Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 23: The first snowfall spell of the season has breathed new life into Kashmir’s winter tourism sector, with travel operators reporting a noticeable spike in tourist queries and bookings.
The fresh snow spell has transformed popular destinations like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg into a winter paradise, drawing excitement from visitors and local businesses alike.
Rouf Tramboo, president of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK), speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said the snowfall has boosted confidence among tourism stakeholders.
“This first spell of snow has awakened hopes for tour operators. Calls and queries from tourists have picked up sharply since yesterday,” he said.
Tramboo said that additional snowfall spells in the coming weeks could further increase interest. “If we get one or two more snow spells, we expect an even bigger surge in inquiries, bookings and tourist movement,” he added.
Other operators said they are receiving online queries for hotel bookings, ski rentals, gondola rides and guided tours.
Tawqeer, a travel operator based in Srinagar and owner of Connect Kashmir Mobile, said, “Tourists are eager to experience snow, and the response has been good. Our counters have again started seeing queues, and many are finalising packages on the spot.”
Hotels, adventure activity operators and restaurants across tourist hubs also reported an increase in footfall, while visitors themselves expressed excitement over the fresh snowfall.
Ananya Verma, a tourist from Delhi, said: “The snow is perfect and everyone is excited. We couldn’t wait to book our rides and enjoy the slopes.”
With queries picking up and bookings rising, stakeholders in Kashmir’s tourism sector are hopeful that this first spell of snow will set the tone for a thriving winter season—(KNO)
