Bhaderwah: Snowfall in the upper reaches and rain in the valleys brought an end to a month-long dry spell in Jammu and Kashmir’s Bhaderwah on Friday, offering much-needed relief to farmers and raising hopes for the revival of tourism activities.
The much-awaited snowfall at popular tourist destinations, including Guldanda, Chattergalla, Padri, Bhal Padri, and Bach Dhar in Doda district, came as a delight to visitors and tourism stakeholders.
The wet spell has also brought much-needed respite to the wider Chenab region, where prolonged dry weather had raised concerns.
Touqeer Bagban, a snow sports enthusiast from Bhaderwah, said the snowfall at the key tourist resorts has lifted spirits after the prolonged dry spell.
“Winter snowfall is a crucial aspect of tourism and livelihoods in the Bhaderwah Valley. Here, snowfall keeps tourist accommodations running, guides and pony operators in business, and local markets thriving through the harsh winter months,” he said.
He said the snowfall across the upper reaches and surrounding mountains has brought immense joy not only to tourism stakeholders but also to communities dependent on cultivation of aromatic plants.
The precipitation came just in time for farmers to begin planting lavender and rosemary saplings in nurseries. “The snowfall is certain to improve prospects for farmers engaged in cultivation of aromatic plants,” Bagban said.
Tourists flocked to the Chattergalla Pass along the Bhaderwah-Pathankot highway, as well as the Apharwat and Kongdori stations, situated at nearly 11,000 feet.
Visitors were seen frolicking in the snow and recording videos for social media.
Guldanda, too, witnessed a significant tourists footfall who arrived to soak in the winter spectacle.
“It is a wonderful sight to witness snowfall against the mesmerising backdrop of snow-clad peaks of the Ashapati and Kailash mountains. I would urge tourists to visit Bhaderwah during this time of the year to experience nature’s beauty at its best,” said tourist Mohit Kotwal.
He said despite being situated at an altitude of nearly 11,000 feet, Chattergalla Pass was easily accessible.
“Despite the snowfall, there was not a single slippery stretch on the road, making the journey comfortable and safe. Driving through dense coniferous forests, with towering trees covered in snow, felt like travelling through a fairyland,” the tourist added enthusiastically.