Following the temporary closure of 48 tourist destinations after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, Jammu and Kashmir is taking steps to revitalize its tourism sector. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha announced on Saturday, June 14, 2025, the reopening of 16 of these destinations, signaling a move towards restoring normalcy and welcoming tourists back to the region. The reopening, scheduled to commence on June 17, includes eight locations in the Kashmir Valley and eight in the Jammu region.
The decision to reopen these tourist spots follows appeals from various stakeholders, including political leaders such as CM Omar Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, as well as representatives from the tourism industry. These stakeholders emphasized the importance of tourism for the region's economy and the need to reassure visitors of their safety.
In the Kashmir Valley, the destinations set to reopen include the Verinag, Kokernag, and Achabal gardens in the Anantnag district, known for their Mughal-era architecture and serene landscapes. Additionally, Badamwari, Duck Park, and Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal in Srinagar will also welcome tourists once again. Notably absent from this initial list is the Tulip Garden, a major Srinagar attraction, the continued closure of which has drawn criticism.
In the Jammu region, the reopened destinations include Sarthal and Dhaggar in Kathua, offering picturesque views and opportunities for adventure tourism. Devipindi, Siyad Baba, and Sula Park in Reasi will also be accessible, providing a blend of religious and recreational experiences. Rounding out the list are Guldanda and Jai Valley in Doda, and Pancheri in Udhampur, each offering unique cultural and natural attractions.
LG Sinha, while in Pahalgam, met with elected representatives, tour and travel operators, pony owners, and hotel associations, underscoring the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of the tourism industry. He assured them that restrictions on other tourist destinations would be lifted after thorough security assessments, indicating a phased approach to fully reopening the region to tourism. A committee consisting of divisional commissioners and IGs will work with district officials and the tourism department to identify additional locations suitable for reopening.
The Lieutenant Governor also expressed optimism about the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, a significant pilgrimage that attracts thousands of devotees each year. He urged citizens to actively contribute to the success of the Yatra, highlighting its potential to boost the tourism sector and the region's economy. Security agencies have developed a comprehensive security plan for the pilgrimage, and pilgrims are encouraged to travel in designated convoys for their safety.
The reopening of these 16 tourist destinations represents a cautious but significant step towards reviving tourism in Jammu and Kashmir. While the closures were a necessary precaution following the Pahalgam attack, the phased reopening, guided by security assessments, demonstrates the government's commitment to balancing safety and economic recovery. The collaborative approach, involving consultations with local stakeholders and a focus on ensuring a secure environment, is crucial for building confidence among tourists and fostering a sustainable tourism industry in the region.
