Srinagar, Dec 30 (KNS): The globally renowned ski resort-Gulmarg and south Kashmir's famous tourist destination Pahalgam experienced full occupancy as numerous tourists from both near and far gathered to kick off New Year's Eve celebrations, as announced by officials on Saturday.
The snow-clad landscapes of Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonmarg in the enchanting valley of Kashmir were poised to host a grand New Year celebration. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department orchestrated a mega event featuring performances by local celebrities to usher in 2024 with splendor.
Gulmarg and Pahalgam are fully booked, welcoming hundreds of tourists eager to ring in 2024. All accommodations, including hotels and tourist huts, are currently occupied, with additional arrivals anticipated tomorrow. An official informed the Kashmir News Service (KNS) that both domestic and international tourists, contribute to the bustling atmosphere.
Meanwhile, the winter wonderland of Gulmarg celebrated a record-breaking tourist influx of 1.65 million in 2023. The official highlighted the destination's appeal, offering not just world-class skiing but also the warmth of Kashmiri hospitality. "With an average tourist arrival of 5,000, Gulmarg witnessed a significant surge in foreign tourists, with a remarkable 10,000 arrivals on Christmas eve alone. The iconic Gulmarg Gondola, Asia's highest cable car, continued to be a major attraction, providing panoramic views of snow-capped peaks," he said.
Looking ahead, the tourism department expressed confidence that the winter season would be a haven for adventure enthusiasts. The destination geared up for a plethora of winter activities, including skiing, snowboarding, gondola rides, sleigh rides, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
The official said that the seamless collaboration between authorities and tourism officials to ensure the safety and satisfaction of the influx of guests, implementing measures for crowd control, traffic management, and overall visitor welfare.(KNS).