SRINAGAR: The famous ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district witnessed the season’s first snowfall on Thursday, with the majestic Afarwat peak wearing a fresh white blanket.
The snowfall, which brought temperatures down across the Valley, has lifted the spirits of Kashmir’s tourism sector — still reeling from the impact of the Pahalgam terror attack in April that led to mass cancellations and prolonged closure of popular spots including Betaab Valley and Aru Valley.
Tour operators and hoteliers expressed optimism that the early snow would revive confidence among travelers. “Gulmarg has always been the heart of winter tourism. After months of uncertainty, this feels like a new beginning,” said a local hotelier.
Authorities reopened several destinations in September, but stakeholders admitted that tourist footfall had not yet returned to normal. With Gulmarg’s first snow, however, winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and trekking are once again generating excitement.
Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast a spell of rain and snowfall from October 4–7, warning of possible road blockades and landslides in higher reaches. Peak activity is expected from the night of October 5 to the morning of October 7.
For now, the sight of tourists posing against snow-clad slopes has injected a sense of optimism into Gulmarg’s economy — a much-needed boost after a difficult summer season.
