Kashmir's Winter Wonderland has achieved a new Milestone. Gulmarg reigned as one of the best Ski resorts in Asia and witnessed record-breaking tourist arrivals in 2023. Over 1 million visitors took rides on Gulmarg's Gondola which generated a revenue worth over $122,000, here's a report.

Kashmir's record-breaking tourist arrivals in the year 2023

In a compelling ground report titled "In Indian Kashmir, a history woven of thread and water," Bérénice Debras from Le Figaro provides a rare and optimistic perspective on Kashmir, highlighting the region's gradual emergence as a tourist destination after years of conflict. The magazine of the second-largest national newspaper in France, Le Figaro, shares insights into the changing dynamics of Srinagar and the Dal Lake, emphasising the positive signs of security and stability.

Debras writes, "Forgotten paradise, Srinagar is timidly opening up to foreign travelers after decades of conflict. In Kashmir, in the foothills of the Himalayas, the gentle landscapes invite peace." This observation encapsulates the hopeful transition the region is undergoing, marking a departure from its tumultuous past.

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The article underscores the symbolic importance of a G20 meeting on tourism held in Srinagar last May, proclaiming a return to a certain level of security.

Emphasising the significant strides Kashmir has taken towards normalcy, Debras further writes, "Stability is slowly re-establishing itself. It was about time,"&nbsp;

Le Figaro also sheds light on the cultural ties between Kashmir and France, specifically through the production of shawls. Debras explains, "In the Kashmir Valley, shawls have been made since time immemorial... In 1861, 80% of the shawls exported from Kashmir went to France, 10% to the United States, and 1% to Great Britain." This historical connection adds depth to the evolving narrative of Kashmir as it opens its doors to a global audience.

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The report highlights the region's iconic Mughal Gardens of Shalimar and its legendary houseboats. Elaborating&nbsp;on the evolution of these houseboats, Debras writes, "According to legend, the house-boats developed with the British, who were not allowed, as foreigners, to buy land in Kashmir – a ban lifted only recently. The first house-boats were small. They adapted to modern comforts."

This transformation, coupled with the return of Bollywood to the region, signifies a renewed interest in Kashmir's unique offerings.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayodhya-gets-a-major-facelift-all-decked-up-for-ram-mandir-inside-south-asia-677102">Ayodhya gets a major facelift: All decked up for Ram Mandir | Inside South Asia</a>

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The article concludes by stating that, "Srinagar wants to turn the page after decades of tragedies".

India removed special status for the erstwhile state in 2019 as a way to bring the region into the mainstream, particularly through enhanced connectivity. Le Figaro's positive portrayal of Kashmir serves as a departure from the conventional narrative in Western media, providing a refreshing perspective on the region's journey towards stability, security, and the reinvigoration of its tourism industry.

In a compelling ground report titled "In Indian Kashmir, a history woven of thread and water," Bérénice Debras from Le Figaro provides a rare and optimistic perspective on Kashmir, highlighting the region's gradual emergence as a tourist destination after years of conflict.

In a compelling ground report titled "In Indian Kashmir, a history woven of thread and water," Bérénice Debras from Le Figaro provides a rare and optimistic perspective on Kashmir, highlighting the region's gradual emergence as a tourist destination after years of conflict. The magazine of the second-largest national newspaper in France, Le Figaro, shares insights into the changing dynamics of Srinagar and the Dal Lake, emphasising the positive signs of security and stability. Debras writes, "Forgotten paradise, Srinagar is timidly opening up to foreign travelers after decades of conflict. In Kashmir, in the foothills of the Himalayas, the gentle landscapes invite peace." This observation encapsulates the hopeful transition the region is undergoing, marking a departure from its tumultuous past. Also Read | Greece repoens ancient monument where Alexander the Great became king The article underscores the symbolic importance of a G20 meeting on tourism held in Srinagar last May, proclaiming a return to a certain level of security. Emphasising the significant strides Kashmir has taken towards normalcy, Debras further writes, "Stability is slowly re-establishing itself. It was about time," Le Figaro also sheds light on the cultural ties between Kashmir and France, specifically through the production of shawls. Debras explains, "In the Kashmir Valley, shawls have been made since time immemorial... In 1861, 80% of the shawls exported from Kashmir went to France, 10% to the United States, and 1% to Great Britain." This historical connection adds depth to the evolving narrative of Kashmir as it opens its doors to a global audience. Also Read | Elections will be free, fair, transparent and credible, Bangladesh FM Momen tells WION The report highlights the region's iconic Mughal Gardens of Shalimar and its legendary houseboats. Elaborating on the evolution of these houseboats, Debras writes, "According to legend, the house-boats developed with the British, who were not allowed, as foreigners, to buy land in Kashmir – a ban lifted only recently. The first house-boats were small. They adapted to modern comforts." This transformation, coupled with the return of Bollywood to the region, signifies a renewed interest in Kashmir's unique offerings. Watch | Ayodhya gets a major facelift: All decked up for Ram Mandir | Inside South Asia × The article concludes by stating that, "Srinagar wants to turn the page after decades of tragedies". India removed special status for the erstwhile state in 2019 as a way to bring the region into the mainstream, particularly through enhanced connectivity. Le Figaro's positive portrayal of Kashmir serves as a departure from the conventional narrative in Western media, providing a refreshing perspective on the region's journey towards stability, security, and the reinvigoration of its tourism industry.

France's Le Figaro highlights security, stability, and tourism resurgence in Kashmir

An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in the Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district. This after the law enforcement agencies launched a cordon and search operation in the area.

Jammu-Kashmir: Encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces

India: Encounter breaks out between security forces, terrorists in Shopian, one terrorist killed

India: Encounter underway between terrorists & security forces in J&K, one terrorist killed

India: Encounter breaks out between terrorists & security forces in J&K, one terrorist killed

An encounter between terrorists and security forces in underway in the Chotigam area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district. Security forces started the operation during the night hours after they received input about the presence of terrorists in the area.&nbsp;

The security forces launched a cordon and search operation during the night and while the search was going on, terrorists fired towards security forces resulting in a gun battle.&nbsp;

“Encounter has started at Chotigam area of Shopian district. Shopian Police, Army &amp; CRPF are on the job. Further details shall follow,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Sources in the security forces say that two&nbsp;to three&nbsp;terrorists are hiding at the operation site. The operation that started early morning around 3 am is&nbsp;still on, with firing going on from both sides. Earlier, a group of terrorists had escaped from the encounter site in South Kashmir’s Hadigam Village in Kulgam district.&nbsp;

The operation is being carried out by Jammu and Kashmir police along with CRPF and the Indian Army. The latest report from the operation site said that heavy firing was going on from both sides as security forces believe the terrorists are hiding inside the house.&nbsp;

An encounter between terrorists and security forces in underway in the Chotigam area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district. Security forces started the operation during the night hours after they received input about the presence of terrorists in the area.

An encounter between terrorists and security forces in underway in the Chotigam area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district. Security forces started the operation during the night hours after they received input about the presence of terrorists in the area. The security forces launched a cordon and search operation during the night and while the search was going on, terrorists fired towards security forces resulting in a gun battle. “Encounter has started at Chotigam area of Shopian district. Shopian Police, Army & CRPF are on the job. Further details shall follow,” said Jammu and Kashmir Police. Sources in the security forces say that two to three terrorists are hiding at the operation site. The operation that started early morning around 3 am is still on, with firing going on from both sides. Earlier, a group of terrorists had escaped from the encounter site in South Kashmir’s Hadigam Village in Kulgam district. The operation is being carried out by Jammu and Kashmir police along with CRPF and the Indian Army. The latest report from the operation site said that heavy firing was going on from both sides as security forces believe the terrorists are hiding inside the house.

India: Encounter on at South Kashmir’s Shopian district between forces and terrorists

Kashmir Valley is witnessing severe cold conditions. Srinagar recorded the minimum temperature at -4.8° C which has led to the freezing of portions of the world-famous Dal Lake. The day-to-day life of the local population remains affected due to the severe cold conditions, particularly during morning and evening hours.

Srinagar‘s Dal Lake has become a winter spectacle, attracting tourists from across the world to enjoy its frozen view. Since the temperature across Kashmir Valley has plummeted in the last few days, the portions of the lake froze&nbsp;early on Tuesday (Jan 2), making it difficult for the locals living on the lake to cut through the ice and come to the banks.&nbsp;

There are thousands of tourists in the Kashmir Valley which is witnessing severe cold wave conditions. Places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg are fully booked with tourists from across India and the world arriving to experience the winter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kashmir-srinagar-records-reasons-coldest-night-at-minus-08-degree-c-660896">Watch |&nbsp;Kashmir: Srinagar records reason's coldest night at minus 0.8 degree C</a>

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“I have never witnessed these visuals in my life before. The frozen lake looks extremely beautiful and it is a unique experience. We have especially come to witness the cold weather in the Kashmir Valley, and we are having the time of our lives. We are also planning to go to Gulmarg and Pahalgam to witness the snow. I will recommend Kashmir to everybody when I go back to Kerala,” said Sajad, a tourist from Kerala.&nbsp;

As Kashmir Valley is experiencing Chilai Kalan - the 40-day harsh winter period, places like Pahalgam and Gulmarg remain the coldest in the region. Pahalgam recorded the lowest temperature at -6.2°C while the resort town of Gulmarg recorded the minimum temperature at -4°C.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-kashmirs-water-bodies-freeze-as-harshest-cold-period-called-chilai-kalan-starts-438747">Also read |&nbsp;India: Kashmir's water bodies freeze as harshest cold period called 'Chilai Kalan' starts</a>

“To see the frozen Dal Lake is a dream come true. I had only seen this on TV and today witnessing this live was a very unique experience for me. I have come along with my friends to enjoy the beauty of Kashmir in winter. So far, we have seen the frozen Dal Lake and all of us are extremely amused at looking at the frozen lake,” said Ashish, another tourist.&nbsp;

The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has predicted mainly cold weather till January 3. The Met Department has said that there are chances of snowfall and rain in the higher reaches from January 6.&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley is witnessing severe cold conditions. Srinagar recorded the minimum temperature at -4.8° C which has led to the freezing of portions of the world-famous Dal Lake.

Kashmir Valley is witnessing severe cold conditions. Srinagar recorded the minimum temperature at -4.8° C which has led to the freezing of portions of the world-famous Dal Lake. The day-to-day life of the local population remains affected due to the severe cold conditions, particularly during morning and evening hours. Srinagar‘s Dal Lake has become a winter spectacle, attracting tourists from across the world to enjoy its frozen view. Since the temperature across Kashmir Valley has plummeted in the last few days, the portions of the lake froze early on Tuesday (Jan 2), making it difficult for the locals living on the lake to cut through the ice and come to the banks. There are thousands of tourists in the Kashmir Valley which is witnessing severe cold wave conditions. Places like Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Sonmarg are fully booked with tourists from across India and the world arriving to experience the winter. Watch | Kashmir: Srinagar records reason's coldest night at minus 0.8 degree C × “I have never witnessed these visuals in my life before. The frozen lake looks extremely beautiful and it is a unique experience. We have especially come to witness the cold weather in the Kashmir Valley, and we are having the time of our lives. We are also planning to go to Gulmarg and Pahalgam to witness the snow. I will recommend Kashmir to everybody when I go back to Kerala,” said Sajad, a tourist from Kerala. As Kashmir Valley is experiencing Chilai Kalan - the 40-day harsh winter period, places like Pahalgam and Gulmarg remain the coldest in the region. Pahalgam recorded the lowest temperature at -6.2°C while the resort town of Gulmarg recorded the minimum temperature at -4°C. Also read | India: Kashmir's water bodies freeze as harshest cold period called 'Chilai Kalan' starts “To see the frozen Dal Lake is a dream come true. I had only seen this on TV and today witnessing this live was a very unique experience for me. I have come along with my friends to enjoy the beauty of Kashmir in winter. So far, we have seen the frozen Dal Lake and all of us are extremely amused at looking at the frozen lake,” said Ashish, another tourist. The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has predicted mainly cold weather till January 3. The Met Department has said that there are chances of snowfall and rain in the higher reaches from January 6.

Kashmir Valley witnesses extreme cold wave conditions, Dal Lake partially frozen

Tourism industry of Kashmir starts 2024 on a high note. Locals & tourists gather at Lal Chowk for New Years.

J&K: Srinagar's Lal Chowk lit up for 'New Years'

Kashmir papier mâché artists got thousands of orders from across the world for Christmas. The age-old art of papier mâché decorations from the Kashmir Valley is in immense demand during the festival. The orders are not only pouring in from India but abroad too, bringing cheer among the papier mâché artisans.

Kashmir's 'Paper Mache' decorations gain global popularity

It's Christmas and the artisans of Kashmir Valley start preparing for this festival months before December 25. The age-old art of papier mâché decorations from the Kashmir Valley is in immense demand during the festival. The orders are not only pouring in from India but abroad too, bronging&nbsp;cheer among the papier mâché artisans.&nbsp;

We have all seen the Christmas decorations hanging on the Christmas tree, but little do we know that most of it is made in Kashmir by the age-old papier mâché artisans. The Christmas decorations hanging on the Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, from balls to bells, easter eggs and even trays are made months before the festival. These artisans in the Valley have sold thousands of papier mâché decorative pieces to customers across the world just before Christmas.&nbsp;

“Christmas orders are pouring in bulk. Earlier we used to get orders only from European countries and were confined to that only. But now the orders have been placed from other countries as well. We are getting a huge response from the Middle East as well. Now the domestic orders from all across India are increasing as well. We have sold huge quantities so far and are still dispatching the orders. We have been making different theme-based items for the Europe market and its getting a great response as well. We make decorative pieces and sell them in bulk, '' said Nayeem Mir, papier mâché artist, Srinagar.&nbsp;

The artists in the Kashmir Valley have introduced new designs in these decorative pieces. They are trying hard to grow the customer base across the world. And this year, there has been a huge demand for papier mâché&nbsp;items. These handmade papier mâché decorative items are in high demand. The increase in demand has brought joy to the faces of these artisans, who are working tirelessly to fulfil the Christmas orders. The artisans are working day and night to complete these decorative items on time.

“Earlier, these items were made of plastic, which had no aesthetic value. But with these paper mache, ' decorative pieces last longer and are beautiful too. We are using natural dyes and colours and our products are eco-friendly, '' said Nayeem Mir, papier mâché artist, Srinagar.&nbsp;

These papier mâché artists work tirelessly for months to complete the Christmas decorative orders, and this year, the response has been huge as compared to previous years. The market for the items has also spread across various parts of the world.&nbsp;

It's Christmas and the artisans of Kashmir Valley start preparing for this festival months before December 25. The age-old art of papier mâché decorations from the Kashmir Valley is in immense demand during the festival.

It's Christmas and the artisans of Kashmir Valley start preparing for this festival months before December 25. The age-old art of papier mâché decorations from the Kashmir Valley is in immense demand during the festival. The orders are not only pouring in from India but abroad too, bronging cheer among the papier mâché artisans. We have all seen the Christmas decorations hanging on the Christmas tree, but little do we know that most of it is made in Kashmir by the age-old papier mâché artisans. The Christmas decorations hanging on the Christmas trees, walls and ceilings, from balls to bells, easter eggs and even trays are made months before the festival. These artisans in the Valley have sold thousands of papier mâché decorative pieces to customers across the world just before Christmas. “Christmas orders are pouring in bulk. Earlier we used to get orders only from European countries and were confined to that only. But now the orders have been placed from other countries as well. We are getting a huge response from the Middle East as well. Now the domestic orders from all across India are increasing as well. We have sold huge quantities so far and are still dispatching the orders. We have been making different theme-based items for the Europe market and its getting a great response as well. We make decorative pieces and sell them in bulk, '' said Nayeem Mir, papier mâché artist, Srinagar. The artists in the Kashmir Valley have introduced new designs in these decorative pieces. They are trying hard to grow the customer base across the world. And this year, there has been a huge demand for papier mâché items. These handmade papier mâché decorative items are in high demand. The increase in demand has brought joy to the faces of these artisans, who are working tirelessly to fulfil the Christmas orders. The artisans are working day and night to complete these decorative items on time. “Earlier, these items were made of plastic, which had no aesthetic value. But with these paper mache, ' decorative pieces last longer and are beautiful too. We are using natural dyes and colours and our products are eco-friendly, '' said Nayeem Mir, papier mâché artist, Srinagar. These papier mâché artists work tirelessly for months to complete the Christmas decorative orders, and this year, the response has been huge as compared to previous years. The market for the items has also spread across various parts of the world.

Kashmir papier mâché artists get thousands of orders from across the world for Christmas

The Army claimed four soldiers were killed and three were injured during a battle with militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district on Thursday. At 3:45 PM on Thursday, terrorists ambushed two army trucks heading through Dera Ki Gali in Rajouri's Poonch area.

J&K: Army vehicle ambushed in Poonch area

Darul Uloom Haqqania seminary in Akora Khattak, about 60 kilometres (35 miles) east of Peshawar is dubbed as "university of jihad" by critics. This seminary encourages its adherents to conduct violent Jihad. Analysts say that the terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir have turned the spotlight back on the Darul Uloom Haqqania Madrasa in Pakistan. Critics call it a university of jihad and blame it for helping to spread violence across the region.

Poonch Terror attack: Spotlight on Pakistan's 'University of Jihad'

How have foreign countries responded to the Supreme Court’s verdict on Article 370 on Jammu and Kashmir? Foreign affairs expert, C Rajamohan explains on The India Story

When world will see peace in J&K, then they'll accept new ruling: C Rajamohan, Foreign affair expert

Article 370: 'We need to make political compact right for Jammu & Kashmir'

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday, December 13, rejected the General Secretariat of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)’s statement on the Supreme Court of India’s decision to uphold the stripping of Jammu and Kashmir’s autonomy.

Article 370 abrogation: New Delhi hits back at Islamic Nations' bloc

After 16 days of hearing, the Indian Supreme Court in a unanimous ruling upheld the Narendra Modi government’s decision in 2019 to scrap Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that had guaranteed special autonomous status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Explained: Kashmir question & Article 370 | Story from Kashmir accession to Parliament's integration

The Indian Supreme Court has upheld the Modi government's decision to scrap Article 370 of the Indian constitution. The "temporary" provision within the constitution gave Jammu and Kashmir special status and was repealed by the government in 2019.

Article 370 Abrogation: Supreme Court backs Modi govt's scrapping of J&K special status

Supreme Court backs scrapping of J&K special status....a five-member bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Of India Dy Chandrachud rules article 370 was a temporary provision

India's top court backs scrapping of J&K's special status

Well back home in India Winter transforms Kashmir and Ladakh into fairytale locations. Such are the scenes in the famous tourist spots in uh Jammu and Kashmir these days. The spell of light snowfall has given the hill station a celestial look take a look.

Kashmir sees season's first snowfall in tourist spots

Another encounter is underway between Security forces and terrorist in India's Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri. Five Indian army Personnel including two officers have been killed in the line of duty. Three other soldiers have been injured according to 16 core Commander unit. The injured have been transported to Army's command Hospital in Udhampur.

J&K encounter: Indian Army and Police pay floral tributes to 5 martyred Army personnel

Cold weather prevailed in Jammu and Kashmir on Monday, when the summer capital of J&K, Srinagar, recorded the lowest temperature of the season. Fog covered many regions of the region.

Kashmir: Srinagar records reason's coldest night at minus 0.8 degree C

An anti-terror operation in India's Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir has entered the second day. At least five terrorists have been killed so far in the encounter. Security forces are carrying out a search operation.

Kashmir encounter: Indian Army cordon off Kulgam | Five terrorists killed in anti-terror operation

Two unidentified terrorists were neutralised by security forces in India's Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Nov 15) as police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), said officials in a statement.

The alert troops detected a movement near the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector after which an exchange of fire took place between the two sides, officials said.

So far, two militants have been killed in the operation, which they said lasted till the last reports came in.

According to the Kashmir Zone police, incriminating materials, arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operation.

Comprehensive search operations are underway in the area, added the police.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-military-discussing-possibilities-of-hiring-transgenders-in-defence-roles-report-658949">Indian military discussing possibilities of hiring transgenders in defence roles: Report</a>

Earlier on Wednesday (Nov 15), one infiltrating terrorist was shot dead by alert security troops in the Uri sector.

According to the police, the terrorists were attempting to sneak in, taking advantage of poor visibility and bad weather.

As per the officials, though the attempts by terrorists to sneak into the Indian territory have gone down significantly, it is pertinent to note that infiltration attempts continue to take place in the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-massive-fire-engulfs-express-train-in-indias-up-three-coaches-gutted-658911">Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted</a>

Earlier in October, five terrorists were killed along the LoC in the Macchil sector of Kupwara district and two were killed in a failed infiltration bid in the Uri sector of Baramulla district on October 22.

A total of 11 infiltrators were neutralised in June, including four in the Macchil sector and five in the nearby Jumagund area of the Keran sector.

(With inputs from agencies)

Two unidentified terrorists were neutralised by security forces in India's Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Nov 15) as police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), said officials in a statement.

Two unidentified terrorists were neutralised by security forces in India's Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday (Nov 15) as police foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC), said officials in a statement. The alert troops detected a movement near the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir's Uri sector after which an exchange of fire took place between the two sides, officials said. So far, two militants have been killed in the operation, which they said lasted till the last reports came in. According to the Kashmir Zone police, incriminating materials, arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operation. Comprehensive search operations are underway in the area, added the police. Also read: Indian military discussing possibilities of hiring transgenders in defence roles: Report Earlier on Wednesday (Nov 15), one infiltrating terrorist was shot dead by alert security troops in the Uri sector. According to the police, the terrorists were attempting to sneak in, taking advantage of poor visibility and bad weather. As per the officials, though the attempts by terrorists to sneak into the Indian territory have gone down significantly, it is pertinent to note that infiltration attempts continue to take place in the country. Also read: Watch: Massive fire engulfs express train in India's UP, three coaches gutted Earlier in October, five terrorists were killed along the LoC in the Macchil sector of Kupwara district and two were killed in a failed infiltration bid in the Uri sector of Baramulla district on October 22. A total of 11 infiltrators were neutralised in June, including four in the Macchil sector and five in the nearby Jumagund area of the Keran sector. (With inputs from agencies)

Security forces kill two terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, foil infiltration bid

In pics | Tourists flock to Kashmir as Chinar leaves turn red

Bumper saffron harvest after 10 years, farmers in Kashmir elated. The saffron fields in the valley have transformed into a purple canvas and are providing a visual treat for the local residents and tourists.

India: Saffron farmers in Kashmir elated as they claim bumper crop after 10 years | World DNA

Autumn is here and so is the time when the whole of Kashmir Valley turns red. It seems as if someone has brushed the valley with magical colours. A surreal change that attracts thousands of tourists from across India and the world to come and be a part of the majestic season.&nbsp;

The Chinar (Maple) trees in Kashmir look as if they have been decorated with layers of colours. The visuals that tourists have seen only in Bollywood films.&nbsp;

The world-famous Mughal gardens of Kashmir have a red carpet of these Chinar tree leaves with the background of Zabarwan Hills.&nbsp;

The Nishat Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Naseem Bagh, and Chinar Bagh are witnessing a huge rush of tourists enjoying these beautiful visuals and taking photos in these breathtakingly beautiful locations.&nbsp;

''It's beautiful, clean and very big, The place is so huge, and the maple leaves are also very big, I love maple leaves especially when they change colour. When I saw the Hindi films I loved how they use the maple trees and leaves. That's why I asked my friend to come to Kashmir. I love Bollywood and the way they throw maple leaves. I did the same and my photos have come so well. I had a fantastic trip and I will tell my friends to come to Kashmir,'' said Ammie, a tourist from Malaysia.&nbsp;

Some of the tourists have just read about autumn and have never seen it. The rest of India does not have four seasons like the Kashmir Valley. The government has also announced special festivals for the tourists coming to the Valley during the autumn season. While the Mughal Gardens in the Valley are seeing a steep rise in the footfall, specially to see the Chinar trees.&nbsp;

''It's so beautiful and we have come from Delhi. This is my second trip to Kashmir Valley the first time we came here was in May and it was completely a different experience and now in November, it's a different experience altogether. We are enjoying it a lot. We took so many photos of the chinar leaves. Kashmir is so unique and different in every season. Chinar is looking extremely beautiful,"&nbsp;said Ranjana Malhotra, a tourist.&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley has been witnessing a record-breaking number of tourists in the last few years. This year all the previous records have been broken with over 1.88 crores visiting the Valley in the first ten months.&nbsp;

''The numbers are mind-boggling, Last time we had the highest numbers of 1.88 crores. This year we have already bypassed those numbers in the first ten months. Which is very positive. It has impacted the economy in a good way, '' said Abid Rashid Shah, Secretary of Tourism JK.

The Autumn season and the falling of leaves all over the gardens and roads is also an indication of winter. It simply means that winter is not far.&nbsp;

Autumn is here and so is the time when the whole of Kashmir Valley turns red. It seems as if someone has brushed the valley with magical colours. A surreal change that attracts thousands of tourists from across India and the world to come and be a part of the majestic season.

Autumn is here and so is the time when the whole of Kashmir Valley turns red. It seems as if someone has brushed the valley with magical colours. A surreal change that attracts thousands of tourists from across India and the world to come and be a part of the majestic season. The Chinar (Maple) trees in Kashmir look as if they have been decorated with layers of colours. The visuals that tourists have seen only in Bollywood films. The world-famous Mughal gardens of Kashmir have a red carpet of these Chinar tree leaves with the background of Zabarwan Hills. The Nishat Garden, Shalimar Bagh, Naseem Bagh, and Chinar Bagh are witnessing a huge rush of tourists enjoying these beautiful visuals and taking photos in these breathtakingly beautiful locations. ''It's beautiful, clean and very big, The place is so huge, and the maple leaves are also very big, I love maple leaves especially when they change colour. When I saw the Hindi films I loved how they use the maple trees and leaves. That's why I asked my friend to come to Kashmir. I love Bollywood and the way they throw maple leaves. I did the same and my photos have come so well. I had a fantastic trip and I will tell my friends to come to Kashmir,'' said Ammie, a tourist from Malaysia. Some of the tourists have just read about autumn and have never seen it. The rest of India does not have four seasons like the Kashmir Valley. The government has also announced special festivals for the tourists coming to the Valley during the autumn season. While the Mughal Gardens in the Valley are seeing a steep rise in the footfall, specially to see the Chinar trees. ''It's so beautiful and we have come from Delhi. This is my second trip to Kashmir Valley the first time we came here was in May and it was completely a different experience and now in November, it's a different experience altogether. We are enjoying it a lot. We took so many photos of the chinar leaves. Kashmir is so unique and different in every season. Chinar is looking extremely beautiful," said Ranjana Malhotra, a tourist. Kashmir Valley has been witnessing a record-breaking number of tourists in the last few years. This year all the previous records have been broken with over 1.88 crores visiting the Valley in the first ten months. ''The numbers are mind-boggling, Last time we had the highest numbers of 1.88 crores. This year we have already bypassed those numbers in the first ten months. Which is very positive. It has impacted the economy in a good way, '' said Abid Rashid Shah, Secretary of Tourism JK. The Autumn season and the falling of leaves all over the gardens and roads is also an indication of winter. It simply means that winter is not far.

Thousands of tourists arrive to witness autumn as Chinar leaves turn Kashmir Valley red

Bumper saffron harvest after 10 years, farmers in Kashmir elated

Kashmir: Bumper saffron harvest after 10 years, farmers in Kashmir elated

In Pics: Kashmir celebrates bumper saffron harvest, breaking decade-long record

Kashmir Valley received fresh snowfall over the higher reaches early today morning leading to the closure of major National Highways. The National Highway that connects Srinagar to Jammu has been closed after mudslides, and shooting stones in the Ramban area.&nbsp;

Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was blocked due to mudslides and shooting stones near the Mehar area after heavy rainfall in the area. The Jammu and Kashmir Government is working to restore the traffic movement on the National Highway. The roads that connect Srinagar to Sonamarg, Srinagar to Razdan Pass, Srinagar to Pir Ki Gali, Srinagar to Zojila Pass and Srinagar to Sinthan Top have been closed for traffic.&nbsp;

''We had predicted snowfall in the Kashmir Valley, there was snowfall in the higher reaches. Around 6 inches of snow accumulated in these higher areas. The weather is still cloudy, and the weather will remain like this till tonight. The weather will Improve from November 11 to 18. The weather has affected the national highways. There is no major weather activity till 18th November, '' said a Met Official.&nbsp;

The snowfall occurred at tourist resorts like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Doodhpathri as well. A lot of tourists were taken by surprise in these areas after witnessing fresh snowfall in these areas. Srinagar city was lashed by major rainfall.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the authorities have started working on clearing the roads at all the National Highways. The vehicles stranded at the Srinagar Jammu National Highway would be allowed to move as soon as the road is cleared.&nbsp;

Kashmir Valley received fresh snowfall over the higher reaches early today morning leading to the closure of major National Highways. The National Highway that connects Srinagar to Jammu has been closed after mudslides, and shooting stones in the Ramban area.

Kashmir Valley received fresh snowfall over the higher reaches early today morning leading to the closure of major National Highways. The National Highway that connects Srinagar to Jammu has been closed after mudslides, and shooting stones in the Ramban area. Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was blocked due to mudslides and shooting stones near the Mehar area after heavy rainfall in the area. The Jammu and Kashmir Government is working to restore the traffic movement on the National Highway. The roads that connect Srinagar to Sonamarg, Srinagar to Razdan Pass, Srinagar to Pir Ki Gali, Srinagar to Zojila Pass and Srinagar to Sinthan Top have been closed for traffic. ''We had predicted snowfall in the Kashmir Valley, there was snowfall in the higher reaches. Around 6 inches of snow accumulated in these higher areas. The weather is still cloudy, and the weather will remain like this till tonight. The weather will Improve from November 11 to 18. The weather has affected the national highways. There is no major weather activity till 18th November, '' said a Met Official. The snowfall occurred at tourist resorts like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg and Doodhpathri as well. A lot of tourists were taken by surprise in these areas after witnessing fresh snowfall in these areas. Srinagar city was lashed by major rainfall. Meanwhile, the authorities have started working on clearing the roads at all the National Highways. The vehicles stranded at the Srinagar Jammu National Highway would be allowed to move as soon as the road is cleared.

India: Major national highways closed in Kashmir valley due to fresh snowfall

While the whole country is illuminated by millions of 'diyas' (clay lamps) on the festival of Diwali, thousands of them are made by a Kashmiri Muslim family. For weeks, the Kumar family in Srinagar has been making Diwali diyas and has already dispatched over 20 thousand so far.

Kashmiri Muslim family prepares thousands of Diwali diyas for the Hindu festival

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