Ganderbal, Dec 28: Heavy snowfall in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district brought its fair share of challenges but also showcased the unparalleled spirit of Kashmiri hospitality with stranded tourists feeling the real warmth of hospitality for which the Valley is known for.
Tourists stranded along the Srinagar-Sonamarg Road, particularly in areas like Gund, Gagangir, Kullan, Rayil, and Sonamarg, were deeply moved by the compassion and support of local residents.
As snow blanketed the district, roadblocks and vehicle slips left hundreds of tourists stranded, with hotels quickly running out of space. In response, locals stepped in selflessly, offering warmth, food, and shelter. From youth serving hot kehwa and tehri (spiced rice) along the snowy roadsides to families opening their homes to strangers, the community rose to the occasion with extraordinary generosity.
Masjid Committees in various villages also played a pivotal role, providing stranded travellers with temporary shelter and food. Hotel owners in Gagangir, despite facing their own challenges, offered complimentary stays, further highlighting the spirit of solidarity. Additionally, the Masjid Committees in Gagangir and Gund opened their hammams, offering warmth to tourists who sought refuge from the cold.
A female tourist from New Delhi, stranded with her family, was moved by the gesture. “We were scared when our car got stuck, but the locals came to our rescue. They treated us like a family, offered food and a warm place to stay. Their kindness will stay with us forever,” she said.
Another tourist from Maharashtra shared, “Kashmiri hospitality is more than just words—it’s a great experience. Despite their own difficulties, they put our needs first. It was so humble.”
The efforts weren’t limited to the residents. Gund Police and the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) tirelessly assessed and cleared critical road sections, ensuring stranded vehicles were safely moved. Sonamarg Police worked diligently to restore normalcy in the affected areas.
While heavy snowfall disrupted daily life, it also highlighted the resilience and humanity of the Kashmiri people. Their selflessness not only alleviated the distress of stranded tourists but also left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who experienced it.
