SRINAGAR, Dec 31: Kashmir is witnessing heavy footfall of domestic tourists on New Year's Eve in spite of the coronavirus pandemic. Foreign visitors are not seen as international flights are all suspended in view of the epidemic.

The tourists are revelling in the fresh snowfall in Kashmir, especially in Gulmarg and Pahalgam. The snow-capped mountains present a spectacular view. Hundreds of adventure tourists are also flocking the ski resorts every day.

The hotel industry is looking up as the snowfall on New Year's Eve is drawing large crowds of visitors from across the country. The tourist flow started in September. Around a thousand people arrive a day. The average footfall used to be around six lakhs.

Shikaras stand in half-frozen Dal Lake after heavy snowfall in Srinagar. Vehicles on the road are seen covered in snow at many places. Workers are engaged in clearing the roads. Snow-clearing vehicles are also used.

Jammu and Kashmir had the season’s first snowfall on December 11. Kashmir Valley and upper reaches of Kashmir received heavy snowfall.

The weatherman had predicted more rain and snowfall in Ladakh and Kashmir as the new year opens.