SRINAGAR, DEC 21: The Jammu and Kashmir government expressed confidence on Thursday in the unprecedented success of winter tourism in the Union Territory, citing the sold-out status of popular destinations Gulmarg and Pahalgam for the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
Speaking to reporters during a visit to the SPS Museum in Srinagar, J&K’s Tourism Secretary, Syed Abid Rasheed Shah, highlighted the flourishing state of tourism across the region. “I am glad to see tourism flourishing on all fronts. I believe winters will be very successful on the tourism front, the way numbers are rising and trends are fast changing positively,” he stated.
Shah noted a significant increase in both foreign and domestic tourist numbers.
The Tourism Secretary acknowledged the pivotal role played by stakeholders in revitalizing tourism in Jammu and Kashmir.
He credited the success to everyone associated with the industry, emphasizing that the sold-out status of Gulmarg and Pahalgam during the festive season was a testament to the positive trajectory of winter tourism.
Shah revealed that the surge in tourist interest has led to the need for potential infrastructure development in the coming months. “Now tourists have a choice to go beyond Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg. We have promoted many offbeat destinations, and nowadays, we see foreign tourists enjoying trekking at Wardwan, Kishtwar, and Peer Panjal mountains,” he explained.
The Ministry of Tourism recognised J&K’s efforts in promoting offbeat and adventure tourism, and the region recently received an award for adventure tourism promotion in Gujarat. The Tourism Secretary expressed gratitude for the recognition and stressed the government’s commitment to expanding tourism beyond established destinations.
Apart from Gulmarg and Pahalgam, the Tourism department is set to boost the popularity of Bhadarwah and Sansar in Jammu, along with Sonamarg and Dodhpathri in Kashmir.
Shah addressed concerns about overcharging by pony operators, assuring that J&K leads in enforcing regulations. “Around 20 FIRs were lodged by the wing, but we should work collectively as a society to ensure the smooth stay of tourists in Kashmir,” he urged.
“Some 2.2 million people of J&K are directly and indirectly dependent on tourism. Tourism is the backbone of J&K’s economy.” As winter tourism continues to thrive, the government’s commitment to promoting diverse destinations and ensuring a positive experience for tourists remains at the forefront of Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism strategy.
