Arshid Farooq
Gulmarg, Dec 31: Gulmarg and Tangmarg witnessed an overwhelming rush of tourists who were eager to celebrate the New Year in Kashmir’s winter wonderland. The hotels were beautifully decorated, offering a festive ambiance that has captivated visitors.
Traffic jams were reported at Tangmarg as vehicles carrying excited tourists made their way to the snow-covered meadows of Gulmarg. Despite no official celebrations in Gulmarg due to the recent demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, private hotels have arranged special festivities to entertain their guests.
Tourists expressed delight at the breathtaking views and festive atmosphere. “This is my first visit to Gulmarg, and it’s like a dream come true,” said Ananya Sharma, a tourist from Delhi. “The snow, the decorations, and the warmth of the people here make it a perfect start to the New Year.”
Rajesh Khurana, visiting from Mumbai, shared his excitement: “We came here for the snow, but the hospitality and festive vibe have been a wonderful surprise. The celebrations at our hotel are intimate yet lively.”
Local hoteliers have also noted a spike in bookings. “The tourist flow this year has been exceptional, and we are doing our best to make their stay memorable,” said a hotel manager Mohammed Yaseen in Gulmarg.
As temperatures drop and the clock ticks to midnight, tourists geared up for a cozy New Year’s eve, celebrating amidst the pristine beauty of Gulmarg’s snow-laden landscapes.
