SRINAGAR, April 29, 2025 – All major tourist destinations in Jammu and Kashmir, including Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, Dal Lake, and the Mughal Gardens, are fully operational and welcoming visitors, according to state officials. Despite the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, the Tourism Department has assured travelers that these iconic sites remain safe and accessible, backed by stringent security measures.
“Gulmarg, Pahalgam, Sonamarg, and other key destinations are open for tourists with comprehensive security arrangements in place,” a senior Tourism Department official stated. Only a handful of offbeat locations, such as Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, Aharbal, and Bangus Valley, representing less than 5% of the region’s tourist spots, are temporarily closed to support ongoing anti-terror operations. “There are no restrictions on visiting our primary tourist circuits,” the official added.
The Pahalgam attack led to the temporary closure of 48 out of 87 tourist destinations, primarily remote areas like Sinthan Top and Verinag Garden. However, the government has prioritized securing major hubs, deploying advanced CCTV systems, drone surveillance, facial recognition technology, and mobile Quick Response Teams to ensure visitor safety. These measures have helped maintain tourist confidence, with Gulmarg’s Gondola reporting over 9,600 riders in two days and Dal Lake bustling with shikara rides.
Kashmir’s tourism sector, contributing 7.2% to the Union Territory’s GDP, is rebounding despite initial cancellations post-attack. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who recently reviewed summer preparedness and security arrangements, is leading efforts to restore normalcy. The government is collaborating with travel operators to waive cancellation fees and is urging countries like the U.S. and U.K. to lift travel advisories to boost international arrivals.
Local stakeholders are optimistic about the recovery. “Security is tight, and tourists are returning to Srinagar and Gulmarg without hesitation,” said a local hotelier. Posts on X echo this sentiment, with users praising the resilience of Kashmir’s tourism industry. However, some tourists have flagged inconsistent mobile connectivity in remote areas, prompting calls for infrastructure improvements.
With major destinations fully operational and enhanced security in place, Jammu and Kashmir is working to sustain its tourism momentum. The government’s proactive measures, combined with the region’s unmatched natural beauty, aim to reaffirm Kashmir’s status as a global travel hotspot.