Ganderbal, Oct 02: Over six lakh tourists have visited Sonamarg.
According to the details, the number of tourists at Sonamarg has increased from 58,309 in 2019 to 6,61,539 by 2024.
In terms of revenue, significant progress has also been made; in 2020, the income was Rs 1.63 lacs, which increased to Rs 3.51 lacs in 2021, Rs 9.7 lacs in 2022, Rs 25.8 lacs in 2023, and by 2024, it reached Rs 30.68 lacs.
According to the reports in 2020, a modern Solid Waste Management Plant was established in Sarbal Sonamarg to scientifically dispose of waste, which includes an electromagnetic disintegrator with an 11 metric ton capacity, a 5-MT auto insta-composter, and a segregator.
An official said currently around 1,270 rooms are available for tourists in Sonamarg, which includes both government and private hotels, and camping sites have also been developed.
These steps are propelling Sonamarg towards further growth in the field of tourism, establishing it as a major tourist destination.
An official said no applications were received for new hostel registrations during 2023-24, and details regarding the registration of horse riders and snow bikers are not available as it is a matter under the Department of Tourism.
Under this department, 25 assets have been created, out of which 19 have been outsourced so far.
Situated in the picturesque hills of Ganderbal District, Sonamarg has become a premier attraction for both local and non-local travelers in Kashmir.
Since the beginning of the year, there has been a remarkable surge in tourism.
Local shopkeepers are delighted with the increase in tourist activity, expressing gratitude to the tourism department for its promotional efforts. They note that the influx of tourists has surpassed previous records, indicating that the region is becoming increasingly appealing to travelers.
Members of the tourism sector enthusiastically welcome the tourists, seeing it as a revival of their businesses after nearly three years of hiatus. They urge the tourism department to continue promoting Sonamarg to attract even more visitors.
