Gulmarg and Pahalgam completely booked as tourists crowd Kashmir’s iconic destination for Christmas

A huge number of tourists are flocking to Kashmir to celebrate Christmas and the New Year! The hotels popular locations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam are completely booked in anticipation of snowfall.

Officials have reported a significant influx of tourists to Kashmir, particularly to the renowned ski resort of Gulmarg in the Baramulla district of north Kashmir and Pahalgam in the Anantnag district of south Kashmir.
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Tourism Secretary Syed Abid Rasheed Shah said that the present trajectory of numbers and trends, encompassing both domestic and international tourists, leads him to anticipate a highly successful winter season. He also said that famous places such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam are already completed booked, with Gulmarg sold out for Christmas and New Year's Eve.


Nestled at an altitude of 8000 ft, Gulmarg is often referred to as the 'Switzerland of Asia.' Shah credited the warm hospitality of the people of Kashmir and stakeholders for playing an important role in the revival of tourism.

About GulmargGulmarg, set in the pristine Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, is a scenic hill station and premier skiing destination in India. The place is noted for its breathtaking landscapes and snow-capped peaks, and attracts holidaymakers from across the globe. The town's crown jewel is the Gulmarg Gondola, one of the highest cable cars in the world, offering panoramic views of the surrounding snow-clad mountains. Adventure enthusiasts can explore trekking trails and golf enthusiasts can enjoy the highest golf course on Earth.

About Pahalgam
Pahalgam is all about verdant landscapes and offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The Betaab Valley, named after the Bollywood film Betaab shot there, showcases breathtaking views and is a popular spot for Bollywood filmmakers. The Aru Valley and Chandanwari are gateways to the famous Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage.


Pahalgam provides opportunities for trekking, horse riding, and golfing. The town's warm hospitality and timeless beauty make it a must-visit destination, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Kashmir.
To enhance the New Year experience, the tourism department has organised several activities for revelers, including a musical evening, a firecracker show, night skiing, and torch skiing.

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The tourism secretary highlighted the positivity surrounding tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, citing awards and recognition for new destinations. He emphasized the focus on diversification of the tourism portfolio, including destinations like Sonamarg, Doodhpatri, Bhaderwah, and Sanasar, to improve livelihoods and enhance the overall tourism experience.