Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir is picking up pace, following the reopening of several tourism destinations that were closed due to the April 22 Pahalgam attack in 2025.
Confidence among visitors has returned after months of dedicated efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir government, led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah himself. The tourism industry, which contributes nearly 15 per cent to the UT’s GDP, also helps in stabilisation efforts in the Union Territory.
People associated with the tourism industry have expressed hope that this confidence will keep growing in the coming days, with more tourists coming into the Valley. Hoteliers, particularly in Srinagar, said advance bookings and enquiries have risen sharply over the past few weeks. The trend seems to be picking up amid increased safety measures and a series of efforts aimed at increasing the comfort of tourists.
Nisar Ahmad, 33, from Srinagar, who is associated with the tourism sector, said, “The number of visitors is picking up due to warmer climate conditions and better tourism facilities.”
Manzoor Ahmad Khan, 50, who owns a three-star hotel in Srinagar, said, “The advance bookings have risen despite ongoing Ramadhan, with his property currently at nearly 60–70 per cent occupancy.”
The UT’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha recently announced the reopening of 14 major tourist destinations, with more opening in the recent days. These include Pahalgam, Yusmarg, Doodhpathri, Hung Park, Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian, Astanpora and the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Thajwas Glacier in Ganderbal, and Wular Lake in Baramulla.
Over the past few weeks, these reopened spots have witnessed a steady increase in visitors, especially families, young travellers and adventure enthusiasts.
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