Tourists who were upset about losing money after cancelling their Kashmir trips now have a reason to smile. The Jammu & Kashmir government has decided to refund the booking fees for ropeway rides in the state.
The announcement was made by Jammu and Kashmir Cable Car Corporation (JKCCC), a premier organization instrumental in developing and operationalising various ropeways in the state. It also operates Gulmarg Gondola – the highest ropeway in the world.
According to a notification, tourists with ropeway tickets dated between April 22 and May 5 who do not show up will receive a full refund. Additionally, online bookings made up to April 22 for visit dates until June 22 will also be fully refunded if cancelled online by May 10. However, any cancellations made after May 10, 2025, will be charged a 50% cancellation fee, as per the existing refund policy. The notice also mentioned that on-cabin tickets will be available daily at the Gulmarg Gondola waiting hall from 9 am to 3 pm.
High demand for Gulmarg Gondola
Tour operators in Ahmedabad said the tickets for the first phase of the Gulmarg Gondola’s cable cars were available at Rs 1800 per person but in the second phase, tickets were priced at Rs 800 per person. Lakhs of tourists had booked the cable car service at Gulmarg Gondola.
Fifteen thousand tourists from Gujarat alone had made the bookings.
Commenting on the development, MD of Ajay Modi Travels, Alap Modi said they have already started spreading the word to help tourists get their refund for the service.
“Moreover, we are also giving the option of credit notes valid for up to a year for their hotel stay. However, many have instead opted to travel to other destinations in south and north India or northeastern states as well as foreign countries,” he said.