“A Tough Year for Tourism—Only Snow Can Save the Season”: CM Omar Abdullah Hopes December Will Revive Kashmir Footfall

Srinagar: Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday acknowledged that the region’s tourism sector has faced a challenging year, stressing that natural snowfall remains the biggest hope for reviving footfall in the coming winter season. Speaking about factors influencing tourism trends, Abdullah said that strong business-to-business ties, sustained promotion, and effective marketing are essential, but weather ultimately plays the decisive role in attracting visitors.

Addressing media persons, Abdullah noted that this year has been far from ideal for the tourism-dependent economy. “Wherever there are business-to-business relations, it is expected that people associated with the tourism industry will benefit. The biggest factor contributing to tourism is promotion and marketing,” he said. However, he emphasised that despite the industry’s efforts, weather patterns have significantly affected arrivals.

The Chief Minister pointed out that November remained unusually dry, with no significant snowfall across prominent destinations. He mentioned that regions such as Pahalgam, Delhi, and Naugam have experienced visible impact, as tourists planning winter vacations often expect snow-covered landscapes—a key attraction for domestic and international visitors.

“This year has not been easy for us when it comes to tourism… The biggest factor contributing to footfall in this season is snow. November has been dry,” Abdullah reiterated. Expressing cautious optimism, he added, “We are hoping for a good spell of snow in December… Tourists are still coming to Pahalgam and other parts of the valley, but snowfall will further boost tourism.”