Kashmir,December 19,2025-Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir has received a significant boost with the implementation of multiple central government schemes aimed at strengthening infrastructure, improving connectivity, and promoting the Union Territory as a year-round tourism destination.
Under flagship initiatives such as Swadesh Darshan, PRASHAD, and Dekho Apna Desh, several tourism projects have been sanctioned to upgrade destinations, develop tourist circuits, and enhance visitor amenities. These schemes focus on improving roads, accommodation facilities, sanitation, lighting, and public conveniences at major tourist hubs and pilgrimage sites across J&K.
Officials said that special emphasis is being laid on the development of offbeat and border tourism destinations, eco-tourism sites, and adventure tourism hubs to reduce pressure on traditional hotspots like Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg while ensuring balanced regional growth.
The promotion of religious and pilgrimage tourism has also gained momentum, with improved facilities at key shrines and spiritual destinations under the PRASHAD scheme. At the same time, the UT administration has intensified efforts to attract private investment in hotels, homestays, and tourism-related services.
Enhanced rail, road, and air connectivity, including new highways, upgraded airports, and improved railway links, has further contributed to the rise in tourist footfall. The administration has also focused on skill development and livelihood generation for local youth through tourism-linked employment opportunities.
Officials noted that these initiatives have resulted in a steady increase in domestic and international tourist arrivals, strengthening the local economy and reinforcing Jammu and Kashmir’s image as a safe, vibrant, and diverse tourist destination.
