[[{“value”:”Reading Time: 3 minutes
Kashmir’s tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable surge in the first half of 2024, with tourist arrivals up by 30% compared to the same period last year. Popular destinations like Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and Gulmarg, along with picturesque Pahalgam, are drawing increasing numbers of visitors. This article explores the factors behind this travel boom, recent statistics, and the broader impact on the region’s economy
A Surge in Tourist Footfall
Kashmir recorded a tourist footfall of 15.65 lakh in the first half of 2024, a significant increase from 13 lakh during the same period last year. The uptick in tourism is not only a testament to the region’s enduring appeal but also a result of improved security and strategic promotional efforts by the authorities.
“We have roughly received 16 lakh tourists this year till June 30, compared to 13 lakh last year,” said Kashmir tourism director Raja Yaqoob Farooq. The number of foreign tourists also saw a rise, reaching around 26,000 from 14,000 last year.
Popular Destinations
Key attractions like Dal Lake, the tulip garden, and Mughal gardens in Srinagar continue to be major draws. Additionally, the resorts of Gulmarg in north Kashmir and the scenic beauty of Pahalgam in south Kashmir are attracting significant attention.
Places like Dal Lake are renowned for their traditional wooden boats, known as shikaras, which offer a unique way to explore the lake. The Mughal gardens, with their meticulously designed layouts and historical significance, provide a serene retreat for visitors. Meanwhile, Gulmarg and Pahalgam are known for their stunning landscapes and adventure activities, making them ideal destinations for both relaxation and excitement.
Economic Impact
The tourism boom has brought welcome news for stakeholders in the region. Sajad Ahmad, who started a tour and travel agency after losing his job post-Covid, highlighted the positive impact on his business. “This year was the best for me. I had an increase of 100% in bookings, and our business is growing,” he said.
Ahmad attributes the surge to Kashmir’s unique appeal, which he compares to European resorts but at a much lower cost. “They have no option of witnessing pristine natural beauty other than Kashmir, which they can otherwise find only in Europe,” he added.
The Role of International Events
The successful hosting of international events, such as the G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in Srinagar last year, has played a significant role in boosting tourism. Lieutenant-Governor (L-G) Manoj Sinha remarked that the event was a turning point for Kashmir’s tourism sector, turning participants into brand ambassadors for the region.
“The participants talked highly of Kashmir’s hospitality and beauty,” Sinha noted. The positive feedback from international delegates has enhanced Kashmir’s reputation as a safe and attractive destination.
Recent Statistics and Trends
In the last two years, the Himalayan valley has seen record tourist arrivals. The region welcomed 53.8 lakh visitors in 2022 and 2023 combined, numbers not seen since the early 1990s. The tourism director, Raja Yaqoob Farooq, attributes this success to the improved law and order situation and the development of new tourist destinations.
The government has opened up 75 offbeat tourist destinations, including Bungus, Keran, Tangdhar, and Gurez along the Line of Control in North Kashmir. These efforts aim to diversify tourism by promoting less-explored areas, thereby spreading the economic benefits more evenly across the region.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the success, challenges remain. The influx of tourists during peak seasons, such as the Amarnath Yatra, has led to calls for better management and integration of pilgrim and leisure tourism. Hotelier and Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry secretary-general Faiz Bakshi suggested allowing Amarnath pilgrims to visit various tourist spots after completing their pilgrimage to enhance their experience and distribute tourist traffic more evenly.
Looking ahead, the focus will be on sustaining this growth by continuing to improve infrastructure, ensuring safety, and promoting the region’s unique attractions. With these efforts, Kashmir is poised to remain a top destination for both domestic and international travelers.
Conclusion
Kashmir’s tourism boom in 2024 highlights the region’s resilience and its ability to attract visitors with its natural beauty and improved security. The surge in tourist arrivals has had a positive economic impact, benefiting local businesses and creating job opportunities. As the region continues to develop and promote its attractions, the future looks bright for Kashmir’s tourism industry.
The post Paradise On Earth: Kashmir Sees Tourist Surge With 30% Increase In Arrivals appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] [[{“value”:”Reading Time: 3 minutes Kashmir’s tourism industry is experiencing a remarkable surge in the first half of 2024, with tourist arrivals up by 30% compared to the same period last year. Popular destinations like Dal Lake, Mughal gardens, and Gulmarg, along with picturesque Pahalgam, …
The post Paradise On Earth: Kashmir Sees Tourist Surge With 30% Increase In Arrivals appeared first on Travel And Tour World.”}]] Read More Travel And Tour World ASIA, INDIA TRAVEL NEWS, TOURISM NEWS, TOURISM NEWS HOME, TRAVEL DESTINATION NEWS, Amarnath Yatra, Dal Lake, Gulmarg, India , Kashmir’s tourism industry, mughal gardens, Pahalgam, south asia, srinagar, Tourism boom, Tourism news