Kashmir Tourism Hoped for revival in 2026
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HiNews Kashmir Analysis
The Year 2025 came as a road block to booming tourism sector of Kashmir. The gruesome terrorist attack in month of April which resulted in unfortunate death of 27 tourists at Pahalgam wounded the soul and fabric of Kashmir. The tourism sector collapsed and arrivals touched near zero for much time.
The year 2026 has come as a hope of renewed tourism in Kashmir.
On new year eve on wednesday, snowfall blanketed Gulmarg, bringing cheer to hundreds of tourists.
The upper reaches of Kashmir had received light to moderate snowfall ahead of Christmas as well.
other high-altitude areas, including Tulail Valley in Gurez, Razdan Top in Bandipora, Macchil and Sadhna Top in Kupwara, and Zojila Pass, reported fresh snowfall, the IMD officials said.
They said Sonamarg recorded 8-10 inches of snow, Gulmarg 3-4 inches, and Chandanwari in Pahalgam around 2-3 inches.
Pahalgam in south Kashmir also saw quite colorful celebrations, though the resort did not have snowfall. Although, the Early morning snow in Chandanwari and nearby areas, however, added to the attraction for visitors. In Lal Chowk, the historic Ghanta Ghar area was immersed in joy and crowded with tourists from across the country and local residents, creating a festive atmosphere. Hotels and resorts organised gala dinners, cultural programmes, and special events to mark the occasion.
The administration and Government played highly active role to ensure the tourism boom on new year eve in Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism department organised cultural programmes, musical shows and other events across important tourism destinations. Security arrangements were tightened, with police and paramilitary forces ensuring smooth movement and safety for visitors. The emphasis on safety and infrastructure reassured tourists, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.
It was heartning to note that the New Year celebrations drew massive turnouts of tourists and local youth to these picturesque spots.
Sometime back, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir is set to receive an investment of about Rs 5.5 billion in the tourism sector under an externally funded project, asserting that the push, combined with collective effort, would help the Union Territory once again establish itself as India’s leading adventure tourism destination.
The hope is that with peace and prosperity the tourism in Kashmir would boom again in year 2026.