Snowfall near Machail Bhawan Temple in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district.
Credit: PTI Photo
Srinagar: Kashmir welcomed the New Year with vibrant celebrations and a fresh spell of snowfall in the higher reaches, offering a much-needed boost to the Valley’s tourism sector after a year marked by upheaval and uncertainty.
Tourist hotspots, including the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg and the picturesque hill station of Pahalgam, wore a festive look as thousands of visitors rang in 2026 amid snow-covered meadows, illuminated hotels and lively New Year gatherings.
The well-timed snowfall added to the celebratory mood, turning the destinations into postcard-perfect settings and reinforcing Kashmir’s image as a premier winter holiday destination.
After last year’s disruptions—which had dampened tourist inflows and affected livelihoods linked to the sector—the New Year celebrations are being seen as a turning point. Hoteliers, tour operators and local traders expressed optimism that the festive rush and visuals of snow-laden landscapes would help restore traveller confidence and attract more tourists in the coming weeks.
The tourist footfall in Kashmir witnessed a steep decline in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack in April that killed 26 civilians.
The Jammu and Kashmir government had been pinning hopes on adequate snowfall to revive winter tourism, particularly skiing and snow-related activities in Gulmarg. Nature did not disappoint, with fresh snow raising expectations of a strong season ahead.
Security forces remained on high alert across tourist hubs to ensure peaceful celebrations and prevent any untoward militancy-related incident. Officials said enhanced security arrangements helped create a sense of safety, allowing tourists to celebrate freely and without fear.
For visitors, the New Year in Kashmir proved memorable. Meena, a tourist from Delhi, said the experience exceeded her expectations. “It’s my first time seeing snowfall. Celebrating the New Year here feels magical,” she said.
With images of New Year festivities and snowfall from Kashmir flooding social media, stakeholders believe the celebrations could play a crucial role in reviving tourist interest after last year’s upheaval, giving the Valley’s economy and morale a hopeful start to the New Year.