Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg see hotel occupancy touch 80% as tourists, operators and locals welcome the long-awaited snow spell
Srinagar: The long-awaited snowfall across Kashmir has brought the Valley’s winter tourism back to life, triggering a sharp rise in tourist arrivals and pushing hotel occupancy to nearly 80 per cent across major destinations, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Srinagar. After a subdued start to the season due to prolonged dry weather, the fresh snow has transformed the region into a postcard-perfect winter landscape, rekindling interest among tourists and restoring momentum to the tourism economy.
For weeks, tourism stakeholders had been anxiously waiting for snowfall, as the absence of snow had led to cancellations and postponements. With the latest snow spell blanketing mountains, meadows and resorts, confidence has returned almost instantly. Travel portals and local tour operators reported a surge in inquiries, with many tourists opting for last-minute travel plans to experience Kashmir at its winter best.
Gulmarg, the Valley’s flagship winter destination, has emerged as the biggest beneficiary. The resort is witnessing heavy footfall, with ski slopes buzzing with activity and the famed Gulmarg Gondola operating at full capacity. Most hotels and guesthouses in the area are either fully booked or nearing full occupancy, while homestays have also reported a rise in bookings.
“This snowfall has revived the entire winter season,” said a veteran tour operator in Srinagar. “Without snow, winter tourism simply does not take off. Now, we are seeing strong demand from across the country. Nearly 80 per cent of rooms are occupied, and if the weather remains favourable, we may see complete sell-outs in Gulmarg and other resorts.”
Similar scenes are unfolding in Pahalgam and Sonamarg, where fresh snow has enhanced scenic beauty and revived activities such as snow walks, sledging and photography. Hoteliers in these destinations said tourists are extending their stays, adding to overall occupancy figures.
Tourists, too, are soaking in the experience. “Kashmir looks surreal after snowfall,” said a tourist from Ahmedabad visiting Sonamarg. “We were worried earlier because there was no snow, but now the trip feels truly worth it. The views, the snow and the calm atmosphere make it unforgettable.”
Another visitor from Bengaluru, staying in Srinagar, said the snowfall had exceeded expectations. “It feels like a dream. Every morning we wake up to snow-covered streets and mountains. The locals are very welcoming, and the arrangements for tourists are good despite the weather challenges,” he said.
For local communities, the snowfall has brought renewed hope and economic relief. Hundreds of families dependent on tourism—ranging from taxi drivers and pony owners to ski instructors and street vendors—said business has picked up significantly in recent days.
“Snowfall is our livelihood,” said a ski instructor in Gulmarg. “With tourists returning, we have work again. Bookings for skiing lessons and equipment rentals have increased sharply.”
Hoteliers in Srinagar said the city, which acts as a gateway to the Valley’s tourist circuit, is also witnessing increased occupancy in hotels and houseboats. Travel agents noted a rise in bookings from families, honeymooners and young adventure seekers, particularly from Maharashtra, Delhi, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and southern states.
Tourism experts believe that sustained snowfall could further strengthen the winter season, extending it well into February and March. They also stressed the importance of maintaining road connectivity and rail services to ensure smooth movement of tourists during peak winter conditions.
As Kashmir sparkles under a fresh blanket of snow, the revival of tourism has brought not just visual splendour but also renewed optimism for the Valley’s economy. For an industry deeply tied to nature’s rhythm, the snowfall has once again proved to be the lifeline that turns winter into a season of opportunity and hope.
