Srinagar, Sept 16, KNT: Sonamarg, the famed alpine meadow in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, has witnessed a steady stream of visitors this summer, with more than 73,000 tourists recorded between July 1 and September 16, 2025, according to official figures accessed by the news agency Kashmir News Trust from the Tourism Department of Kashmir.
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The data reveals that 39,605 tourists visited in July, marking the peak month of arrivals. The inflow included 25,281 domestic visitors, 159 foreign tourists, and 14,165 local travelers. The single highest day was July 13, when 2,940 tourists were recorded, boosted largely by domestic arrivals.
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In August, however, the number dropped to 32,139 tourists, comprising 12,124 domestic visitors, 304 foreign tourists, and 19,711 locals. Despite the dip, the month saw several high-traffic days, including August 16, when 2,044 tourists visited, and August 24, with 1,862 arrivals. Tourism officials attribute the lower August numbers partly to intermittent weather disruptions and road restrictions.
From September 1 to 16, preliminary figures indicate more than 5,000 visitors have already made their way to the meadow. Officials said the flow has remained steady despite occasional rain showers, and they expect numbers to rise during the remaining weeks of the month as autumn tourism begins to pick up.
A senior official from the Tourism Department said Sonamarg continues to remain one of Kashmir’s top draws, both for domestic travelers and for international visitors exploring high-altitude landscapes. “The data reflects Sonamarg’s enduring appeal. Even when weather posed challenges, people continued to arrive in significant numbers. The upcoming autumn season is likely to add to the footfall as travelers seek to experience the golden hues of Kashmir,” the official said.
Tourism stakeholders noted that the presence of foreign visitors, though modest compared to domestic arrivals, is encouraging in the context of reviving international travel to Kashmir.
The inflow has also brought cheer to local businesses, including hotels, guest houses, pony operators, and traders, who depend on the tourism season for their livelihood. [KNT]
