Sinthan Top Snowfall Attracts Tourists Amid Snowless Kashmir

Anantnag, Jan 19 (WD):

Sinthan Top Attracts Tourists Amidst Snowless Gulmarg

A picturesque road in the Kokernag area, surrounded by lush green forests and towering pine trees, leads to Sinthan Top in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The mountain pass, covered in a thick layer of snow, has become a popular tourist destination due to the absence of snow in other well-known spots during an unusual dry spell.

Since Thursday morning, tourists, primarily from different states, flocked to Sinthan Top to experience its enchanting snow-covered landscape. Gulmarg, a famous tourist spot, remained snowless, prompting visitors to explore alternative destinations.

Despite the lack of snow in Gulmarg, at least 136 tourists arrived in the Sinthan Top area on Thursday, enjoying the serpentine road and capturing moments surrounded by snow. Tourists expressed their delight, with one visitor from Uttar Pradesh mentioning, “It is the first time that I am in Kashmir. We are happy to finally see some snow here.”

While traditionally, tourists visit Gulmarg and Pahalgam for snow-related activities, the extended dry spell dissuaded many from going to these well-known spots. The absence of snowfall affected ski enthusiasts, causing them to cancel ski touring plans on the barren slopes of Gulmarg.

Despite the challenges, Sinthan Top has experienced multiple spells of snow, with the area receiving around 12 inches of snow from the Anantnag side, according to Tehsildar Larnoo, Syed Muiz Qadri. The mountain pass, situated at an elevation of 12,500 feet, connects Anantnag district with Kishtwar district and is gaining popularity as a major tourist attraction.

Qadri highlighted that the area has seen an increasing number of visitors, with approximately 350 tourists visiting since the beginning of the week. Last year, the region attracted a total of 1,46,830 travelers, including both domestic and foreign tourists, making it a significant destination in the district.