Sculptors carve Taj Mahal replica out of Sonamarg snow

Sonamarg, Mar 10:  A snow sculpture replica of the Taj Mahal has become the latest attraction for tourists in the famous tourist destination Sonamarg.

The snow sculpture replica of one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal was created by three sculptors who worked for 15 days braving sub-zero temperature and harsh conditions and ended up making a beautiful attraction for the tourists at Sonamarg.

Zubair Ahmad, a sculptor who headed the three-member team of artists who created this beautiful attraction, said they contemplated creating something unique and creative during the winter for the tourists at Sonamarg.

He said that finally the idea of making an igloo snow sculpture replicating the Taj Mahal came to their mind and after 15 days of work, they were able to complete it.

Ahmad said no other material besides snow had been used to make the sculpture.

He said that it had already become an attraction for the tourists.

Ahmad said that the snow sculpture was an igloo made in the shape of the Taj Mahal.

He said that the igloo part was insulated and could be used for rest and warming up.

Earlier, a horse cart snow sculpture had attracted eyeballs.

An official from Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department at Sonamarg told Greater Kashmir that the step has been taken to attract more and more tourists who could reach Sonamarg and enjoy. He said that JK Tourism Department in collaboration with various stakeholders including Hoteliers and support of administration has been able to provide tourists this attraction.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Ganderbal, Shyambir after inaugurating the snow sculpture on Sunday said, “It is aimed at bringing in more tourists. We want more and more tourists to come here and hope that the replica serves that purpose.”

The Taj Mahal replica captivated the attention of many with tourists as well as locals flocking to click pictures alongside it.

“This is amazing and mesmerising. Snow adds more to the beauty of Kashmir and such sculptures are fascinating. It is for the first time that I am seeing a snow-made Taj Mahal, which is fascinating and attractive,” said a tourist from Jharkhand.

Tourists, who were charmed by the beauty of the sculpture, urged people to come and witness the scenic beauty of Sonamarg.

“I urge people to come and experience the grandeur and beauty of this place. People have taken out time to showcase ‘Incredible India’ here. You will be mesmerised by it,” said Rahul, a tourist.

Sonamarg, which was kept open for the winter season is already on the tourists’ and snow-lovers' top destination list in Kashmir and has witnessed huge crowds thronging to experience the snowcapped mountains and glaciers.

Although it did not snow as usual this winter, the art and the inclination towards it manifested in different snow sculptures in Sonamarg.