Kashmir’s Tourism Bounces Back: Crowds return to tourist destinations post Pahalgam attack

Srinagar, July 6: After weeks of gloom and uncertainty, Kashmir’s tourism sector is springing back to life. The region, which saw a dramatic decline in tourist footfall following the April 22 terror attack in which 26 tourists were killed, is witnessing a steady resurgence in visitors. Thanks to the resumption of the Amarnath Yatra and growing word-of-mouth publicity about the Valley’s safety and beauty, popular tourist destinations across Kashmir were bustling with activity on Sunday.

From Srinagar’s famed Mughal gardens—Shalimar, Nishat, and Harwan—to the scenic picnic spots of Wayil and Manasbal in Ganderbal district, there was a visible influx of tourists, both domestic and international.

“This is the first time in two months that I’ve seen such a crowd. All our rooms are booked and tourists are out enjoying the gardens and shikara rides,” said Bashir Ahmad Dar, a manager at a hotel near Dal Lake.

The April 22 attack had brought the Valley’s booming tourist season to a near halt, triggering cancellations across the board—from hotels and flights to Amarnath Yatra registrations. However, locals and those associated with the tourism sector say things are gradually turning around.

“It was like a storm had hit us. Bookings vanished overnight and we were on the brink of shutting down,” recalled Mohammad Yousuf, a tour operator in Srinagar. “But since the Yatra began, inquiries have resumed, and the last few days have been particularly encouraging.”

Sunday saw a significant presence of tourists strolling through the manicured lawns of Nishat and Shalimar gardens, boating at Manasbal Lake, and relaxing under the shade of towering chinars. Local businesses that had suffered heavy losses are now hoping for a better July and August.

“The last two months were terrible. I used to earn barely enough to pay for my cart’s rent. But today, sales have picked up again,” said Shabir Ahmad, who sells snacks near Harwan Garden.

Tourists themselves are showing renewed confidence in visiting the Valley, despite the security concerns that lingered after the attack.

“We were initially scared, especially because of what happened in April,” said Vivek Menon, a tourist from Bengaluru. “But our friends who visited recently assured us it’s safe. We’ve been here for three days, and it’s been an incredible experience—peaceful, secure, and welcoming.”

Several visitors praised the enhanced security arrangements and the visible presence of police and security personnel at major tourist spots. Many also cited positive reviews on social media and recommendations from friends as key reasons for choosing to travel to Kashmir.

“I wanted to come for my honeymoon but was hesitant after the news of the attack,” said Neha Sharma, visiting with her husband from Jaipur. “But the place is serene and far more secure than what we imagined. We are happy we took the decision.”

Tourism department officials, too, sounded hopeful. “While the setback was significant, we are seeing a strong recovery trend. Bookings for July and August look promising. We are promoting Kashmir as a safe and welcoming destination across the country,” said a senior official from the Department of Tourism.

The Amarnath Yatra, which began last week, has provided a parallel stream of visitors to the Valley. Many yatris are also extending their stay to explore Srinagar and nearby destinations.

As Kashmir’s natural beauty once again draws tourists back to its valleys and lakes, those whose livelihoods depend on the sector hope that the worst is behind them.

“Kashmir has always bounced back, no matter what,” said Ghulam Nabi, a veteran houseboat owner. “This land has a way of healing itself, and the tourists—they keep coming back.”