Sonamarg all set to host first-ever New Year festival

Ganderbal, Dec 30: The famous tourist resort of Sonamarg in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district is all set for the first-ever New Year festival, scheduled to take place on Sunday. The Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA) has finalised all arrangements to ensure a memorable celebration.
This New Year festival is a significant step towards enhancing winter tourism in the area, marking a departure from past traditions. The Government of Jammu and Kashmir’s new initiative to keep Sonamarg open during the winter season has paved the way for this unique event.
Historically, Sonamarg would remain cut off due to heavy snowfall and avalanches, particularly along the challenging Hung stretch. However, this year, collaborative efforts between the Sonamarg Development Authority, the Tourism Department, District Administration Ganderbal, and Local Stakeholders have overcome these challenges to host the inaugural New Year festival.
The festivities will feature the participation of renowned singers, adding a musical dimension to the celebration. The authorities have called on tourists to actively engage in the festivities and capture the essence of the precious moment amidst Sonamarg’s breathtaking landscapes.
Expressing enthusiasm for the event, officials said all preparations are complete. They promised a seamless and enjoyable experience for attendees.
Hotels in Sonamarg have joined the celebration, adorning their establishments for the New Year Festival. They have also implemented heating arrangements to ensure the comfort of tourists amid the winter chill.
A local hotel owner expressed delight at the initiative, saying they are very happy with the collaboration between the Sonamarg Development Authority, the Tourism Department and District Administration Ganderbal in organizing this inaugural festival.
“We believe this initiative will significantly boost the tourism sector in Sonamarg and contribute to the region’s economic growth,” he said.