Following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, the Jammu and Kashmir government has suspended all trekking activities across the Union Territory. Additionally, nearly 50 public parks and gardens, as well as remote destinations that were being developed as tourist hubs, will also remain closed for the time-being. The move aims to ensure the safety of visitors and locals during a time of heightened concern.
The J&K Forest Department has ordered the closure of all trekking routes, including popular and lesser-known trails that pass through the forests and highlands. According to reports, police have been asked to identify and monitor these routes to ensure compliance. While this decision will affect countless travel plans, the government has emphasised that the suspension is temporary and will be reassessed after fully reviewing the security situation.
The move to close nearly 50 public parks and gardens also stems from the same concern regarding security, with assurance that this move will be reversed once the situation stabilises. Doodhpathri, Kokernag, Duksum, Sinthan Top, Acchabal, Bangus Valley, Margan Top, and Tosamaidan, are some of the destinations that will remain closed to tourists. Reports also note that more tourist spots are expected to close in the upcoming days, basis security checks.
Kashmir’s trekking season, which typically runs from May through September, is a lifeline for the local economy as it supports homestays, transport services, porters, and guides. This season also marks an uptick in tourists wishing to explore the valley. The fallout from the Pahalgam incident is already being felt, with a noticeable dip in tourist numbers and a wave of cancellations.
Locals have raised concerns about the economic ramifications of the terror attack. "Visitors continue to explore the Valley, though there are no new tourists so far," Sheikh Yameen from Srinagar told Outlook Traveller. From tour operators and shikara owners to hoteliers, the brunt has been felt across tourism verticals in Kashmir. However, the government has urged travellers from across the country and worldwide not to cancel their travel plans and rest assured about their safety.
Altaf Chapri, co-creator and managing director of ABChapri Retreats, told Outlook Traveller, "I ask all guests, tour operators, and travellers, both in India and abroad, to stand with Kashmir in this moment of hardship. Rather than canceling holidays or requesting refunds, we urge you to accept credit notes, valid for several months, so that the emotional and economic growth of Kashmir is not dealt a further blow. In doing so, we can show the world that Kashmir’s resilience is not just in its mountains, but in the hearts of its people, who continue to endure and thrive despite the challenges."
Several people from the Hindi film industry have also come out to support tourism in Kashmir, with actors like Atul Kulkarni seen enjoying a ride on Dal Lake and urging people to shed inhibitions about their travel plans to the valley.
(With inputs from multiple sources)