Srinagar, Dec 29: Kashmir’s tourism sector has witnessed a strong revival as the Valley heads into the New Year, with rising tourist inflows, packed hotels in Gulmarg, renewed activity in Sonamarg and a series of winter festivities signalling renewed confidence in the sector.
Director Tourism Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad, said the tourism graph has shown a steady upward trend in recent months, with November and December registering encouraging bookings. He said the department is optimistic about 2026 emerging as a strong year for the industry, backed by focused promotion, infrastructure upgrades and destination development.
“Tourism in Kashmir is back on track. Though the recovery has been gradual, the momentum is clearly building. Our focus now is to sustain this growth and strengthen the sector further,” Sajad told the news agency KNO.
He said the department has drawn up an extensive promotional calendar, including national roadshows and international participation in tourism expos in Europe and Southeast Asia, aimed at positioning Kashmir as a year-round destination. Efforts are also underway to showcase lesser-known destinations and diversify tourism offerings beyond traditional circuits.
As part of the winter push, Gulmarg has emerged as a major attraction, recording nearly 100 per cent occupancy during the New Year period. With fresh snowfall and favourable conditions, winter sports activities have gained momentum. The Tourism Department has launched a 14-day integrated skiing programme across Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Doodhpathri to train young enthusiasts and build local capacity in winter sports.
Sajad said upgraded infrastructure, including modern ski facilities and improved amenities, has played a key role in attracting visitors. He added that the department’s focus remains on developing infrastructure, generating employment and grooming destinations to international standards.
In Sonamarg and along the Ganderbal axis, authorities have intensified security and traffic management arrangements ahead of New Year celebrations. Senior police officials have reviewed ground arrangements, with additional deployment and surveillance to ensure smooth movement of tourists and public safety. Enhanced checking and traffic regulation have been put in place along the Sonamarg-Gund stretch amid rising tourist inflow following fresh snowfall.
Parallel to tourism activities, the department has also rolled out cultural programmes, including ‘Jashn-e-Wandeh’ at Dal Lake, featuring traditional performances, shikara rides and local exhibitions to promote Kashmir’s cultural heritage and winter charm.
Officials said the coordinated efforts of the tourism department, district administration, security agencies and local stakeholders have contributed to the positive revival. With improved infrastructure, heightened security and growing tourist confidence, Kashmir is poised for a vibrant winter season and a promising tourism outlook for 2026.
