SRINAGAR — Defying fears that the prolonged dry spell would keep visitors away, the Kashmir Valley has kicked off 2026 with a massive tourism boom. Official figures confirm that prime tourist destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam recorded a staggering 100% hotel occupancy on New Year’s Eve and the first two days of January.
For the local hospitality sector, which was anxious after a sluggish December, this sudden influx has come as a massive relief.
The Numbers: “Sold Out” Everywhere
According to the J&K Tourism Department and local Hotelier Associations, finding a room in Gulmarg over the last 48 hours was nearly impossible.
- Gulmarg: The ski resort, usually covered in feet of snow by now, has less snow than usual, but the “Winter Vibe” is still pulling crowds. All high-end and budget properties reported zero vacancy.
- Pahalgam: The ‘Valley of Shepherds’ also saw a massive rush, with domestic tourists flocking to the riverside resorts for New Year celebrations.
- Srinagar: The city hotels are reporting 70-80% occupancy, a significant jump from the 40% seen in mid-December.
Why the Rush?
Travel agents suggest that domestic tourists are no longer just chasing snow; they are chasing the experience.
“Many tourists had booked months in advance. Even without heavy snowfall, the cold weather, the frozen Drung Waterfall, and the festive atmosphere in Gulmarg are enough for them. We are seeing a lot of corporate groups and families from Gujarat and Maharashtra,” said a spokesperson for the Kashmir Travel Agents Association (KTAA).
Economic Relief for Locals
This surge is a lifeline for thousands dependent on tourism.
- Taxi Operators: After weeks of sitting idle, Sumo and Innova drivers at the Tourist Reception Centre (TRC) are fully booked for drops to Tangmarg and Pahalgam.
- Pony Walas & ATV Operators: In Gulmarg, adventure service providers are reporting brisk business despite the lack of skiing slopes being fully operational yet.
What’s Next? (Snow Forecast)
While the current rush is based on New Year momentum, sustaining it requires one thing: Snow. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has predicted that the dry spell might break after January 20, bringing the much-needed white blanket that will kickstart the skiing season properly. Until then, the “dry cold” tourism is keeping the cash registers ringing.
