The dry winter conditions in Kashmir have significantly impacted winter tourism, with foreign and domestic tourists either postponing or cancelling their planned visits.
Tour operators have observed that the absence of snow has prompted tourists from southeast Asia and other foreign countries to put their travel plans on hold or cancel their bookings.
Manzoor Pakhtoon, president of the House Boat Owners Association (HBOA), Kashmir, while expressing concern over the prolonged dry spell, said that snow is absolutely necessary for adventure tourism.
Last winter, Jammu and Kashmir received 55,000 tourists, with the total tourist arrivals for the whole year being 2.12 crore.
This year, the administration had set an ambitious target of attracting three crore tourists, but the dry winter has proven to be a significant impediment.
When questioned about the potential impact of the dry spell on the water levels in Dal and Nigeen lakes, Pakhtoon denied any major impact so far. However, he acknowledged that if the winter passes without snow, the Dal Lake could face issues.
Houseboat owners are already grappling with challenges, including a blanket ban on new houseboat construction and technical difficulties associated with repairs. Consequently, the number of houseboats has dwindled from 1,200 in 2013 to 750.
Despite these challenges, the Kashmir region experienced a surge in tourism following its reorganisation as a Union Territory. Several factors, such as the Covid-19 pandemic diverting domestic tourists to Kashmir due to related restrictions, contributed to the increased influx. Many high-spending tourists, mesmerised by the breathtaking beauty of places like Gulmarg, Dal Lake, and Pahalgam, have been returning to Kashmir, finding it both adventurous and economical compared to foreign destinations.
The promotional campaigns launched by the state and Union governments regarding Jammu and Kashmir's integration after the revocation, generated curiosity among domestic travellers. Programmes like Bollywood celebrity shows at Gulmarg, winter sporting events like Khelo India and cultural festivals have played a pivotal role in attracting tourists to Kashmir.
However, the extended dry spell has dampened the spirits of tour operators in the Valley. The influx of tourists not only benefits hoteliers, houseboat owners, and transporters but also helps handicraft, dry fruit dealers, and spice traders, particularly those dealing in saffron.
Despite the challenges posed by the current weather conditions, the hope remains that a timely intervention, such as snowfall or potential measures by the administration, can help revive winter tourism in the region.
