Gulmarg, Sep 27: The J&K Hoteliers Club, in collaboration with the Department of Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir, and the Gulmarg Development Authority (GDA), celebrated World Tourism Day 2026 in Gulmarg with a series of sporting, environmental and community-focused activities.
The celebrations brought together government representatives, tourism and hospitality stakeholders, environmental organisations and community groups, highlighting Gulmarg’s tourism potential and the importance of sustainable and responsible tourism.
Advisor to the Chief Minister, Jammu & Kashmir, Nasir Aslam Wani, attended the programme and represented the Government, while Gulmarg MLA Farooq Ahmad Shah was present as the Guest of Honour.
The event also witnessed the participation of the Rotary Club of Kashmir, led by its President Dr Tausif Bhatt, and the Ecotourism Association of Kashmir, represented by its President Sameer Baktoo. Environmental lawyer and environmentalist Nadeem Qadri, along with representatives of Go Green Gulmarg, also participated.
Chairman of the J&K Hoteliers Club, Gulmarg Chapter, Akib Chaya, along with office-bearers Murad Kapra, Naseer Khan, Jaivd Burza and Sajad Makai, attended the celebrations. Representatives of other tourism and hospitality organisations from Gulmarg were also present.
A horse race was organised as one of the main attractions of the programme, showcasing the equestrian traditions and tourism experiences associated with Gulmarg.
A golf tournament was also held, highlighting Gulmarg’s position as a prominent golf and leisure destination and bringing together members of the tourism, hospitality and business fraternity.
The celebrations also featured a cleanliness and environmental awareness drive, emphasising the need to preserve Gulmarg’s natural environment and promote responsible tourism practices.
Participants stressed the importance of protecting Gulmarg’s natural beauty, ecological character and cultural heritage while creating greater opportunities for local communities and strengthening the tourism economy.
The programme was coordinated under the leadership of Gulmarg Development Authority CEO Alyas Ahmad Naisroo, with active participation from tourism stakeholders and partner organisations.
The J&K Hoteliers Club reiterated its commitment to working with the Government, Tourism Department, development authorities and tourism organisations to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a responsible, sustainable and globally recognised tourism destination.
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