Srinagar: In the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attack on tourists in Pahalgam on April 22, the Jammu and Kashmir Administration has ordered the temporary closure of 48 out of the 87 tourist destinations across the Kashmir Valley. This decision, aimed at enhancing security measures and ensuring the safety of visitors, comes as the region grapples with the impact of the attack on its tourism sector.
The closed destinations span a wide geographical area and include popular spots such as Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, Aharbal, the Bangus Valley, and Verinag Garden. Trekking routes managed by the forest department have also been closed. Authorities have stated that this is a temporary measure and the situation will be reviewed as it evolves. Enhanced security arrangements have been put in place for the remaining tourist destinations that remain open.
This move follows a significant decline in tourist footfall and a wave of cancellations in the wake of the Pahalgam attack, which claimed the lives of 26 people. Srinagar International Airport has witnessed a steep drop in passenger arrivals since April 23, as panic-stricken tourists sought early departures.
The attack, the deadliest on tourists in the region in years, has cast a shadow over what was anticipated to be a promising summer tourism season. Travel agents and hoteliers have reported a large number of cancellations, with some operators even reconsidering offering packages to Kashmir in the future.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed his sorrow over the exodus of tourists but acknowledged the understandable fear among visitors. He directed the administration to facilitate the safe passage of tourists wishing to leave the valley.
Meanwhile, security forces have intensified their operations to apprehend the perpetrators of the attack. Intelligence agencies have also warned of potential follow-up attacks, leading to heightened vigilance and the deployment of additional security personnel at sensitive locations.
The closure of these tourist destinations is expected to have a significant impact on the local economy, which is heavily reliant on tourism. Local businesses are already reporting substantial losses due to cancellations and the absence of visitors. The government has assured that efforts are underway to restore normalcy and support those affected by the disruption.
List of Closed Tourist Destinations :
- Yousmarg
- Tousimaidan
- Doodhpathri
- Aharbal
- Kousarnag
- Bangus
- Kariwan Diver Chandigam
- Bangus Valley
- Wular/Watlab
- Rampora
- Rajpora
- Chearhar
- Mundij-Hamam-Markoot Waterfall
- Khampoo
- Bosnia
- Vijitop
- Sun Temple
- Verinag Garden
- Sinthan Top
- Margantop
- Akad Park
- Habba Khatoon Point
- Babareshi
- Ringawali
- Gogaldara
- Baderkote
- Shrunz Waterfall
- Kamanpost
- Namblan Waterfall
- Eco Park Khadniyar
- Sangarwani
- Jamia Masjid
- Badamwari
- Rajori Kadal Hotel Kanaaz
- Aali Kadal JJ Food Restaurant
- IVORY Hotel
- Padshapal resorts and restaurant
- Cherry tree resort (Faqir Gujri)
- North cliff cafe and retreat by Stay Pattern
- Forest hill cottage
- Eco village resort (Dara)
- Astanmarg View Point
- Astanmarg Paragliding
- Mamneth
- Mahadev Hills
- Buddhist Monastery
- Dachigam – Beyond Trout Farm / Fisheries Farm
- Astanpora (especially Qayam Gah resort, Lachpatri, Hung Park and Naranag)
- All trekking routes managed by the Forest Department
Tourists currently in the valley are advised to remain in secure areas and follow the instructions of local authorities. The J&K Government is expected to issue further advisories as the situation unfolds.