Ganderbal, Jan 25: In a strategic move to elevate tourism in both winter and summer seasons, Dr. Alyas Hussain, Chief Executive Officer of Sonamarg Development Authority (SDA), on Thursday said that they are trying their best to further enhance tourism activities in the Tourist Resort Sonamarg.

Speaking to reporters during the National Tourism Day celebrations in Sonamarg, Dr. Hussain highlighted the collaborative efforts of local stakeholders in facilitating the launch of these initiatives.

This year's National Tourism Day in Sonamarg witnessed a significant contribution from Hoteliers Association Sonamarg, comprising establishments such as Hotel Snowland and Resorts, Hotel Namrose, Hotel Redison, and Hotel Sonamarg Glacier. These hotels collectively provided 25 free ice-skating equipment for players participating in the inaugural ice-skating program.

The event showcased several key highlights, including captivating ice skating displays, stakeholder sensitization on responsible tourism, and a commendable sanitation drive. A display featuring the ice skating equipment, sponsored by the local hotel association to promote winter sports in Sonamarg, received widespread appreciation.

 

National Tourism Day brought together a diverse audience, including hoteliers, representatives from the pony association, adventure tourism advocates, Go Green Sonamarg and members of the Ice-Skating Association of J&K. The event aimed not only to spotlight Sonamarg's diverse attractions but also to promote adventure and winter tourism in the region.

Attendees, including hoteliers, stakeholders, visitors, and locals, had the opportunity to witness live demonstrations of ice skating by both local and national-level skaters. This thrilling addition added an adventurous dimension to the celebrations, making National Tourism Day in Sonamarg a memorable experience for everyone involved.

 

The Department of Tourism and SDA shared futuristic plans, including the implementation of prepaid systems for pony rides, signaling a positive step toward tourism promotion and the adoption of best practices in the area.

 

Preparations are underway by various associations and organizations to organize more events, including national-level championships in Sonamarg, CEO said. These efforts are expected to contribute significantly to projecting Sonamarg as a burgeoning winter sports hub, further solidifying its position on the tourism map.