SRINAGAR: Most tourist accommodations in Srinagar and other resort destinations across the Kashmir valley are fully booked in June, with a record number of tourists visiting this season.
The unprecedented influx of tourists this summer has brought immense happiness to thousands of people involved in the tourism industry and according to tourism officials, this year is set to break all previous records for tourist visitation here.
According to tourism department statistics, more than 1.25 million tourists have already flocked to Kashmir this year.
“We have received a lot of enquiries about accommodation for the upcoming autumn season and we are 100 per cent booked for this season,” said Junaid Shafi, who runs a local travel agency in Srinagar.
Most tourist accommodation in Srinagar and other resort destinations across the Kashmir Valley are fully booked in June, with record numbers of tourists visiting for the season.
Homestays, guest houses and other accommodation facilities across the Kashmir Valley, including Srinagar city, have also seen an unprecedented influx of tourists and have largely sold out for bookings through June.
The Kashmir Hoteliers Club, which oversees all tourist accommodation in the region, has expressed hope that the improved security situation will attract more foreign tourists this season, which will provide a major boost to foreign exchange earnings.
The annual Amarnath pilgrimage, which began on June 29 this year and is scheduled to end on August 19 after 52 days, will provide a fresh impetus to the tourism industry as lakhs of people visit the holy Amarnath cave from two routes – Sonmarg and Pahalgam – every year.
As temperatures continue to rise in most parts of the country, especially in Delhi and other northern states, thousands of people are heading to the Kashmir Valley to enjoy cool and serene atmosphere during summers and escape the heat.
The local economy of Kashmir Valley, especially the city of Srinagar, is heavily dependent on tourism.
Tourism department officials recently said that with record-breaking numbers of tourists visiting here, the tourism industry would generate revenue of Rs 800 billion annually.
During the current summer season, tourism in Kashmir Valley is witnessing a brisk trend with 100% bookings for tourist accommodation and as the handicraft industry is also linked to this trade, this will boost the local economy.
