Srinagar ,Dec 23 : Fresh snowfall in the higher reaches of Kashmir and rain in the plains have brought a wave of optimism to the Valley’s winter tourism industry as Chillai Kalan, the coldest phase of winter, begins.
Gulmarg, the region’s prime ski destination, received around nine inches of fresh snow over the past 24 hours, covering its slopes, pine forests and hotels in a thick white blanket. The snowfall has come as a relief for tourism stakeholders after a long dry spell that had raised concerns about the season.
“This is ideal snow for skiing,” said Imran Bhat, a professional ski trainer in Gulmarg. “Tourists wait for this kind of snow. It largely determines how the entire winter season turns out.”
Adventure sports operators also welcomed the fresh snowfall, saying it will improve conditions for winter activities. “Fresh snow creates better trails and safer conditions,” said Sajad Mir, a snowbiker associated with winter adventure tourism. “We are now expecting good tourist footfall through the New Year period.”
Tourism officials and local businesses are hopeful that the improved weather conditions will give a strong push to winter tourism in the coming weeks.
