BuzzBytes
Srinagar, January 31 December 2025
Thousands of locals and tourists across the Kashmir Valley welcomed the New Year with unprecedented cheer, calm, and confidence. Vibrant gatherings illuminated city centers and snow-clad higher reaches, marking a peaceful and hopeful beginning to 2026 amid fresh snowfall.
In Srinagar’s historic Lal Chowk, massive crowds defied the biting winter chill to congregate around the iconic Ghanta Ghar (Clock Tower). Midnight brought waves of cheers, spontaneous greetings, and bursts of camera flashes as families, youth, and visitors captured the festive spirit.
The festive fervor extended to Kashmir’s premier tourist destinations, boosted by fresh snowfall in higher reaches. Gulmarg, the renowned winter wonderland, was abuzz with excitement as pristine snow blanketed the meadows. Tourists engaged in snowball fights, photography, and celebrations despite sub-zero temperatures, with hotels witnessing record occupancy.
Pahalgam and Sonamarg also drew large crowds, with visitors reveling amid snow-dusted pine forests, the flowing Lidder River, and vast pristine snowfields. Tourists hailed the experiences as “magical” and “unforgettable,” contributing to a surge in bookings.
On Srinagar’s serene Dal Lake, a more tranquil celebration unfolded with illuminated houseboats, gentle shikara rides, and quiet family gatherings reflecting in the still waters.
Robust security measures across all sites ensured the events remained incident-free. The extraordinary turnout highlights a booming tourism revival, restored public confidence, and Kashmir’s resounding message: the Valley is open, secure, and radiating optimism for the year ahead.
