Pahalgam, Dec 25 (KNS): The Pahalgam Development Authority on Thursday inaugurated its first-ever Winter Tourism Festival, an initiative aimed at positioning the hill town as a year-round tourist destination.

Speaking at the launch, Hilal Ahmad, CEO, PDA, said the festival was designed to revive childhood memories, highlight Kashmir’s cultural richness, and promote sustainable tourism.

“We want Pahalgam to be an all-season destination,” said Mir Nasrullah Hilal jery, CEO, PDA, while speaking to Kashmir News Service (KNS) adding, “This winter is not just winter, it is a festival. Our memories, our culture, and even our stories from sipping kahwa by the kangri to tales of folklore and fairies are embedded in this season.”

The festival, which will run until December 31, includes snow-based adventure activities, food stalls, and cultural events. Ahmad said the turnout exceeded expectations. “People participated more than we had imagined. The concluding ceremony will be even grander,” he said, acknowledging the local communities, private and public stakeholders, and media partners for their support.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

In a symbolic gesture of inclusivity, the festival was inaugurated by a five-year-old girl from Maharashtra. “We want to show that tourists are our guests, but they also belong to us. We belong to them,” he said.

Highlighting the interdependent nature of Pahalgam’s tourism ecosystem, CEO said that hotels, travel operators, service providers, and local communities all depend on each other.

He added that coordinated planning ensures not only better tourism, but sustainable tourism.

He further said that investments in infrastructure, regulation, and destination management have instilled confidence among both tourists and local workers.

On adventure and snow activities, CEO said the festival has already launched several programmes and expressed hope for fresh snowfall. “We pray for good snow. This is our endeavour to make Pahalgam an all-season tourist destination."(KNS)