No doubt, Kashmir is a veritable paradise on earth. Yet, when winter cloaks its majestic mountains in snow, only Gulmarg is harnessed to attract tourists seeking adventure sports. This myopic focus on one destination ignores the vast potential of countless other slopes across the Union Territory, which could not only draw adventure enthusiasts from around the globe but also generate immense revenue. A strategic and visionary approach could turn J&K’s winters into a goldmine of economic activity, rivaling global snow tourism hotspots.

Gulmarg: A Singular Success Story

Gulmarg, dubbed the “Heart of Winter Tourism” in India, attracts thousands of tourists annually, contributing significantly to the local economy. The world-class gondola ride, ski runs, and infrastructure have made Gulmarg a beacon of adventure tourism. However, this sole focus on Gulmarg leaves other regions – equally endowed with snow-covered slopes – wasted, barren, and forgotten.

How Snow Generates Billions Elsewhere

• Aspen Snowmass, Colorado (USA): Aspen generates approximately $150 million annually from tourism, with skiing being the primary draw. That’s roughly ₹12,500 crore. Aspen has a population of 7,000 residents, while Colorado population is a little less than entire Kashmir.
• Chamonix, France: This alpine resort, home to Mont Blanc, earns about €1 billion annually, which is ₹9000 crore. Chamonix has a population of around 9,000 residents, while the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, in which it falls, has a population equalling that of Kashmir.
• Whistler Blackcomb, Canada: Canada’s premier ski destination earns over CAD 1.5 billion annually, which is ₹9100 crore. Whistler Blackcomb has a population of 13,000 residents, and British Columbia, in which it falls, has a population 20 percent less than Kashmir.
• St. Moritz, Switzerland: Famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, this resort........
  

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