Gulmarg Sees Tourist Surge After Fresh Snowfall Despite Sub-Zero Temperatures

Srinagar: Gulmarg has begun witnessing a surge in tourist activity following fresh snowfall, even as Chillai Kalan, the harshest phase of winter, continues to keep temperatures across Kashmir well below freezing.

The ski resort received fresh snow on Monday, significantly improving skiing conditions and drawing snow enthusiasts back to the slopes. Gulmarg recorded a night temperature of minus 8.8 degrees Celsius, emerging as the coldest place in the Valley.

Sub-zero temperatures prevailed across Kashmir, underscoring the severity of the ongoing cold spell. Shopian recorded a low of minus 5.6 degrees Celsius, followed by Pahalgam at minus 4.8 degrees, while Srinagar dipped to minus 3.6 degrees.

Elsewhere, Budgam registered minus 3.5 degrees Celsius and Awantipora minus 3.2 degrees. Pulwama logged a minimum of minus 4.2 degrees, Anantnag minus 3.2 degrees, and Pampore minus 2.5 degrees. In north Kashmir, Kupwara and Baramulla recorded minus 1.8 degrees and minus 0.7 degrees, respectively.

Tourism stakeholders said snow-related activities in Gulmarg have resumed following the recent snowfall. Azhar Fayaz Lone, Director of the Gulmarg Adventure Academy, said activities such as snow biking, ATV rides, and snow sledge rides are operational again.

He added that the fresh snowfall has given a significant boost to tourism in the area.

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), weather conditions on Tuesday are expected to remain mostly cloudy, with chances of light snowfall at isolated higher reaches of north and central Kashmir.

From January 7 to January 15, the weather is likely to remain partly cloudy, with no major weather system forecast during the period, officials said, allowing tourism and outdoor activities to continue uninterrupted.