Srinagar, March 05, 2025 – Jammu and Kashmir, once marred by decades of conflict and unrest, is witnessing a remarkable turnaround, emerging as a beacon of peace and prosperity through a booming tourism industry. Official figures reveal that the Union Territory has welcomed an astounding 4.40 crore tourists over the past two years, a testament to the transformative power of stability and development. This surge, dubbed “Badalta Kashmir” or “Changing Kashmir,” is not just a statistic—it’s a lifeline for locals reaping the benefits of a revitalized economy.
The shift from terrorism to tourism marks a new chapter for the region, long known as “paradise on earth” for its breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and snow-capped mountains. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah recently highlighted this milestone in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, noting that among the 4.40 crore visitors, 1.20 lakh were international tourists. “Peace and development are the key players in this transformation,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s focus on tourism as a driver of employment and growth.
In 2023 alone, the region saw 2.11 crore tourists, a number that climbed to 2.35 crore in 2024, according to official data. This influx has revitalized local businesses, from shikara operators on Dal Lake to hoteliers in Gulmarg and artisans in Srinagar’s bustling markets. “For years, we lived in fear, unsure of what tomorrow would bring,” said Mohammad Ashraf, a shikara owner in Srinagar. “Now, every day, I see tourists from across India and the world, and my family has a steady income. Kashmir is truly changing.”
The government has invested heavily in promoting this shift, allocating ₹35.08 crore over the past two financial years for tourism promotion and infrastructure upgrades. Projects like the Z-Morh Tunnel, inaugurated recently, have made destinations like Sonamarg more accessible, drawing even more visitors. Enhanced connectivity, including direct flights from major cities and improved road networks, has further fueled the tourism boom. “Jammu and Kashmir is open for exploration year-round,” CM Abdullah said at the South Asia Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) 2025 in New Delhi last month, inviting travelers to discover the region’s diverse offerings.
This transformation has not gone unnoticed on the ground. Tourists, both domestic and foreign, have praised the region’s newfound peace and the warm hospitality of its people. “I was hesitant to visit, given the stories I’d heard growing up,” said Priya Sharma, a visitor from Mumbai. “But what I found was stunning beauty and a sense of calm I’ll never forget. Kashmir has turned a corner.”
The economic ripple effects are undeniable. With tourism flourishing, jobs are being created at an unprecedented rate, offering hope to a generation that once saw limited opportunities. From guides and drivers to small-scale entrepreneurs, locals are at the heart of this resurgence. “Badalta Kashmir is not just a slogan—it’s our reality,” said Ayesha Begum, a shopkeeper in Pahalgam. “Tourists bring life to our streets, and with them, a future for our children.”
While challenges remain—such as ensuring sustainable growth and addressing occasional environmental concerns—the trajectory is clear. Jammu and Kashmir is shedding its turbulent past, embracing a future where tourism, not terror, defines its identity. As the region thrives like never before, “Badalta Kashmir” stands as a powerful narrative of resilience, peace, and progress.