Jammu and Kashmir administration announced on Saturday 12 tourist destinations will reopen from Sept 29, nearly five months after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack forced closure of sites across the Union Territory.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha confirmed the reopening following a security review at the Unified Headquarters meeting and posted on social media platform X that locations were cleared for visitors after safety measures were evaluated.
Seven destinations are in Kashmir Division, including Aru Valley, Rafting Point Yanner, Akkad Park, Padshahi Park and Kaman Post. Five in Jammu Division are Dagan Top, Ramban, Dhaggar in Kathua, Shiv Cave in Salal and Reasi.
Marking World Tourism Day, Sinha invited travellers to visit the Union Territory, writing: “On World Tourism Day, I invite you all to visit J&K. Blessed with stunning landscapes, a rich cultural heritage & unmatched hospitality, the crown jewel of India is a cherished year-round destination, offering breathtaking beauty & spiritual experience.”
Nearly 50 sites were closed after the attack, one of the deadliest in recent years. Limited access was restored in June at 16 locations, including parts of Pahalgam, as a phased reopening.
Tourism authorities noted the sector’s role in supporting local livelihoods and said the closures had affected businesses dependent on visitors. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had earlier supported reopening in stages, saying, “It’s important that while we deal firmly with terrorism, we must also give people, especially those in tourism-dependent areas, a chance to earn a living. We can’t let fear dictate our economy.” He added, “Every tourist who visits Kashmir becomes an ambassador for peace and normalcy.”
Security has been increased at reopened sites, with additional patrolling, surveillance and coordination with local authorities, a senior police officer said.
Tourism department expect visitor numbers to rise during the upcoming winter season, a traditional peak period, and confirmed stakeholders were being consulted to ensure smooth operations. Precautionary measures will remain in place at all locations.
