SRINAGAR: As the holiday season and the festivals of New Year and Christmas approach, tourist destinations in Kashmir have recorded varied booking trends, reflecting a mix of enthusiasm and subdued demand for celebrations in the valley.
Gulmarg, known for its snow-covered landscapes, is fully booked for New Year, highlighting its continued popularity among visitors, several hotel owners and travel agents said.
Hotel owners from Kashmir’s popular tourist destinations and tour operators confirmed that New Year bookings in Gulmarg are sold out.
A hotelier in Gulmarg said, “The bookings for New Year are completely full. Not a single room is vacant.”
In Pahalgam, another prominent destination, a hotelier confirmed a positive response for New Year bookings but said Christmas reservations have been minimal. Similar observations were shared by other hoteliers in the area.
In contrast, Sonamarg has seen very low demand this year for both Christmas and New Year. A hotelier there said, “We are seeing occupancy of around 70 to 80% for the holiday period, which is lower compared to previous years.”
Doodhpathri, however, has experienced a rise in visitors following the recent snowfall. A local hotelier remarked that footfall is expected to increase further during the Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Tour and travel agents also confirmed that Gulmarg and Pahalgam are sold out for New Year festivities.
Meanwhile, houseboat owners reported that their accommodations remain vacant for now but are optimistic about full occupancy as New Year approaches.
The recent snowfall at tourist destinations has added to the festive atmosphere, with authorities and industry stakeholders hoping for a surge in bookings across all locations as the holidays draw nearer. (KNO)
