Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 13: With Christmas and New Year just around the corner, Kashmir is about to witness a steady rise in tourism activity as both domestic and foreign visitors are expected to arrive in the coming weeks.
The influx of visitors is now at a good stage with many being seen enjoying at famous tourist places of Srinagar and others across the valley.
Manzoor Pakhtoon, President of the Houseboat Owners Association (HBOA), said the expectations are high as the festive season approaches.
“We are experiencing good tourism footfall for Christmas and New Year alike. If it snows, we expect an even greater increase in tourist numbers,” he added.
He said the houseboats are currently vacant, with many operators waiting for the arrival of tourists and snowfall to boost bookings. “Snowfall is an attraction for visitors, and we are expecting a more number of tourists once the season begins,” he said.
Likewise, the hoteliers and houseboat operators shared similar thoughts, expressing their hope for the arrival of both domestic and international visitors.
A houseboat owner on Dal Lake expressed similar sentiments about the festive season, saying “Tourists always look forward to celebrating Christmas in Kashmir. If the snow occurs, it will make this Christmas even more special for them and for us,” he said.
Another houseboat owner, shared, “Currently, bookings are slow, but we know that tourists will flock to the Valley once snowfall starts. The charm of houseboats in winter is unmatched,” he said.
In the meanwhile, the hoteliers in Srinagar are equally hopeful, with Zahid Mir, a hotelier, saying, “We have started receiving inquiries for Christmas and New Year packages. While the numbers are still moderate, a good snowfall will definitely attract more tourists.”
