Srinagar/Gulmarg: As the clock ticks towards midnight, the Kashmir Valley is witnessing one of its most vibrant New Year celebrations in recent history.
Defying the winter chill, thousands of tourists and locals have gathered at the iconic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower) in Lal Chowk, Srinagar, which has been illuminated in tri-color lights to welcome 2026. This historic city square, once silent after dusk, is buzzing with music, selfies, and celebration tonight.
According to the J&K Tourism Department, the famous ski resort of Gulmarg is completely sold out, with hotels recording 100% occupancy for the New Year weekend.
Snowfall to Add Magic to the Night
Adding to the festive cheer, the weather gods have answered the tourists’ prayers. The Meteorological Department (MeT) has predicted light to moderate snowfall in Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg starting late tonight (December 31).
“We came from Mumbai hoping for snow, and the forecast says it will start falling right when the year changes. It’s like a dream come true,” said Rohan Mehta, a tourist celebrating in Gulmarg.
Security on High Alert
To ensure the celebrations remain peaceful, the J&K Police have made elaborate security arrangements.
- Srinagar: Extra checkpoints have been set up around Lal Chowk and Boulevard Road.
- Highways: Security forces are patrolling the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway to assist tourists stuck in traffic.
- Surveillance: Drone cameras are monitoring the crowds at major tourist hubs.
Tourism Bounces Back in 2025
This New Year rush is a grand finale to a resilient year for J&K tourism. Despite challenges, official data reveals that Jammu & Kashmir recorded over 1.58 Crore tourist visits in 2025.
- Pahalgam & Sonamarg: These destinations are also seeing 80-90% occupancy tonight.
- Winter Games: The rush is expected to continue as the administration prepares for the National Winter Games scheduled for late January 2026.
What Happens Next?
- Traffic Advisory: Expect heavy traffic jams on the Tangmarg-Gulmarg road tomorrow morning (Jan 1) due to slippery conditions.
- Celebration Limit: Authorities have requested hotels to conclude loud music events by 12:30 AM to respect local regulations.
FAQs
Light snow flurries have been reported in the higher reaches of Apharwat peaks. Heavier snowfall is expected after 2:00 AM tonight.
Yes, the Ghanta Ghar area is open, and a massive crowd has gathered. However, security frisking is mandatory for entry.
It is very difficult. Most properties are sold out until January 4, 2026. It is better to look for accommodation in Tangmarg or Srinagar.
Disclaimer
This report is based on real-time inputs from J&K Tourism officials and MeT department forecasts as of 11:00 PM, December 31, 2025. Hotel occupancy data is sourced from local hotelier associations.
Also Read:
- Highway Alert: Srinagar-Jammu Traffic Update & Snow Forecast for Jan 1 – Check Timing
- Winter Vacation Alert: Jammu Schools & Colleges Closed Till Jan 10 – Official Order
- J&K New Year Alert: Security Tightened, Snowfall Predicted Tonight – Full Details
- Srinagar to Get First State-of-the-Art School for Specially-Abled Children in Kashmir
