Saturday, June 1, 2024
India’s heatwave drives an unprecedented surge in tourists to Kashmir, setting new records for the region’s visitor numbers this year.
Recent developments suggest that Kashmir is setting new records for tourist arrivals, with over 1.25 million visitors already this year, signaling a potential all-time high for 2024. Local tourism authorities note that every popular lodging option in the region—from hotels in Srinagar and the ski resort of Gulmarg to hill stations like Pahalgam and Sonamarg—are fully booked through mid-June.
Amidst this surge, there’s been a noticeable uptick in foreign visitors, thanks to the region’s enhanced stability and peaceful conditions. These international tourists are particularly valuable for their higher spending, which significantly boosts foreign exchange earnings.
Despite the Amarnath Yatra, which often reduces tourist numbers due to the influx of pilgrims, hoteliers are optimistic about maintaining robust tourism levels, buoyed by substantial advance bookings. The primary sources of tourists are Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Maharashtra, with an expected rise in visitors from Delhi and Punjab in the near future.
As India grapples with a massive heatwave affecting major cities, tourists are increasingly seeking refuge in the cooler climes of Kashmir. This shift in travel preferences is propelling record-breaking tourist footfall in the region. Amidst the sweltering temperatures enveloping the Golden Triangle—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra—Kashmir offers a much-needed respite, resulting in an unprecedented surge of visitors. This phenomenon highlights the region’s appeal as a summer retreat during India’s intense heatwaves.
Moreover, travelers are increasingly seeking cooler destinations in response to the massive heatwaves affecting regions like Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra, part of India’s Golden Triangle. In Delhi, temperatures have been reported at an unprecedented 52.3 degrees Celsius, yet it continues to draw visitors to its historic Red Fort, India Gate, and Qutub Minar. Jaipur, experiencing temperatures around 51 degrees Celsius, attracts tourists to the architectural wonders of Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, and City Palace. Similarly, Agra, with temperatures reaching 46 degrees Celsius, remains a major draw with its stunning Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and the ancient city of Fatehpur Sikri. Despite the extreme heat, the rich history and cultural heritage of these cities continue to attract tourists.
Tourism in Kashmir not only ranks as the second-largest sector following horticulture but also injects about INR 8,000 crore annually into the local economy. This financial contribution supports a wide range of stakeholders from hoteliers to artisans, enhancing the overall economic landscape of the region.
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Saturday, June 1, 2024
Friday, May 31, 2024
