Two months after a terror attack in Pahalgam shook the region, Jammu and Kashmir are set to reopen several tourist destinations in a phased manner starting Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The announcement was made by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, marking a significant step towards restoring normalcy and reviving the tourism sector, which had suffered a major blow following the April 22 incident.
The Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the tragic deaths of 26 people, mostly tourists, prompted the Jammu and Kashmir government to close 48 out of 87 tourist destinations across the Kashmir Valley as a precautionary measure. The targeted killings in the Baisaran meadows near Pahalgam led to widespread concern and a subsequent decline in tourist activity.
In the initial phase of reopening, sixteen tourist spots will welcome visitors again. In the Anantnag district, these include the picturesque Beetab Valley, local parks in the Pahalgam market, the serene Verinag Garden, Kokernag Garden, and Achabal Garden. Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, will see the reopening of Badamwari Park, Duck Park near Nigeen Lake, and Taqdeer Park near Dargah Hazratbal. Additionally, eight destinations in the Jammu region, including Sarthal, Baggar, Devi Pindi, Sehar Baba Waterfall, Sulha Park, Gul Danda, Jai Valley, and Panchari, will also be reopened.
The decision to reopen these tourist destinations followed extensive security reviews and consultations with Divisional Commissioners and Inspectors General of Police from both the Kashmir and Jammu regions. Lieutenant Governor Sinha emphasized that the restrictions on tourist access were purely precautionary and aimed at ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors.
Prior to the reopening announcement, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah held a cabinet meeting in Pahalgam and visited tourist places such as Betab Valley to assess the situation. While the J&K Cabinet had advocated for the reopening of tourist spots, the final authority rested with the Lieutenant Governor.
The recent launch of the Katra-Srinagar Vande Bharat train service has further boosted the revival of tourism by improving connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country. The train service has seen an overwhelming response, with tickets sold out for the next 10 days, signaling a renewed interest in visiting the region.
Recognizing the importance of tourism to the local economy, the government has been actively involved in efforts to restore confidence among tourists. Last month, tourism stakeholders launched the "Fame Tour" initiative, offering discounts of up to 50 percent on travel packages and services until the Amarnath Yatra. This promotional event brought together national tour operators, media representatives, and hospitality heads to showcase the valley's safety, beauty, and readiness to welcome visitors.
Lieutenant Governor Sinha has also described the upcoming Amarnath Yatra as a "people's yatra" and a significant opportunity to rejuvenate tourism. He assured that all necessary arrangements are in place, and security forces are fully deployed to ensure a peaceful and successful pilgrimage. He also appealed to citizens to cooperate and contribute to the smooth conduct of the Yatra.
The reopening of tourist spots marks a crucial step towards normalcy in Jammu and Kashmir. While challenges remain, the government's efforts to prioritize security, improve infrastructure, and promote tourism are expected to gradually restore the region's appeal as a popular destination.
