Action, Camera, Snow! Kashmir’s New Year Rush Signals a Tourism Revival

Suhail Khan 

Srinagar, Dec 30: Kashmir is ushering in the New Year with hopes of reviving its tourism sector, as thousands of visitors have arrived to celebrate amid fresh snowfall, festive illuminations, and buoyant spirits in the world-renowned destinations of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg.

After a challenging year, which included the tragic Pahalgam attack, the Kashmir’s premier tourist spots Gulmarg, Sonamarg, Pahalgam, and Srinagar’s Dal Lake are once again vibrant with activity.

In an exclusive conversation with Kashmir Convener, the Chief Executive Officer of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Tariq Hussain, stated that tourist inflow has surged in the final week of December. Hotels are reporting near-total occupancy with minimal cancellations.

He stated that the recent snowfall, which he described as “a gift for this New Year’s Eve,” has restored optimism among tourism industry stakeholders. “Gulmarg is packed, all hotels are booked. The rush has exceeded our expectations,” Hussain said, adding that it is a fitting time to celebrate and embrace moments of joy after a difficult year.

The officer confirmed that all necessary advisories are in place to ensure safe and peaceful New Year celebrations.

Another tourism official told Kashmir Convener that visitors are enjoying shikara rides on Dal Lake, photographing the scenery, and soaking in the winter charm a strong indicator of renewed momentum in Kashmir’s winter tourism. “The start is encouraging, and we are hopeful to see similar crowds return to other destinations like Sonamarg,” he stated.

North Kashmir’s ski resort, Gulmarg, has emerged as the prime beneficiary, with hotels fully occupied through the New Year period.

Speaking to Kashmir Convener, Farooq Ahmad Kuthoo, President of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK), said, “The snowfall has had a very positive and significant impact on winter tourism. All hotels in Gulmarg are sold out. We did not anticipate such a rush, but tourist inflow has surpassed our expectations.”

He added that the snowfall has prompted travellers to reconsider their winter plans, leading to a noticeable increase in enquiries for January and February as well. “These are encouraging signs for the tourism industry,” Kuthoo remarked.

Mukhtar Ahmad Shah, a hotelier in Gulmarg, observed that tourist sentiment has improved markedly following the snowfall. “Earlier, there was hesitation among visitors, but the snow has transformed travellers’ enthusiasm.”

Tourists sharing their excitement with Kashmir Convener echoed this sentiment. “We feel safe and are enjoying the New Year celebrations here in Kashmir. It’s beautiful,” said Khushbu, a tourist from Mumbai, reflecting the mood of many who chose the Valley as their festive destination.

Another visitor, Sajina, said, “I booked my ticket a month ago and prayed for snow. Arriving here feels like a dream come true—to spend quality time with my husband in the white winterland of Gulmarg, which I had only imagined before. Celebrating the New Year here is an indescribable excitement.”

Umar Dar, a local journalist, stated, “My colleagues and I planned a New Year celebration in Gulmarg a week ago. The recent snowfall has doubled our excitement, and we eagerly await enjoying the snow and nature together on New Year’s Eve.”

Meanwhile, authorities have strengthened security across all major tourist hubs to ensure peaceful and incident-free celebrations.

A senior police officer told Kashmir Convener about the deployment of additional personnel, with special attention to crowd management and traffic regulation. “Our efforts are focused on ensuring the celebrations remain safe and peaceful for all tourists,” he said.

Speaking with Kashmir Convener, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Department, forecast light to moderate snowfall across the higher reaches of North and Central Kashmir. He indicated that some areas may receive moderate to heavy snow on the night of December 31 and the early hours of January 1.

“This is due to a Western Disturbance currently affecting the region,” Dr. Ahmad explained, advising travellers to stay updated with weather and traffic advisories.

Notably, Kashmir is embracing the New Year with renewed confidence, unity, and joy, further buoyed by the excitement of snowfall across its plains.