Srinagar, Jan 13: The inauguration of the 6.5-km-long Z-Morh tunnel in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district is set to transform Sonamarg into a year-round tourist destination, unlocking new opportunities for winter tourism and adventure sports.
The tunnel, built at a cost of ₹2,700 crore, will ensure all-weather connectivity to the picturesque hill station, which previously remained closed during winters due to heavy snowfall. With this development, Sonamarg is now poised to become a hub for winter sports, attracting adventure enthusiasts from across the country.
One of the key attractions fueling this transformation is the newly constructed ice-skating rink by the Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA). The state-of-the-art facility has already started drawing thousands of visitors, offering a fresh boost to the local tourism sector.
Local residents and tourism stakeholders are optimistic about the impact of the Z-Morh tunnel and the introduction of winter sports facilities. Aadil Hamid, a resident of Ganderbal, expressed his excitement about the new opportunities. He said Sonamarg had much to offer even in winter, and now, with all-weather connectivity, it will attract tourists throughout the year.
“The introduction of ice skating has made my dream come true. I always wanted to try this sport, and thanks to the efforts of the SDA, I finally got the opportunity,” said Ahmad.
This place, which was previously known only for its summer tourism, is now set to thrive in the winter season as well. Bilal Hussain, a hotel owner in Sonamarg, said the closure of Sonamarg during winter affected businesses. He believes that with the Z-Morh tunnel ensuring round-the-year access, there will be an increase in visitors even during snowfall.
“This is a game-changer for tourism and hospitality. Hotels, restaurants, and local shops will benefit greatly from uninterrupted tourist flow,” Hussain added.
The development is expected to bring economic benefits to the region, especially for local youth who can now explore opportunities in the tourism and adventure sports sectors. Irfan Shah, a tour operator, said the introduction of ice skating and the tunnel’s opening will create jobs for many young people.
“Adventure tourism is growing, and Sonamarg will soon be a major winter sports destination. More tourists mean more employment opportunities for locals,” Shah said.
Sonamarg, located on the Srinagar-Leh national highway, has always been a popular summer destination with its lush green meadows and beautiful views. Now, with all-weather access, it is set to become a winter wonderland, offering activities like ice skating, snowboarding, and skiing.
With the Z-Morh tunnel paving the way for uninterrupted access, locals and tourists alike are looking forward to a new chapter in Sonamarg’s tourism story, making it a year-round attraction in Kashmir’s travel scenery.
