Raja Syed Rather
Ganderbal, Nov 5: The picturesque tourist destination of Sonamarg witnessed a fresh snowfall last evening, covering its meadows and upper reaches in a pristine white blanket, thereby reviving hopes for a strong winter tourism season in the Valley.
Officials from the Meteorological (MeT) department had predicted light snowfall over higher reaches of Kashmir, with more spells expected in coming days.
Local tourism stakeholders said the early snowfall is a positive sign for the tourism industry, which had seen a slow phase in recent months.
Waseem Ahmad, a local tourism associate said, “This is November’s first snowfall and we are very excited. It’s a much-needed boost for tourism. We hope this early snowfall brings back tourists and sets the season on the right track.”
Bilal Ahmad, a travel operator from Ganderbal, said inquiries have already begun. “Since the snowfall started, we’ve been getting calls from tourists who want to visit Sonamarg. People have seen snow pictures on social media and now they want to experience it,” he said.
Locals dependent on tourism also expressed joy. Gh Hassan, a pony owner, said, “Snow means work for us. Tourists come here for the snow and our livelihood improves. We are hopeful this winter will be better.”
Irshad, who runs a tea stall near the market, told KNO, “Tourists love Kehwa in winter. This snowfall gives new hope after a slow summer season.”
The snowfall comes at a crucial time when tourism players are working to restore confidence among travelers after the Pahalgam incident earlier this year, which had raised concerns among the visitors and affected travel sentiment. “This fresh snowfall is nature’s way of saying Kashmir is ready to welcome tourists again,” a local hotelier said.
Tourists, who were enjoying themselves in Sonamarg, expressed delight at witnessing the snowfall.
Ravi Sharma, a visitor from Delhi, said, “We came here for a peaceful holiday, and snowfall made it magical. Kashmir’s beauty is unmatched.”
Another tourist Rubani from Delhi said, “We felt a little worried because of the reports from Pahalgam, but the experience here has been safe and beautiful. The snowfall has made our trip unforgettable.”
Tourism players believe the timely snowfall will draw more travelers in coming weeks. “When snow falls early, life returns to this place, from hotels to ponywalas to tea shops, everyone benefits,” said Shah Adil, a shopkeeper in Sonamarg.
