Srinagar 12 Nov,2023 : Tourists in Kashmir were treated to an unexpected delight as the Valley experienced an early snowfall, particularly in Gulmarg and surrounding areas. This meteorological surprise has had a positive impact on the tourism sector, attracting visitors eager to relish the picturesque landscapes blanketed in white.
Many tourists, initially drawn to witness the enchanting sight of crimson Chinar leaves falling in Autumn, found themselves pleasantly surprised by the early snowfall in Gulmarg on Thursday and Friday. Expressing their joy, Manzar Khan, a tourist from Delhi, shared, “If you want to have a glimpse of heaven, it’s in Kashmir, in Gulmarg… we are feeling great.”
Asim Kumar Raut from Odisha expressed, “We enjoyed ourselves after coming here. We were expecting snow, but not snowfall, which we saw for the first time in our lives.” The unexpected snowfall inspired tourists to engage in building snow structures, sliding, skating, and capturing the breathtaking snow-clad mountains in photographs.
Suhail Ahmad from West Bengal, on his first visit to Kashmir, marveled at the beauty of the valley. “It’s a beautiful valley. I’m experiencing snowfall here for the first time,” he said, recounting his exploration of Pahalgam, Sonmarg, and Gulmarg.
Pune resident Pravidha praised the hospitality of Kashmir and encouraged others to visit, emphasizing the unique experience of witnessing snowfall firsthand. “It’s my first time in Kashmir, and I am planning to visit again soon. I witnessed snowfall for the first time in my life here, and this is something you can’t experience from photos or videos; you must visit here.”
Visitors from Gujarat expressed their amazement, saying, “Kashmir is a hundred times better than what we had imagined, it’s like we have come to heaven, and the people here are amazing, they are very cooperative also.”
The early snowfall has not only delighted tourists but also brought optimism to the local travel trade. With the positive “word of mouth” publicity generated by the early snowfall, locals associated with the industry are anticipating better business this winter season. Shoaib Ali, a tour operator, expressed hope for a prosperous winter season, citing the positive feedback from guests and the increasing influx of tourists during festival holidays.
