Pahalgam, May 1, 2025 – In a striking display of courage, tourists have begun flocking back to Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, just weeks after the devastating April 22, 2025, terror attack in Baisaran meadow that claimed 26 lives. Chanting Vande Mataram and proclaiming “everything is normal,” visitors are defying fear, signaling a swift return to normalcy in one of India’s most cherished tourist destinations.
The attack, which targeted tourists in the scenic Baisaran meadow, sent shockwaves through the region, leading to temporary closures of several tourist spots and heightened security measures across Jammu and Kashmir. Despite these challenges, tourists are undeterred, with many expressing confidence in the region’s safety and hospitality. Social media posts highlight this resilience, noting that visitors, including families and adventure enthusiasts, are exploring Pahalgam’s verdant valleys and snow-draped landscapes, undaunted by recent events.
“Pahalgam feels safe, and the locals are incredibly welcoming,” said Anjali Verma, a tourist from Mumbai, echoing sentiments shared by others. Videos circulating online show groups chanting Vande Mataram, a patriotic anthem, as a symbol of unity and defiance against terrorism. Local authorities have reinforced security, deploying additional police and paramilitary forces to ensure visitor safety, drawing from successful security models like those implemented during the Char Dham Yatra. The reopening of key routes, such as the Bhadarwah-Pathankot highway, has further eased access for travelers.
The resurgence of tourism in Pahalgam reflects a broader determination to restore confidence in Jammu and Kashmir’s vital tourism sector. Locals, whose livelihoods depend on visitors, have condemned the attack and extended warm hospitality. “We stand against violence and welcome tourists to experience the real beauty of Kashmir,” a local vendor told reporters. This spirit of resilience mirrors the scene in nearby Bhaderwah, where devotees thronged Shiv-Bani Temple on Akshay Tritiya, undeterred by the same tragedy.
India’s response to the attack has included stringent measures, such as banning Pakistani airlines from its airspace and cracking down on social media accounts spreading provocative content. Yet, in Pahalgam, the focus remains on recovery and hope. As tourists continue to arrive, their chants of Vande Mataram and assertions of normalcy underscore a powerful message: fear will not overshadow the region’s enduring charm and spirit.