(11 Jan 2021) LEAD IN:
Despite the pandemic, Iraqis head to the mountains in the northern Kurdish region to enjoy the snow and cold weather.
The removal of the travel ban between Iraqi governorates has increased the number of Arab tourists coming into the Kurdish region.
STORY-LINE:
The first snowfall in the northern Kurdish region of Iraq has attracted Iraqis from the rest of the country.
A large numbers of families from Baghdad, Babil and other southern cities came to Gara mountain in Dohuk to enjoy nature.
"A person must change his or her mood. It is not necessary to lockdown yourself with this illness (coronavirus), leave it God," says Bushra Husni, an Iraqi woman.
The number of tourists increased this year after the lift of the lockdown and travel ban between the cities in Iraq.
Tourism agencies charge between 35,000 and 55,000 Iraqi dinars ($25 - $40) per person for a three-day tour to the resorts of the area.
The Gara mountain, located in Dohuk governorate, stands at 2,151 meters above sea level.
It is a favourite destination for local tourists, especially for people from Baghdad and southern Iraq where the weather is drier and warmer.
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