Are Hotels in Gulmarg Fully Booked as New Year Celebrations Draw Tourists to Kashmir?
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Synopsis
As the New Year approaches, the Kashmir Valley is witnessing a surge in tourist arrivals, leading to full hotel occupancy in popular destinations such as Gulmarg and Pahalgam. With forecasts of chilly weather and potential snowfall, travelers are eager to experience the winter wonderland of Kashmir.
Key Takeaways
- Kashmir Valley sees a surge in tourist arrivals.
- Hotels in Gulmarg, Srinagar, and Pahalgam are fully booked.
- Weather forecasts predict cold conditions with chances of snow.
- The 'Chillai Kalan' period is currently underway.
- A record number of migratory birds have arrived in the region.
Srinagar, Dec 27 (NationPress) A significant influx of tourists has been observed in the Kashmir Valley recently as they prepare to celebrate the New Year.
The minimum temperature dipped below freezing in the Valley on Saturday, with Pahalgam recording a low of -4.8 degrees Celsius.
Hotels in Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam are experiencing full occupancy after a long hiatus.
Altaf Ahmad, the general manager of a hotel in Gulmarg, shared with IANS, "We are completely sold out this time."
The Meteorological Department has predicted partly to generally cloudy weather from December 27 to December 29, with a chance of light rain or snow in isolated areas on December 30.
According to the forecast, December 31 and January 1 will see generally cloudy weather with light rain or snow in many areas, and potentially moderate snowfall in select regions of the north and central parts of the Valley.
The recorded minimum temperatures are as follows: Srinagar at -2.6 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg at -4.2 degrees Celsius, and Pahalgam at -4.8 degrees Celsius.
In contrast, Jammu city noted temperatures of 7.1 degrees Celsius, Katra at 7.6 degrees Celsius, Batote at 4.6 degrees Celsius, Banihal at 0.8 degrees Celsius, and Bhaderwah at 0.2 degrees Celsius.
The harsh winter phase known as 'Chillai Kalan' commenced on December 21 and will continue until January 30.
During this period, minimum temperatures typically drop to between -5 to -7 degrees Celsius, while daytime temperatures seldom exceed 8 degrees Celsius. However, this year, the lowest temperatures recorded have not dipped below -3 degrees Celsius, with daytime temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius in Srinagar.
This winter has also seen a record arrival of migratory birds from regions like Siberia, China, the Philippines, and Eastern Europe, as they seek refuge from the extreme cold of their summer habitats.
Point of View
The influx of tourists to the Kashmir Valley highlights the ongoing appeal of this region as a winter destination. The hospitality sector's recovery, marked by full bookings, is a positive sign for the local economy. As the New Year approaches, the combination of beautiful landscapes and cultural richness draws visitors, reaffirming Kashmir's status as a premier tourist spot.
NationPress
27/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current temperature in Kashmir?
The minimum temperature in Srinagar is -2.6 degrees Celsius, Gulmarg is at -4.2 degrees Celsius, and Pahalgam at -4.8 degrees Celsius.
Are hotels in Gulmarg fully booked?
Yes, hotels in Gulmarg are reporting full occupancy as tourists arrive to celebrate the New Year.
What is the 'Chillai Kalan' period?
'Chillai Kalan' is a 40-day period of intense winter cold in Kashmir that started on December 21 and ends on January 30.
What kind of weather is expected during the New Year?
Forecasts indicate generally cloudy weather with a possibility of light rain or snow, especially on December 31 and January 1.
Why do migratory birds come to Kashmir in winter?
Migratory birds travel to Kashmir during winter months to escape the extreme cold of their summer habitats in regions like Siberia and Eastern Europe.
