Following the recent snowfall in the Kashmir Valley, the world-renowned tourist destination of Gulmarg is witnessing a significant surge in visitors. As the New Year approaches, numerous tourists have made hotel reservations to ring in the festivities amidst the picturesque snow-covered landscapes of the region.
Khushi, a tourist from Mumbai, spoke with Rising Kashmir about her first-ever visit to the Kashmir Valley. She mentioned that they had also explored Srinagar and Pahalgam.
“We had always heard of Kashmir being a paradise on Earth, but seeing it with our own eyes was beyond our expectations. It’s even more stunning than the pictures and social media posts we’ve seen,” said Khushi. The family also visited the frozen waters at Drung and plans to spend the night in Gulmarg, having made their hotel reservations in advance.
Nurpur, a tourist from Dehradun, Uttarakhand, shared her admiration for Kashmir’s beauty and the warmth of its people. “Kashmir is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and I feel fortunate to experience it during our lifetime. The locals are incredibly helpful. When we got stranded in Sonmarg after Friday’s snowfall, the villagers from Gund in Ganderbal district kindly offered us free accommodation and meals in their homes,” she said.
Nurpur also praised the famous hospitality of the Kashmir Valley, noting that locals extended support to other tourists stranded due to road closures caused by the snow. “I came with my husband and two children. It was our first time experiencing snowfall, and we’re grateful for the chance to enjoy this unique moment,” she added.
The rise in tourism is evident, especially in Gulmarg, where the number of tourists from other Indian states is growing. Many are choosing to celebrate the New Year in the region, enjoying both the snowfall and the holiday ambiance.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Tariq Ahmad, confirmed the surge in tourist activity. “There has been a marked increase in the number of visitors, and all hotels in Gulmarg are fully booked. The frozen waters at Drung in Tangmarg have become a major attraction, drawing large crowds,” he said.
In a bid to ensure safety amidst the winter conditions, the Baramulla Police have issued a directive mandating that all vehicles traveling to Gulmarg must be equipped with anti-skid snow chains. This regulation applies to all vehicles, including 4X4s. Vehicles without these snow chains will be prohibited from entering the area. The move aims to safeguard both tourists and the local population in light of the recent heavy snowfall.
Tourists are advised to adhere to the new safety measures while traveling to the picturesque hill station, ensuring a safe and enjoyable visit to one of Kashmir’s most iconic destinations.
