Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Apr 26: As a heartwarming gesture of hospitality, shopkeepers at Lal Chowk, the heart of Srinagar city, on Saturday distributed free tea, biscuits and water to visiting tourists.
The initiative, led by the Lal Chowk Traders Association, was aimed at making tourists feel welcome and showcasing the valley’s traditional spirit of warmth and generosity.
According to reports, small refreshment counters have been set up near the city center and in front of the historic clock tower (Ghanta Ghar), allowing tourists to enjoy complimentary refreshments as they explore the area.
One of the organisers said, “We want every tourist visiting Srinagar to feel at home. Offering tea, biscuits, and water is a small way to demonstrate the hospitality that Kashmir is famed for.”
Meanwhile, several tourists expressed happiness over the gesture and said it felt so good to be welcomed like this. “The people here are very kind and generous,” a tourist said.
A tourist from Maharashtra added, “After visiting Pahalgam, we arrived in Srinagar and were touched by the hospitality here. Being welcomed with tea and biscuits at Lal Chowk made us feel truly special.”
Meanwhile, another trader shared, “Tourists are our guests, and it is our duty to ensure they are comfortable and cared for. We hope this small effort leaves a positive impression of Kashmir,” he said.
This initiative has garnered praise from locals as well, who believe it will help reshape Kashmir’s image as a welcoming destination for tourists. This is particularly important in light of recent events, such as the tragic attack in Pahalgam that resulted in the loss of 27 lives, mostly tourists.
