Pahalgam/Gulmarg: The week-long Pahalgam Winter Carnival organised by the Tourism department concluded here today with the celebration of New Year.
The carnival saw performances of music, dance, dramas and exhibition of winter games, street foods among others for past seven days.
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Tourism, Sarmad Hafeez said that more than 4.5 lakh tourists have visited Pahalgam. He said that Pahalgam is fast emerging as a major winter tourist destination.
He also said the department is committed to put Pahalgam and Sonamarg on the tourist map for winter tourism.
Director Tourism, Kashmir, Dr. GN Itoo said that the department has organized a Winter Carnival to showcase the scenic beauty of Pahalgam. He said such events are not only important to boost tourism but also promote Pahalgam as a major film-shooting.
The New Year celebrations took place at Pahalgam Club and saw a massive participation by tourists and locals.
The highlight of the event was the performance by Bollywood singer Rohanprit Singh who brought the crowd to its feet with his numbers. The event also saw participation by local cultural groups among others.
On the occasion, Secretary Tourism also released Digital Calendar of the Tourism department.
Similar activities were held at the ski resort of Gulmarg where local artists and singers displayed their talent and enthralled the audience.
A good number of stalls depicting Kashmiri culture and heritage were installed at the event. The tourists who looked to be very happy after the function said that they had come to celebrate the last days of 2021 and initial days of 2022 in the beautiful valley of Kashmir.
