SRINAGAR: The Gulmarg Gondola has recorded an impressive tourist influx over the past two months, welcoming 1,48,357 visitors and generating Rs 11.86 crore in revenue during November and December.
According to data, the iconic cable car, operated by the Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC), registered 93,921 tourist arrivals in November alone. The charm of fresh snowfall in December has already drawn 54,436 visitors.
The Gulmarg Gondola, celebrated as Asia’s highest and longest cable car project, offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad Pir Panjal mountain range. The first phase connects Gulmarg to Kongdoori at an altitude of 8,530 feet, while the second phase ascends to the magnificent Apharwat Peak at 13,780 feet above sea level.
Syed Qamar Sajjad, Managing Director of J&K Cable Car Corporation, highlighted efforts to enhance accessibility for tourists. “We have increased the quota and introduced a Tatka facility to ensure foreign tourists, especially those making last-minute plans, can access Gondola services without difficulty,” he said.
The Gondola’s capacity is already fully booked for the next two months, coinciding with the winter sports season and snowfall, which attract skiers in large numbers.
“Our doors will remain open for everyone, even at the last moment. We are prepared to augment ticketing facilities while prioritising the safety and security of tourists,” Sajjad said. He further projected a 10–12 per cent increase in tourist footfall by the season’s end. “Our revenue target is Rs 100 crore, with net taxation projected at Rs 60 crore.”
The corporation is also focused on maintaining and upgrading existing assets to ensure a more aesthetically appealing experience for visitors. “We aim to make tickets more accessible and elevate the overall experience for every tourist,” Sajjad added.
It is pertinent to note that on Tuesday, the JKCCC announced the launch of an online Tatkal Ticket Facility for the Gulmarg Gondola Project to meet the growing demand. The move also includes seamless facilitation for foreign tourists, ensuring enhanced accessibility and convenience for all visitors. (KNO)
