Suhail Khan
The recent abrogation of Article 370 in Kashmir has paved the way for innovative business ideas. The picturesque region has seen a surge of entrepreneurs, and among the most unique is the Fiber Igloo in Gulmarg. This new venture not only provides an exciting opportunity for tourists but also brings a fresh perspective to the business landscape.
The Fiber Igloo offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience and marks a significant shift in the area’s tourism industry since the improvement of the security situation. It’s a testament to the creativity and resilience of the Kashmiri people, and a bright sign for the future of the region’s economy.
The new glass igloo restaurant in the middle of the snow-covered mountains in Gulmarg has become a popular tourist attraction in the area. The restaurant was developed by Kolahoi Green Heights, a hotel in the hill station. The hotel manager claims it to be the first glass igloo restaurant in the valley and the unique concept is being appreciated by tourists and locals alike.
Ishfaq Shafi, the sales manager of the hotel in an exclusive interview with The Web Story said that they took this concept from Finland and built three igloos in the courtyard of the hotel, which were not seen anywhere before.
“Then we also built three igloos at phase one of Gulmarg which are very much appreciated by the visitors here,” he added.
According to Ishfaq, the igloo was built using imported fabricated material, which keeps the interior heat insulated while offering the best views.
The restaurant can seat eight people at a time and offers a different kind of experience to tourists.
A tourist from Gujarat who was with his family at Gulmarg said that sitting inside the glass Igloo was like peering through the window of heaven.
“It is not cold at all in this glass-enclosed restaurant. The view outside with a cup of coffee and this unique experience, I consider myself lucky,” he added.
Ishfaq said that the idea of building the igloos came to him during the COVID-19 pandemic, when all the hotels were closed.
“We designed one at home. Then we planned to build one at Gulmarg. In 2021 we came with Asia’s largest snow Igloo at Gulmarg,” he added while talking to The Web Story.
He said that tourists found it quite impressive and used to visit Gulmarg mostly to have a look of Igloo.
Ishfaq said that after seeing the interest of tourists they built the world’s largest igloo in Gulmarg.
“We then came up with the idea of fibre Igloos and the response is simply awesome,” he added.
He said that the unique glass Igloo restaurants are attracting bookings 10 to 15 days in advance and the response has been good.
The sales manager said that they are trying to boost tourism in Gulmarg and have other plans to attract tourists.
“We have to boost Tourism in Gulmarg. Hence we have to come up with other plans also,” he said.
The glass igloo restaurant has become a popular destination for tourists visiting the Kashmir Valley and offers a unique experience for those looking for something different.
