Fresh mountain snow draws tourists to Duhok province

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - The freshly snow-covered landscape and stunning winter scenery of Mount Gara in Duhok province has attracted visitors not only from across the Kurdistan Region, but also from Baghdad.

Mount Gara is a popular spot for people, especially families with children, looking to enjoy playing winter games in the snow, surrounded by a beautiful landscape.

Among this year's visitors was a newlywed couple on their honeymoon.

“Previously, I used to come two or three times every year with five or six of my friends, but now I have come with my spouse and the weather is excellent. With all respect to all provinces, Duhok is the most pleasant in every aspect,” Samr Ali, the new groom visiting from Baghdad, told Rudaw on Friday.

Some tourists bring recreational vehicles to find adventure driving on the slippery snow-covered slopes. 

“Every week we bring around 300 to 400 people to Duhok,” said tour company owner Abdullah Ismael. 

Tourism is an important sector for the Kurdistan Region’s economy, especially in the winter when its mountains are blanketed in snow.