<p>Srinagar: In a boost to tourism in Kashmir, Pahalgam—one of the two base camps for the annual Amarnath Yatra—is set to receive a state-of-the-art gondola (cable car) service, designed to enhance its tourism offerings and rival the renowned Gulmarg Gondola.</p><p>The ambitious project aims to connect the picturesque town of Pahalgam to the stunning meadow of Bai Saran, located approximately 2 kilometers away. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense pine forests, Bai Saran is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty.</p><p>The aerial route will provide visitors with panoramic views of the valley, making it an unforgettable experience for tourists.</p><p>An official of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) said the detailed project report (DPR) is in its final stages, with the Board of Directors expected to make a decision soon.</p>.Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's first budget session in 6 years to begin on March 3.<p>“No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from forest and other concerned departments are still pending, but efforts are underway to expedite the process," he said.</p><p>Once functional, the project is expected to transform Pahalgam into a year-round tourist destination, attracting visitors not only during the summer months and for the Amarnath Yatra but also in the winter, when the town is blanketed in snow.</p><p>With this new infrastructure, authorities hope to draw adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and holidaymakers alike to the hill station, boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities for residents.</p><p>The project is being described as a “game-changer” for Pahalgam by authorities and stakeholders. It is expected to reduce congestion at famous ski-resort Gulmarg in north Kashmir by offering adventure tourists an alternative for winter sports activities.</p><p>The drag lift at Aru Valley is particularly aimed at promoting winter sports, attracting adventure enthusiasts and hosting potential sporting events in the future.</p><p>“Pahalgam is already a major tourist place in Kashmir, but we believe the gondola service will offer much more to visitors,” said Javeeed Ahmad Dar, a local tour operator. “In winter, when Pahalgam is transformed into a snow-covered paradise, the cable car will allow tourists to enjoy the untouched beauty of Bai Saran, a place that’s been largely inaccessible.”</p><p>The proposed gondola service is expected to rival the famed Gulmarg Gondola, which holds the title of Asia’s highest cable car system. By offering a similar experience in Pahalgam, authorities aim to tap into the growing demand for aerial experiences in Kashmir, which has become increasingly popular among both domestic and foreign tourists.</p>
<p>Srinagar: In a boost to tourism in Kashmir, Pahalgam—one of the two base camps for the annual Amarnath Yatra—is set to receive a state-of-the-art gondola (cable car) service, designed to enhance its tourism offerings and rival the renowned Gulmarg Gondola.</p><p>The ambitious project aims to connect the picturesque town of Pahalgam to the stunning meadow of Bai Saran, located approximately 2 kilometers away. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense pine forests, Bai Saran is a hidden gem known for its breathtaking natural beauty.</p><p>The aerial route will provide visitors with panoramic views of the valley, making it an unforgettable experience for tourists.</p><p>An official of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Development Corporation (JKTDC) said the detailed project report (DPR) is in its final stages, with the Board of Directors expected to make a decision soon.</p>.Jammu and Kashmir Assembly's first budget session in 6 years to begin on March 3.<p>“No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from forest and other concerned departments are still pending, but efforts are underway to expedite the process," he said.</p><p>Once functional, the project is expected to transform Pahalgam into a year-round tourist destination, attracting visitors not only during the summer months and for the Amarnath Yatra but also in the winter, when the town is blanketed in snow.</p><p>With this new infrastructure, authorities hope to draw adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and holidaymakers alike to the hill station, boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities for residents.</p><p>The project is being described as a “game-changer” for Pahalgam by authorities and stakeholders. It is expected to reduce congestion at famous ski-resort Gulmarg in north Kashmir by offering adventure tourists an alternative for winter sports activities.</p><p>The drag lift at Aru Valley is particularly aimed at promoting winter sports, attracting adventure enthusiasts and hosting potential sporting events in the future.</p><p>“Pahalgam is already a major tourist place in Kashmir, but we believe the gondola service will offer much more to visitors,” said Javeeed Ahmad Dar, a local tour operator. “In winter, when Pahalgam is transformed into a snow-covered paradise, the cable car will allow tourists to enjoy the untouched beauty of Bai Saran, a place that’s been largely inaccessible.”</p><p>The proposed gondola service is expected to rival the famed Gulmarg Gondola, which holds the title of Asia’s highest cable car system. By offering a similar experience in Pahalgam, authorities aim to tap into the growing demand for aerial experiences in Kashmir, which has become increasingly popular among both domestic and foreign tourists.</p>