Suhail Khan
Gulmarg, Jan 03: In a bid to attract more visitors and rejuvenate Kashmir’s tourism sector, Gulmarg this weekend witnessed the spectacle of cricket being played on snow-covered fields.
The initiative was part of the ongoing five-day Winter Carnival organised by the Tourism Department. Adding to the festival’s allure, local players took to the icy pitch, wielding willow bats against the breathtaking backdrop of pristine white slopes.
Speaking exclusively with Kashmir Convener, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), Tariq Hussain Naik, said the move aims not only to enhance the visual charm of Gulmarg’s winter wonderland but also to offer tourists a distinctive experience following the grand start of the new year.
The officer said that the Tourism Department is focused on providing the best experience to tourists, whether in Gulmarg or other parts of Kashmir. He said hopes are high, and with the grand start of 2026, the tourism industry will revive, with Gulmarg playing an important role in it.
He said that the number of tourists has increased, and the growing rush day by day is not only a blessing but is also helping the sector upon which thousands of families depend.
Speaking exclusively with Kashmir Convener, another senior official from the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department said, “This is more than just a game, it’s a statement. We are blending our natural assets with innovation to create memorable moments for visitors and signal that Kashmir is open for business in all seasons.”
Rouf, a local player who was part of the exhibition match, said, “Playing on snow was challenging and thrilling—a great and lifetime experience amidst the white snow peaks. The rush of tourists with happy smiles created a vibe like playing in a foreign country.” He added, “We hope this becomes a regular feature, drawing cricket lovers and adventure seekers from across the globe to our paradise.”
Sajad, another player, said, “Playing for our revival, for our tourists—to keep them happy and make them feel secure—is indescribable. It was a great experience playing cricket on snow. In the coming days, activities to boost the tourism industry in Gulmarg will be increased further.”
Sajna, a tourist from Mumbai, speaking with Kashmir Convener, said, “It’s fantastic to witness such a lovely game of snow cricket in beautiful Gulmarg. This wasn’t just a game to watch but moments of entertainment that added more beauty to our trip.” She added, “It’s so nice to see activities where tourists are given such beautiful moments to cherish.”
Smiriti, another tourist from Lucknow, told Kashmir Convener, “I don’t have words to explain how memorable this trip has been so far. Every moment spent in Gulmarg was worth a million dollars, and witnessing this snow cricket has added more beauty to an already beautiful trip.” She said, “The arrangements for tourists here are amazing. The tourism industry, the hoteliers, and the locals are so warm and welcoming.” She added, “It’s time for our fellow countrymen to return to this winter paradise. It’s a winter wonderland; why go to Switzerland when we have such a beautiful Gulmarg in India?”
Tourism stakeholders have also welcomed the snow cricket initiative, viewing it as a fresh strategy to counter last year’s difficult season for the tourism industry.
Notably, the year 2025 had been a terrible and concerning one for the tourism industry in Kashmir following the deadliest Pahalgam terror attack. However, with snowfall in Gulmarg and other premier tourism destinations, the rush of tourists is now being termed a revival of the industry, and hopes are high for a great year in 2026.
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