After months of uncertainty and a prolonged tourism slump, Sonmarg is witnessing a gradual but promising revival in tourist arrivals, bringing renewed hope to thousands of families dependent on the sector. Fresh data released by the Tourism Department shows a consistent uptick in domestic, foreign and local visitors over the past several months, signalling a positive shift ahead of the winter season.
According to officials, Sonmarg recorded 7,209 domestic, 341 foreign and 832 local tourists between April 23 and April 31. The inflow rose sharply in May, with 17,083 domestic, 486 foreign and 4,004 local travellers exploring the destination. June marked a significant surge, welcoming 33,692 domestic, 281 foreign and 14,165 local visitors. The trend continued into July with 25,281 domestic, 159 foreign and 14,165 local arrivals.
Even as numbers fluctuated later, the footfall remained strong. September registered 6,945 domestic, 422 foreign and 17,897 local tourists, while October saw 8,389 domestic, 391 foreign and 5,756 local visitors. November, too, showed encouraging figures with 13,527 domestic, 459 foreign and 4,084 local arrivals, indicating renewed interest despite recent setbacks.
Tourism stakeholders say that visitor movement in the Kashmir Valley had been improving steadily until the Pahalgam incident brought the sector to a sudden stop. The unexpected halt severely affected earnings for hotel owners, transporters, guides and others associated with allied services. Many operators, burdened by bank loans, were forced to sell vehicles to cope with losses.
Despite the challenges, optimism remains strong within the industry. With winter approaching, tourism players expect snowfall to revive the inflow further, drawing travellers eager for Kashmir’s signature winter landscapes. Stakeholders believe that if stability continues and confidence improves, Sonmarg could witness a robust tourist season in the coming months.
