Home » India Travel News » Sonamarg Poised to Become Kashmir’s Leading Winter Sports Destination, Rivaling Gulmarg with Expanding Skiing Infrastructure and Thrilling Events Published on
February 15, 2026Sonamarg, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of Kashmir Valley, is set to become the region’s next big destination for winter tourism. While Gulmarg has long reigned as the country’s go-to location for winter sports, Sonamarg’s growing potential is rapidly turning heads. The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department is investing in infrastructure, training, and events to position Sonamarg as a key player in India’s winter tourism scene.Sonamarg’s natural beauty, with its untouched meadows, towering mountains, and snow-clad landscapes, has already made it a popular destination for tourists seeking tranquility. Now, the area is being developed with a focus on winter sports, particularly skiing, to offer visitors an exciting new way to explore the region. The department is aiming to elevate Sonamarg to a world-class destination for winter sports, helping it share the spotlight with Gulmarg, which has long been synonymous with skiing in India.A Surge in Winter Sports EnthusiasmWinter tourism in Kashmir has seen significant growth, particularly in the realm of winter sports. The tourism department’s latest efforts focus on expanding winter sports opportunities in Sonamarg. This winter, the region has witnessed impressive participation in skiing programs, with over 180 local students and 20 participants from other states joining in. The enthusiastic response to these programs highlights a growing interest in winter sports among both locals and visitors.AdvertisementThis increased interest reflects a broader trend in Kashmir, where more individuals are looking to explore skiing and other snow-based activities. The tourism department believes that Sonamarg’s potential to become a winter sports destination will only continue to grow. As more people are drawn to the area for skiing lessons, guided expeditions, and recreational sports, the region is quickly positioning itself as a competitive alternative to other established winter destinations in India.Strategic Infrastructure DevelopmentsAdvertisementAdvertisementTo support this surge in interest, the tourism department is focusing on building the necessary infrastru …
