Sonamarg, the breathtaking hill station in Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, has witnessed a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals in early 2025. Between January 1 and March 10, over 1.33 lakh visitors explored its snow-clad beauty, marking a significant revival in tourism for the region. This growth is largely attributed to the inauguration of the Z-Morh Tunnel, an engineering marvel that has ensured year-round connectivity to Sonamarg, even during harsh winter months that previously isolated the area due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.
The Z-Morh Tunnel, inaugurated on January 13, spans 6.5 km and connects Gagangir to Sonamarg. It bypasses routes prone to landslides and snow blockages, providing uninterrupted access to this picturesque destination. The tunnel has transformed Sonamarg into a winter tourism hotspot, enabling activities such as skiing, ice skating, snowshoe trekking, and sledging. Local residents with advanced degrees have found new employment opportunities in tourism-related ventures like snow biking, horse riding, and small-scale businesses. The tunnel has also boosted local businesses by extending the tourist season from six months to year-round operations.
The surge in visitors reflects Sonamarg’s growing appeal as both a domestic and international destination. January alone saw over 55,000 tourists, including foreign travelers, while February welcomed more than 57,000 visitors. In just ten days of March, over 20,000 tourists flocked to the region. By comparison, Sonamarg attracted nearly 8 lakh visitors throughout 2024—a figure expected to be surpassed this year due to improved infrastructure and accessibility.
Local stakeholders are optimistic about the tunnel’s impact on economic growth and tourism development. Shabir Ahmad, president of the Beopar Mandal Association in Sonamarg, described the tunnel as a ‘Game-Changer’ for the region’s economy and winter sports scene. Similarly, tour operators and hoteliers have reported increased revenue streams and employment opportunities for youth in areas like hospitality and adventure tourism.
The Sonamarg Development Authority has also initiated plans to further enhance infrastructure and visitor experiences. CEO Gh Mohd Bhat highlighted ongoing projects aimed at transforming Sonamarg into a premier tourist destination while ensuring smooth experiences for visitors. Additionally, efforts are underway to prepare a GIS-based Master Plan for Sonamarg (2025-2045), which will focus on sustainable tourism development and address local needs.
Beyond tourism, the Z-Morh Tunnel strengthens strategic connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh while reducing travel time significantly. It supports defense logistics and trade routes while ensuring safer travel through its emergency escape passage. This infrastructural milestone complements other major projects like the ZojiLa Tunnel, which will further enhance connectivity across Jammu & Kashmir.
Sonamarg’s transformation into a year-round destination is not only boosting its local economy but also positioning it as a global attraction for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its pristine landscapes, improved security situation, and enhanced infrastructure, Sonamarg is poised for continued growth in tourism and economic development—offering visitors an unforgettable experience amid Kashmir’s serene beauty.
