Kashmir's Gulmarg And Sonamarg See Tourist Surge Amid First Snowfall

The season's first snowfall in Kashmir began recently, dusting the valley’s higher areas and creating a picturesque winter wonderland. As snow continued lightly into Tuesday, some of the valley’s key mountain roads and highways faced temporary closures due to the accumulating snow.

Popular tourist spots like Gulmarg and Sonamarg were among the places that received snowfall. Both are renowned for their beauty, especially during winter. Gulmarg, often called the "Heartland of Winter Sports in India," transforms into a haven for skiers and snowboarders each year, drawing adventurers worldwide to its powdery slopes. Meanwhile, Sonamarg, known as the “Meadow of Gold,” captivates visitors with its landscapes and is a popular starting point for treks and camping trips in the warmer months. In winter, the snow-covered mountains add an enchanting allure.

This recent snowfall extended beyond these famous spots, reaching parts of the Kupwara and Bandipora districts. It affected major routes, including the Srinagar-Leh highway, a key connection between Kashmir and the remote region of Ladakh. While efforts successfully cleared this road for traffic, some routes, such as Mughal Road (linking Kashmir to Jammu) and Sinthan Top (a crucial pass connecting Bandipora to Gurez), remained closed due to heavy snow. Authorities, including the Border Roads Organisation, acted quickly, deploying machinery to keep these areas accessible.

While travel remains challenging in some parts, the snowfall has set the stage for the winter tourism season. Kashmir’s scenic spots like Gulmarg and Sonamarg are preparing to welcome visitors seeking the charm of snow-covered landscapes.

More About Gulmarg And Sonamarg

Gulmarg and Sonamarg are two of Kashmir’s most appealing tourist destinations, each offering unique experiences year-round. Gulmarg, known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding, transforms into a winter sports paradise with powdery snow and scenic vistas. It also features the iconic Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world. In contrast, Sonamarg, the “Meadow of Gold,” enchants visitors with its lush green summer valleys and serene snowy winter landscapes. Ideal for trekking and camping, Sonamarg is also the gateway to high-altitude lakes like Vishansar and Krishansar, which are captivating nature lovers.

(With inputs from PTI)