Resilience Amidst Challenges
The tourism landscape in Kashmir has showcased exceptional fortitude, particularly in the face of the significant security incident in 2025. Following
a terror attack that regrettably claimed 25 lives, an act orchestrated by Pakistan and its terror handlers aiming to sow discord between tourists and the local populace, the region's spirit remained undeterred. Government reports highlight that a staggering 1.62 crore (16.2 million) tourists visited Jammu and Kashmir in 2025, a testament to the enduring appeal of the valley. Although 2024 was a record-breaking year, the industry experienced a notable slowdown after the April 22, 2025, terror incident in Pahalgam. However, by February 2026, the proactive efforts of the administration led to the reopening of 14 key tourist destinations previously under security review, signaling a robust recovery and renewed confidence in the region's safety and hospitality.
Record Numbers Expected
Anticipation is building for the upcoming spring season, with Kashmir's tourism industry poised to witness an unprecedented influx of visitors, potentially eclipsing all historical benchmarks. This optimistic outlook is underpinned by the successful reopening of 14 previously closed tourist spots as of February 2026, which had been under rigorous security assessments. The valley's premier destinations, including Gulmarg and Pahalgam, are experiencing near-complete hotel occupancy. This surge is largely attributed to a robust wave of domestic tourism, bolstered by significantly enhanced security protocols that have effectively restored and maintained traveler confidence. The positive trend is further echoed by statements from tourism officials, like Syed Qamar Sajad, Director Tourism, who noted a dramatic increase in visitors for attractions such as the Gandola ride, moving from just 100 individuals in May of the previous year to a substantial surge currently, indicating a strong likelihood of exceeding last year's visitor figures.
Enhanced Safety Measures
A comprehensive, multi-tiered security apparatus has been meticulously implemented across all major tourist resorts within the Kashmir Valley. This strategic enhancement is designed to ensure an environment where visitors can feel completely at ease and secure throughout their stay. The Union Ministers have characterized the return of tourists as a triumphant victory over malicious intents aimed at disrupting growth and fomenting separatism. In 2024, Kashmir recorded an exceptional high of approximately 98.1 lakh (9.81 million) tourists, a marked increase from preceding years. While the Pahalgam attack in 2025 caused a temporary dip in visitor numbers within the Kashmir division, it failed to diminish the deep-seated bond between the region and its cherished guests. Current occupancy rates are comparable to those seen in March 2025, with Gulmarg, Pahalgam, and Sonamarg reporting 100 percent hotel occupancy during the recent winter months, a period that coincided with the New Year festivities and welcomed snowfall. These successful winter festivals, drawing global attention, served as a primary draw for tourists.
Tourist Experiences & Connectivity
Visitors consistently express profound admiration for Kashmir, often describing it as a place unlike any other in the world. Even amidst the biting cold, tourists like Satya and Venkatesh found joy in their anniversary trip, planning to visit Pahalgam on their fourth day and praising the sheer beauty of the region. Nidhi, another traveler, shared initial apprehension due to prevailing advice against travel, but her desire to witness the snowfall led her to Kashmir. She, too, found the experience to be beautiful and cold, ultimately advising others that Kashmir is very safe. A significant facilitator of this tourism boom is the new train link connecting Srinagar to the rest of India via the Katra-Srinagar route, which has dramatically improved accessibility. Tourism plays a vital role in the local economy, contributing nearly 7 percent to the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Jammu and Kashmir and providing livelihoods for thousands through the hospitality, transport, and handicraft industries.
Revival and Future Outlook
In a concerted effort to restore and bolster traveler confidence, local stakeholders and authorities have jointly initiated and implemented a series of measures, resulting in a palpable increase in tourist footfall. The Kashmir Valley is witnessing a clear and robust revival in its tourism sector. Current visitor numbers are nearly on par with those recorded during the previous winter, a strong indicator that the industry is firmly back on its trajectory. The enhanced security measures across key destinations are central to ensuring a safe and comfortable experience, directly contributing to the positive sentiment. The industry's hopeful outlook for the upcoming spring season points towards a significant surge in visitors, with projections suggesting that previous records for tourist arrivals are likely to be surpassed, painting a promising picture for Kashmir's tourism future.
