ahmad added.
Earlier, Deputy Commissioner Athar Aamir Khan Kulgam reviewed the arrangements by holding meetings with officers and officials to ensure the success of the event.
He instructed officers to ensure that all arrangements are made well in advance for a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants and attendees during the festival, as it is expected to draw visitors from far and wide.
