As the cold wave persists across Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, tourists continue to flock to Dal Lake and other popular destinations to enjoy the weather and scenic beauty of the region.
Visitors from across the country expressed satisfaction with the security arrangements put in place by the Union Territory government and praised the weather, natural beauty and overall environment of Kashmir.
International tourists from Germany and Norway were impressed by the winter weather, which remain ideal for tourism. They particularly praised the snow-bound slopes of Gulmarg for skiing and skating.
Influencer Khalid al Ameri, who visited Kashmir last week, lauded the landscape, people and culture. He said it was sad that, “despite being just a three-hour flight away, he and many others in the region were unaware of the true beauty of the place.”
The Jammu and Kashmir government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, has taken several measures to boost tourism in the region following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.
The administration has improved infrastructure and accommodation at key winter tourism destinations — Sonmarg, Gulmarg and Pahalgam — in coordination with stakeholders and the tourism department.
Omar recently inaugurated Asia’s highest drag lift to the Apharwat skiing slopes in Gulmarg in late December 2025 and also opened a rotating convention hall.
The Lieutenant Governor’s administration has facilitated the construction and renovation of several famous tourist spots across Jammu and Kashmir.
Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with security forces, paramilitary units and intelligence agencies, have maintained foolproof security across vulnerable areas and tourist hotspots, ensuring zero violence since the Pahalgam attack.
With these facilities in place, the Union Territory is set to become one of the leading tourism destinations in the country in 2026. The tourism industry, which contributes nearly 15 per cent to J&K’s economy, is expected to witness major growth in the coming years.
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