TOURISM in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, a key pillar of the region’s economy, is witnessing a robust revival. Popular destinations in Jammu and Kashmir – often described as a paradise on earth for its breathtaking beauty – reported high visitor footfalls recently, while hotels, houseboats and homestays operated at near full capacity.
The fresh snowfall this winter in Jammu and Kashmir has given a massive boost to the valley’s tourism sector, with tourist footfall nearly doubling at premier destinations in the state like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonamarg. Shikaras (houseboats) on Dal Lake (Srinagar, capital of Jammu and Kashmir) were once again busy with tourists, and local businesses, including transport operators, guides, handicraft sellers and hospitality workers, benefited from increased economic activity.
