No Place on Earth Can Beat Kashmir’s beauty: Tourists

Suhail Khan

SRINAGAR, Nov 19: The season’s first snowfall in Kashmir’s high altitudes last week has infused fresh vitality into the Kashmir’s tourism sector, leading to a significant increase in tourist footfall. After the industry suffered its worst setbacks during the summer—particularly following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam—the winter season is being viewed as a much-needed relief and a chance for recovery.

In an exclusive interview with Kashmir Convener, tourists from across the country shared their perspectives on revisiting the valley and commented on the prevailing sense of safety.

Mohan Kumar, a lawyer from the Madras High Court, shared a highly positive experience, recommending Kashmir without reservation. He favorably compared the Kashmir to international destinations like Malaysia and Dubai. “My wife, who runs a tourist company as its Managing Director, and I greatly enjoy Kashmir. People from Tamil Nadu consistently recommend it as well,” he stated. He also affirmed that the climate is pleasant and the situation feels completely safe.

Kumar highlighted attractions such as the skating and gondola rides in Gulmarg, calling it one of the best places he has ever visited. “The view from the gondola is something you carry in your heart forever. It’s a feeling of being on top of the world,” he added. While acknowledging the efforts of the tourism department, he suggested that enhanced infrastructure and facilities could further improve the experience. Despite this, he found the current situation normal and expressed overall satisfaction.

Hannah, along with her friends Nasrid Shahada and Lubana, who are on a school trip from Kerala, expressed their awe. “This is my first time in North India, and I am deeply impressed by the stunning beauty and the incredible kindness and hospitality of the people here in Kashmir. They are much nicer than what we experienced in Delhi,” Hannah remarked. Her friend Lubana chimed in, “We’ve taken hundreds of photos, but no picture can truly capture this feeling. The phrase ‘Paradise on Earth’ is absolutely true.”

Another visitor from Andhra Pradesh echoed this sentiment, expressing profound gratitude for the experience. “We were a little hesitant before coming, but from the moment we landed, we have felt nothing but welcome,” said Arjun Reddy, a software engineer from Hyderabad.

Arjun while speaking to Kashmir Convener, stated, “The shikara ride on Dal Lake as the snow-capped mountains turned golden in the sunset was a spiritual experience. I tell everyone back home, no place on Earth can beat Kashmir.”

Mr. and Mrs. Iyer (Retired Bankers from Chennai) in conversation with Kashmir Convener shared, “At our age, safety and comfort are paramount,” Mr. Iyer explained. “We have found Kashmir to be exceptionally peaceful. The houseboat staff, the shikara riders, everyone has been incredibly respectful and helpful. The chill in the air is offset by the warmth in people’s hearts. We would recommend it to any of our friends without a second thought.”

Mrs. Gupta School Teacher from Delhi stated, “I first came here on my honeymoon 25 years ago. I was hesitant to return, given the news, but I wanted my children to see this beauty,” she shared. “I am so glad we did. The warmth of the people hasn’t changed a bit. In fact, it feels more vibrant now. Seeing my son’s jaw drop at the same sights that amazed me decades ago was priceless. The situation is not just normal; it’s welcoming.”

Pertinently, The Jammu and Kashmir Government has also been actively engaged in reviving the tourism sector. For the past two months, concerted efforts have been made to bring also Bollywood back to the valley. Earlier this month, Bollywood actor Sunil Shetty was in Kashmir to participate in the second edition of the Kashmir Marathon, underscoring this initiative.