No Snow, No Show: Dry Spell Hits Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir

The dry winter in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district has impacted tourism, with major sites like Guldanda and Chattergalla experiencing a sharp decline in visitors. The absence of snowfall has affected the local economy, but stakeholders remain hopeful for snowfall revival before New Year celebrations.

The tourism industry in Jammu and Kashmir's Doda district is facing a slump as a result of an uncharacteristic dry winter season, causing a significant drop in visitor numbers and disrupting the local economy, according to tourism stakeholders.

These high-altitude destinations, including Guldanda and Chattergalla, typically receive snowfall by mid-October. However, this year has seen a concerning lack of precipitation, adversely affecting both winter tourism and adventure sports in the region.

Tourism strategists like Rashid Choudhary note an 80% decline in tourist numbers at Guldanda compared to previous years. The economic ripple effect is being felt across dependent sectors. Nonetheless, there is cautious optimism that impending snowfall may rejuvenate the tourism industry before the New Year festivities.

(With inputs from agencies.)