Kashmir Valley experiences season's first snowfall

SRINAGAR: With the upper reaches of the Kashmir Valley experiencing first snowfall of the season, theadministration was hoping that it would boost tourism in the valley.

It was snowing heavily on Sunday in the high-altitude areas, including Sadna Pass along the Kupwara-Karnah road, officials said.

They added that the reports of snowfall were also received from Drass, Gumri and upper reaches of Sonamarg on Srinagar-Leh National Highway which was closed for six months during the winter by the authorities last week.

"It is a good news for winter sports lovers," they said, adding the tourists visiting valley to experience a snowfall will not return disappointed.

The holy cave shrine of Amarnath in South Kashmir and upper reaches of Bandipora, Kupwara, Baramulla, Pulwama, Kulgam and Anantnag also received fresh snowfall.

The Gulmarg Hill Resort, 65 kms from here, has also been experiencing snow coupled with rains since late this afternoon, while its peripheral areas, including Khilanmarg, Seven Spring and Upperwat received heavy snowfall.

Following the snowfall icy cold winds swept the valley forcing people to stay indoors.