J&K Tourist Spots Closed After Pahalgam Attack Likely to Reopen by May

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has announced that tourist destinations closed after the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack are likely to reopen by May, signalling continued recovery in the Union Territory’s vital tourism sector. The government is also planning to introduce new destinations to strengthen tourism and expand economic opportunities.

Following the terror attack, in which 26 civilians lost their lives, authorities closed approximately 50 tourist locations as a security measure. According to the Chief Minister, around 25 of these destinations have already been reopened, with the remaining sites expected to resume operations in the coming months.

Addressing the Assembly during discussions on budgetary demands, Abdullah said the administration adopted a phased approach to revive tourism after the tragedy. He noted that the government worked closely with tourism stakeholders to rebuild confidence and restore visitor activity despite restrictions at several sites.

He emphasised that improving tourist infrastructure remains a priority. Visitors frequently highlight the natural beauty of destinations such as Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonamarg but point out shortages of essential facilities, including public toilets and visitor amenities. The government has committed to addressing these gaps to enhance visitor experience.

The Chief Minister said attracting first-time visitors to Jammu and Kashmir is relatively easy, but the real measure of success is repeat tourism. Ensuring tourists return is central to building a sustainable tourism industry, and the administration is focusing on long-term improvements to achieve this goal.

Highlighting recovery signs, Abdullah noted that winter destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg are operating at full capacity, while Srinagar is witnessing strong tourist footfall. These indicators reflect growing confidence among travellers and steady revival of the tourism economy.

He acknowledged that reopening decisions involve coordination with the central government and security agencies. While some constraints remain, he expressed confidence that the remaining closed destinations would reopen by May.

Alongside reopening efforts, the government plans to develop nine new tourist destinations with central support. Their names will be announced gradually, and officials aim to ensure balanced regional development, including expanded tourism opportunities in Jammu.

Infrastructure projects in Jammu are also progressing, including Jammu Lake and the Jammu Riverfront development. Plans are under consideration to extend the riverfront project further to enhance urban aesthetics and tourism appeal.

Abdullah stressed the importance of expanding tourism beyond traditional hotspots by promoting border tourism, pilgrimage tourism, golf tourism, and destinations such as Bhaderwah. He noted that attracting even a fraction of the millions of pilgrims visiting Mata Vaishno Devi could significantly boost the regional economy.

He also highlighted efforts to promote year-round tourism, including winter travel and seasonal attractions such as the Tulip Garden and Chrysanthemum Garden to attract visitors during traditionally low months.

The reopening of destinations and expansion plans signal renewed momentum for Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector as authorities work to rebuild trust, improve infrastructure, and promote sustainable growth.