Gulmarg Sees Its First Snowfall Of The Season; Tourism Hopes In Jammu & Kashmir Get A Boost

Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir has received its first snowfall of the season. The snow not only makes the town look straight out of a fairy tale but has also revived hopes of tourism revival in the region after the Pahalgam terror attack in April. Here’s more on this.

Gulmarg In Jammu & Kashmir Gets Its First Snowfall Of The Season 

❄️Affarwat #Gulmarg Received Season’s first snowfall other areas of Valley Received short spell of Widespread Precipitation this morning pic.twitter.com/iUwLKo7uxL

— @Kashmir Weather (@KashmirWeather2) October 3, 2025

The tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir has been reeling since the Pahalgam terror attack in April. The attack severely affected tourism across the region at the start of the summer season. It also caused widespread cancellations due to safety concerns. The aftermath significantly impacted the economy, causing many local businesses in Pahalgam to face major losses. 

But now, as per a report by Deccan Herald, hopes to revive the tourism industry have been lifted a little. The famous ski resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district received its first snowfall on Thursday. The majestic Afarwat Peak was fully blanketed in white, creating a breathtaking scene. The first spell of snow also lowered temperatures across the valley and lifted the spirits of many people. @KashmirWeather2 also posted the images of the snowfall in Gulmarg on their X account. 

Also Read: After Months Of Closure, 12 Tourist Destinations In Jammu & Kashmir Reopen For Visitors

Snowfall Could Help Boost Tourism In The Region 

A hotelier in the resort town shared with the Deccan Herald that this snowfall might help bring a large number of tourists back to Kashmir. The hotelier added that Gulmarg has always been the heart of winter tourism, and after months of uncertainty, this snowfall could be seen as a “fresh beginning.”

Reportedly, the Pahalgam attack had led to an extended closure of tourist spots such as Betaab Valley and Aru Valley. Although the government reopened a few destinations last month, hoteliers and traders said that footfall had yet to recover fully. A tour operator shared that with Gulmarg receiving snow, activities like skiing, snowboarding and winter trekking will attract tourists, especially adventure enthusiasts.

The Meteorological Department has issued an advisory warning of snowfall and rainfall in the coming days. Authorities have urged people in hilly areas to remain alert, as there are chances of road blockages and landslides.

Also Read: By August 2025, Jammu & Kashmir Rail Coaches To Feature Smart Upgrades & Modern Interiors

For now, it is evident that snow-clad Gulmarg has made local businesses hopeful. It might turn out to be a much-needed boost after a difficult summer. What do you think of the images? Aren’t they beautiful?

Cover Image Courtesy: @ColAtulBakshi/ X