As much of India swelters under relentless heatwaves, Kashmir is offering a refreshing respite to travellers. This year, the valley has seen an unprecedented surge in tourist inflows, both because of its fabled beauty and the soaring temperatures elsewhere. With hotels and houseboats fully booked, and a spike in both domestic and foreign tourists, Kashmir’s moderately hot weather has turned it into a summer hotspot.
Unseasonal snow in the beginning of June in higher reaches like Affarwat in Gulmarg, Razdan Top, and Zojilla helped bring temperature further down. The plains, too, have enjoyed cooler temperatures. Such weather anomalies have only enhanced Kashmir’s charm, drawing crowds eager to escape the oppressive heat that grips the rest of the country.
The numbers speak for themselves. In the first four months of 2024, over a million tourists visited Kashmir, breaking winter tourism records. Srinagar International Airport has reported an average of over 18,000 visitors daily, necessitating an increase in daily flights from 70 to 94. This influx underlines the valley’s growing popularity, driven by its delightful climate and the government’s proactive efforts to boost tourism.
In recent years, the Jammu & Kashmir administration has strategically promoted the region, highlighting its scenic beauty and cultural richness. After the abrogation of Article 370 and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic disruptions, these efforts have been crucial in revitalizing tourism. New tourist destinations, including previously inaccessible border areas, have been opened up, adding to the valley’s appeal. The introduction of homestay facilities in rural and border areas has further diversified accommodation options, attracting tourists seeking authentic experiences away from traditional hotspots.
Regions like the Pir Panjal from Yusmarg and the Shamsbari range’s Athwatoo area, once restricted due to security concerns, are now open for trekking and exploration. Gurez, once notorious for militancy, now welcomes around 100 tourists daily, highlighting the significant shift in the region’s security landscape. However, this newfound popularity brings challenges, particularly in terms of infrastructure, as areas like Gurez require more hotels to accommodate the rising number of visitors.
The surge in foreign tourists, with a nearly 300 percent increase, reflects Kashmir’s growing international appeal. The central government’s ‘Cool Summers of India’ campaign, which promotes over 50 destinations, has been instrumental in this growth, with Kashmir being a major beneficiary.
Kashmir’s transformation into a summer haven is not just a boon for tourism but also a lifeline for the local economy. The influx of visitors has propelled economic growth, helping the region recover from past setbacks.
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