Tourist footfall increases at Kashmir resorts on New Year

Srinagar, Jan 1: Kashmir welcomed the New Year 2026 with celebrations at its major tourist destinations, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. As the clock struck midnight on Wednesday, tourists and local youth gathered at snow-covered locations to welcome the New Year amid fresh snowfall.
Special programmes were organised at hotel halls and open venues across the three tourist resorts. Music events were held where participants enjoyed local, national and western performances. Large crowds of tourists and local youth were seen celebrating and welcoming the New Year in their own ways.
According to reports, a significant rush of tourists was witnessed at Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district. Visitors from different parts of the country and abroad were seen enjoying snowfall and winter landscapes. Tourists told media persons that witnessing snowfall on all sides during the New Year was a rare experience for them. Many said that celebrating the New Year in Gulmarg had been a long-held wish.
Tourists also shared their experiences of the Gulmarg Gondola, calling it a unique journey offering wide views of snow-covered surroundings.
Meanwhile, the Winter Carnival was inaugurated in Gulmarg by MLA Gulmarg Farooq Ahmad Shah along with senior officials of the Tourism Department. The carnival includes activities such as snow cricket, skiing, music programmes and local art displays, reflecting Kashmir’s culture and seasonal traditions.
Tourism officials said that tourism in Kashmir has begun to recover after a brief slowdown. The Director Tourism stated that infrastructure is being upgraded and new initiatives are being introduced to ensure smooth travel experiences for visitors. He said the department is focusing on safety, service quality and sustainable tourism practices. He also said that tourism plays an important role in promoting peace and harmony, and appealed to people across the country to visit Kashmir and experience its culture and hospitality.
In south Kashmir’s Pahalgam, the Winter Festival has raised hopes for tourism revival. A noticeable increase in tourist footfall and local participation was observed during the New Year celebrations. Pahalgam, which faced economic and social challenges after the April 22, 2025 terror attack, had seen tourism activities come to a standstill, affecting hotels, transport operators, tour guides, pony owners, artisans and shopkeepers.
Officials said the Winter Festival 2025 aims to restore confidence, attract tourists and convey that Pahalgam is a safe tourist destination. Cultural programmes, Kashmiri music, handicraft exhibitions, traditional winter food and recreational activities helped generate business activity. Hotel bookings increased, demand for transport services rose and local products saw better sales.
Tourism stakeholders said such events, if held regularly, can help restore tourism gradually. Experts noted that while the festival alone cannot fully revive tourism, it marks an important beginning if supported by long-term planning and promotion.
Pahalgam Development Authority CEO Mir Nasrullah Hilal said efforts are underway to promote tourism in the region. He said the Winter Carnival played a key role and plans are in place to organise a Snow Festival to attract more visitors. He added that showcasing local culture during festivals helps enhance tourist interest.
President of the Pony Owners Association, Abdul Waheed Wani, said that after the Baisaran attack, pony owners had lost their livelihoods for several months. He said tourist arrivals have increased after the Winter Festival, but restrictions on pony movement at several locations are affecting income. He said around 1,200 registered pony owners depend on tourism in Pahalgam.
Tourists, however, said that fear cannot stop their desire to visit Kashmir. A woman tourist celebrating the New Year in Pahalgam told media that many concerns disappear after reaching Kashmir. She said the people are welcoming, and the atmosphere and natural surroundings make visitors want to stay longer. (KNS)