Following a prolonged dry spell in February, several high-altitude regions of Kashmir witnessed fresh snowfall on Thursday, bringing cheer to both locals and tourists.
The renowned ski destination Gulmarg was among the areas to receive snowfall, along with parts of Ganderbal district, Kupwara district, Shopian district, and Bandipora district.
Officials reported that Gulmarg recorded approximately five to six inches of fresh snow since Wednesday, with intermittent snowfall continuing into Thursday. The fresh layer has blanketed roads, rooftops, and ski slopes.
The snowfall, caused by an active western disturbance, has reintroduced winter-like conditions across the region, even as the season nears its end. While lower areas experienced rainfall, higher reaches saw snowfall.
Tourism stakeholders believe the untimely snowfall will give a boost to visitor numbers and winter sports activities in Gulmarg, one of India’s premier skiing destinations. Hoteliers and tour operators are hopeful that the fresh snow will help prolong the tourist season, which typically starts to decline by mid-March.
Residents noted that the snowfall has further enhanced the region’s scenic charm, attracting more tourists to popular spots like the Gulmarg Gondola. Authorities also indicated that intermittent precipitation is likely to continue in higher-altitude areas in the coming days.
