Tourists thronged Srinagar city on Wednesday to enjoy the cold weather as Jammu and Kashmir remains a favourite winter holiday destination in the country.
The Kashmir Valley is trying to regain what it lost in the devastating floods earlier this year.
The arrival of tourists is giving a boost to the tourism sector in the state which also experienced snowfall in the higher reaches.
Suraya, a tourist from South Africa, said that she found the beauty of the valley mind blowing.
"We are enjoying it a lot. We were actually told that it was going to be very cold this morning, but fortunately the weather is lovely. It's our first visit here. We found the people very friendly, very helpful and yes I think we are going to enjoy our stay here," said Suraya.
Another tourist, Juhi Nanda, added that despite being so cold the early morning weather was beautiful. She also praised the residents for being polite and helpful.
"It is very lovely here. It is cold but we are enjoying a lot," said Nanda, who also visited Gulmarg hill station in the state to experience snow," she said.
Meanwhile, Rouf Tramboo, a tour operator, said a large number of tourists are expected to arrive with the onset of winters.
"We are ready and all our activities related to winter tourism are all in place and also we are upgrading a few of them. We are getting a lot of positive response right now," said Tramboo.
