1 million tourists visited Kashmir in 4 months: Director Tourism

Srinagar, May 4: In a major boost for the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir, Director Tourism Kashmir Raja Yaqoub revealed that nearly 1 million tourists have visited the Valley in just the first four months of this year.

Addressing the stakeholders meeting organised by the Federation of Hotel and Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI) at the Radisson Collection Hotel, Yaqoub said the number of foreign tourists has seen a staggering 61 percent increase compared to the same period last year.

"Kashmir is already a branded and attractive destination. We need more promotion here," Yaqoub stated, adding that the high-profile conclave attended by many investors will send a strong message that Kashmir is open for investment and tourism.

On the issue of high airfares acting as a deterrent, the director informed that the matter has been taken up at the highest level and authorities are hopeful of a positive outcome soon.

Highlighting Kashmir's rich heritage, craft, culture and world-class cuisine, Yaqoub said, "People should not be confined here. The conclave is aimed at promoting tourism in all its aspects."

He revealed that the tourism department will be conducting a tourism development conference by inviting stakeholders from across the country. Plans are also afoot to organize an Ambassadors' meet to catalyse foreign tourist arrivals.

"Tourism is one of the mainstays of the economy. The successful hosting of G20 events will have a direct positive impact on foreign tourism arrivals," Yaqoub said.

The director informed that the government has issued directions to all deputy commissioners to identify land for setting up high-end properties in the tourism sector. New cable car projects are also in the pipeline, he added.

Yaqoub urged tourism players that the department is working for the development of the sector, and new rules will be unveiled soon which would extend the registration tenure for a longer period to boost investments.