Snowfall brings cheer to tourists in Kashmir

Srinagar, January 28

The snowfall in various parts of Kashmir has sparked joy among residents and tourists, who had been eagerly awaiting the first snowflakes in two months. Forecasters predicted more snow across many areas on Monday. Popular tourist spots, like Gulmarg and Sonmarg, saw heavy snowfall while Nachiyan Top in Karnah Valley of Kupwara district received its first significant snowfall of the year.

Other tourist destinations, like Doodhpathri, Gurez Valley, Tragbal in Bandipora and Kernah in Kupwara experienced light to moderate snowfall. In Srinagar and surrounding areas, light rainfall put an end to a long dry spell. The Meteorological Centre in Srinagar predicted more rain and snow over the next 24 hours. It said heavy snowfall is expected in isolated higher reaches of Kashmir, including Kupwara, Baramulla and Bandipora.

Gulmarg was again bustling with excitement as sledge pullers, horsemen, hoteliers, vendors and tourists were enjoying the fresh snow. This change in weather is attributed to Western Disturbances, affecting temperatures and weather patterns in the region. The weatherman predicted a wet spell until February 3, with temperatures set to drop further. At the same time, snowfall in the higher reaches and cloudy sky in the plains have pushed the minimum temperatures above the freezing point in most parts of Kashmir.

Pahalgam recorded a minimum temperature of -0.8° Celsius, Qazigund -0.6° Celsius, Kokernag -0.1° Celsius and Kupwara 2.1° Celsius.

The prolonged dry spell had a significant impact on Kashmir’s economy, especially the tourism sector, with many hotel bookings cancelled or postponed due to the dry weather. However, with the ski resorts Gulmarg and Sonmarg covered in snow once again, it marks the beginning of the ski season this winter.