Budgam, Feb 18: The Jammu & Kashmir Department of Tourism, through the Directorate of Tourism, Kashmir, successfully organized the Doodhpathri Snow Carnival 2026 at Parihas Maidan, Doodhpathri, marking a major step in promoting winter tourism in the Union Territory.

Set against the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes of Doodhpathri, the carnival attracted tourists, adventure enthusiasts, local residents, and stakeholders from the tourism and hospitality sectors. The day-long event transformed Doodhpathri into a hub of winter sports, cultural celebrations, and recreational activities.
Highlights of the carnival included Snowshoe Races, Skiing demonstrations, Snow Cricket, Paragliding displays, Snow Tug-of-War, and vibrant cultural programs showcasing Jammu & Kashmir’s rich music, dance, and traditions. These activities generated great excitement among participants and spectators, reinforcing Doodhpathri’s emergence as a premier winter tourism destination.
Senior officials from the Tourism Department, district administration, and other dignitaries praised the overwhelming response and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting lesser-explored destinations while ensuring balanced regional development across seasons.
The carnival also created livelihood opportunities for local stakeholders, including hoteliers, transporters, guides, and small business owners. The high footfall is expected to strengthen the winter tourism circuit in Kashmir and boost the local economy.
Riyaz Ahmad, CEO Doodhpathri, said that initiatives such as ski hire shops, ski drag lifts, and snow activities are set to attract more tourists in the coming years, positioning Doodhpathri as a prominent skiing and adventure destination. The Department of Tourism plans to organize similar large-scale events in the future to enhance Jammu & Kashmir’s tourism profile nationally and internationally.