Srinagar, May 22: As large parts of Central and North India reel under an intense heatwave, Kashmir has emerged as a preferred escape for tourists seeking relief from rising temperatures and a taste of lingering snowfall conditions in higher reaches.

Tourist destinations across the Valley, particularly Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Srinagar, have witnessed a noticeable influx of visitors over the past few days, with many travellers arriving from heat-affected regions to enjoy cooler weather and scenic landscapes.
Visitors said the contrast in weather conditions was the main attraction, with Kashmir offering pleasant temperatures, green valleys and snow patches in higher altitudes even as plains elsewhere in the country recorded extreme heat.
Tour operators said the surge in tourist arrivals has provided a boost to the local hospitality sector, including hotels, houseboats, transport services and small businesses dependent on tourism. Many establishments reported improved occupancy rates compared to the previous weeks.
In Gulmarg and Sonamarg, tourists were seen enjoying snow activities and sightseeing, while Srinagar’s gardens, lakes and heritage sites continued to attract steady footfall throughout the day.
Local stakeholders said the seasonal shift has once again highlighted Kashmir’s role as a major summer destination in India, especially during periods of extreme weather elsewhere in the country.
Authorities have also advised visitors to follow travel guidelines and safety measures, particularly in high-altitude areas where weather conditions can change rapidly.
With rising temperatures continuing in the plains, tourism stakeholders expect the upward trend in visitor arrivals to sustain in the coming weeks, further strengthening the Valley’s peak summer tourism season.